Sued $5K for outdoor Garage Light

[Shanadi]

My jurisdiction is: New Jersey

Good Evening,
Over the summer my neighbor sued me for $5k because of the garage light I placed on my home. The neighbor first complained to my township enforcement office, requesting I lower the wattage (they informed her that my light was in compliance, however I lowered the wattage to keep the peace) that wasn't enough and she then complained to the mayor of my township (who also said the same thing). We ultimately landed in civil court, where she alleged that I prevented her from watching tv in her home, and wanted $5K in damages. We went to court and entered into a settlement-she agreed to drop the $5K and purchase a new light fixture for my home, which was uniform to the exterior of my home and directional away from her home, that we both agreed upon.

The neighbor has not been able to provide adequate options which we both agree upon. Because my township stated that my current light fixture is adequate and in compliance--legally do I have the option to keep my light fixture, being that we cannot agree on the terms of the settlement?

 

[dee_dub]

Maybe. If you or her is being unreasonable in disagreeing about an acceptable fixture, the other might be able to get an order mandating one of the options. Apart from that, sounds like the settlement has broken down and you're back to square one. You can keep your existing fixture, she might be able to revive her lawsuit.

 

[Shanadi]

Thank you for the response... I kinda of suspected that she could bring this back into court. I guess the fact that my township states that I am in compliance, and out of a good faith effort, I did in fact lower the wattage (when I didn't have to). I just don't see how it is fair that I have to do anything else for her... Where are my rights as a homeowner???

Thanks again for the response.