The Arizona resident facing fines for offering free bottled water is gearing up for a legal battle.
David Martin of Goodyear, AZ, made headlines when he received $650 in fines from his homeowner’s association for having a cooler of free bottled water in his driveway.
He is now looking to raise up to $50,000 to take the association to court. The issue started in 2020 when Martin placed the cooler on his property to help people stay hydrated in the heat, but the HOA claimed it violated regulations against unsightly items.
“There are kids, delivery drivers, people out in the heat, and I want to do something to help them,” Martin explained.
The fines started at $25 and escalated to $100 as Martin refused to pay or remove the cooler.
Despite the ongoing dispute, Martin has garnered support from the community, with people donating cases of bottled water and purchasing T-shirts from his sneaker business to fund his legal fight.
While the HOA stated that residents can provide water bottles but cannot advertise such initiatives on their property, Martin maintains that the cooler does not violate any rules as he brings it inside every night.
Martin’s inspiration for the cooler came from his grandfather, who ran a community food pantry, instilling in him the value of helping others.
The situation escalated when Martin circulated a petition to remove three board members, resulting in a vote that favored their removal.
As the conflict continues, Martin is prepared to let the courts decide the outcome and remains committed to his cause of providing free water to those in need.
