Though trucks hauled away large amounts of material in December, neighbors said, the collection in the yard was quickly replenished.
Ulman, who has visited the site twice since neighbors complained at the forum, said he could hardly believe his eyes.
"I was stunned that someone could treat their neighborhood that way," he said.
Ulman said he is considering whether a change in county law could help force a cleanup. But attempting to craft a law to solve one unusual problem can be a "slippery slope of how much government should be involved," he said.
County communications director Kevin Enright said the county is researching whether state nuisance laws might provide a solution. But it is not clear yet if the state standard - "a condition that is dangerous to health or safety" - would apply.
Norris said she and other neighbors worry that their homes will be worth less and harder to sell as long as Alban doesn't clean up.
"They all tell us it's private property and they can't do anything about it," Norris said. "It infuriates me. Would you want a house with somebody with a lawn like this?"
Others said it's just a matter of nuisance. Gawkers routinely come around just to see the yard and take photos.
"It is an embarrassment," said Arthur, who lives in a spotless rancher she and her husband had built in 1973. "I wouldn't have company over. The last time I did, that's all they talked about."
larry.carson@baltsun.com
