When I first started using my Weber Chimney I was using way too much paper packed tightly. It created a lot of smoke when lighting up.. so much that my neighbor knocked on the door to make sure we were ok (thought the house was on fire). She didn't care, but noticed I generated a lot of smoke. I started a thread about it here.. and had a few suggestions. I tried using less paper... which helped a lot. Sure, you still get smoke on the startup but it's gone within 10ish minutes. I never did get around to trying the cubes but a lot of people suggested them.
I like the suggestion of cooking them up something! Win them over with delicious BBQ and perhaps then they won't mind so much..
I have some neighbors that don't like one of my other hobbies (ham radio).. and I have an upcoming "battle" as I want to install something they won't like (but I am going to shield from their view). Big pot / kettle / black situation.
Neighbors can be a challenge sometime..