Rep. Emilia Sykes calls for action on unsafe living conditions at Akron apartment complex
AKRON, Ohio – Unresolved unsafe living conditions at the Spring Hill Apartment complex have prompted U.S. Rep. Emilia Sykes to send a letter to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner, asking for answers.
In the letter, Sykes outlines months of outreach and oversight efforts undertaken by her office following reports of mold, pest infestations and other hazardous conditions at the Everton Drive apartment complex. Despite inspections and frequent communication with HUD officials, issues remain unresolved, according to the letter.
Spring Hill Apartments has received more than $7.2 million in federal low-income housing tax credits since 2014, according to information obtained by Skyes’ office. The city of Akron has issued citations and fines based on property conditions, but residents still report unresolved issues, Sykes’ letter states.
“Everyone deserves to live in clean, safe and sanitary housing,” Sykes said in a statement. “It is unacceptable that Akron families, seniors, and children are living with mold, pest infestations, and other serious health and safety concerns while taxpayer dollars continue to support these properties. HUD must fulfill its responsibility to ensure federally assisted housing meets basic standards and hold property owners accountable.”
In the letter, Sykes requested HUD respond by June 26 to address the following concerns:
- How HUD will hold American Community Developers, the owners of Spring Hill Apartments, accountable and address the needs of affected residents
- When residents and congressional offices will receive additional guidance regarding the complaint process
- Whether HUD will impose penalties for property violations
The letter also raises concerns about HUD-assisted properties throughout the city, including reports of mold, water damage, pest infestations, broken elevators and delayed maintenance repairs. Sykes also asked HUD to reinstate quarterly meetings to address ongoing housing concerns for federal, local and community stakeholders.
By: Megan Becka
Source: Cleveland.com