Atlanta

Tenants say plan to move them from rundown apartment complex isn’t happening fast enough

ATLANTA — People who live in what they describe as a dilapidated public housing complex say they are concerned plans to move them to new homes aren’t happening fast enough.

Many tenants told Channel 2′s Tom Jones that they can no longer live in hazardous conditions.

Shirlan Beauford said her unit at the Forest Cove Apartments is a health hazard. She said water leaks from the bathroom downstairs into the living room, the ceiling is falling out and there is mold.

“I have put in six work orders and they haven’t fixed nothing yet,” Beauford said.

Several tenants at the Department of Housing and Urban Development-subsidized complex held signs that said “black tenants matter” and “relocate forest cove now,” to raise awareness about the dilapidated conditions.

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“The trash is never taken out on time. Maintenance isn’t done on time,” said Monica Johnson with the Housing Justice League.

The tenants told Jones that a group called the Millenia Companies recently purchased the property and plans to relocate tenants. They say that relocation is off schedule.

“They told us initially the residents would be moved in August, September. We’re in September,” said Foluke Nunn with the Housing Justice League.

Community organizers said that concerns tenants because of Millenia’s track record.

“Millenia has a track record of mismanagement in properties across the country. It’s not just Atlanta,” Nunn said.

Beauford said the company should move tenants immediately or maintain the property. She said she has a 1-month-old baby in her home.

“A 1-month-old baby cannot keep on breathing that mold,” Beauford said.

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