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By Natalia Martinez
Two Louisville Metro Councilwomen are tired of the conditions that exist in affordable housing.
Tammy Hawkins, Barbara Shanklin and others believe that the city needs to re-evaluate its partners and the people appointed by the former mayor.
Hawkins stated, “I’d ask that these property management firms and the property owner look at this as if this were your mother or aunt.” You’d want to protect them.”
WAVE News Troubleshooters talked to two women, who wanted anonymity for fear of backlash.
They live in separate apartments, in different areas of the city. But they all share a similar disappointment.
A woman in Riverport Landing Senior Facility, located off Cane Run Road asked: “How could these people do business so badly? “.
Another woman who lives in Jeffersontown’s Bristol Bluff Apartment states that her living conditions are stressful and depressing.
These women, who do not know one another, are among those whose houses make them sick.
Riverport’s resident stated, “I am worried.” My doctor worries. “I want more time in front of me rather than behind me.”
The doctor sent a note to the owner stating that mold had affected her health. He requested she leave.
She said: “It is unfair that I must live in this way. “.
Louisville Metro Housing Authority is responsible for managing Riverport. This affordable housing that’s subsidized and managed by Winterwood.
The leak caused damage to the carpet and personal belongings of the resident, including her furniture and mattress. She is most concerned that the moldy area was painted over.
We’re finally here after following the rules. “Who’s helping me?” She asked.
Winterwood manages Bristol Bluff Apartments where a resident mopped up water on her hall.
The resident stated, “We live every day in puddles of water which I must clean.”
Her concern about mold is due to the water problems and puddles she’s been having since last year.
“I found mold on my daughter’s winter coat,” said the woman.
WAVE News’ troubleshooters discovered black spots in her clothes, shoes and hats. They also found them on the couch.
Her children are staying with her grandmother for safety.
Her COVID-related asthma was diagnosed only recently.
She said, “I have never suffered from any breathing or health issues. I only now own an inhaler.”
Hawkins & Shanklin have reached the boiling point.
Hawkins stated that Winterwood would no longer receive any funds from these institutions.
Hawkins doesn’t just mention these two buildings.
The councilwomen, in addition to being angry with Louisville’s Housing Authority are also questioning the Codes and Regulations Department, which they claim is ignoring the problem.
Shanklin replied, “I spoke to the director of enforcement.” I would like to find out who did the inspection, when they inspected and whether there was a problem.
Winterwood, taking exception to Shanklin’s claim, sent him a note stating they had no knowledge of any problems with the inspection.
Christi Lanier Robinson, executive vice president for Communications and Strategic Initiatives at LDG Development (owner of Riverwood and Bristol Bluff) said that LDG Development has repeatedly asked councilwomen for information specific to problem units over the past four weeks, but they have not received a reply.
Lanier-Robinson stated that there are over 4,000 units located in Louisville. These issues do not reflect the quality of service provided by these units. Maintenance records do not indicate widespread problems.
Hawkins replied with an email indicating Lanier was present at the meeting, where several residents voiced their concerns.
He stated, “These senior citizens are being treated with disrespect.” The poor can’t leave the East End because the area is too dirty.
The women of Riverport and Bristol Bluff hope to speak up for others who are scared or unable to stand for themselves.
Bristol Bluff resident: “I’m hoping Winterwood reads this and immediately fixes its property.”
The Riverport resident said, “I think the system has broken down and nobody cares about fixing it.”
Both Hawkins & Shanklin have taken action. At 1:30 pm, they will have a meeting in the council chambers.
Lanier-Robinson was not provided with names by the councilwomen. They requested WAVE News to provide this information, with their permission. Both declined.
Lanier-Robinson stated that they would not be able provide this information as they do not have the history memorized of hundreds of their units.
Lanier-Robinson stated that they have not had any complaints since April, despite the fact that cameras were at Bristol Bluff Apartment on July 31st.
Bristol Bluff, according to the woman’s statement, is “deep diving” into Health Department mold notifications.
Caitlin Bowing, the Communications Manager for Louisville’s Cabinet for Economic Development said Robert Kirchdorfer will be attending Wednesday’s Council meeting to discuss efforts of his staff.
Codes and Regulations inspects Louisville Metro Housing Authority property if there is a complaint.
Winterwood CEO didn’t return my call.
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