Two dozen residents of the community attended a session of the city’s Mobile Home Rent Control Board to voice their opposition to the change, as berkshireeagle tells MHProNews.
Representing Morgan, attorney Robert Kraus said this is the first request for a rent increase in several years, and that it is not unreasonable. The rent on the 56 home sites is currently $190/month, and the increase would set the rent at $260/month. Kraus said the sale of the community is contingent on the rent increase.
Ronald Bove, a member of the community’s tenant’s association, said the roads are in poor condition and there are some dilapidated homes, a concern echoed by Ward 1 Councilor Lisa Tully, who could not attend the meeting.
Residents’ complaints of low water pressure and blighted homes should be directed to the water department and the health department, respectively, according to Mr. Kraus.
Board members Kenneth Ferris and Justine Dodds, the city’s housing specialist, questioned some of Morgan’s financial figures and asked why the increase was so high. Board Chairman and City Councilor Christopher Connell proposed continuing the hearing to April 25, and asked that the city health department conduct a required annual inspection of the community in advance of that meeting. He said the board could require Morgan to obtain three bids for road or other improvements as part of an agreement that would allow a rent increase.
Morgan Management is in the process of divesting itself of MHCs. ##
(Photo credit: rit.edu–Robert Morgan of Morgan Management)
