Residents of Columbia Gardens Apartments Raise Alarm Over Confusing Eviction Notices

Residents of Columbia Gardens Apartments Alarmed by Confusing Eviction Notices

Columbia, S.C. – A wave of confusion and concern has swept through the Columbia Gardens Apartments community, as residents recently received eviction notices that many believe are unjustified. The alarming notices, which range in amount owed from $200 to a staggering $10,000, have left tenants scratching their heads, especially since several claim they have been diligent in paying their rent on time.

Brittany Eady, a resident who has called Columbia Gardens home for five years, is among those perplexed by the situation. “I lost my kids’ father, and staying here is helpful for me because I lost that help from him being gone,” Eady shared expressively. Despite her regular monthly rent payment of $500, she was shocked to find an eviction notice dated October 26, demanding she pay a surprising $2,100. “I pay my rent on time. I don’t know why. How does this balance even get to $2,100?” she asked, exuding frustration and confusion.

Widespread Confusion Among Tenants

It seems Eady isn’t the only one with worries. Many of her neighbors at Columbia Gardens reported receiving similar eviction notices last Friday, setting off alarm bells across the community. Residents are rattled, questioning whether these eviction notices are even legitimate. “How can this be happening to so many of us at once?” one tenant remarked, emphasizing the strange timing and shared nature of the issue.

Interestingly, Columbia Gardens Apartments is classified as a Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) property and is also part of the Project-Based Contract Administration (PBCA/HUD) program, which adds another layer of complexity to the situation. The South Carolina Housing Authority weighed in, acknowledging that miscommunications had taken place. A representative from the Authority shared that the complex had mistakenly sent out incorrect eviction notices, with the correct letters expected to be distributed on October 29. These correct notices would supposedly give residents a 30-day window to address charges.

Residents Await Clarification

However, as days passed without any sign of the revised notices, tensions continued to rise among tenants. “We’ve heard promises, but where are the new letters?” asked another resident, reflecting the growing anxiety surrounding the issue. Clarity is desperately needed as many of these individuals rely on their homes for stability, especially during challenging times.

To get to the bottom of this development, inquiries were made to the Beacon Property Group, which manages Columbia Gardens. Unfortunately, after reaching out for clarification, no response was provided. Adam Partheroe, a litigation lawyer affiliated with SC Appleseed Legal Justice Center, spoke out about the situation, questioning the nature of this sudden surge in eviction notices. “With a large majority of the tenants in the apartment complex all of a sudden getting an eviction notice, my question is, ‘Okay, what changed?’” he remarked, highlighting the unusual circumstances of the mass notifications.

Management Unavailable for Comment

On a recent visit to the apartment complex, attempts to speak with the management team proved fruitless when staff requested the team to leave the property. This lack of transparency only adds to the frustration of residents who feel as though they are being left in the dark.

As Columbia Gardens’ residents await communication and instruction, the community remains on edge. With rightful questions about the legitimacy of these eviction notices hanging in the air, tenants hope that swift action and clear guidance will be forthcoming. Many are simply looking for peace of mind, hoping they can continue to call Columbia Gardens home.