Residents in Columbia, S.C. Alarmed by Shocking Eviction Notices
Columbia, S.C. — The calm atmosphere at Columbia Gardens Apartments has quickly shifted into a whirlwind of worry and confusion for many residents. Just last week, numerous tenants received eviction notices that quite frankly seemed to come out of nowhere. These notices cited unpaid rents ranging from a surprising $200 to a jaw-dropping $10,000, leaving many scratching their heads in disbelief.
Feeling Misunderstood and Frustrated
Brittany Eady, a long-time resident who has called Columbia Gardens home for five years, voiced her frustrations on the matter. “I lost my kids’ father, and staying here is helpful for me, because I lost that help from, you know, him being gone,” she explained. Brittany, like many others, has always ensured that she pays her rent on time. Currently, she pays $500 a month, but received an eviction notice on October 26 claiming she owes an unrealistic $2,100. “I pay my rent on time. I don’t know why. How does this balance even get to $2,100?” she wondered aloud, highlighting the bewilderment shared by many in the complex.
A Community in Shock
The eviction notices were issued last Friday, leaving residents feeling both confused and apprehensive about their living situations. Brittany isn’t alone in these troubling circumstances; other tenants have also reported similar eviction letters. This sudden influx of notices has undeniably rattled the community, leading to widespread concern among folks who once felt secure in their homes.
The Official Response
According to the South Carolina Housing website, Columbia Gardens operates under both the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program and the Project-Based Contract Administration (PBCA/HUD) program. However, things took a turn when the South Carolina Housing Authority stepped in, claiming that the complex had mistakenly distributed incorrect eviction notices. “The correct letters will be distributed October 29th and will provide residents with 30 days to pay charges,” a representative stated, which was meant to bring some comfort to those affected.
Still Left in the Dark
Unfortunately, for many residents anxious about their futures, the assurance didn’t suffice. As of Tuesday, countless tenants reported that they had yet to see the promised corrected letters. This unresponsiveness only added to the unease that filled the air. Seeking clarity on the situation, local reporters reached out to the Beacon Property Group, the owners of Columbia Gardens, but received no reply regarding the investigation into the chaos.
Legal Experts Weigh In
Adam Partheroe, a litigation lawyer with SC Appleseed Legal Justice Center, chimed in with concerns regarding the sudden surge of 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 questioned, hinting that something may have fundamentally shifted in the management’s approach that raised red flags for those living in the complex.
A Call for Transparency
As the perplexing situation continues to unfold, residents are left waiting for clarity. On Monday, attempts were made to speak with management at Columbia Gardens, but workers requested reporters to leave the premises. With no response from the complex or Beacon Property Group since then, the atmosphere remains tense, and many residents are left contemplating the legitimacy of the eviction notices they received.
The community stands at a crossroads, hoping for resolution and a chance to feel safe and secure in their homes once more. For the residents of Columbia Gardens, the coming days will hopefully bring answers, and perhaps a greater sense of stability back into their lives.
