Residents of Li’l Abner Mobile Home Park Fight Against Eviction in Class Action Lawsuit
Background
In November, nearly 900 residents of Li’l Abner Mobile Home Park in Sweetwater, Florida, received notice that the park would permanently close on May 19. The reason given was that the property would be converted to affordable government-subsidized housing. This news came as a shock to many residents, who had made the park their home.
Residents’ Concerns
One resident, Miguel Gonzalez, expressed his frustration and disappointment at the short notice. "This situation is very complex… We’re making this transition with my family, there are six of us, and we came from New York here. We spent our savings to have a better life in Florida. It’s very cold in New York." Gonzalez moved to Li’l Abner in October, but received a notice to vacate just a week later.
Class Action Lawsuit
In response to the evictions, a group of 190 residents have signed up for a class action lawsuit against the city of Sweetwater and Miami-Dade County. The lawsuit alleges that the landlord did not follow the law by not giving the necessary notice to the homeowners association and failing to provide a right of first refusal. It also claims that the city and county failed to conduct studies to ensure that residents had a place to relocate.
Procedural Issues
The lawsuit alleges that the landlord did not follow proper procedures, including not providing 90 days’ notice before increasing rent, as required by Florida law. Additionally, it claims that the city and county did not follow proper procedures by failing to conduct studies to ensure that residents had a place to relocate.
Relocation Efforts
A group managing the relocation transition for neighbors reports that 117 tenants have already relocated, and another couple hundred have indicated they plan to move. There are financial incentives for tenants to leave, with the amount depending on how quickly they do so.
Company Response
The company representing the mobile home park has issued a statement, stating that all decisions related to the property were made in compliance with local regulations and requirements.
Conclusion
The residents of Li’l Abner Mobile Home Park are fighting against eviction in a class action lawsuit, citing procedural issues and unfair treatment. The outcome of the lawsuit remains to be seen, but the residents are determined to stand up for their rights and fight for their homes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the reason for the closure of Li’l Abner Mobile Home Park?
A: The park is being converted to affordable government-subsidized housing.
Q: How many residents have signed up for the class action lawsuit?
A: 190 residents have signed up for the class action lawsuit.
Q: What are the allegations in the lawsuit?
A: The lawsuit alleges that the landlord did not follow the law, including not providing necessary notice to the homeowners association and failing to provide a right of first refusal. It also claims that the city and county failed to conduct studies to ensure that residents had a place to relocate.
Q: How many residents have already relocated?
A: 117 residents have already relocated, and another couple hundred have indicated they plan to move.
Q: What are the financial incentives for tenants to leave?
A: The amount of the incentive depends on how quickly tenants leave.
