An activist group representing tenants of a troubled Aurora apartment complex has raised concerns about residents being without running water for five days, as the city works to provide alternative housing before the buildings are closed due to allegations of gang activity and neglect.
Housekeys Action Network Denver stated in an email on Friday that residents in two buildings at the Edge of Lowry have been unable to bathe their children or cook food due to the lack of running water, and are in desperate need of support. The deteriorating conditions, including burst pipes and flooding, have added to the urgency as residents try to secure new living arrangements before the looming closure date of Feb. 18.
While the group reported that affected tenants who attempted to access water from other buildings were threatened with arrest by police officers and firefighters, the Aurora Police Department denied making contact with anyone at the complex. Police officers were said to be assisting firefighters in closing a water valve after pipes burst, with no intention of preventing residents from accessing water.
The city of Aurora announced the appointment of Property Solutions Colorado as a temporary administrator of the properties managed by CBZ Management. Property Solutions Colorado will assist in posting closure notices, assessing property conditions, and helping tenants find suitable housing options on a case-by-case basis.
Paula Forshee of Property Solutions Colorado emphasized the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of existing tenants, stating that the goal is to relocate them from an unsafe environment in a compassionate and dignified manner. City spokesperson Ryan Luby confirmed that repairs for at least three water leaks at the Edge of Lowry buildings would be arranged promptly by Property Solutions Colorado.
The decision to close the Edge of Lowry complex was prompted by a series of code violations, including graffiti, trash, and weeds, as well as multiple 911 calls for various crimes. The complex made headlines internationally after a viral video showed armed individuals forcibly entering apartments, drawing attention from then-President-elect Donald Trump. Following a December incident involving the kidnapping and torture of two residents, the city took swift action to address ongoing safety concerns.
As the situation unfolds at the Edge of Lowry, efforts are being made to ensure the well-being of residents and facilitate a smooth transition to alternative housing options. The collaboration between city officials, Property Solutions Colorado, and community advocates underscores the importance of addressing issues of neglect and criminal activity to safeguard the welfare of all residents.
