‘We are fed up': Middletown tenants push for repairs at apartment building
A group of tenants at a Middletown apartment building is demanding action over what they describe as ongoing maintenance, health and safety issues at the property.
“I’m just terrified right about now about this building for everybody,” resident Michele Foye said.
Residents gathered on Wednesday to voice concerns about conditions inside the building, including an elevator they say has been out of service for months.
Tenants said the situation has been especially challenging for residents with disabilities who rely on the elevator to access their apartments.
Victoria Kennedy said the elevator outage has significantly affected her daily life.
“Why do I have to pay rent to be hostage in my house for nine months? I literally have to crawl down the stairs,” Kennedy said.
Residents also said the building’s doorbell and intercom systems are not working, creating additional challenges for people entering and leaving the property.
Tenants expressed growing concerns about health and safety conditions in the building.
They said part of the roof collapsed, leaks have continued for an extended period, and they have found what they believe to be mold.
“We are here as one big family. I know everybody in the building. They’re all my friends. And I’m concerned for all these people who live here. This shouldn’t be happen to the people who pay good money for a place to live,” resident Troy Gesswin said.
The building is owned by Alpha Capital, a company that has also faced complaints from tenants at other properties it owns in Connecticut.
Residents said the owner of Alpha Capital has refused to speak with unionized tenants from multiple properties, as well as elected officials, about their concerns.
Tenants in Middletown said they plan to share their findings with city officials and Alpha Capital.
“Spend your money to fix your property. Do it now because we are fed up with your nonsense,” Foye said.
NBC Connecticut reached out to Alpha Capital for comment but had not received a response as of Wednesday.
From breaking news and local politics to art exhibitions, live music, high school sports, small businesses, and cultural events, we celebrate the people and places that make Connecticut unique.