Changes at Clovis Apartment Complex Leave Residents Concerned
CLOVIS, Calif. (KFSN) — Families in Clovis, including many seniors and veterans, are expressing fears that new rules and increased rents from a recent apartment ownership transition will force them to move during the holiday season.
Derrick Ervin, a resident and veteran, voiced his frustrations after receiving a notice prohibiting him from displaying his Marine flag outside his apartment. “I’m a veteran,” he said. “They had me hot.”
County records indicate that David Hussain purchased Ervin’s complex, the Gettysburg Gardens, for $4.3 million just a few months prior. Residents report being inundated with notifications regarding new regulations that drastically alter their living conditions.
- Rent was raised, then slightly lowered.
- A ban on outside decorations, including Christmas decorations, was implemented.
- A no pet policy has been enacted.
“They just bought this place,” Ervin remarked. “New management. And this is how you treat your tenants.”
Marlene Remer, another resident, expressed that many in the community are “very upset” about the potential loss of their homes and pets. “They can’t uproot older people like that,” she added.
Action News reached out to the management office, where a manager named Samantha confirmed that Hussain does not accept Section 8 renters at any of his approximately 20 properties. While she stated that current Section 8 tenants at Gettysburg Gardens will not be evicted, new applicants will not be accepted.
All properties owned by Hussain are enforcing a no pet policy, leaving Gettysburg Gardens residents with 30 days to either rehome their pets or find new accommodations. This has put considerable stress on residents who are reluctant to part with their animals.
Remer described her pet, Little Girl, as her “companion” and “child,” asserting that she has no intention of giving her up. A legally blind resident mentioned plans to acquire a doctor’s note to classify her dog as a service or emotional support animal, which management indicated could be a viable option.
Real estate lawyers assert that while the new owner appears to be acting within legal boundaries, the situation presents significant challenges for tenants. Changes to eviction and rent regulations will soon come into effect in California, including a rent increase cap under AB-1482, and SB-329, which will restrict landlords from outright refusing Section 8 applications.
“They have to at least allow some kind of screening process to all applicants regardless of their assistance/source of income,” explained Brandi Johnson from the Fresno Housing Authority. Starting in 2020, landlords will be required to provide this opportunity to potential tenants.
For those experiencing rental issues, Central California Legal Services offers assistance. Their legal advice and referral line can be reached at (559) 675-8001.