The situation which has occurred at 480 Garfield Avenue, Aurora, is unfortunate to the displaced residents of the property.
Based on a letter sent to residents Saturday, Aug. 31 from the attorney of the owner of the building, it informed tenants the building was uninhabitable and must be vacated. The letter stated the owner would pay for hotel rooms, which is required by city government of Aurora ordinance, for displaced residents through Monday, Sept. 9, and the building would be permanently closed as of Tuesday, Sept. 10
The city government of Aurora first deemed the building unsafe and posted such notice Friday, Aug. 2, a full four weeks prior to the letter of eviction from the owner. The city government of Aurora posted a notice that the building was unlawfully occupied Wednesday, Aug. 7, followed by another notice to vacate Friday, Aug. 23.
Understanding the dire circumstances for the displaced residents, the city government of Aurora is reaching out to its database of owners of rental units to explain the situation and to express the need for immediate available housing. The city government of Aurora is working with social service agencies, churches, and other community partners to find ways to help ease the burden of finding, financing, and finalizing, a new place of residence. These resources will be made available to the displaced residents. Referral information was previously given to the owner of the building, but that clearly was not disseminated to the residents in an expeditious manner.
To date, the owners have issued a $1,000 check to each leaseholder to assist with moving expenses.
From the initial concerns about safe living conditions to the current matter of displaced residents with no permanent housing, the city government of Aurora has made safety and security a priority and will continue to focus on the stability of residents who have been displaced because of the inactivity and lack of concern by the property owner.
— City government of Aurora