
Unsafe Living Conditions at Thomas Paine Square
Residents at the Thomas Paine Square Apartments in San Francisco's Fillmore District are voicing their frustrations over deteriorating living conditions that they say have only worsened over the years. The complaints from the tenants highlight issues such as persistent mold, rotting carpets, and inadequate responses from their landlord, Bethel AME Church, and the management company, Domus Management. The situation is alarming, particularly given that many tenants have lived there for decades, relying on rent subsidies from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
A Long History of Housing Challenges
This complex, which was developed by local Black churches, has been a pivotal aspect of the community for over fifty years. However, in recent years, it, along with other affordable housing complexes in the district, has faced significant challenges due to aging infrastructure and a lack of maintenance. Longtime resident Barbara Carthen, who has lived at Thomas Paine Square for over 50 years, expressed her concerns: "I've seen better days here, and the situation is simply unacceptable now."
Ignored Complaints and Potential HUD Implications
Residents have reported that their pleas for urgent maintenance, particularly regarding mold and safety issues, are often ignored or inadequately addressed. Some tenants fear that ongoing problems could jeopardize their housing assistance, especially when issues trigger potential HUD actions against the property.
The Need for Action from Community Leaders
Activism by residents and media coverage, like that from Mission Local, might finally prompt the church and property management to take the urgent action needed. With the historical significance of these complexes in the Fillmore and the critical importance of safe, stable housing, community advocates hope to see improvements that honor the legacy of the area while improving the lives of its residents.
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