Serenity Towers Faces Ongoing Challenges Despite Recent Legal Actions
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — It’s been two weeks since the environmental court declared Serenity Towers a chronic nuisance, and life at the South Highland high-rise is far from perfect. This follows a recent code enforcement sweep that uncovered alarming issues, including numerous units still battling pesky bed bug infestations. Though it’s a trying time for the residents, efforts are underway to tackle these persistent problems head-on.
On Tuesday, attorney Geoffrey Gaia, representing the owners of Serenity Towers — Millennia — made his way back into environmental court. Unfortunately, he quickly learned that some of the plans aimed at fixing the ongoing issues have hit a few bumps along the road. One major concern? The elevators. With two in the East and two in the West, the elevators are crucial for the residents, many of whom are elderly or disabled. Just hours before Gaia’s appearance, fire inspectors identified problems with the east side elevators. “None working on the east side, but they corrected it before I left,” admitted the inspectors.
The Importance of Functional Elevators
This situation raises significant safety concerns. Most of the residents rely on these elevators not just for convenience but for safe access to their homes. As Marcus Ward, the Special Master, pointed out, “It jams up the system for the fire department trying to respond to other things.” It’s crucial for the safety services to operate without additional hurdles, especially when every moment counts.
Good News Amid Challenges
While there are ongoing issues, it’s not all doom and gloom at Serenity Towers. Reports indicate that the hot water and HVAC systems are functioning well. However, the true test will come when the transition from air conditioning to heating occurs, which has yet to be seen. Residents and officials alike remain hopeful that these systems continue to operate smoothly through the winter months.
Ongoing Legal Efforts
City attorney Carlissa Shaw commented on the situation, stating, “We have identified what the issues are at Serenity Towers time and time again. I think the missing piece for analysis is what needs to be done to remedy those things.” The city is pressing the court to ensure that the financial burden of engaging an outside source to devise a comprehensive plan does not fall on taxpayers.
The passion and determination of those who continue to flock to the fourth floor of the courthouse are commendable. They are propelled by a simple yet powerful motive: to ensure that the near 170 residents calling Serenity Towers home are guaranteed a safe and sanitary living environment. Their resolve illustrates how communities can come together for a common cause, even amid challenges.
Next Steps
As things stand, all parties involved are set to reconvene in court on November 26 for a report date that promises to keep the momentum going. Residents, advocates, and officials are standing by, hoping that real solutions will finally be implemented to bring lasting change to Serenity Towers.
It’s a journey, but with the eyes of the community upon them and ongoing legal pressures, Serenity Towers remains a key focus for many as they navigate the complexities of urban living and tenant rights.
We will continue to provide updates as the situation unfolds.
