Residents at southwest Atlanta apartment complex asking city to investigate renovation failures

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – Tenants in southwest Atlanta are sounding the alarm on an ongoing renovation project.

People living at the G.E. Tower Apartments in Mechanicsville say they moved back into newly renovated units with more problems.

The majority of the units at the complex are affordable housing.

The Housing Justice League held a press conference where residents voiced their frustrations Wednesday.

Renea Fulges said she has had ongoing water issues.

Fulges said she moved back into her apartment at the end of June and found water leaking from the bathroom.

She also claims her sink water was murky in color.

“It’s just been a nightmare. We think we’re going to get reconstructed and it’s going to be beautiful,” Fulges said.

Monica Johnson with the Housing Justice League said management has failed to address major issues throughout the renovation process.

“They come back and there are still issues. People coming in with no A.C A lot of folks came in and it took six months or so with their A.D.A. features.”

Franklin Johnston Group Management currently owns the property.

It’s unclear when the management company took over ongoing renovations at the property.

“We are committed to enhancing our residents’ living experience at GE Tower through a comprehensive $18 million renovation, investing over $85,000 per unit. Throughout the renovation process, we have actively engaged with our community, hosting multiple town hall-style meetings – including two this month – to address and respond to resident concerns,” the management company said in a statement.

Atlanta News First asked how long the group has managed the property and was told they would get back to us.

Johnson said they’re calling on city leaders to investigate.

Fulges said she just wants the problems fixed.

“I don’t want to move. I love living here, I feel like they’re trying to force us out that’s how I feel,” Fulges said.

Atlanta City Councilmember Jason Doizer, who represents the district, said his office has been working with both the residents and organizers with the Housing Justice League.

Dozier said they’ve been able to coordinate support from Atlanta Housing, the Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation and the city’s Solicitor’s Office. Dozier said they have yet not come to a compromise.

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