Heritage Place apartment tenants take some legal action

Tenants at Heritage Place in Steubenville have initiated legal action to address severe mismanagement issues at their affordable housing complex, asking a judge to appoint a receiver. The emergency motion filed by Pam Bolton cites multiple instances of service interruptions, including lack of heat and hot water affecting residents since December. Allegations of systemic neglect also include missed property tax payments and failure to maintain basic utilities, leaving tenants vulnerable in their living conditions. Bolton reported that some residents have faced service shut-offs on at least seven occasions in the last 18 months. The motion emphasizes that the property owner has abandoned its responsibilities under Ohio law, jeopardizing tenants' rights.

The hearing is scheduled for Thursday, where Judge Joseph Bruzzese will evaluate the request to appoint Intercept Management Corp. as receiver. This case underscores broader concerns about affordable housing management and tenant rights in Ohio. The potential appointment of a receiver could lead to significant changes in how the property is managed moving forward.