During a recent government meeting, residents voiced significant safety concerns regarding unauthorized access to their building, particularly at night. Robert Barlow, a resident of Cartel Heights, highlighted that many residents feel unsafe due to individuals entering the building without permission. He recounted instances where he had to confront trespassers, noting that residents are hesitant to engage in evening activities, such as doing laundry or socializing, due to fears of encountering strangers.

Barlow emphasized the need for improved security measures, suggesting that the building management should address these issues more proactively. He also raised concerns about the accessibility of the community room, which was locked during a recent voting event, preventing residents from using the space for social activities. The management acknowledged these concerns and encouraged residents to document their issues in writing for better follow-up.

In response to the safety concerns, management representatives noted that they have been hearing similar complaints across various buildings. They discussed the challenges of controlling access, particularly when residents inadvertently allow others in. Suggestions were made about potentially hiring security personnel during late hours to enhance safety.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the high occupancy rates within the housing authority's properties, which currently stand at approximately 97-98%. While this reflects a positive demand for housing, it has also led to longer waiting lists for new applicants, with some waiting over a year for placement. Management acknowledged the bottleneck in the application process and emphasized the importance of maintaining accurate contact information for applicants to ensure timely communication.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for residents to attend a follow-up meeting to further discuss their concerns and gather input directly from the community.