Resident urges city action for Little Abner trailer‑park residents facing evictions, alleges unsafe demolitions

At the City of Sweetwater Commission meeting, resident Cora Mueller urged commissioners to intervene on behalf of residents of the Little Abner trailer park, describing widespread evictions and hazardous demolition activity.

Mueller said social media images of the city's new pickleball courts contrasted with what she described as the “worst humanitarian crisis” in Sweetwater’s 23‑year history at Little Abner, where she said roughly 900 families have been reduced to about 200. She alleged demolitions of asbestos‑filled trailers without proper permits and said demolition dust was causing illnesses among remaining residents. She also alleged a contractor used residents’ water service and that some residents faced large bills and fines as a result.

Mueller asked the city to help residents obtain fair‑market compensation. “All that they are asking for at this point is what is fair market value for their properties,” she said, and later asked that the developer Raul Rodriguez contribute funding to assist residents to relocate.

Context and response: Commissioners interrupted Mueller to note the three‑minute public‑comment limit, and no formal city action or response was taken during the meeting. The city attorney was referenced in the discussion as having advised limits on some matters, and Mueller objected to restrictions on discussing the subject.

Outcome: Mueller’s comments were recorded in public comment. No formal motion, investigation or staff assignment was recorded on the public record at the meeting; commissioners did not announce immediate follow‑up actions during the session.