Tenants and advocates press council on housing, Westcott apartment conditions and reparations implementation

At the Privilege of the Floor segment on July 27, tenants and advocates raised two immediate concerns: unsafe living conditions at Westcott Apartments and the lack of a council implementation timeline for the Repertory Justice Commission recommendations. Tenant Gary May described water leaks, mold, a multi-day water shutoff and management’s temporary restrictions on visitation; he called for staff intervention and monitoring by city elected officials. "They turned off all the water in the building and put porta potties in the parking lot on a 85-degree day," he said, adding that some residents are elderly or have disabilities and needed access to indoor facilities.

Separately, Tiana Batiste Swaddell and other community members urged the council to publish a timeline for implementing the Reparatory Justice Commission’s recommendations, including whether the council will consider direct financial restitution and budget changes during the forthcoming budget cycle. The speakers asked for improved public-records responsiveness and clearer communication protocols between residents and council members. Council members acknowledged the concerns and asked staff to collect details and follow up with the speakers.