Boulder, Colo. — A judicial order has underscored the urgency for the City of Boulder and the owners of the Ash House apartments to collaboratively address the displacement of students due to unsafe living conditions discovered in their residence. Following an eviction mandated by the city, which discovered unapproved modifications in the majority of the complex’s units, the impasse was brought before a judge this week.
The city had initiated the evacuation after a resident’s complaint led to an inspection. It was revealed that 13 out of 16 apartments had unpermitted constructions that violated local housing codes. The modifications included the addition of a fourth bedroom, exacerbating concerns about over-occupancy and obscured access to emergency exits.
In response to the city’s evacuation order, the property owners of Ash House, under the company name 891 12th LLC, sought legal recourse by filing an emergency Temporary Restraining Order to halt the displacement. The court, however, upheld the city’s decision, demanding that all parties find immediate, temporary housing solutions for the affected tenants until a more permanent resolution could be reached.
During court proceedings, concerns were voiced about the potential risks posed by the unauthorized room additions. City officials argued these rooms lacked proper egress, which could severely hinder escape in the event of an emergency, such as a fire.
The presiding judge emphasized the responsibility of both the Ash House owners and the city to ensure the wellbeing of the residents, whom he referred to as “innocent victims.” He stressed that more proactive efforts should have been made to assist these residents, beyond just providing contact information for off-campus housing resources.
The building owner has committed to removing the unauthorized construction and working with city inspectors to ensure all modifications are up to code. They expressed optimism that the requisite repairs could be completed within two weeks, allowing residents to return to safer, compliant apartments.
Meanwhile, some students have begun seeking alternate accommodations. A few students, seen moving their belongings out of Ash House, expressed relief at finding other housing options, albeit the transition comes with its own set of challenges and uncertainties.
In light of the ongoing legal discourse, the judge scheduled a follow-up hearing for October 8 and urged both parties to continue mediation efforts. He expressed disappointment in the necessity of the court’s involvement, advocating for a resolution that prioritizes the safety and stability of the student residents.
As the situation unfolds, the city of Boulder remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring the safety of its residents, particularly in rental properties catering to the student population. Despite the judicial setback, city officials reiterated their intent to monitor the situation closely and enforce compliance to safeguard the wellbeing of its community members.
This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the critical importance of adhering to building codes and regulations, intended to protect residents from potential hazards. Both property owners and city authorities carry the duty to address any lapses in safety standards promptly and effectively, ensuring such oversights are avoided in the future to prevent similar incidents.