I don't know about you, but I'm getting tired of reading those typical affordable housing stories of subsidized apartment complexes needing millions of dollars to renovate due to the previous failing management company. You know the story.... "The development was in danger of foreclosure if its financial and physical condition was not restored" MassHousing said in a press release. The stories always mention drugs and crime in such places with false promises of cleaning up the crime and how much better the quality of life for low-income residents will be. Uh-huh.
The following article informs readers about the negligent property management company called Cornerstone Corporation. By the way, MHFA or MassHousing previously selected Cornerstone Corporation as the 'SuperHero' management company for Clarendon Hill Towers, Rockland Place Apts., and several other housing complexes too. Since 2005, MassHousing went on another corporate partnership kick. Can you guess the name of the newly-formed super hero Limited Liability Corporation that flew in to improve Clarendon Hill Towers and Rockland Place Apts. from 2005? Criminal background checks anyone?*http://somervillenews.typepad.com/the_somerville_news/2009/02/clarendon-hill-towers-receives-money-to-renovate-and-refinance.html
This Clarendon Hill Towers saga is similar to the one created for Rockland Place dba SpringGate Apts. in Rockland, Mass. that also received millions of dollars for renovations. The name of Linda Hamilton of First Hartford Realty Corp. is listed at both housing complexes too. I guess we can only hope that around 2015, MassHousing comes up with a different story of hope for low-income tenants. The one of SuperHerosUnited LLC flying in to save our days and cleaning up crime within a couple of years is getting a bit stale. *http://somerville.patch.com/articles/police-make-prostitution-bust-in-clarendon-hill-towers
Freedom can not ring in an oppressive society. This blog reflects thoughts, personal experiences, + several notes of interest on 'affordable' housing. What do you think of gov't financing nuisance properties? Rockland Place continues doing business as SPRING GATE APARTMENTS along Martha Drive + Hannah Way in Rockland, Mass. (shady business).
Sunday, September 25, 2011
DOUBLE TALK
To date, state and federal agencies remain indifferent about Management's non-compliance with the Fair Housing Act, Laws, and HUD's rules and regulations. The Housing Development should conform to requirements of local, state and federal laws, rules, requirements, ordinances, orders and codes, Federal Fair Housing Act and Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”), as applicable.
Whether it be handicapped accessibility, the pet policy and Management's allowance of pitbulls, their unfair parking policy, and the harassment of tenants, Management consistently applies different standards and enforcements to different households. Safety code violations still exist for some tenants since the government-funded renovations in 2005. Why does this corporate landlord, property manager, or representative refuse to sign the tenants' copy of lease amendments and numerous recertification documents?
If worrying about car vandalism on this property isn't enough, some resident vehicles that are in full compliance of Rockland Place LP's Parking Policy are still being unjustly towed from the housing complex. There are currently vehicles with parking stickers that read "CORNERSTONE CORPORATION" while other stickers read, "SPRING GATE". It would be helpful for management to offer only one type of parking sticker per household to avoid some of the confusion with their unfair parking policy.
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MORE SEPTEMBER TIDBITS
- September 19th, late afternoon, a large crowd gathered outside of 92 Martha Drive over another loud dispute and disturbance.
- Gunshots were heard on September 9th and 10th around 11:45pm, and September 16th around 9:30pm along Hannah Way and Martha Drive. Description of a male was provided to Rockland Police. Police cruised the apartment complex, but found no one matching the reported description.
Whether it be handicapped accessibility, the pet policy and Management's allowance of pitbulls, their unfair parking policy, and the harassment of tenants, Management consistently applies different standards and enforcements to different households. Safety code violations still exist for some tenants since the government-funded renovations in 2005. Why does this corporate landlord, property manager, or representative refuse to sign the tenants' copy of lease amendments and numerous recertification documents?
If worrying about car vandalism on this property isn't enough, some resident vehicles that are in full compliance of Rockland Place LP's Parking Policy are still being unjustly towed from the housing complex. There are currently vehicles with parking stickers that read "CORNERSTONE CORPORATION" while other stickers read, "SPRING GATE". It would be helpful for management to offer only one type of parking sticker per household to avoid some of the confusion with their unfair parking policy.
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MORE SEPTEMBER TIDBITS
- September 19th, late afternoon, a large crowd gathered outside of 92 Martha Drive over another loud dispute and disturbance.
- Gunshots were heard on September 9th and 10th around 11:45pm, and September 16th around 9:30pm along Hannah Way and Martha Drive. Description of a male was provided to Rockland Police. Police cruised the apartment complex, but found no one matching the reported description.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Invisible Rules are Useless Tools
MassHousing representatives claim that when a housing complex (like Rockland Place or Spring Gate Apartments) is funded by HUD, the corporate partners and property management are required to follow the rules contained in HUD Handbook 4350.3 REV-1. Chapter II of this Handbook summarizes Federal non-discrimination requirements and lays out for housing providers that receive federal funding from HUD, what they must do, should do, and can do when it comes to Fair Housing. Fair housing requirements are also incorporated throughout the rest of the HUD Handbook which discusses all aspects of housing management.
While this information might look impressive in print, it would be much more impressive if these rules, laws, and statutes were actually enforced. Residents at Rockland Place have not been provided documentation of specific criteria for tenant selection at this poorly run housing complex. Management's rules are inconsistently applied. This corporate landlord refuses to comply with Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 186, Section 21. If you're a low-income tenant and would like a hard-copy of this HUD Handbook 4350.3 REV-1, perhaps HUD could provide you one with a written request. ?
Executive Order 11063: Prohibits discrimination in the sale, leasing, rental or other disposition of properties and facilities owned or operated by the federal government with federal funds.
Executive Order 12892: Federal agencies must affirmatively further fair housing in programs and activities, and the Secretary of HUD will be responsible for coordinating the effort. *http://search.usa.gov/searchaffiliate=housingandurbandevelopment&query=Handbook+4350.3+REV-1
While this information might look impressive in print, it would be much more impressive if these rules, laws, and statutes were actually enforced. Residents at Rockland Place have not been provided documentation of specific criteria for tenant selection at this poorly run housing complex. Management's rules are inconsistently applied. This corporate landlord refuses to comply with Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 186, Section 21. If you're a low-income tenant and would like a hard-copy of this HUD Handbook 4350.3 REV-1, perhaps HUD could provide you one with a written request. ?
Executive Order 11063: Prohibits discrimination in the sale, leasing, rental or other disposition of properties and facilities owned or operated by the federal government with federal funds.
Executive Order 12892: Federal agencies must affirmatively further fair housing in programs and activities, and the Secretary of HUD will be responsible for coordinating the effort. *http://search.usa.gov/searchaffiliate=housingandurbandevelopment&query=Handbook+4350.3+REV-1
Sunday, September 11, 2011
More Safe, Decent, Affordable Housing News
Jeremy R. Enochs, 33, of 93 Martha Drive, Rockland was arraigned Tuesday on four counts of rape of a child with force and two counts of assault and battery on a child under 14. He is due back in court for a probable cause hearing on September 27. Bail has been set. Read more: http://www.patriotledger.com/archive/x948305374/Rockland-man-charged-with-raping-13-year-old-girl#ixzz1Xd0qtc17
This isn't the first alleged pervert at this government-subsidized, multifamily housing complex, Rockland Place dba SpringGate Apts. It's such a safe and respectable place to live and be victimized!***********************
Thought for the day: In remembrance of those who perished at the World Trade Center ten years ago today and those brave souls who came to their aid. "Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement that something else is more important than fear." ~Ambrose Redmoon
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Less Power to the People?
On August 17, 2011, Barney Frank wrote the chairman of the Federal Reserve Board to request an extended public comment period regarding the proposed purchase of ING Direct by Capitol One. This purchase would create the 5th largest bank in the United States. What type of impact do you think this purchase would have on consumers, communities, and the economy in general? Write to let them know your thoughts and concerns.
The Honorable Barney Frank, MA, Ranking Member
United States House of Representatives
Committee on Financial Services
Washington, DC 20515
The Honorable Ben S. Bernanke, Chairman
Federal Reserve Board
20th and Constitution Ave. N.W.
Washington, DC 20551
The Honorable Barney Frank, MA, Ranking Member
United States House of Representatives
Committee on Financial Services
Washington, DC 20515
The Honorable Ben S. Bernanke, Chairman
Federal Reserve Board
20th and Constitution Ave. N.W.
Washington, DC 20551
Sunday, August 21, 2011
The Same Old Song
So much for the atmosphere at this 204-unit subsidized, multifamily housing complex. Living here can feel like your under the thumb of public and private drug cartel. Rockland Place dba SpringGate Apartments is often thought of as the gateway to hell. Not much has changed with all the millions of dollars in state and federal grants, except new siding, gas conversion, and more corporate partners known for committing HUD fraud.
Partners in crime have joined forces in the profitable facade of helping those in poverty as they aid illegal activities. Management says 'no dogs and no drug dealers allowed', but it depends on who you are and who you know, as to whether or not any of the rules apply. Use and sell enough drugs, and you could even be late with your rent. Assault your neighbors; just don't mention the fraud going on. You could even live in these apartments on someone else's lease for free. Unethical corporate partners are always in breach of lease agreements while rents keep going up.
It's a noisy, chaotic, and dysfunctional place to have to live. However, if you're desperate enough, you can move up quickly on the waiting list and receive a Management Special. Simply mention you know one of the favored, yet non-compliant households by name. It's the same old song ... with more and more funding, for the favorite cons. http://www.youtube.com/lobbyistable
Partners in crime have joined forces in the profitable facade of helping those in poverty as they aid illegal activities. Management says 'no dogs and no drug dealers allowed', but it depends on who you are and who you know, as to whether or not any of the rules apply. Use and sell enough drugs, and you could even be late with your rent. Assault your neighbors; just don't mention the fraud going on. You could even live in these apartments on someone else's lease for free. Unethical corporate partners are always in breach of lease agreements while rents keep going up.
It's a noisy, chaotic, and dysfunctional place to have to live. However, if you're desperate enough, you can move up quickly on the waiting list and receive a Management Special. Simply mention you know one of the favored, yet non-compliant households by name. It's the same old song ... with more and more funding, for the favorite cons. http://www.youtube.com/lobbyistable
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Property Inspections for HUD
Rockland Place dba Spring Gate Apartments will be getting a REAC inspection by the lowest bidding contractor, Inspectors Servicing America Inc. Hopefully, there will be no conflicts of interest so that property management will finally get those handicapped units and the appropriate resident list in honest compliance with HUD regulations and fair housing laws.
This outside contractor will be inspecting several other subsidized properties for HUD. As of today's date, residents on Martha Drive and Hannah Way haven't been notified by owners or management of the upcoming REAC property inspection for Rockland Place. It is scheduled for Wednesday, August 17, 2011.
This outside contractor will be inspecting several other subsidized properties for HUD. As of today's date, residents on Martha Drive and Hannah Way haven't been notified by owners or management of the upcoming REAC property inspection for Rockland Place. It is scheduled for Wednesday, August 17, 2011.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Affordable Housing Not So Affordable
Along Martha Drive and Hannah Way, Rockland, Massachusetts, most residents pay 30-40% of their income to the HUD-financed landlord, to then be habitually denied peace, privacy, and security in resting, sleeping, reading, writing, etc. Do American citizens really want more of these affordable multifamily housing complexes created where innocent, vulnerable residents are clustered amongst people who deal drugs, have criminal records, and/or who violate them? How affordable is it to the health of a person with disabilities?
Enriched corporate landlords and partners are so powerfully and politically connected that they're not even required to comply with lease agreements and laws. In several ways, the rights of vulnerable U.S. citizens are often violated in this type of multifamily housing. Being treated with dignity and respect is extremely unusual in this demoralized living environment where corporate property managers contribute to the illegal chaos.
Enriched corporate landlords and partners are so powerfully and politically connected that they're not even required to comply with lease agreements and laws. In several ways, the rights of vulnerable U.S. citizens are often violated in this type of multifamily housing. Being treated with dignity and respect is extremely unusual in this demoralized living environment where corporate property managers contribute to the illegal chaos.
A Special Weekend Report . . . or . . . A Hamilton Alert
in Support of Security Cameras
in Support of Security Cameras
A loud fight, involving a group of people, took place behind the buildings of 93 and 141 Martha Drive. Isn't that where the Rockland Self-Storage facility is listed?
The sewer cover in the middle of Martha Drive, where drug traffic frequently travels, was removed by vandals. It was noticed missing around 3:00 a.m. The Rockland Highway Dept. and Spring Gate Apt. maintenance were notified.
Also this weekend, several vehicles each had two tires slashed at Rockland Place dba Spring Gate Apartments. Two vehicles were in the guest parking area while the other two vehicles were parked along Martha Drive.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
TAX HAVENS and SHELL COMPANIES
HUD-financed housing complexes, such as Rockland Place dba Spring Gate Apts., aren't really required to be in full compliance of laws, rules, and regulations. Take the non-compliance of the handicapped units for example. It appears Rockland Housing Authority, DHCD, MassHousing, and the Rockland Board of Health don't want to make waves with some powerful corporate landlords.
Who are all the individuals behind each of the Limited Liability Partnerships, Limited Partnerships,
LLC's and Corporations at Rockland Place dba Spring Gate Apts.? For a number of reasons, this information is vital to American consumers who really need to have the right to know. How many ethical and unethical individuals, behind these ever-changing company names, have access to tenants' personal information, lives, and futures? For purposes of self-protection and freedom of choice, all Americans need to have access to each individual name behind every corporate and partnership name. This information should be readily available prior to doing business with any corporation.
Some HUD-subsidized corporate landlords habitually put their best foot forward with attempts to discredit, retaliate, and/or harass vulnerable tenants who speak out against violations. They pretend to provide safe, decent, affordable housing while dimming the lights and providing shared units for dealers, perverts, and felons. It's no wonder they haven't kept their promise to install security cameras! There's more than 'housing' going on along Martha Drive and Hannah Way.
VIDEO CLIPS of INTEREST
Judicial Watch investigators recently discovered that the Obama Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has issued a $79,819 grant to the Affordable Housing Centers of America (AHCOA) — an offshoot of ACORN — in apparent violation of the ACORN funding ban passed by Congress and signed into law by President Obama in 2009. Moreover, this grant was provided to the organization less than a year after ACORN/ACHOA was criticized by HUD’s inspector general in two separate investigations for misappropriating funds from federal grants.
http://www.youtube.com/user/JudicialWatch#p/a/f/1/eCDaOUVVXPI
http://www.judicialwatch.org/investigation-acorn
Who are all the individuals behind each of the Limited Liability Partnerships, Limited Partnerships,
LLC's and Corporations at Rockland Place dba Spring Gate Apts.? For a number of reasons, this information is vital to American consumers who really need to have the right to know. How many ethical and unethical individuals, behind these ever-changing company names, have access to tenants' personal information, lives, and futures? For purposes of self-protection and freedom of choice, all Americans need to have access to each individual name behind every corporate and partnership name. This information should be readily available prior to doing business with any corporation.
Some HUD-subsidized corporate landlords habitually put their best foot forward with attempts to discredit, retaliate, and/or harass vulnerable tenants who speak out against violations. They pretend to provide safe, decent, affordable housing while dimming the lights and providing shared units for dealers, perverts, and felons. It's no wonder they haven't kept their promise to install security cameras! There's more than 'housing' going on along Martha Drive and Hannah Way.
VIDEO CLIPS of INTEREST
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-fTt3cbNHo&feature=fvwrel
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nnwM7kZMylA&NR=1
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WQEM-2MB2v4
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=16n1OVgB2FM&feature=related
Administration STILL Bankrolling ACORN
ACORN employees have been nailed time and time again for fraudulently registering voters (including Mickey Mouse and the Dallas Cowboys football team) — allegedly for the purpose of sweeping Democrats into office. They were caught on tape advising undercover reporters on how to evade tax, immigration, and child prostitution laws. They were unceremoniously kicked off a U.S. Census Bureau program as a result of a Judicial Watch investigation. And ultimately, the organization was officially cut off from federal funds by Congress and President Obama. So why is ACORN still receiving taxpayer dollars in defiance of the funding ban?Judicial Watch investigators recently discovered that the Obama Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has issued a $79,819 grant to the Affordable Housing Centers of America (AHCOA) — an offshoot of ACORN — in apparent violation of the ACORN funding ban passed by Congress and signed into law by President Obama in 2009. Moreover, this grant was provided to the organization less than a year after ACORN/ACHOA was criticized by HUD’s inspector general in two separate investigations for misappropriating funds from federal grants.
http://www.youtube.com/user/JudicialWatch#p/a/f/1/eCDaOUVVXPI
http://www.judicialwatch.org/investigation-acorn
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