Alderman says city-owned Homer G. Phillips seniors’ complex needs management change

An alderman identified as representing the 14th Ward told the Personnel & Administration Committee that residents of the city-owned Homer G. Phillips apartments have suffered repeated maintenance failures and living-condition problems and that he has filed legislation to transfer management of the property.

"Homer G Phillips, to be very clear, is a city owned complex," the alderman said, arguing the city has an obligation to protect seniors and maintain their quality of life. He cited a KSEK report and resident testimony describing central heating outages in winter, no air conditioning during heat waves, rodent infestations, trash chute blockages and lack of hot water in several units.

The alderman said he filed legislation after months of public outcry and asserted the current owner had expressed a desire to terminate the lease; he asked the personnel committee to support measures that would move management or ownership to address senior residents' needs.