Residents fight back against predatory mobile home evictions

Residents of Pinewood Mobile Home Park in Bremerton are sounding the alarm over significant rent hikes and alleged harassment by their new landlord, Hurst and Son LLC. The company, which owns numerous mobile home parks across several states, has reportedly raised rents by as much as 40% since acquiring the property, leaving many long-term residents—many of whom are low-income seniors—struggling to afford their homes.

During a recent city council meeting, community members voiced their concerns about the impact of these increases, which they argue are pushing vulnerable residents toward homelessness. One resident, Marilyn Warren, described the situation as \"economic eviction,\" highlighting the distress faced by elderly tenants who own their mobile homes but cannot afford the rising costs. She emphasized that many residents are too intimidated to speak out against the company due to fear of retaliation.

Warren's testimony was echoed by others, including a family member who recounted experiences of harassment and unprofessional management practices at the park. Reports of threats and intimidation tactics from the management have raised alarms among residents, prompting calls for greater tenant protections.

Community advocates are urging the Bremerton City Council to take action similar to measures recently implemented in Tacoma, where new tenant protection ordinances have been enacted to combat rising rents and protect vulnerable populations. The urgency of the situation is underscored by the looming threat of increased homelessness, particularly as local businesses, such as Starbucks, prepare to close, potentially exacerbating the housing crisis.

As the council considers its next steps, residents and advocates are hopeful that increased awareness and legislative action can help safeguard the rights and homes of those living in mobile home parks across the region.