Seniors at Birchmont apartments urge Escondido to enforce codes, allege squatters and unsafe conditions

Two Birchmont Senior Apartments residents urged the Escondido City Council to press property management and enforce state and local housing codes.

"AMC LLC has demonstrated that they have no regard for state codes and city ordinances," resident Trina Studebaker said, listing problems including discarded dirty mattresses, unsecured dumpsters with heavy urine odor, unauthorized entries, construction at night, delayed repairs and alleged retaliation against tenants who complain. Studebaker requested the city pursue civil penalties and legal remedies.

Terry Acre, also a Birchmont resident, described squatters and drug activity on the property and said managers would not call police in reported incidents. Acre said police and code compliance had previously responded but that follow‑up was inconsistent. "Ensuring that apartments for seniors comply with state and local laws is under the city's authority and responsibility," Acre said, and invited councilmembers to visit the property.

Speakers said tenants have provided the city with photographs (approximately 75 images) and that some safety issues — including a recent fall during rains — have caused injury. Council staff asked speakers to leave contact information for follow‑up.

No formal action was taken during the meeting; speakers asked the city to pursue enforcement and civil penalties.