Mayor Ford says inspections found inhumane conditions at Coosa Bend Apartments; city arranges temporary help

Mayor Ford told the Gadsden City Council on Feb. 3 that inspections at Coosa Bend Apartments — a HUD-subsidized complex in Councilman Avery’s district — revealed substandard and unsafe living conditions and that city personnel took immediate steps to address residents’ needs.

"There were people living with no heat," the mayor said, describing situations in which residents had been using stovetops for warmth. He said the city’s building inspection team and the mayor’s office, including the building commission members assigned to the review, found serious deficiencies and began condemning unsafe units so repairs could be made.

Ford said the owner, identified in council remarks as Adam Casselberry, initially told city inspectors that because the property receives HUD subsidy the owner believed the federal inspection process limited local inspection authority; Ford said the city nonetheless proceeded with inspections, condemnation of unsafe units and coordination with partner agencies. The mayor credited reporting by a local television station for bringing the conditions to the city’s attention and said city staff subsequently saw contractors and repairs being completed at the complex.

The council described a short-term relief plan that included vouchers and hotel placements funded from the mayor’s discretionary account, referrals to the Greater Gadsden Housing Authority and help from local nonprofit partners including the Catholic Center of Concern. Council members stressed that residents often fear reporting problems because they worry about eviction or losing benefits; the city sought to minimize displacement while ensuring safe living conditions.

Why this matters: The council framed the response as both a housing‑safety and consumer‑protection action. Council members said HUD-subsidized status complicates local enforcement but does not absolve landlords of responsibility to provide habitable housing; the city used its legal and emergency tools to address immediate hazards and to urge the owner to perform repairs.

What’s next: The city said inspections will continue and staff will report back on compliance and any additional enforcement steps; the mayor asked residents with concerns to contact city offices so officials can connect them to emergency housing and housing-authority resources.