Vernon Mobile Home Park Residents Face Indefinite Power Outage
Residents of Crown Villa mobile home park in Vernon, B.C., are facing an indefinite power outage due to a hazardous electrical system. This decision follows months of warnings from Technical Safety B.C. regarding severe electrical risks the property owner failed to address.
Overview of the Situation
On April 10, the power was officially cut off at the mobile home park. Kate Parker, vice president of operations at Technical Safety B.C., stated that the conditions posed an immediate risk of electrical shock and fire. The organization oversees technical safety systems and had warned the property owner for five years to upgrade the site’s electrical infrastructure.
The Risks Involved
Key hazards include:
- Indoor electrical equipment improperly installed outdoors.
- Equipment exposed to extreme weather and potential animal interference.
According to Parker, the shutdown was carefully considered, taking into account the welfare of the residents. However, the unsafe conditions necessitated immediate action.
Impact on Residents
Residents, including longtime resident Lisa Anderson, are struggling without electricity, Wi-Fi, and running water. Anderson described the situation as akin to camping, as they rely on stockpiled water for basic needs. Additionally, she has equipped her home with battery-powered lights to cope with the outage.
Community Response
In the wake of the power loss, tenants are supporting one another. Anderson has organized a fundraiser to help fund the required repairs, anticipating that the current landlord may not be able to afford the estimated $200,000 in upgrades necessary for restoring power.
Challenges for the Property Owner
Carol Goldstone, the landlord of Crown Villa, has faced multiple fines for not maintaining safety standards. She inherited the mobile home park and has not raised pad rents, which remain under $300 per month. Goldstone is currently looking to sell part of the property to an investor willing to cover the costs of electrical system upgrades.
This process may take weeks, leaving residents in a precarious situation as they await a resolution to their power outage. The ongoing situation highlights the importance of proper maintenance in residential properties and the potential risks of neglecting electrical safety.
