This coverage is made possible through a partnership between BPR and Grist, a nonprofit environmental media organization.
A recent incident at an apartment complex in Asheville has left residents and tenant advocates seeking answers. A car belonging to Jen Hampton, a key organizer with the Asheville Area Tenants’ Union, was found burnt beyond recognition during her visit to Evergreen Ridge Apartments.
Hampton, who has been assisting residents since August with issues like mold, discovered her vehicle’s remains after a day spent meeting with tenants. She stated, “We came back out at 1 (p.m.) after having really great conversations with people. Walked out and saw my car had been completely destroyed. Like just melted. Everything. The engine block just was melted.”
Although Hampton refrains from pointing fingers at the apartment’s management, she emphasizes the need for assurance from Evergreen Ridge Apartments for the safety of those advocating for improved living conditions. “Residents do fear retaliation for organizing because they’ve had problems with that in the past,” she mentioned.
The North Carolina Tenant’s Union is urging the complex’s owner, Shadow Ridge Associates, to sign a legally binding agreement to ensure tenant safety and has launched a petition for the cause.
The Asheville Fire Department has initiated an investigation into the car fire. Attempts by BPR to get comments from Evergreen Ridge Apartments and Shadow Ridge Associates have gone unanswered.
Tenant Rachel Wyse, who was involved in organizing efforts, highlighted the growing apprehension among residents. She noted, “After the car incident, there does feel like more of a culture of fear here. There are rumors going around that they’re just going to sell the apartment complex and kick everybody out if we organize.”
Concerns over mold have been escalating among tenants, especially post-Hurricane Helene, which exacerbated housing issues in the region. Despite the health concerns, few formal complaints have been lodged due to the challenging process and lack of explicit coverage under the city’s minimum housing code.
BPR has requested records from the City of Asheville concerning mold-related housing complaints at Evergreen Ridge, and is awaiting a response.
