Residents of Wedgewood in Peoria recently learned the landlord has sold the land for other usage to a development company for townhouses. The surprised community of primarily senior citizens on fixed incomes must now find a new place for their retirement years.
While 14 other states have laws to aid homeowners in relocation, Illinois law only requires a 12-month notice to homeowners. Senator Dale Risinger (R-37), Representative Dave Leitch (R-73) and MHOAI met with Wedgewood residents to address relocation concerns.
Homeowners completed a survey which revealed that there are several leases in effect in the community with some residents still on verbal leases. Residents were concerned about how to relocate with limited financial resources while other homes are too old to be safely moved.
Follow-up meetings with the residents, MHOAI and legislators will be held after MHOAI and the legislators meet with the landlord. The landlord is currently demanding residents continue to pay future rent after they have moved. The landlord is also asking homeowners to pay a $250 fee when they move as a clean-up fee, whether clean up is needed or not. Illinois made exit fees illegal years ago. It was also discovered the landlord never sent a legal 12 month notice required by law.
MHOAI continually stresses the need for relocation laws and has spoken to your elected officials about the need for these laws now. Homeowners should be able to feel a sense of security while living in their community instead of having their homes practically ripped out from under them when a landlord decides to sell the property. MHOAI can only work on your behalf if you, in turn support MHOAI by joining and working with us to get these laws passed. No one knows when or if this will happen to you. Wouldn't you feel more secure if relocation laws were in place for you, just in case?