Vista Shadow Mountain Tenants Told To Move Out Within 2 Weeks

The water is still on at Vista Shadow Mountain Apartments, but scrutiny from the City of Tulsa, through the fire department and code enforcement, continues.

Thursday, July 8th 2021, 5:16 pm

By: Emory Bryan

All the residents in a Tulsa apartment complex are now being told they have to move out within two weeks.

The Tulsa Fire Department ordered the owners of Vista Shadow Mountain Apartments to clear out residents by July 21, because of unsafe conditions in the complex.

The fire department estimates about 200 people live in the complex, which is mostly vacant. A team of fire marshals spread out through the complex Thursday, planning to inspect every building and look inside every unit.

Many of the buildings have water damage. Some occupied apartments are without complete walls and ceilings, and some have exposed wiring, which was cited by the Fire Department in the order to vacate.

"I've done a survey of several buildings and the things I've seen, it's come to a critical point that the city has to do something," said Assistant Fire Marshal Captain Lorenzer Holmes.

With just 12 days to get out, charities are trying to help the residents find suitable housing.

Tenant Sandra Edwards, who said she had lived at the complex for three years, said she hoped to move soon, after being unable to get issues in her apartment repaired.

"I got to survive today, and live today, right now I need my family out of this mold infested unit," said Edwards.

At the complex, demolition work is ongoing in some buildings and a few are being prepared for painting.

Security guards are stationed at the one entrance that's open. Tenants said security cameras are being installed while they can't get basic repairs completed and according to the City of Tulsa, the complex still has an outstanding water bill that is being contested.

The complex made a partial payment late Wednesday that stopped the City from shutting off the water. Neighbors report the complex had uncontrolled water leaks for several months.

City Councilor Lori Decter-Wright and State Representative Melissa Provenzano are coordinated an effort to help tenants, and will meet with them Saturday morning at the Volunteers of America office at 61st and Mingo.