Laurel Residents Being Forced to Move Due to Safety Concerns
Residents from more than 100 units at Tiers of Laurel Lakes Condominiums were notified on Nov. 20 that they must leave their homes before Jan. 11, citing safety concerns regarding exterior staircases that haven’t been repaired or replaced.
While it is currently unclear when they would be able to come back to their homes in the Laurel Lakes community, residents will be able to return if repairs are made in time, according to a statement by the City of Laurel.
“We understand the challenges and disruptions this situation creates for the families affected, and these actions were not taken lightly,” said Mayor Keith Sydnor. “However, when structural issues jeopardize lives, we must act decisively to protect public safety and enforce compliance with critical safety codes. The safety of our community cannot be compromised.”
Representatives from the Tiers of Laurel Lakes Homeowners Association (HOA), explained that the identified safety issues were first seen in a Dec. 2021 inspection, which cited 58 staircases needing repair or replacement.
Marcus Brooks, who leads the homeowner’s association, said these issues stemmed from bad management prior to him joining the board. He said the HOA is working with a contractor to make the requested repairs as quickly as possible.
“We are working diligently as a board and as a community to ensure that that deadline is met and that we have a place for all of us for the holidays,” Brooks said.
Multiple residents have criticized the lack of notice or monetary support to move to new dwellings.
Two-year resident Dante Sanders said he will miss his neighbors if forced to move.
Eric Harris, who has lived in the community for about three years, explained that a move would be “very tough.”
Local Leaders, Organizations Give Back for the Holidays
As the holiday season is in full swing and with rising levels of food insecurity, local leaders and entrepreneurs are working to give back to the community.
Loads of cars formed a lengthy line leading to William Beanes Community Center in Hillcrest Heights, more than four hours before the start of Prince George’s Councilmember Krystal Oriadha’s (D- District 7) annual turkey and holiday giveaway on Sunday, Nov. 17.
“I sponsored this out of my own budget,” said Oriadha, according to WTOP. “We budgeted $10,000 for the event. I think it’s really important to me to give back. I think when I look at the resources they give us as a council member, the people should feel the impact of it. That to me, is the most important thing.”
Councilmember Sydney Harrison (D- District 9) hosted a food box giveaway at Surrattsville High School on Nov. 23, in partnership with the Coalition for Stronger Communities and Project Give Back. He cited 800 cars coming to receive a box.
On the same day, the Durant Family Foundation gave away 500 turkeys and food boxes in Forestville.
“I am a woman of faith. I am aware of the problem. But I am not afraid. Our stakeholders and community partners with a heart to serve have to come together and meet the need,” said Durant. “I know the God I serve will honor our compassion and heart for one another and make a way.”
Councilmember Ingrid S. Watson (D-District 4) hosted several giveaways across her legislative district from Nov. 16 to Nov. 26 with stops at Glenn Dale’s Reid Temple, Upper Marlboro’s Fountain Community Enrichment and Greenbelt’s Springhill Lake.
In addition, Thompson Restaurants has partnered with the Northwest Federal Credit Union (NWFCU) Foundation to deliver donated meals to local shelters and organizations, including those serving women and children in Reston, Virginia and Rockville, Maryland.
NWFCU Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth through health, well-being, and education, while Thompson Restaurants is the largest minority-owned food service management company in America.
In Maryland, Thompson Restaurants include Milk and Honey and Matchbox, and the company also operates several food establishments in Washington D.C. and Virginia.
“We’re honored to work with the NWFCU Foundation to bring Thanksgiving meals to those who need them most,” said Warren Thompson, president and chairman of Thompson Hospitality. “‘Thompson Gives Thanks’ is our way of showing gratitude to the community that’s always been there for us. We want to make sure everyone has a seat at the table and a holiday meal to enjoy.”
