Press Release

Department of Watershed Management Extends Water Service to Sierra Ridge Apartments for Two Additional Weeks   

ATLANTA – The Department of Watershed Management announced today that water service has been extended to the Sierra Ridge apartments for an additional two weeks, giving residents additional time to find alternative housing. The current owner of the complex is responsible for the $270,000 in outstanding bills as a result of nonpayment since January 2015.

On July 31, water service was disconnected, but then restored in an effort to allow additional time to provide relocation resources to residents. The Mayor’s Office of Constituent Services and the Mayor’s Office of Human Services coordinated relocation resources for five families. Of the 291 units on the property, approximately 35 are still occupied.

Tenants are paying their rent, which includes the cost of water service, to the property owner according to the lease terms, but the owner is not paying the water service bills.

“In consideration of the remaining Sierra Ridge residents, an additional two-week extension has been offered. During the initial two-week period, the property owner had the opportunity to bring the account to good standing but did not make any payments. The City of Atlanta will work to ensure that all residents have proper housing during this period,” said Deputy Commissioner Mohamed Balla.

The $270,000 past due balance was accrued by the current owner. The City proactively notified the Sierra Ridge property owner of the delinquent balance and made every attempt to assist in bringing the account into good standing.

On August 16, 2017 the Sierra Ridge property owner will also be in Municipal Court for numerous Atlanta Housing Code violations including uncleaniness, hazards of fire, structural defects and other dangerous violations needing urgent correction.

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