The Recreation Room of Oak Haven Senior Apartments was once again filled as Oakdale City Manager Bryan Whitemyer and Mayor Pro Tem Christopher Smith returned to update the residents on progress made since their initial visit last month.
Resident Sandie Davis initially requested a meeting with the City following a number of concerns regarding security and safety as well as rent increases during the pandemic, which was not permitted by the government.
Since the initial meeting in May, Whitemyer and his team have been addressing a number of issues. The one which seemed to spark the most enthusiasm from the residents last Tuesday, June 7 was the announcement that the current property management company, Buckingham, had given a 60-day notice of resignation. That brought cheers from residents in attendance at the meeting. In addition, Whitemyer shared at the time that while a formal announcement of the new property management company could not be made, they would be paying a visit to the grounds, as well as each unit to discuss problems and concerns with the residents.
At the start of the meeting, Whitemyer presented the group with a long list of items in need of repair or addressing, as reported by the tenants. An update on varying items and concerns was also given.
“Although the whole City Council is not here, I think we all share our disappointment of where things are and how we’re here,” Whitemyer said. “I’m really not sure why we’re here. So, lesson learned from my perspective is don’t assume that someone’s doing the job they’re supposed to do.”
Whitemyer further went on, to inquire if there were additional concerns which the City should be aware of. New concerns were brought up about the beauty salon closure and public transportation/access to information. Whitemyer shared he would address these issues with new property management company as well as reach out to the transportation company to come for an information presentation.
“I know county transit, they do have educators so we could have a meeting like this,” he said to the group. “I think they would appreciate the opportunity to come out here, because they want the services to be utilized more.”
Concern for safety in the building, initially brought up by Davis, was echoed by several residents who shared spotting strangers walking in halls, theft and vandalism.
Mayor Pro Tem Smith mentioned the potential of installing cameras to detour such acts, while Whitemyer encouraged tenants to share these concerns with the property management team when they visited later in the week as well.
“They want to have a comprehensive list and they want to make a plan that makes this as safe as possible,” Whitemyer said. “So installing cameras at entrances and in the hallways, I don’t think it’s that big of a deal. I think that’s something that will give us all piece of mind. I am personally excited for what’s in store for this location. I think we’re putting together a solid plan that will in general improve the facility.”
In a phone call with The Leader following the meeting, Whitemyer shared the City is currently in talks with more than one Property Management group, one of which visited the property last week and two others who are submitting proposals.
“They’re not the only ones,” he said of the company which visited Oak Haven. “They’re probably the favorite, because they’re local. They’re out of Stockton. They have a solid track record of not just managing a facility, but having a thriving, positive quality of life. That’s what we want.”
He additionally added he’s still learning about the other teams, but likes the depth the Stockton-based team offers by way of staffing and response time when problems arise.
“We haven’t proactively put it on the market for sale,” Whitemyer said, dispelling a rumor that the City was selling the building. He added they have been approached by random people voicing an interest in purchase. “Nothing has been in the works and nothing could be sold without the approval of Oakdale Senior Housing Corporation.”
