Corporate Greed Sparks Housing Crisis for Senior Community in PA
Residents of a Pennsylvania senior mobile home community face devastating 50% rent hike as corporate owners exploit lack of rent control protections, sparking community outrage and political action.
Residents of Village at Willow Run Mobile Home Park protest against sudden 50% rent increase threatening their retirement community
Seniors Face 50% Rent Hike as Corporate Owners Target Affordable Housing
In a move that echoes growing concerns over corporate financial practices, residents of the Village at Willow Run Mobile Home Park in Limerick, PA are facing a devastating 50% rent increase from their corporate property owner.
The 36-acre over-55 development's approximately 200 residents, who own their manufactured homes but rent the lots, received notice of a $310 monthly increase plus additional fees, bringing many to the brink of financial crisis.
Community Impact and Political Response
Clinton Lacy, who moved to the village with his wife in 2022, expressed dismay at the sudden increase. "This was going to be the place that we hoped to be spending our retirement years," he wrote, noting their rent has already climbed from $490 to $615 monthly.
State Rep. Joe Ciresi has stepped in to address what he calls "bad policy," demonstrating how community leadership can impact social change during housing crises.
Legislative Efforts and Community Response
House Bill 1250, which would cap annual lot rent increases at inflation rates, has passed the Democratic-controlled House but faces resistance in the Republican Senate. The situation highlights how government accountability and enforcement failures can affect vulnerable populations.
National Trend of Corporate Takeovers
The situation reflects a nationwide pattern where private equity firms acquire manufactured home communities and dramatically increase rents, targeting one of the last bastions of affordable housing in America.
"No resident should be forced out of their home because of an abrupt and excessive rent increase," stated Rep. Ciresi, emphasizing the need for immediate action.
Community Action Steps
- Residents are petitioning Gov. Josh Shapiro to declare a housing emergency
- The Montco 30% Project is providing advocacy support
- Community members are organizing awareness campaigns
- Efforts are underway to pressure the state Senate to pass protective legislation
Van Morrison
Irish journalist exploring the intersections of politics, culture, and identity across Ireland and the wider Celtic world.