Settlement Reached for Displaced Residents of Latitude 525

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Dontavius Jarrells (D-Columbus) today celebrates an important development for housing justice in Columbus with a landmark settlement for the displaced residents of the Latitude 525 apartment complex. This achievement comes after more than a year of advocacy and negotiation, following the evacuation of nearly 150 families from their homes due to unsafe living conditions. 

“The settlement serves not only as compensation for past grievances but also as a stern warning against substandard housing practices in the future,” said Rep. Jarrells. “I am grateful these residents now know justice. I remain dedicated to ensuring that such a crisis does not recur in Columbus or anywhere in Ohio and will always advocate for policies and practices that prioritize the safety and dignity of all tenants.”

The settlement, which sees families receiving over $10K each, marks a significant step towards remedying the hardships these residents have faced. Beyond the financial compensation, this agreement retains the residents' right to further legal actions against the property's owners, New Jersey-based Paxe Latitude, for their failure to maintain safe living conditions. 

Rep. Jarrells wishes to extend profound gratitude to the Columbus City Attorney’s Office for their pivotal role in this process.

"The tireless work and dedication of the Columbus City Attorney’s Office have been instrumental in achieving this settlement. Their commitment to justice and the well-being of Columbus residents shines as an example of effective leadership and compassion," said Rep. Jarrells. 

The journey towards this settlement highlighted the dire conditions at Latitude 525, including severe maintenance neglect that led to hazardous living environments. This situation brought to light the broader issue of tenant safety and the need for rigorous enforcement of housing standards.