HOUSTON, Texas — Dr. Candice Matthews visited Oak Glen Apartments, 5500 Antoine Dr., on Friday, after a tenant requested assistance over what she described as slumlord conditions, including mold, sewage backups, exposed wiring, and repeated maintenance failures.
During the recorded walkthrough, Ms. Jackson said she has lived at the apartment complex for approximately one year and two months and alleged the property has been plagued by mold, sewage backups, unrepaired maintenance issues and criminal activity. She also claimed city health officials had inspected her apartment multiple times and that multiple code enforcement notices had been posted at the leasing office.
Ms. Jackson showed Dr. Matthews what she described as exposed electrical wiring near her apartment, sewage backing up into the bathroom and sink, mold and mildew, and a front door she alleged could be opened without her knowledge. She also said the Houston Fire Department previously responded after she became trapped inside her apartment when the door malfunctioned.
While touring the property, Dr. Matthews observed what appeared to be deteriorating conditions, including exposed wiring and sewage concerns. She stated the reported conditions could present serious health and safety risks if left unaddressed.
Dr. Matthews and Ms. Jackson then walked to the leasing office, where they observed multiple code enforcement notices posted on the office door. During the visit, Dr. Matthews stated the notices appeared to have been issued during February, May and July and questioned why the property remained in operation despite the reported violations.
Dr. Matthews knocked on the leasing office door and called out to management but received no response. Although she stated someone appeared to be inside the office, no one opened the door or spoke with them during the visit. Dr. Matthews said she intends to contact additional city officials and agencies to seek further review of the property and also offered to help Ms. Jackson obtain legal representation regarding her housing concerns.
Disclaimer: This article may include statements, opinions, or allegations made by interview subjects, guests, contributors, or members of the public. These statements are solely those of the individual speaker and do not necessarily reflect the views of Houston Stringer. Unless specifically identified as verified reporting, such statements have not been independently verified by Houston Stringer and should not be interpreted as established fact. Readers are encouraged to review original source documents and statements from all parties before reaching conclusions. For more information, please see our Disclaimer.
