A Cuban resident in Little Havana has brought to light the appalling conditions of the apartment he has been renting in Miami for over a decade. Telemundo 51 visited the home of Antonio Álamo, capturing images that have sparked widespread concern over the dangers posed to the residents.
The complaints from these families range from leaks in the ceilings, with significant water damage during rainy days, to floors with holes and damp walls, creating an unhealthy and harmful environment. Álamo suffers from health issues that affect his mobility and breathing. Living in such conditions exacerbates his conditions. He has lived in this apartment with his wife for 13 years.
"This was a piece that fell," he remarked while pointing to a section of the ceiling. "Today this, tomorrow something else. The rain ruined my fan," said the affected resident.
As if that weren't enough, other residents in the building have noticed problems with the floor as well. The floor is sinking due to moisture. "There's rot here. We live like dogs. It feels like we're in a third-world country," Álamo lamented.
The tenant pays $200 in rent, thanks to government assistance meant to ensure a decent living, but the reality of the apartment he rents tells a different story. He is urging Miami's politicians to address his situation.
On June 17, the neighbors of this building filed a complaint with the office of Commissioner Joe Carollo, who confirmed that he sent an inspector to assess the situation. However, the technical review did not lead to any changes or solutions to the building's problems. Carollo has promised to send another inspector to follow up on the case and ensure corrective measures are taken with the building's administrators.
Currently, the roof is under repair, but it is not a sufficient measure as the structural problems seem to go beyond superficial fixes.
Another resident of the building considers the place "uninhabitable." "It's not that they're going to repair it, it's wet everywhere, the bathrooms are rotten, the tubs are full of holes, everything is destroyed. This building needs to be shut down," he emphasized.
The situation has led some neighbors to make drastic decisions. One tenant, who lived in the building with his father for years, decided to leave after his father's death last month, unable to endure the dreadful conditions despite the low rent.
FAQs on Living Conditions in Little Havana
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the living conditions faced by residents in Little Havana, as highlighted by Antonio Álamo's case.
What are the main issues reported by residents in Little Havana?
Residents have reported a range of issues including leaks in the ceilings, water damage, holes in the floors, damp walls, and overall unhealthy and harmful living conditions.
Who is Antonio Álamo?
Antonio Álamo is a resident of Little Havana who has lived in a poorly maintained apartment for over a decade. He suffers from health issues that are exacerbated by the deplorable living conditions.
What action has been taken by local authorities?
Local authorities, specifically Commissioner Joe Carollo, have sent inspectors to assess the situation. However, initial inspections did not lead to any significant changes or solutions. Further inspections have been promised to ensure corrective measures are taken.