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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowA company attempting to force dozens of residents out of their mobile homes at the I-70 Mobile Home Park on Indianapolis’ west side has been halted after a court granted a restraining order sought by Indiana Attorney General Curtis Hill’s office Thursday.
Residents of the I-70 Mobile Home Park, owned by Blue Lake, Inc., were told August 15 that the park would close permanently on October 15. Blue Lake had failed to provide many residents with titles to their mobile homes at the time of purchase, effectively rendering it impossible for them to prove ownership or recoup money invested in their homes, the AG’s office said in a press release. Some residents purchased homes in the park as recently as June.
Hill on Wednesday sued Blue Lakes, alleging its actions are being unfair, abusive, deceptive, and in violation of Indiana’s Deceptive Consumer Sales Act. The AG’s office also accused Blue Lakes of exploiting senior citizens at the time of their mobile home purchases, violating the Senior Consumer Protection Act.
The Marion Superior Court Thursday approved a temporary restraining order, keep the I-70 Mobile Home Park open for the time being. The order stops Blue Lake from closing or otherwise ceasing operation of the park; engaging in or permitting any excavation at the park; shutting off or otherwise interfering with the provision of utilities to residents; and/or hindering or obstructing residents’ use and enjoyment of their homes in the meantime, the AG’s office said.
Likewise, the extension will allow residents time to sell their mobile homes, move their mobile homes and otherwise vacate the premises, a press release said.
“These residents were facing extreme disruption in their lives that they had done nothing to deserve,” Hill said. “We are committed to working toward a resolution that protects people’s basic rights to be treated fairly under the law.”
A hearing on the state’s motion for a preliminary injunction has been set for 10:30 a.m. on Oct. 18.
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