Valley Apartment Residents Split: A/C Restored for Some While Others Bake in the Heat

PHOENIX — A significant ruling took place on Friday regarding the Buenas on 32nd apartment complex, where tenants have reportedly endured malfunctioning air conditioning systems during a record-breaking summer heatwave. A judge ordered the complex’s owner, Buenas Communities LLC, to cover living costs for affected residents forced to seek alternative accommodations due to temperatures exceeding the legal limit.

Residents like Sterling Blackwell experienced extreme discomfort, as his unit was one of over a hundred affected. With temperatures inside reaching unbearable levels, state Attorney General Kris Mayes intervened, citing violations of city regulations which mandate indoor temperatures must not exceed 82 degrees.

During the court proceedings, Judge Frank Moskowitz expressed serious concerns for tenant safety. He ordered extensive temperature testing in five units to assess the situation further. “No one wants anybody to get sick, no one wants anybody to die,” the judge noted, highlighting the urgency in addressing the issue.

Blackwell’s unit was monitored, revealing a comfortable 73 to 74 degrees, below city limits. Other tenants reported similar improvements. Eddie, another resident, finally regained functioning air conditioning after nearly 70 days, with his apartment now recorded at 75 degrees. “I hope it just stays like this,” he remarked hopefully.

Yet, not all residents have found relief. Edward Thompson reported his unit still struggles to cool effectively at a concerning 82.5 degrees, just above the permissible limit. “Since the A/C went down, I find other places to hang out,” Thompson stated, reflecting the ongoing challenges faced by some tenants.

The court’s decision aims to enforce compliance with city regulations and ensure tenant rights are upheld during this extreme weather. Official temperature testing results are still pending, leaving some residents anxiously awaiting news about their living conditions.