ORANGE COUNTY, Fla – Residents of Tymber Skan on the Lake Condominiums are in limbo as the county is set to continue discussions on a potential demolition.
Over a decade ago, the county demolished 41 buildings on the property. On Tuesday, residents of Tymber Skan pleaded with commissioners to keep their homes, despite many being deemed unlivable.
“We have so much improvement to make however and I feel safe and I’m a very proud owner living in the community now,” one resident said.
Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings addressed the residents during Tuesday’s meeting, expressing the board’s desire to help them.
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“The compassion part of our board says, we got to help you,” Mayor Demings said. “If we work this process right, no one should be homeless.”
Cynthia Claytor, a resident of Tymber Skan for 13 years, challenged the complex’s reputation for crime and safety issues.
“I’m 70 years old and can walk at that place at night without any issues,” she told News 6.
Claytor was one of the many residents at the meeting who listened to plans that could force them out of their homes.
The proposal before the board suggested terminating the existing condo associations and appointing a receiver to facilitate the sale of the condos, paving the way for demolition. Despite documented issues and code violations, including some units lacking water, residents like Claytor are reluctant to leave.
County staff explained they have developed a plan to assist the 56 residents in finding alternate housing and connecting with social services. However, Claytor insists she needs more than just a referral.
“Well if they want to me move then they better buy me a new home,” Claytor said.
After a lengthy discussion, the board decided to delay their decision until March 11.
A community meeting at Tymber Skan is set to take place before then to allow residents an opportunity to discuss their needs directly with the county.
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