Altadena tenants demand landlord restore power and safety

Residents of an apartment complex in Altadena, California, are frustrated with their landlord for failing to provide basic services, including power, for months. The situation worsened after California wildfires in January forced many tenants to evacuate. Now, they are living in unsafe conditions next to potentially toxic debris. Residents held a protest outside their complex last Thursday, urging the landlord to make urgent repairs. Many claim half the building is still without power, forcing some to use extension cords. "We just want to be able to shower with hot water," said tenant Brenda Lopez, expressing the group's desire for basic facilities. During the rally, tenants showed the desperate state of their living conditions, calling for justice. Mari Mares, a tenant with children, highlighted the threats from the landlord's employees, stating that they live in fear of being evicted. They have reached out to local officials and community leaders for help. The tenants have specific demands, including restoring basic services, cleaning contaminated areas, and better communication from the landlord. Community leaders and organizations, such as the NAACP, are actively supporting the residents. They argue that the landlord must address these issues to uphold tenants' rights and ensure safe living conditions.