Houston City Councilwoman Carolyn Evans-Shabazz and Congressman Al Green visited Cullen Park Apartments on Wednesday following numerous resident reports of hazardous living conditions, including mold, rodents, and possible sewage leaks.
After a brief inspection, Congressman Green described the property as “uninhabitable” and announced plans to propose federal legislation to better protect low-income tenants, including requirements for landlords to cover relocation costs if housing is condemned.
Resident Michele Williams, who receives federal housing assistance, detailed serious issues such as a broken stove, faulty refrigerator, and a severe rodent infestation—she reported killing 26 rats in her unit. Williams also discovered maggots in her daughter’s bedroom linked to prolonged water damage; her daughter suffers from bronchitis, which the family suspects is related.
Residents have alleged intimidation from property management, who reportedly used loudspeakers to warn against speaking to media or posting on social media. The apartment manager declined on-camera comments during the officials’ visit.
Marquis Asset Management, owners of the complex, stated they respond promptly to verifiable complaints but dismissed many resident reports as unsubstantiated.
The City of Houston has issued citations for trash and rodent violations, giving management a 10-day deadline to act. Numerous complaints have been logged via the city’s 311 system over six months.
Councilwoman Evans-Shabazz called the conditions “despicable” and vowed city-level action, while Congressman Green plans federal legislation targeting landlords of low-income housing tax credit properties.
HUD offered Williams relocation within the same complex, which she refused, preferring to move elsewhere.
The Houston HUD Field Office has yet to determine if the complex meets federal housing standards. Congressman Green plans to closely monitor the situation as it unfolds.
