A dispute involving a mobile home at 330 McDowell Street was brought before the Mount Carmel City Council as residents Chris Lewis and his family sought additional time and assistance to resolve zoning and ownership issues that have left them unable to obtain water service.
Lewis told the council he recently purchased the mobile home and transferred the title into his name, but said he was unaware a special permit was required for the property. He said he and his family believed they were following the proper procedures and asked the city for additional time to work through the process.
City Clerk Ryan Turner explained the issue involves the fact that Lewis owns the mobile home but not the land on which it sits. Turner said city records show the person collecting lot rent is not listed as the property's legal owner, and the individual shown on the deed is deceased. He said city ordinances currently prohibit water service from being turned on under those circumstances.
Turner also told the council he has been in contact with the individual collecting rent and said the situation appears to be part of a pattern involving the property. He added that the city recently received correspondence from that individual seeking both rent payments and eviction.
Lewis told council members he and his family have faced financial hardship and were simply trying to establish a permanent residence so he could return to work. He said they were unaware of the legal complications involving the property and felt they had been misled during the purchase process.
Following discussion, Turner said he will consult with the city's attorney to determine what legal options, if any, are available. No action was taken by the council Monday, and the matter remains under review.