CLEARWATER — Michael Deady and Judy Marriott say there is a lot to love about living in a mobile home community.
“The reason most of us live here is the people. Our neighbors,” said Deady.
WATCH: Clearwater mobile home residents push for stronger oversight, see progress
“I recommend park living and parks where you own the land,” added Marriott.
Deady, Marriott, and John Thurnherr all serve on their homeowners' association.
They reached out to Tampa Bay 28's Erik Waxler at the end of 2024 after seeing his coverage of issues at other mobile home parks following back-to-back hurricanes.
At the time, they showed Waxler a binder documenting concerns at their Clearwater park, including rising lot rents, overall maintenance, and adherence to park rules.
Their goal has been to secure better oversight to ensure that park owners comply with the laws governing mobile home parks under Chapter 723 of the Florida statutes.
“The underlying issue is the existing legislation has no enforcement proceedings,” said Deady.
“Legislators are starting to realize that Florida law Chapter 723 is outdated,” said Marriott.
After the story aired, residents say they began to get attention from state lawmakers.
“You effectively opened doors for us. The legislators that saw the reporting met with us. And made a point of saying, yea I saw it,” Deady said.
“It moves it over to the Attorney General's office and the Department of Legal Affairs. And actually makes them responsible for enforcing the law,” said Deady.
“And that’s huge,” said Marriott.
Residents also hope stronger laws will help control costs, an issue they say is especially difficult for the many seniors living in mobile home parks.
“If they keep raising the rent like they do it’s going to force a lot of people out of here. There’s people that say I’m going to just walk away and let them take it,” said Thurnherr.
The group says it has invested significant effort into pushing for change. Deady said he appreciates Tampa Bay 28 bringing attention to the issues residents face.
“Thanks. That’s all you can say. It’s been a long haul. It’s been a hard road. But we are making inroads.”
Share Your Story with Erik
For more than 15 years, Erik Waxler has called Pasco County home. He’s dedicated to helping his neighbors solve problems and celebrate those who help others. Share your ideas and tips with Erik below.
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