Homeowners at the Villa Moura condominium complex in San Clemente, Orange County, are pushing back against a more than $26,000 emergency assessment for roof replacements. The 198-unit community says the bill is putting a heavy strain on residents, especially those living on fixed incomes.
One resident, 81-year-old Beverly Albright, said the charge would force her to tap her last retirement savings, calling the notice more like a threat than a bill. Residents also say the homeowners association board bypassed a required vote by declaring the roof work an emergency, even though they believe the need for repairs had been known for years.
The total assessment would add up to more than $5 million for the complex. Residents say they were offered payment options, but they object to both the amount and the way the cost was approved, saying they were not shown a clear accounting or multiple bids for the work.
Homeowners are now working to recall board members and are challenging the assessment through legal claims. They also say they have been warned that liens could be placed on properties if owners do not pay.
