City Tells Condo Residents To Vacate

HOUSTON -- Residents packed up at the Park Memorial condos at Detering at Memorial on Monday after the city of Houston said all 108 occupants must move out, KPRC Local 2 reported.

"In 30 days, as of the 15th of September, we would have to vacate our homes," said Manny Espinola as he and his wife, Sylvia, prepared to move out of their home of 24 years.

The city's inspectors said a parking garage is dangerous and could collapse.

Bright orange vacate notices were put on doors.

City of Houston spokesman Alvin Wright said, "If you have a major collapse on the property, every building will be affected on the property. Therefore, it's best to err on the side of caution."

He said a condo owner alerted the city to the problem. The city sent out its inspector, and then hired an independent inspector who said the garage is dangerous.

Residents knew there were problems. The property is for sale.

They said it could be months before they see their money.

They want more time to move out.

The city said they must move for their own safety.

The power will be shut off after Sept. 15.