HOUSTON -- The water fountains flow and the lights outside burn, but inside the more than 100 homes at Park Memorial, the lights are off, KPRC Local 2 reported Monday.

Engineers claim a parking garage could collapse and take the surrounding homes with it.

"We've basically exhausted every remedy that we knew to do," resident Anthony Referente said. "However, we still feel like the building is a sound building. It is a safe building. It's not structurally dangerous or in trouble of collapsing and hurting anybody at this time."

The homeowners continue to pay mortgages, property taxes and association dues, plus pay for a new place to live. The city first posted notices over the summer for structural problems. Owners protested and went to court, but a judge sided with the city.

"The ruling by the courts basically reaffirmed the position the city had in regards to the safety and well-being of the tenants of this townhome," Houston Public Works Department spokesman Alvin Wright said.

The city said it is illegal to stay without power or water.

"Oh, it's ridiculous," resident Bob Hutchins said. "The city has abused their power. I mean, it is absolutely … this place, although it needs maintenance, it is not an unsafe building."

Residents pointed to the fact that the buildings survived Hurricane Ike and they believe it could survive at least until the property is sold. The city said no, meaning the remaining residents and their belongings must go.

The property is for sale. Residents hope a "secret" buyer finishes the deal soon.