The City of Alexandria is issuing this release to correct inaccurate reports and clarify the city’s actions regarding the property located at 650 North Bolton Avenue. Contrary to claims that the city arbitrarily shut off water to the entire trailer park, the City of Alexandria has acted strictly on behalf of the residents to enforce city codes, protect public health, and hold the property owner accountable.

The sequence of events began on July 14, when the master water account to the property was disconnected due to nonpayment by the landlord. Following this disconnection, the city discovered extensive water loss on the private system. Water services were temporarily reconnected on July 17, pending the property owner’s assurance that the necessary repairs would be made in a timely manner in compliance with city codes. Due to the owner’s failure to make the necessary repairs and the continued, increased water loss, legal intervention was warranted. On July 28, the court granted the City of Alexandria a temporary restraining order against J & W Development, LLC, which prohibited tampering with the master water meter located at 650 North Bolton Avenue, obstructing the city from inspecting the property, and renting, leasing, or permitting occupancy at the property. Subsequently, on July 30, the property owner was contacted by the Utility Director, requested that the master account be disconnected, and promised to notify his tenants to vacate the property. Ultimately, the City of Alexandria had to remove the master water meter and terminate water service because it posed a severe threat to the overall water quality and the safety of the residents living on the property.

The City of Alexandria remains committed to safeguarding the welfare of its community members and ensuring that landlords fulfill their legal and ethical obligations to provide safe and habitable housing.