Chicago Landlord Reaches Settlement on Code Violations

Gary Carlson, a Northwest Side apartment landlord entangled in legal battles over numerous building code violations, has reached a settlement with the city of Chicago to address these infractions.

Under the agreement, Carlson must rectify 72 code violations by next February, while implementing a management company and security measures, Block Club reported.

Carlson’s portfolio, comprising roughly 60 buildings with 500 apartments in Albany Park and Irving Park, has racked up hundreds of code violations over the years. Allegations include broken or malfunctioning smoke detectors, defective windows and structural problems like cracks in walls and ceilings. Despite claims of addressing violations promptly upon notification, Carlson’s buildings have remained a source of contention for tenants and authorities alike.

As part of the settlement, Carlson is mandated to hire Kale Realty, a professional management firm, to oversee operations at 13 buildings. The decision was made by Aldermen Rossana Rodriguez-Sanchez and Carlos Ramirez-Rosa, whose wards encompass the buildings.

“This is a clear example of how we collaborate and take action to hold landlords accountable and protect tenants in our community,” Rodriguez-Sanchez told the outlet.

While Carlson has agreed to some mandated improvements, such as the installation of security cameras to deter squatters, he has criticized the settlement terms as financially burdensome. The agreement necessitates costly repairs and obligations, prompting Carlson to voice concerns over his ability to meet these demands as an independent landlord.

In response to Carlson’s objections, advocates have highlighted persistent grievances from tenants regarding his management practices. Reports indicate that Carlson and his staff frequently ignore maintenance requests and exhibit dismissive or confrontational behavior toward tenants.

The settlement follows a series of incidents, including a fatal shooting inside one of Carlson’s buildings and a fire that displaced residents and businesses. Rodriguez-Sanchez and Ramirez-Rosa have spearheaded efforts to hold Carlson accountable, convening task forces and collaborating with tenant advocacy organizations to address systemic issues affecting residents.

Despite the agreement, some tenants remain skeptical of Carlson’s ability to enact meaningful change, calling for stricter measures to ensure safe and adequate living conditions. The Chicago Housing Authority’s decision last year to add Carlson to its Do Not Lease list reflects the growing need for comprehensive action to protect tenants’ rights.