Residents of Southern Hills Retirement Community in Tulsa are voicing safety concerns after persistent elevator problems and limited communication from management, according to KTUL. The issues have become especially pressing for seniors who rely on wheelchairs and walkers.
Will Clark, an 80‑year‑old who has lived at Southern Hills for about two years, said the community’s condition has deteriorated over the past three months. “When I first moved in here, this place was fantastic. Everything worked, management was great,” Clark told KTUL, adding that “about three months ago, things started going down hill.”
Clark explained that the retirement community has two elevators for resident use, but one has been out of service for weeks. The remaining elevator frequently becomes stuck on the third floor, leaving residents stranded. “We have issues with the elevators not working consistently. We have people here in wheelchairs, walkers that can’t access the second and third floor,” he said. Clark, who has a heart condition, said he sometimes must climb three flights of stairs to free the elevator and restore access for his neighbors.
Communication with management has also been described as poor. Clark noted that the office is vacant “95% of the time,” making it difficult for residents to report problems. An anonymous resident echoed this sentiment, saying, “There’s been no connection. No contact! No leave a message or respond back coming from the office. We got family like, what’s going on? Is nobody working there?”
The timing of the complaints coincides with an ownership change reported to have occurred in early October, when the property transferred from Selectis Health to Black Pearl Equity LLC. Attempts by KTUL to reach Black Pearl Equity LLC on Saturday were unsuccessful because the corporation’s offices were closed for the weekend. The outlet noted that the offices are expected to reopen on Monday.
While the community’s management has not yet provided a public response, the residents’ concerns highlight the importance of reliable accessibility features and responsive administration for senior housing. The situation underscores the need for prompt repairs and clearer lines of communication to ensure the safety and well‑being of Tulsa’s elderly population.
What’s next: Residents plan to continue pressing management for elevator repairs and clearer contact procedures. The community’s office is slated to reopen Monday, and seniors hope that the new owners will address the maintenance and communication issues promptly.
Sources: ktul.com
