Our View

It is imperative that immediate action be taken — and it appears that it will be — following a host of concerns voiced by residents of the Rug Mill Towers apartment building in Freehold Borough.

The redevelopment of the former A&M Karagheusian rug mill was the crowning jewel in a borough renaissance that stretched over two decades. Apartment living does not have to mean problems for residents.

However, some residents claim the affordable housing complex is having more than its fair share of problems.

Speaking at a recent meeting of the mayor and Borough Council, a spokeswoman for the residents detailed problems that include the apartment building’s heating and ventilation system, a lack of heat in bathrooms, issues of security and leaky walls and windows, among other concerns.

Resident Gloria Barron noted that these concerns have been raised in the past. She told municipal officials that the Rug Mill Towers has "filthy, deplorable conditions."

The residents told council members there are cars parked constantly in the circular driveway in front of the building and said some people are afraid to walk through the area.

That is no way for anyone to have to live.

Matthew Gallagher, one of the building’s developers/owners, said he thought living conditions at the apartment building were good and was surprised to hear what the residents told the mayor and council. He noted that a new management company was hired in February. He said the building owners will address the concerns that have been presented to municipal officials.

Perhaps, if it hasn’t already had one, the Rug Mill Towers could use a visit from the borough’s Quality of Life Enforce-ment Team and a new, vigorous look at code enforcement and public safety issues.