Two trailers removed from Park City property amidst ongoing legal battle

After a prolonged legal dispute over sewage contamination allegations at the Homestead Apartments in Park City, two trailers were hauled away on Thursday, marking a significant step forward according to many neighbors. The removal came about two weeks past the deadline set by Stillwater County Judge Matthew Wald back in December. The trailers had been ordered to be removed because of an ongoing legal battle involving the property’s owner, Gary Weitz.

Residents in the area had long expressed concerns about the conditions at the apartment complex. These concerns intensified in November when sewage issues arose, prompting a boil water order due to coliform bacteria being found in the nearby well system. Following this incident, officials capped the complex’s sewer lines, and most residents were forced to evacuate the building.

For Jennifer Monger, a Park City resident, the removal of the trailers brought a sense of relief after months of frustration. Monger stated, “Thank God that it’s finally getting taken care of. I just can’t stress enough that we’re finally happy that something is being done about it.”

The sewage problem led to multiple lawsuits and exacerbated the ongoing legal battle between Weitz, the Park City Sewer and Water Board, and the Stillwater County Health Department. Residents affected by the contamination joined a class action lawsuit against Weitz, alleging environmental and health hazards as well as financial losses. Attorney Drew Falkenstein of AVA Law Group is representing plaintiffs in two active lawsuits against the property owner.

Weitz has denied allegations that his property was the source of contamination or elevated nitrate levels in the city’s water supply. He claimed that there is evidence suggesting the high nitrates came from the northwest of his property. Currently, the property sits vacant, with sewer lines disconnected due to the litigation process. Weitz expressed hope that the issue would be resolved in the coming weeks, allowing tenants to return.

Although the trailers were relocated to another property owned by Weitz, he plans to appeal the judge’s ruling and hopes to bring them back if permitted by a higher court. While the removal of the trailers is seen as progress by residents, the broader dispute over responsibility, contamination, and the fate of the Homestead Apartments property is expected to linger in court. Despite the ongoing legal battles, Weitz remains steadfast in asserting his property rights and his intention to address the situation within legal bounds.