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Former tenants of the Skyline Apartments in Syracuse are poised to receive a share of an $800,000 settlement following a class-action lawsuit against former owners Tim and Troy Green. The lawsuit, filed in 2021, accused the Greens of neglecting building management while collecting rent, resulting in hazardous living conditions. The settlement awaits approval from Judge Deborah Karalunas, who will review it in the coming weeks.
The lawsuit highlighted issues such as inadequate security, unsanitary conditions, and neglect of tenant safety. A State Supreme Court judge had previously ordered the installation of security cameras and 24/7 security guards in May 2022 due to safety concerns. The building was declared unfit for habitation in 2023 after tenants experienced a lack of hot water during winter.
If approved, the settlement will cover tenants who lived at Skyline between January 2017 and July 14, 2023. Each tenant could receive up to $22,275, with additional service award payments for the three named plaintiffs: Martina Carter, Anne McCheyne, and Larry Fuller. The Greens have denied many of the allegations.
Despite the settlement, legal challenges continue for Skyline Apartments. The current owners, Clear Investment Group, face a lawsuit from the city for failing to fulfill promises to improve the property.