Months after an unknown vehicle crashed into The Woods gate, residents were surprised to see a text sharing the news that that the bill would be split amongst them.
The Woods entrance gate was non-operational for months after an unknown vehicle made a hit and run crash into the gate during last Labor Day weekend.
The Woods residents were initially updated the matter in an email from Office Coordinator Taylor Campbell on October 10, 2024.
“My staff and I have already been made aware of this and have also ordered a replacement gate. Currently, we are waiting on more information from the outsource vendor we are using for the repairs,” The email said. The supplier lead time on a special-order gate is less than desirable, so I was given an estimated time frame of 6-12 weeks. We are about 3 weeks into this waiting period and should expect to get an update on ETA soon. As soon as the gate arrives, it will be installed immediately.”
Nowhere in the email reminded residents about a line in the lease, stating they must pay for any damages if no culprit is found.
The Woods residents didn’t hear any more information until January 14, in a text message explaining the costs they would have to pay.
“The driver responsible for the incident left the scene without reporting the damage. As a result, the cost of replacing the gate will be dispersed among all residents, as outlined in our policy book. When damage occurs to the common areas the charge(s) to repair are prorated amongst all residents,” the text said.
This came as a shock to Millikin students living in The Woods. Oftentimes, students living there are living in an apartment for the first time. Many residents likely missed or forgot about the quote in the heap of paragraphs in the student policy book, which reads as follows.
“Common Area charges will be charged to and shared by all residents. Damages include, but are not limited to: tampering with main electrical breakers, heat pumps/air conditioners, fire alarms, sprinkler systems, pool equipment or any other security device.”
The damages continued to include buildings and structures around the complex.
“. . .Willful damage to common grounds, parking lots, and security fences/gates.”
Finally, the notice wrapped up by covering anything else that resides in The Woods.
“. . .Misuse or damage to all common areas, grounds or the commons building, including the elevators, computer lab, mail room, pool, and activity center, i.e., stairs, windows, screens, doors, walls, carpet, and furnishing.”
This rule would include the situation of an unknown vehicle crashing into The Woods gate.
Residents of The Woods apartments have expressed annoyance with the timing of these notifications months after the incident, rather than immediately after the investigation.
If you have any questions for The Woods regarding this incident, you can reach out to The Woods phone number, (217) 877-2600 or the property manager, Dalton Keene, at [email protected].
