Are you looking for an apartment in South Austin? Do you need something safe for your children, family & visitors? Well, I’m here to tell you to stay away from WaterStone Apartments in South Austin off Slaughter Lane. My story is to be shared with anyone in Austin looking for an apartment. Don’t let your kid become a victim of irresponsibility. Be a part of a community that will support you and your family!
My son was visiting a friend there & while riding a bike, he lost control & was hit by a car. He incurred some serious lacerations to his body. My son will be fine & we pray for a speedy recovery. However, when the police officer arrived, the first issue that arose was that there are no speed limit signs nor are there speed bumps. Therefore, cars fly in & out without a care in the world. The officer witnessed first hand the speeding. Why should a child die before something is done about this dangerous situation?
I went to the apartment office the following day to speak with Courtney Jones, the manager. I thought I would get some compassion & understanding about the traffic situation there (even if I wasn't a tenant there). Wow, was I in for a huge surprise! Talk about a completely negative, unprofessional experience. I proceeded in a calm manner to address the speeding issues. Before I could finish, Ms. Jones became defensive, uncooperative and rude.
Not once did she ask for my name, not once did she ask if my son was okay, not once did she say she will file an internal report, not once did she appear concerned the speeding issue, etc. I felt she didn't even listen. Here's how our conversation unfolded (in front of other prospective tenants). She couldn't even discuss this in her office:
Mgr Courtney Jones: The speed limit is 10mph per the resident lease. I’m aware that there are no signs, but it’s in the lease. It’s the duty of the residents to tell their visitors how to drive, not us. I’m aware of the incident that happened to your son, but only because I live close to where it happened and my sister heard about it. However, I will not file an incident report until an actual resident comes in to make a claim. You are not a resident of this community.
I also won’t give you additional information about our policies as I’m not in contract with you! I heard that your son ran into the car. I understand that may be besides the point and I know that the residents drive fast here, but it’s their responsibility to drive safe. A sign does not prevent an accident. We also won’t do anything until we get complaints. We have 25 investors that will not change the policy. We are in compliance with the state codes. I can’t tell you more as you are NOT A RESIDENT.
Now Upset Mother (me): It has now become a concern of mine, resident or not, to deal with this issue. Not having speed signs or road bumps does not discourage residents and visitors from driving recklessly. In fact, if the guy in the accident would've drove at 10 mph per the lease, the damage to my child would not have been as bad or could have even been prevented altogether.
Why should it take someone dying before action is taken? You can sit in the lot & see for yourself how your residents do not obey the speed limit posted in the lease. I feel it’s very irresponsible on management's part to not do something about this. You are not enforcing compliance of the leasing guidelines.
This is not a kid friendly community, nor is it safe. Your right, it would not prevent an accident, but it will educate the community that there indeed is a speed limit. It could potentially save a life. How would you feel if it was your child? You are then telling me that you are unwilling to go above & beyond what the law requires, right because you follow the minimum state code?
How is a speed sign going to hurt you or this complex? I will in fact put in writing that we spoke about this today. It’s unfortunate that my story, concerns, questions and comments is not enough for you to file an incident report, take action or show sympathy.
A mother already in enough pain did not go to argue with the manager, but to make awareness as I felt they would be concerned. Boy was I wrong. Not only did she embarrass herself by allowing everyone to listen in on our personal conversation, but not once did she talk to the residents herself to take action on a written statement. She was adamant about them coming to her for a write-up. Shouldn’t she have followed up. Hell, what if the kid dies?
She refused to listen or even pretend to care. What a heartless women. Please be warned before you give your hard earned money & invest in what you think is a safe home. This is the character of this community. This place is not safe for kids, or families. Heck, your pets aren’t safe. Don’t let your kid become the victim of a tragedy. Vote with your pocket book!! Also, think twice before hiring Courtney Jones as your next property manager. I highly doubt you want someone like this representing your company. My kid does matter Mrs. Jones!
Ann Marie Nguyen
Mother to an amazing 10 yr old
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