Residents frustrated over ‘hazardous’ elevator

KAMLOOPS– A North Shore apartment resident is speaking out after several incidents with the building’s elevator.

Tyrine Flukinger said she’s been living at the Hilltop apartments on the North Shore for over a year now.

“Since I moved in, the elevator has been dropping, the elevator gets stuck,” Flukinger explained.

“Also the alarm button in there doesn’t work. It’s not connected to anybody.”

Flukinger said she’s repeatedly tried to get the problem fixed, contacting everyone from her landlord to BC Housing.

As of Wednesday morning, the elevator was still operating despite the safety concerns.

According to Flukinger, the building is home to several residents with mobility issues who depend on the elevator.

CFJC reached out to BC Housing about the elevator. BC Housing agreed the elevator has had issues in the past.

“The elevator at Hilltop Apartments has been out of service due to an unforeseen mechanical problem since Aug. 19. We know this has been a frustrating and disruptive time for those living on the second and third floors of the building, specifically for those with mobility issues,” BC Housing, said in a statement.

“We also know that the elevator in Hilltop Apartments is old and in need of repair outside of this issue – that is why we have approved an upgrade and retrofit to ensure the elevator runs without issue for as long as possible. We are currently looking into options for contractors to complete this job and will work with Elizabeth Fry Society to ensure all residents are kept up to date as this project progresses.”