WINK News pushes for answers on broken ACs at Fort Myers complex

FORT MYERS, Fla. (WINK)—Residents at the Landings at East Pointe say they've spent months waiting for their air conditioners to be fixed as Southwest Florida endures extreme summer heat.

WINK News reviewed dozens of work orders from residents, many reporting the same problems. Residents say the heat inside their homes is impacting their health, and they want the Fort Myers Housing Authority to deliver a permanent solution.

The work orders paint a similar picture—different apartments, different dates, but the same complaint: air conditioners that aren't working.

Inside Melissa Beard's apartment, a cooking pan catches water dripping from a portable air conditioner. She says it's the only thing keeping the living room somewhat cool, while bedrooms remain too hot to sleep in.

"They bring me this thing, and that's what we've had ever since. And ever since then, I've done put in three to four more requests because my son did have a seizure on the third from it being hot in here," Beard said.

Beard says her son Thomas Baker's epilepsy makes the heat dangerous.

"I get very queasy, I get dizzy, my whole body starts trembling, shaking, I start getting goose bumps, my hands start getting really sweaty, sweaty. So I know it's coming," Baker said.

The family says they've had to move their sleeping arrangements into the living room.

"I have to sleep in front of a portable AC unit every night so I don't have a seizure," Baker said.

When WINK News asked the property office about their concerns, we were referred to the Fort Myers Housing Authority. The Housing Authority tells WINK News that replacement equipment has been ordered and is expected to arrive for installation. The authority says it's pursuing funding to replace every air conditioning unit as part of a larger rehabilitation project. Read the full statement below.

Statement from Housing Authority regarding Landings at East Pointe:

The comfort and well-being of our residents is a top priority. As part of our standard maintenance protocols, our property management team works to promptly assess any reported air conditioning maintenance requests and schedule repairs or replacements as needed. Replacement equipment has already been ordered and is expected to arrive tomorrow for installation.

The property has also applied for CDBG-DR funding to support a planned rehabilitation project that includes full roof replacements, new mechanical systems and replacement of all air conditioning units. While we continue to address any maintenance needs as they arise, this planned investment is part of our long-term commitment to preserving the property and residents’ comfort for years to come.

We remain committed to providing safe, quality housing and addressing resident maintenance concerns as quickly as possible.

When WINK News shared that response with Beard, she remained skeptical.

"I don't believe anything," Beard said. "I've told this lady numerous times that my son is an epileptic. I got to see it."

Residents say they're hoping the new equipment finally brings some relief.