Condominium Residents Must Pay for Transformer Repair

SOUTH HOUSTON, Texas - For nine days, an entire condominium community has been left in the dark with no electricity. Even worse, residents learned that they have to come up with almost $50,000 to get their lights back on.

When a transformer blew out at the Allen Genoa Condos, residents learned it was an expensive problem that they have to pay for. It turns out that at every home, complex and business, Centerpoint Energy only owns equipment up to a certain point. Beyond that point, property owners have to hire an electrician to fix the problem.

Because of federal regulations, Centerpoint Energy crews cannot touch the equipment.

The condominium complex has not had a homeowner's association since 1999, so residents are scrambling to take care of the blown transformer.

"Very frustrating. I have a four-year-old grand baby and he says, 'Nana, it's hot, it's hot and I'm hungry.' We're trying to do everything we can," says resident Rachel Rodriguez.

"We've been without power since April 5. Actually, I've lost track. The days and nights have run together," says resident Dee Dee Ducharme.

Residents are now dragging valuables from their home into the complex courtyard. They are selling everything they can to raise the money to fix the electrical system.

"I've brought out tables and chairs, my dining room table, my television, a couple shelves, a bookcase; pretty much everything that was in my downstairs," says Ducharme.

Residents are raffling off brand new, donated mattresses, perfume sets and crystal. Someone is even allowing them to use their horses. Parents can bring their children for pony rides after making a donation.

Residents estimate it will take them two months to raise the $50,000. So far, they have raised $9,000. There is a bit of good news. Centerpoint Energy says there is a new community under construction behind the complex. The company may be able to tap into those lines, but residents would still have to come up with money to pay for that, though it would cost much less.

If necessary, the residents say they will begin selling barbecue dinners and organize a silent auction.