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Pines Senior Community Gets Unexpected Visitors

PEMBROKE PINES (CBS4) ― When Alma Doe turned 55 she moved into Pines Place, a senior residence owned and operated by the City of Pembroke Pines, but then she and other residents learned they would have neighbors—adults 18 years old and up.

"It said 55 years and older, safe environment, well maintained, peace, quietness and that's what we were looking for," said Doe.

But the city had too many empty units, so they turned Pines Place into affordable housing.

"Affordable housing is necessary...we have an empty building. It was a natural," said Jay Shechter.

Shechter is director of housing for Pembroke Pines. He says Pines Place will conduct background checks on younger residents and work to make sure everyone follows the rules

"The city is committed to keeping this a beautiful place to live. Will there be different generations, yes there will. Will there be different ages? Yes there will be," he said.

But Doe and other residents we spoke with say they are concerned about safety, and younger people who might throw parties, be noisy and have less regard for seniors and disabled people.

Michael Jones says he understands the economic issue.

"I realize the city has to make the mortgage for this place," said Jones. "And I realize it's empty, as long as we have no problems. I was young once--just like you and everybody else--and I think they should be able to live here."

Doe planned to spend her evenings quietly on her back porch. She fears younger people with children will ruin the serenity of what she thought was a senior-only residence.

"I'm gonna pray. I'm gonna wait and I'm gonna see," she said.

The manager says residents knew the Pembroke Pines City Commission was considering this change. So it's a done deal. Residents can move out if they like, and receive a full refund. So far the manager says he's had no takers.

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