Tenants Still Demand Meetings Post Approval of Independence Towers Sale

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) — Following a court’s approval for the sale of Independence Towers, local tenant unions in Kansas City are still pushing for an opportunity to meet with the newly acquired property’s owner.

On Friday, April 25, KC Tenants reported that Judge Charles McKenzie authorized the sale of Independence Towers to PG Independence Tower LLC for $2.8 million.

Leaders within the organization observed that the facility, previously held by Trigild Inc.—the court-designated receiver for assets—will now fall under the jurisdiction of an affiliate linked to Dynasty Properties Inc., an Illinois-based firm owned by Vijai Ponnezhan.

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The tenants at the Independence Towers Union have been participating in a rent strike for almost seven months now, marking the longest such protest in regional history. However, they are ready to conclude their strike as long as Ponnezhan agrees to negotiate a just lease agreement with them first.

The tenants informed Judge McKenzie about ongoing problems at the building, consistent with what was reported in the Independence Towers Tenant Union report, prior to a recent case management hearing.

The organization’s leadership expressed their desire to conclude the strike by fostering a strong and positive working relationship with the incoming owner, grounded in mutual respect and collaboration. They emphasized once again that Ponnezhan must agree to negotiate and establish a just lease arrangement.

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To combat conditions deemed both hazardous and deplorable, we established the Independence Towers Tenant Union. This building represents not just housing but a sense of belonging for us all. Following a devastating blaze, we rallied to provide bottled water and guarantee everyone’s safety within our walls. When an infant tragically passed due to a faulty window left unrepaired by our landlord, we coordinated aid among tenant union members. Our collective efforts include organizing neighborhood barbecues, hosting chili competitions, assisting each other with car repairs like fixing flats, and even sharing essential items such as sugar. Now, Vijai Ponnezhan can break this chain of disregard towards Independence Towers by engaging directly with our union and fostering a collaborative partnership.

Independence Towers Tenant Union

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