David and Jim Berry sued the Loring Development Authority and J.A.K.S. Property Management over alleged mold, water damage and an unlawful rent increase at their apartment on the former base. Five days after Jim spoke at a board meeting, they got a no-cause eviction notice.
The lawsuit says water enters through cracked, unsealed doors and windows, improperly installed plumbing and a deteriorating foundation; the Berrys also allege faulty outlets and a broken shower. They argue Maine law requires habitable dwellings and forbids rent increases when violations remain. A notice said all residents’ rents would rise $100 for utility costs; the Berrys faced another $100 because they had been charged for a three-bedroom rather than four-bedroom unit, bringing their rent to $1,300 a month by August.
The property manager’s lawyer said he had discussed ending the Berrys’ lease with Sheldon Corey at least two weeks before the July 16 board meeting. He called the timing a coincidence, noting the notice was dated July 17, and said the Berrys could not prove retaliation. A June 5 text reviewed by The Monitor shows Corey wrote to Jim, “Sounds like it’s time for you to move.” Another resident, Samantha Corey, is also suing over alleged mold, rotted floors and windows without screens or that do not open and close properly.
