Safety concerns hold up move-in at The Arlington

EAST NAPLES, Fla. – Dozens of families who were supposed to move into a new retirement and continuing care community weeks ago, will not be able to spend Thanksgiving at home because of construction delays.

“We’re dying to get the rest of the facilities opened up over here,” said Jim Dishop.

Dishop and his wife are one of 16 families that have been unable to move into the villas at The Arlington.

“Some of our friends are going to be living here too. We’re waiting for them to move in because they’re going to be living in the building here that’s not open yet.”

Right now, about 75 residents are waiting to move into the apartments. Roger Paulsberg, the president of Lutheran Life Communities, says the hold is a result of the building boom in Collier County.

“There are some issues with labor shortage regarding some of our painting and requirements that need to be done prior to some of the inspections the fire department is requiring.”

Paulsberg says those inspections include their sprinkler and fire alarm system. “To make sure things are done efficiently according to code and all is done properly for everybody’s safety, that’s our main concern, that’s everyone’s main concern.”

“I understand they’re being well cared for and they’re pleased with the care they’re getting” said Dishop. “They’re displeased with the delay but they’re pleased with care they’re receiving.”

WINK News has learned more than half of the people waiting to move in have already sold their homes. Paulsberg said they’ve put those people up in hotels while they wait.

“They wonder when their next move will be and we try to reassure them it’s coming up shortly, things are very, very close.”

The Arlington is providing all their residents with Thanksgiving meals, whether they choose to eat there or take it to go.

Next week, the first assisted living resident will move in. For the past couple months, nurses and staff have been training there. As of this week, The Arlington has 70 employees. They plan to hire about 80 more.