Settlement Reached In Sartell Mobile Home Park Lawsuit

(KNSI) – A settlement has been reached in a class action lawsuit on behalf of residents of Sartell Mobile Home Park against the park’s owners, Gemstone Communities and Sartell MHC, LLC.

On Wednesday, May 27, Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid and Robins Kaplan LLP announced that the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota granted final approval of the settlement. The lawsuit, which residents filed last year, alleged they were overbilled for utilities, exposed to raw sewage within the park and pressured into signing illegal lease agreements. Under the terms of the settlement, the owners agreed to make repairs, fix billing issues and honor residents’ original lease agreements.

Robins Kaplan partner Anne Lockner expressed relief over the outcome, adding that the firm will continue pursuing damages to compensate residents. “For too long, our clients felt unheard. We look forward to helping ensure their voices are heard and their claims are fairly resolved.”

Cheryl Skaj, a longtime park resident, said she was relieved by the outcome but remained cautious about the changes ahead. “I’m just wanting things to run smoother and not have to worry about this in the long run. I don’t want any more issues. I’m glad Gemstone is willing to fix the issues at the park.”

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