Milwaukee apartment building fire; tenants faced with tough decision
Tenants face tough decision after fire
Some tenants are back home after a Christmas Day fire. Now, they say they are faced with unlivable conditions.
MILWAUKEE - Some tenants are back home after a Christmas Day fire. Now, they say they are faced with unlivable conditions.
Facing unlivable conditions
What they're saying:
It is not exactly how Coralee Kolar hoped to start 2026. This, after a Christmas Day fire at her residence in Colonial Creek Apartments near 60th and Cold Spring in Milwaukee.
"It's been, it's already a nightmare when you go through such a traumatic experience and then, to deal with the aftermath," Kolar said. "You also see, see a lot of damage."
Coralee Kolar
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Kolar is among a group of Milwaukee tenants allowed to return Friday. But now, they say they have a tough choice.
"I'm nervous to stay here. I don't wanna stay here. It makes me uncomfortable," Kolar said.
When FOX6 News walked into Kolar's unit, there is a strong smell of smoke. An air purifier is now running to help mitigate the smell.
Tough decision ahead
What's next:
Tenants tell FOX6 News that property management is waiving January's rent. But if residents decide to break their leases, they will be charged – potentially for several months.
FOX6 News reached out to Enigma Properties multiple times throughout Tuesday, Jan. 6. We have not heard back.
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Tenants said they have seen crews in hazardous materials suits and masks doing cleanup.
FOX6 News asked a spokesperson for the Department of Neighborhood Services (DNS) to weigh in. He said property managers told DNS if renters break their leases, there would not be any consequences. DNS is now taking a closer look at the situation for the tenants.
If you are a tenant with concerns about your unit, you can submit a complaint online with DNS or by calling 414-286-CITY.
Milwaukee apartment building fire near 60th and Cold Spring
Fire tore through an apartment building on Milwaukee's south side, near 60th and Cold Spring, on Thursday morning, Dec. 25, displacing all residents.
The Source: Information in this post was provided by residents of the apartment building and Milwaukee Department of Neighborhood Services.