MIDPINES—Mariposa County Code Compliance, in coordination with Mariposa County Fire, Mariposa County Health and Human Services, and Connections, is posting properties as unsafe to occupy at the Whispering Pines Apartments in Midpines due to significant and immediate life, health, and safety concerns.
“We have to get them out of there for their own life and safety,” said Corrina Miranda, Mariposa County Code Compliance Officer. “And for the community,” she added, referencing the extreme fire risks.
Tom McClintock (R-CA 5th District) touring the Whispering Pines Apartments storm damage in April of 2023. Photo Mariposa County Sheriff’s Office
Currently the property has many life, health, and safety concerns. These include live and downed powerlines, powerlines through trees, and a lack of defensible space. There is also surfacing sewage, black mold and more.
From an emergency perspective limited access impacts emergency services who may need to get larger equipment and vehicles on site. These include fire engines and ambulances Entries to the property are limited, failing, and narrow.
Residents of the property received notice over six months ago that homes on the property were unsafe for use and individuals would need to move. Since that time, the severe winter storms increased the damage and hazards in the area. “This isn’t because we want to, it’s because we have to,” Miranda said.
Mariposa County Code Compliance will visit the property during the week of July 10th to give a final, 72-hour notes to relocate. Once the 72 hours is complete, power will be turned off. In addition, representatives from Mariposa County Health and Human Services and Connections will be reaching out to residents to provide support for relocation.
“This is a collective effort to provide safe alternatives for the current residents, reduce the risk of immediate health and safety issues, and eliminate the severe fire hazard,” stated Miranda.
