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Two Remaining Buildings at Superior Creek Lodge Condemned in East Ridge

486 views · Published 10 September 2015 · 3:45 · Indexed 20 September 2026

Channel: WTVC NewsChannel 9 · 2015 · News & Politics

Hundreds of East Ridge families are looking for a new place to live after the remaining two buildings at Superior Creek Lodge were condemned Thursday afternoon.

NewsChannel 9 confirmed with East Ridge Fire Chief Mike Williams that late Thursday afternoon, both remaining buildings that were open have also been condemned. This now means the entire complex of Superior Creek Lodge is condemned.

East Ridge Fire Chief Mike Williams says they received a complaint about the residential buildings earlier in the week. An inspector noticed structural problems with the balconies, rendering two of the buildings unlivable immediately.

Officials estimate 148 families at the extended-stay hotel were displaced Wednesday night. Williams says he does not know exactly how many families and residents lived in the remaining two buildings to be condemned.

"It's very hard on these people and we understand that," says Williams. "We really do. It's hard on us. But, at the end of the day, we have to look out for their safety, and that is the number one issue."

Thursday, the other two buildings on the property became the subject of inspection, ultimately resulting in them being ruled condemned as well.

We spoke with resident Sara Goff and her four children, who lived in one of the buildings that was condemned Thursday afternoon.

Thursday morning, she was embracing other residents who share the same anxiety and fear.

Goff and her children were left without a home until two weeks ago, when Superior Creek Lodge rented her a room. Before that, Goff says she told her children they were "camping."

"We were just getting our lives together," sobs Goff. "I just spent all my money on pots and pans. Last night was the first night in weeks I was able to cook my kids a home cooked meal, and I was so proud of it," says Goff.

Just hours later, neighbors in the next building had no where to go. And she could be next.

"I refuse to let my children see me break down. I refuse to let them see my cry. I refuse to let this affect them any more than it already has when we were homeless."

Goff says despite the lack of maintenance, she isn't angry with the complex because they gave her family a chance. She says nearby complexes won't rent to you if you have bad credit or too many people per unit.

"I refuse to say anything bad about Superior Creek Lodge," she says.

Residents say they were reimbursed by management for rent.

Because this isn't classified as a "disaster," the American Red Cross and TEMA are not able to help the displaced residents.

However, Salvation Army and nearby churches are assisting with displaced residents.

UPDATE: East Ridge United Methodist Church tells NewsChannel 9 they have room for about 9 families, or up to about 36 people.

Depend on us to update you as this story develops.

By: Kelsey Bagwell