Ask the Managers
By Zhita Rea
Fire Alarms and Emergency Protocols: Had a call from a resident concerned about the warning system and evacuation procedures related to fire and other emergencies in Towers. I referred the question to Glenn Beem, PLB Security Director who provided the following information. A fire alarm sounds in response to its detection of smoke or fire on a particular floor and/or when the alarm hand station is pulled. If this occurs on only one floor, the alarm sounds on that floor only. If smoke or fire is detected on multiple floors simultaneously, then the alarms on every floor will sound. Patrol responds to the fire alarms and determines needs for evacuation or other precautionary action. Glenn Beem reports, “If my officers have the smallest doubt, they are trained to make the conservative decision.”
Cash Machines in Tower Laundry Rooms: Ron Bowdoin reports that cash machines were removed from laundry rooms in Towers east of Hauser (EOH) after they had been broken into and cash stolen. These machines will be replaced by credit card machines. In the meantime EOH has two operating machines in Towers 43 and 46. And to provide greater security in laundry rooms and other public areas in future, PLB management is investigating keycard entry to these areas for residents only.
Trash and Cleanliness of Tower Lobbies and Basements: In response to complaints about items left in Tower hallways, lobbies and basements, we are reminded that all items left in public areas will be considered trash and will be removed. Residents concerned about items left in Tower hallways should call Patrol to report.
Patrol also inspects the Tower basement storage areas monthly and reports problems with water leaks, debris, roaches, etc. Residents who note
such problems should report this information directly to Service.
Rent and Lease Information: In last month’s column we referred to issues related to rent and lease issues. However, we also recognized the need for a more effective way to handle residents’ requests about these issues. Management recognizes the problem and is making changes. New procedures: 1) For answers to questions about items on your rent statements, call 549-5400. You will be referred to Service. Note: All Service reps have been trained to assist residents with these questions. 2) For other accounting questions related to your lease including rent recalculation, lease renewal, intent to vacate, contact your specific Account Representative as noted on your rent statement. If there is no response, call 549-5400 and ask for the Accounting Supervisor.
PLBRA Info to New Residents: PLBRA would new residents to have information immediately about the Residents Association and an invitation for them to join. At PLBRA’s request, management has agreed to include a PLBRA brochure in the packet for new residents.