Mary Meyer

My name is Mary Meyer, and my late husband and I moved into Gateway MHC in Frankfort, IL, in 1998. It was quiet and affordable, which made sense for us at the time since we were both still working. For ten years, my mother-in-law lived with us, and after retiring, my husband and I went on ski trips and motorcycle rides together.

When we first moved in, rent was manageable—but since then it’s more than tripled. Today, 40% of my Social Security check goes toward rent. The current owner, Kingsley, added another $59 this year alone. That kind of increase is difficult to manage on a fixed income. I’ve been widowed for nine years now, and living alone on a single income is a huge challenge. 

Ever since Kingsley assumed ownership four years ago, things have gone downhill. Dead trees were removed but never replaced. Utility fees aren’t even broken down for us. The clubhouse—one of the only gathering spaces for residents—is locked up early. Management shows little care, and many residents, including myself, are feeling the strain. Some of us even started a food pantry. When I asked about rising rent, I was told to just move.

I worked for 35 years, and now I’m almost 84 years old. I hoped for peace and stability where I live. Manufactured housing laws aren’t being enforced, and residents are paying the price. We need real protections and a community where we’re treated with dignity and respect. That’s why I got involved in the Manufactured Home Owners Association of Illinois (MHOAI) – where I am currently president of the board - and MHAction. Together we can fight back!