Ferndale Mobile Home Tenant Union Public Statement

After weeks of organizing, the Ferndale Mobile Home Tenant Union has reached an agreement with New Tide LLC by negotiating directly with its president, Antonio Ribeiro.  The agreement will provide additional relocation support and more time for union families to move.

As part of the agreement, New Tide LLC will transfer $70,000 in relocation assistance to a nonprofit third party for disbursement to members of the Ferndale Mobile Home Tenant Union, representing a majority of Ferndale households, including both renters and homeowners. Union families will also now have until July 22 to relocate from the property.

This agreement comes after residents organized together to demand dignity and meaningful support during displacement.  Ferndale Mobile Home Tenant Union members appreciate Antonio Ribeiro and New Tide, LLC taking steps to respond to residents’ concerns and work toward a resolution that provides families with greater stability during this transition.

This outcome shows what can happen when working-class people come together, raise their voices, and are met with a willingness to negotiate in good faith.

While relocation will still be difficult for many families during North Charleston’s affordable housing crisis, Antonio Ribeiro and New Tide, LLC's willingness to work with the Ferndale residents gives them a chance to relocate from a place of power and dignity rather than desperation.