Pines Park Investors Seeks Dismissal of HOA Lawsuit Over Mobile Home Park Closure
BRADENTON BEACH — Pines Park Investors LLC has filed a motion in the 12th Judicial Circuit Court seeking to dismiss a lawsuit brought against them by the Pines Trailer Park Homeowners Association (HOA), challenging the legality of the park’s planned closure and resident evictions.
The lawsuit, filed in March, claims the ownership group failed to comply with Florida state law during the park’s closure process, including allegations of inadequate notice, lack of good faith dealings, and neglect in maintaining common areas following Hurricane Helene. The HOA also contends that changes to parking arrangements violated the city’s land development code.
The Pines Trailer Park, a waterfront 86-lot mobile home community, sustained significant flood damage from Hurricane Helene in September 2024. FEMA guidelines and city ordinances determined that many units were “substantially damaged,” triggering costly repair requirements. While city officials later confirmed that most units could be repaired with proper permitting, residents were informed on January 4, 2025, that the park would close in July.
According to the lawsuit, park owners converted a resident parking lot into a paid public lot in December, later granting temporary free parking to current tenants. The HOA also cited a $75 million purchase offer made to the residents as evidence of bad faith, pointing out that the park was acquired by Pines Park Investors for $16.25 million in August 2023.
In response, Pines Park Investors argues the closure complies with Florida Statute 723, the Florida Mobile Home Act, asserting that a lawful notice was provided and the HOA lacks standing to represent all residents. Their 25-page motion contends the HOA was not properly formed and failed to meet the statutory requirements necessary to file the lawsuit.
The motion asserts that the $75 million offer to residents fulfilled the legal requirement to offer the park for purchase prior to its closure. It also questions the legitimacy of residents’ current occupancy, citing unpermitted habitation of damaged units.
Pines Park Investors is requesting that the court dismiss all claims and award attorney’s fees and costs associated with the legal defense. The court has not yet ruled on the motion.
