WARREN, Ohio - Renters at Reeves apartment complex will have more time to find new places to live after an agreement was reached between the building's new owner and the city of Warren. 

Tenants of the building had initially been told they had to move out within 30 days, so the building's new owners can begin renovations to convert it into higher-end apartments. 

On Friday, Mike Keys, Warren's Community Development Director, said he had met with Modern On Property Group after being contacted by 21 News to discuss how they may be able to work with each tenant on an individual basis to make sure they can find a new residence, even if that extends beyond the 30-day deadline. 

Keys said the new owners have always been willing to work with the tenants, up to and including assisting with some of the cost of relocation. Keys said the goal is to help each tenant relocate at no cost. The city and Modern On will work in conjunction with the Trumbull County Housing Collaborative. 

Tenants on a limited income like veteran Carroll Rotzell, say they were surprised by this notice on their doors Saturday morning that said they have 30 days to move or face legal action.

Rotzell said, "It was pretty dirty the way they were treating everyone here."

Modern On Property Group bought the apartment complex and has plans to do significant renovations, which will help the look of downtown.

Renters had raised concerns that what amounts to an eviction overlooks the realities of the poor, elderly, and even disabled people with cerebral palsy face, 

Rotzell added, "Everybody here is on a fixed income, and we just can't afford to go just anywhere."

Renters who have lived here under other owners say the management company that operates this business told them there is an opportunity to move into a one-bedroom apartment in Cortland. However, they say it's no opportunity at all because they can't afford the increase in rent there.

Renters say it would be more humane for the new company that bought the building to give them 90 days notice.

The Trumbull Metropolitan Housing Authority, the largest provider of subsidized housing in the county, says there is a waiting list for renters.

Other subsidized private apartments require a background check, which can take up to 30 days to process.

The Trumbull Veterans Service Commission, which says veterans who were honorably discharged, and served in active duty for six months, should come in and apply for emergency funds for rental deposits and moving expenses or moving help.

Two veterans who live at Reeves say without financial help for down payments, moving expenses, and utility deposits, the woods along the Mahoning River will become their home.