WESTWOOD—A Watermark Retirement Communities establishment in Westwood has posted eviction notices to nearly 200 people, giving them until March 2017 to find a new home. The plan is to convert the retirement home into an assisted-living complex. Watermark had recently replaced the old management of the Vintage Westwood Apartments. The notices were sent out on November 30.

The notices of eviction have caused panic, confusion, and frustration amongst the current tenants, many of whom are elderly and in their 90s.

“We recognize the fact that this news has a great impact on residents, families and associates and pledge to support them throughout the process,” said Watermark in a statement to CBS Los Angeles news. The company is hoping to work with most residents to offer an extension of up to one year before being evicted from the premises. 

“The law may allow Watermark to do this but it’s still the wrong thing to do and I can’t support it. I’ve called on the city’s Housing Department and city attorney to carefully review the situation to see if there are mechanisms available to delay or stop it,” said Los Angeles City Councilmember Paul Koretz.

According to their website, Watermark manages 39 assets in 20 states. The of facilities include: “CCRC’s, standalone independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities in addition to Medicare-certified rehabilitation and skilled nursing neighborhoods. Watermark has ownership interests in many of these assets, both on its own and through its development arm, The Freshwater Group.”