On the coldest April day, Missoula mobile home park residents began historic lease negotiations with their Texas landlord, Oak Wood Ventures, marking a first in Montana. This meeting, facilitated by the Missoula Tenants Union, involved tenants from Travois Village and Harvey’s mobile home park, pushing for lease improvements after recent rent hikes. The tenants’ union had formed after Oak Wood’s purchase in 2023 prompted rent increases, sparking demands for negotiation and lease changes.
Residents celebrated the meeting as a positive step, with the company showing commitment to tenant concerns. Erik Brilz, part of the bargaining team, emphasized the power of union organizing: “This is a testament to the power of getting together and fighting together.” Oak Wood representatives agreed to concessions, including a negotiated lease and a proposal to cap future rent increases at 3%.
During the intense 90-minute meeting, they also discussed a two-year lease option and agreed to address “convenience fees”. Residents, currently paying $695 at Travois Village and $670 at Harvey’s park, faced a $200 rent hike in 2024, with a proposed increase in 2025 reduced after pushback. Erik noted that while not all demands were met, predictability in rent was achieved.
Oak Wood agreed not to retaliate against union members and acknowledged the union’s recognition, a historic first for Montana. Their discussion with the company extended to possibly selling Harvey’s park to the residents, a direction supported by many. Despite some unresolved issues, the negotiations represented a significant shift towards greater tenant power and stability.
Conrad Morrison, Oak Wood’s general counsel, stated the company aims to provide stability, supporting longer lease terms. He also mentioned significant park infrastructure investments, impacting rent stability. The bargaining team plans to continue negotiations, aiming for a finalized lease by June 1.
Local legislators, including Rep. Jonathan Karlen, praised the union’s efforts, highlighting the potential impact for other mobile home parks facing similar challenges. The ongoing negotiations serve as a model for tenant organization and empowerment in the face of rising rents.
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