In 2022, the residents at Royal Crest Mobile Home Park were informed that their peaceful 55-years plus park nestled in the trees was to be sold. Residents like Bob Costa formed an association to prevent big businesses from moving in on the place they called home. 

Three years later, the progress is evident. 

The 153 resident owned homes house low to moderate incomes and runs with a board of directors as a democratic community since the purchase. Residents vote on by-laws, rules and regulations to make sure the park runs smoothly. 

"We have a primary goal when we purchased the community that we provide a safe and secure and affordable place for our residents to live," Costa said.

Cosmetic work has been done to not only keep up the appearance of the park, but to ensure the welfare of residents. The park has removed 230 dangerous trees since the sale and have rehabilitated one park owned home that the association has since sold. 

Volunteers have stepped up to provide activities for residents and services. Bingo, line dancing and cookouts are routinely held to keep the community alive and involved.

Costa said the association is pleased with the progress on all parts since the purchase. 

"Our community has really come together since we purchased the park together," Costa said. "A number of residents are very very involved now."

Residents can also sell their homes through the association's real estate office. All commissions from these sales go back in to operating the park. Homes for sale can be found on the parks website along with a portal for residents. 

Costa said the association plans to continue to work on the park in the future.

"We continue to work, to improve the grounds and infrastructure as needed," he said.

The association obtained a grant to upgrade the electrical services of older homes and plans to plant more trees within the park. New signs are going to be put up to reflect that Royal Crest is resident owned.

The association has been in contact with other parks to educate and offer support for potential  resident ownership.  

"We also hope that through ou income generation of home sales — to eventually build a community center for our residents," Costa said. "To keep them occupied and out of trouble."