D
avid Stern purchased his $1.8 million condo at Amrit Ocean Resort & Residences on Singer Island expecting peace and happiness, but months later he's dealing with the opposite. He's suing the developer, condo association, board members, and ground lease owner alleging they've maintained control of the association illegally and failed to turn it over to unit owners. Stern filed a lawsuit in August against Wellness Resorts, Amrit Ocean Resort II Condominium Association, Yash Pal Kakkar, James Brown, Reggie Cooper, and others in Palm Beach County Circuit Court.

    The defendants have responded with motions to dismiss the complaint. Amrit Ocean Resort, located at 3100 Ocean Drive in Riviera Beach, is part of a wave of new condo developments on Singer Island. The project has faced delays since its conception over 15 years ago and was relaunched in 2017 after being put on hold during the last condo bust.

    The lawsuit claims that under Florida law, unit owners are entitled to elect at least a majority of the board when all units have been completed or sold, but the developer stopped offering units for sale in one tower. The complaint alleges this was done to maintain control over the association. Attorney Lindsey Lehr represents the developer and denies the allegations, stating the developer continues to offer units for sale.

    The lawsuit also claims the developer has failed to hand over records and assessments. Stern, who purchased a unit in the Peace tower, is one of about 35 owners unhappy with their units' condition and amenities. He believes they're entitled to have the HOA turned over to them, citing issues like rusted fixtures and paint problems that need addressing.