A Franklin County magistrate has recommended a nearly $20 million civil penalty against the owners and property manager of the Latitude Five25 towers.
The penalty is for violating Ohio's asbestos regulations, including exposing workers to asbestos danger without their knowledge.
The work was done when the Near East Side property was named Sawyer Towers.
Paxe Latitude LP bought the towers in August 2021 when it required extensive repairs and maintenance.
The City of Columbus had repeatedly cited the complex for extensive health code violations.
Residents were forced out in December 2022 when water pipes burst and flooded the buildings.