Situation
In Montecatini Terme (Tuscany), a man — identified by one source as Michael Tudor and by another as a Romanian named Tudor — has been living permanently in a caravan (trailer) for three years in a parking lot in front of an apartment building on Via Friuli, 7. According to a Romanian source, Tudor has lived in Italy for several decades.
Reaction
Some neighbours complain of noise, dirt and unsanitary conditions and have filed official complaints demanding eviction; others consider him useful to the area. According to the Romanian source, residents cite noise until late at night, piles of rubbish and smoke from grills, and some claim the vegetation near the parking lot is used as a toilet. The man rejects the accusations, saying he cleans the area and does small jobs, including cleaning staircases and repairing masonry, and that he is ready to move the caravan if given another place.
Authorities
Mayor Claudio Del Rosso said police are conducting checks, but the parking lot is private property, which limits the municipality's options; temporary housing could be provided upon request. According to the Romanian source, the administration together with social services of Valdinievole has mechanisms to help the homeless and can quickly provide, among other things, a hotel room. The company that owns the parking lot said it had raised the issue with the relevant authorities. The story was covered by Tg4, with interest also from Rai and Mediaset.