3A Public Hearing 2010 0315 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Priority: Reduce housing discrimination Priority Analysis and Obstacles to Meeting Underserved Needs The following analysis of housing discrimination and obstacles to meeting this need was prepared in part by the HOME Consortium. As a Consortium member, the City of San Leandro subscribes to this priority and has proposed activities that meet the objective of reducing housing discrimination. The Alameda County HOME Consortium Housing Market Analysis shows that Alameda County is racially and ethnically diverse. According to the Census 2000, about half of the County's population is a racial/ethnic minority. With such diversity, fair housing is a Hatable concern in the County. Fair housing and tenant/landlord services are provided to reduce housing discrimination. These services include housing counseling to tenants and landlords on their legal rights and responsibilities, investigating complaints of housing discrimination, dispute mediation and resolution, and training for realtors and property owners on fair housing caws. Despite increased knowledge of fair housing law and long-term community efforts, discrimination continues to exist. Discrimination has also become much more subtle. In tight housing markets, investigating complaints is harder due to the rapid speed in which vacancies are filled and the hesitancy of tenants to complain due to fear of losing their housing. It also gives the landlords the ability to pick/choose among prospective tenants, which rHay lead to increased illegal discrimination. Objectives Reduce housing discrimination by continuing to support programs and services that investigate discrimination complaints, counsel tenants and landlords on their legal rights and responsibilities, and educate multi-family housing owners and managers about fair housing. Regularly update the City's Fair Housing Analysis to Impediments through audits, reviews, and activities aimed at the goal of reducing discrimination. Implement the strategies of the City's Fair Housing Action Plan (see Exhibit C) to affirmatively further fair housing. Accomplishments Fair Housing/Complaint Investigation Services ^ Contract with Eden Council for Hope & Opportunity (ECHO Housing), a qualified and experienced fair housing agency experienced in fair housing law, housing complaint investigation, and other related services, to address housing discrimination in the City. ECHO Housing services will be funded with CDBG funds and include information and outreach to owners, renters, and buyers on their rights and obligations, and support services available in the community. It is anticipated that the City will respond to approximately 125 inquiries or complaints over the next five (5) year period and benefit 250 low-income persons in San Leandro, Geographic Distribution All programs listed are available throughout the City of San Leandro. DRAFT Housing and Community Development Strategic Plan - FY 2010-14 City of San Leandro Page 13