Houston hopes to pair rent relief cash with ordinance to temporarily bar evictions
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The city is planning to pursue a “grace period” ordinance that could block tenant evictions through the end of March, fulfilling a request sought by housing advocates since at least last summer as the economic toll of the ongoing pandemic continued to grow.
Mayor Sylvester Turner said he will put the ordinance on next Wednesday’s council agenda, potentially adding a crucial layer of protection for tenants while city officials work with Harris County and nonprofit groups to distribute some $159 million in rental relief.
The county approved its side of the rent relief deal Tuesday, and the governments and nonprofits hope to begin accepting applications from landlords as soon as next week.
Turner to offer grace period ordinance to block evictions in Houston through March
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Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner talks to the media outside HOPE Clinic as patients get their COVID-19 vaccinations in the Houston clinic on Saturday, Jan. 30, 2021.Elizabeth Conley, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographerShow MoreShow Less
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A notice of lease violation during a press event outside the Edge Apartments on East Houston Street Sunday afternoon. Residents discussed eviction notices and other issue s with the eastside complex.Robin Jerstad / Robin JerstadShow MoreShow Less
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The city is planning to pursue a “grace period” ordinance that could block evictions in the city through the end of March, fulfilling a long-sought request by housing advocates.
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Kicked out after Christmas? Thousands in our area face eviction - what is being done to help?
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HOUSTON – Lost jobs and reduced hours mean more Americans than ever are struggling to make ends meet. Many who can’t pay rent have had some protection. A federal ban on evictions has kept a roof over their heads. But that ban expires December 31st and with no real plan from local leaders. Our Investigates team is working to find your answers because tens of thousands of people could be out on the street in just a few weeks.
“It’s been very stressful. Figuring out what I’m going to do,” said Heather Hartman.