Community Meeting for Harris County Fair Housing Study

Description

The Harris County Community Services Department is developing a Fair Housing Assessment and needs your feedback on housing choice and opportunity in your precinct. Harris County receives approximately $20 million per year in federal funding for community improvements and affordable housing. To remain eligible for these funds, the County must take action to address patterns of segregation, promote inclusive communities, and combat unfair housing practices. Every five years, the County is required to track its progress toward this commitment by conducting an assessment that considers whether everyone in Harris County has similar choices for housing regardless of their race, ethnicity, national origin, sex, religion, disability, or whether they have children. After identifying any barriers to equal access to housing and neighborhood opportunities, the assessment will propose strategies to overcome those barriers. The opinions and perceptions of Harris County residents are an important part of this study and residents are encouraged to share their input by attending a community Open House event. At these events, residents may participate in interactive exercises to help us determine housing needs, speak with precinct officials, and ask questions of the planning team. Refreshments will be served, and families are welcome. Residents may also participate by taking the Harris County Fair Housing Survey. The survey will help us identify barriers to housing and shape actions Harris County will take to ensure equal housing opportunities for all. To access the survey or to learn more about the County’s Fair Housing Assessment, visit FairHousingForAll.com. All events will be conducted in English; however, Spanish interpretation will be available. Interpretation in other languages, including sign language, will be provided upon request. Requests for interpretation or any other reasonable accommodations should be received by Harris County Community Services Department (HCCSD) staff at least 48 hours before the scheduled event. To request interpretation or accommodation, please contact the HCCSD Planning staff at (832) 927-4700 or plancomments@csd.hctx.net for assistance.