Lexington wants to assistance citizens prevent eviction caused by pandemic

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ) – Lexington wishes to aid citizens who have to have help paying their hire mainly because of fallout from COVID-19, Mayor Linda Gorton explained Thursday.

The Metropolis is streamlining the software approach.

“With various options for support, and lots of of our neighbors never acquiring needed this guidance before, there has been some confusion and hold off,” Gorton mentioned. “But I want to be crystal clear. We want to help you stay in your residence, and we want to support you quickly.”

To get the method begun, citizens really should fill out the sort at www.covid19renterhelp.org. The city will make contact with you and link you to aid.

“Starting today, we have committed additional staff members total-time to this get the job done, and we will convey in a lot more if essential,” Gorton mentioned.

Gorton pressured the finest way to contact the City is on-line or as a result of electronic mail at [email protected]. Or else, purposes can be completed by using telephone at 859-258-3804.

The Mayor does not have authorized authority to challenge a moratorium on evictions, but has directed town personnel to consider all other ways required to maintain citizens in their properties, together with furnishing supplemental funding, if desired.

City leaders are in make contact with with Fayette County judges, and are intently coordinating with social service companies to ensure citizens are helped promptly.

Until eventually Thursday, COVID-19 renter support was administered by the Lexington Honest Housing Council.

A number of social assistance companies and many volunteers from the faith community have also presented aid, as Lexington has prevented eviction for much more than 501 Lexington homes. The town has so far provided roughly $867,181 in eviction help.

“Thanks to the Good Housing Council and to the numerous volunteers who stepped up to assist. They have done an exceptional career. But with cafe closures, and the achievable expiration of the federal eviction moratorium at the end of the month, we know we will need additional assist. Currently, community government is stepping up to make sure wants are met now, and in the long term,” Gorton reported.

The federal moratorium may possibly be extended by means of legislation now beneath thought in Washington.

The city’s Section of Social Products and services will start out taking care of the pre-screening system, and rapidly refer citizens to companies that can offer help. The new procedure will allow the City to keep track of development, and ensure there is adequate funding.

A different group of Social Providers workforce will get in touch with individuals who contacted the Fair Housing Council, but have not still gained help.

“There could be a ton of factors for this,” Gorton claimed. “Some individuals are not qualified for COVID-related aid, but they may be suitable for other programs. We want to apparent up any confusion and address any excellent conditions by obtaining them in touch with the ideal businesses.”

These citizens do not need to have to make contact with the city again. The town will reach out as quickly as achievable.