Lexington’s proposal barring landlords from automatically disqualifying potential renters based on the source of their income could come to a final vote as early as this week.
The current version of the proposal would stop landlords from refusing to at least consider applicants who rely on things like Section 8 housing vouchers, though the measure could be scaled back depending on the fate of bills under consideration in Frankfort.
CivicLex’s Adrian Bryant says Lexington’s proposal could be up for a first reading this week – or possibly a final vote on Thursday.
New language in Lexington’s proposal whittles down the ordinance just a bit by removing any reference to aspiring homeowners using Section 8. The Lexington measure would only apply to landlords and renters.
Housing assistance programs that ramped up during the pandemic are winding down, but Lexington leaders are sounding open to continuing some form of assistance to help prevent evictions.
The federal Housing Stabilization Program funneled lots of money into Lexington between 2021 and 2023 – around $54 million – all with the goal of providing a variety of programs to largely help those facing eviction.
While the city hasn’t devised any kind of replacement for the massive program, talks are still underway about how to keep some of those services going.
Whether the city is pondering an extension or a permanent program is yet to be seen, but the Gorton administration and council will be going on a budget retreat in the next few weeks that could yield more discussion and details on proposals.
