Title
Vote on a request to adopt a resolution appointing Stephanie Watkins-Cruz as the Fair Housing Officer for Chatham County
Abstract
Action Requested:
Vote on a request to adopt a resolution appointing Stephanie Watkins-Cruz as the Fair Housing Officer for Chatham County
Introduction & Background:
The county has applied for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Neighborhood Revitalization Funding (October 2018). In order to maintain compliance with the grant requirements the county must commit to further fair housing, which requires that a Fair Housing Officer be appointed to provide assistance as needed and connect citizens to the appropriate and available resources.
Discussion & Analysis:
Jason Sullivan, Planning Director was named the Fair Housing Officer in 2009. He has expressed interest in passing this role on to Stephanie Watkins-Cruz who is extremely involved in housing and community development projects in Chatham County. Once the Board appoints a replacement Officer, staff will proceed to update Fair Housing Materials, and make the respective changes to the in progress update to the County Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Study & Plan in order to maintain compliance with the CDBG program.
How does this relate to the Comprehensive Plan: Foster a Health Community
Housing is intricately connected to health in a physical, mental, and emotional way. Unstable housing due to poor conditions or discrimination and improper treatment is not only illegal and immoral but it is a detriment to the health of Chatham County citizens. The Fair Housing Officer’s role is critical to assisting citizens in these situations and connect them to the appropriate resources to mitigate these situations.
Budgetary Impact: N/A
Recommendation: Motion to adopt a resolution appointing Stephanie Watkins-Cruz as the Fair Housing Officer for Chatham County