Kansas City Celebrates More Section 8?!?

Right now, in fairness, we share a glimpse at the other side of a recent housing debate. 

Like it or not, it's important to acknowledge activist perspective on recent Kansas City legislation to prevent "source of income" discrimination.

On this blog we've noted that many landlords feel that the effort is akin to mandatory participation in Section 8 housing federal programs.

However . . . 

Here's how local activists view the legislative victory . . .

"The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program was established in 1974 to help low-income families attain 'decent, safe, and affordable housing.'

"According to an Urban Institute study, in some cities, more than 70 percent of landlords refuse to rent to voucher holders, often citing restrictive program requirements and concerns that tenants using vouchers will wreck their property.

"This decision can leave tenants who could otherwise afford housing in the location of their choosing unable to find a landlord who will accept them, funneling them back into the unsafe communities they sought to leave.

"With the passage of this ordinance, the Kansas City Council seeks to break this cycle and put the power of choice into the hands of the tenants.

"Housing discrimination has a lasting impact on individuals and communities. Black Americans living in impoverished, segregated neighborhoods often live farther away from grocery stores, education facilities, and adequate healthcare.

"When communities do not have access to these resources, their lack can perpetuate poverty and segregation and  limit access to quality education and economic opportunities.

"Unbinding centuries of racist policies won’t be achieved overnight, but this ordinance reminds us that there are advocates working to close the gap. And there are policy and behavioral changes that can get us moving in the right direction: toward humanity. Set to take effect on August 1, Kansas City’s housing ordinance will open more doors for poor and working-class tenants to find affordable housing."

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

A new KC ordinance outlaws sources of income discrimination

Mayor Quinton Lucas and Alaysha Jenkins at the introduction event of Ordinance 231019. (From Instagram, @quinton_lucas) On January 25th, the Kansas City