Livingston County Proclaims April as Fair Housing Month

 

At its March 10, 2021 meeting, the Livingston County Board of Supervisors proclaimed the month of April as Fair Housing Month and recognized April 7, 2021 as the 53^rd anniversary of the National Fair Housing Law.

During this month and throughout the year, Livingston County is dedicated to the goal of fair housing opportunities for all members of the community without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sexuality, disabilities, age, family status or gender identity and expression.

The Livingston County Department of Social Services would like to share some signs of possible housing discrimination:

·        A refusal to sell, rent or show available housing
·        A statement that the dwelling is not right for your family
·        The dwelling has an “available” sign, but you are told it is not available
·        Steering to certain communities or neighborhoods based on race, ethnic compositions, or familial status
·        Terms or availability change between a phone contact and an in-person visit
·        You are not contacted after acceptance of your application
·        An unreasonable refusal to provide a mortgage loan or home owners insurance
·        You are harassed or intimidated

If you think you have been a victim of housing discrimination:

·        Write down names of individuals, companies, addresses, phone numbers, dates, times, and any witnesses involved.

·        Make notes of conversations or incidents that might indicate that discrimination occurred.

·        Keep copies of advertising, letters, material, or other information.

·        If you know a person of a different national origin, race, religion, disability, or opposite sex who received a different answer or treatment than you, make a note of their name and address.

·        Follow this link to file a complaint: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp/online-complaint#_How_to_File

Local fair housing resources:

·        HUD regional Office: 1-800-496-4294

·        Livingston County Fair Housing Officer: 585-243-7300