GRAPEVINE, Texas — The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has charged the Grapevine Housing Authority, its executive director, and the Vice-Chair of the GHA Housing Commission with discriminating against and failing to provide reasonable accommodation to a tenant with a disability.
“A person’s disability should never interfere with their ability to maintain access to safe and affordable housing,” said Demetria L. McCain, HUD Principal Assistant Deputy Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity, in a statement. “Today’s charge demonstrates HUD's steadfast commitment to take appropriate action when housing providers fail to comply with the Fair Housing Act.”
The charge alleges that GHA, Executive Director Jane Everett and GHA Housing Commission Vice-Chair Bonnie McHugh terminated the lease of a diabetic tenant after a medical episode caused by his blood sugar level. Afterward, the charge alleges he was denied his reasonable accommodation request and eviction proceedings continued against him despite his doctor providing evidence that his symptoms were managed after the purchase of a medical alert bracelet and a change in medication.
“Public Housing Authorities may not evict tenants because of disability symptoms that can be reasonably accommodated,” said HUD General Counsel Damon Smith in a statement. “HUD is committed to actively enforcing the Act in its efforts to eradicate housing discrimination.”
The charge will be heard by a United States Administrative Law Judge unless any party chooses to have the case heard in federal district court. Should it be found that discrimination occurred, damages may be awarded to the complainant. Injunctive relief may also be ordered to deter further discrimination, as well as civil penalties.
The full charge can be read here.
