City revises lease for RHDA-funded properties

The Neighborhood Housing and Community Development Department wants to expand and strengthen the tenant protections in its Rental Housing Development Assistance leases, used by tenants in RHDA-funded affordable housing. The department consulted with local developers and the tenant-rights organization BASTA to develop the proposed revisions, which are intended to “ensure transparency and compliance” for both tenants and property owners, says NHCD. Said James May, NHCD’s community development manager, “A lease agreement is a binding contract, with terms and conditions that can be complicated for those unfamiliar with them. Any way the city can help facilitate that understanding is a win for everyone involved.” To see the specific details on the revisions, visit RHDA Lease Addendum. Community members can give feedback during the 30-day public comment period, which ends April 13. Email comments to NHCD@austintexas.gov and include your name, address and phone number.