ROBERTS COUNTY ELIGIBLE FOR RENTAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

SIOUX FALLS - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development approved a new partnership agreement between Roberts County and the Aberdeen Housing and Redevelopment Commission (AHRC) recently to provide housing subsidies for low-income renters throughout the county.

The agreement allows qualified residents of Roberts County to apply for rental assistance through HUD's Housing Choice Voucher program, formerly known as Section 8. The vouchers allow very-low income families to choose safe, decent affordable privately-owned rental housing.

"This agreement is the result of local partners working together to help families," said Sheryl Miller, HUD Field Office Director for South Dakota. "We are happy this partnership expands housing opportunities for low-income families in Roberts County."

After several requests for Section 8 rental assistance in Roberts County, staff from HUD, AHRC, and the Northeast
SD Community Action Program (NESDCAP) worked with the County Commission in September to create a program. Although the local HRC in Sisseton has 73 public housing units, it does not have Section 8 vouchers for residents. AHRC will administer the program from Aberdeen and NESDCAP will market the program in the county.

To comply with legal requirements, the County held a public hearing, passed a series of resolutions, appointed a board, and signed a joint powers agreement with AHRC. HUD approved the partnership on December 9, 2004.

AHRC has expanded its service area to include five rural counties in northeast South Dakota. In addition to Roberts, AHRC also serves Brown, Day, Marshall and McPherson Counties.

HUD is the nation's housing agency committed to increasing homeownership, particularly among minorities; creating affordable housing opportunities for low-income Americans; and supporting the homeless, elderly, people with disabilities and people living with AIDS. The Department also promotes economic and community development as well as enforces the nation's fair housing laws. More information about HUD and its programs is available on the Internet and espanol.hud.gov.

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