Grand Forks Housing Authority clarifies voucher policies for non-permanent residents

The Grand Forks City Council meeting on April 10, 2025, focused on discussions regarding housing assistance regulations and the use of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. A significant topic was the limitations placed on the Grand Forks Housing Authority concerning rental assistance for low-income families, particularly regarding the eligibility of non-permanent residents.

During the meeting, a council member shared insights from a recent conversation with the Grand Forks Housing Authority. They explained that federal regulations, specifically HUD Section 214 and the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act, dictate that housing vouchers can only be provided to legal citizens. This means that if a household includes both a legal citizen and a non-permanent resident, assistance can only be granted to the individual with legal status.

The council member emphasized that these restrictions are already in place and that the housing authority does not provide benefits to non-permanent residents. This clarification was crucial as the council considered amendments to existing policies, ensuring compliance with both state and federal laws.

Despite the existing regulations, there was a push to proceed with an amendment to the current policy. The council discussed the importance of aligning local statutes with federal requirements while addressing concerns raised by council members about the implications of these regulations.

The meeting concluded with a decision to vote on the proposed amendment, reflecting the council's commitment to ensuring that housing assistance programs operate within the legal framework while supporting the needs of the community. The outcome of this vote will determine the next steps in the council's efforts to manage housing assistance effectively in Grand Forks.