Arapahoe County seeks ongoing funding for rental assistance amid rising eviction rates

In a recent study session, the Arapahoe County Board of County Commissioners delved into pressing issues surrounding rental assistance and affordable housing, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by residents in the wake of the pandemic.

As the meeting unfolded, officials discussed the county's rental assistance program, which has evolved significantly since the onset of COVID-19. Prior to the pandemic, the county allocated a modest $50,000 annually for rental assistance through community service block grants. However, the crisis prompted a substantial increase in funding, with $24 million designated for emergency rental assistance. Currently, the county is spending approximately $300,000 per month to support around 100 households, although plans are in place to reduce this expenditure to $100,000 monthly.

Despite these efforts, the number of evictions has surged, with a reported 11% increase in 2024 compared to pre-pandemic levels. The first two months of 2025 have already shown alarming trends, indicating that this year could surpass previous eviction rates. In response, the county tightened the eligibility criteria for rental assistance, limiting support to $10,000 per household, a significant reduction from the more flexible emergency assistance guidelines.

The discussion also turned to the county's affordable housing program, which faces a daunting challenge of addressing a shortage of over 7,000 housing units for low-income residents. With only $700,000 allocated for affordable housing development through HUD funds, officials acknowledged the need for a dedicated funding source to effectively tackle this issue. They proposed exploring options for a rolling housing fund to facilitate investments in affordable housing initiatives, including partnerships with local developers and housing authorities.

The meeting underscored the county's commitment to addressing housing needs, but it also highlighted the stark reality that without additional funding, efforts could revert to pre-pandemic levels, limiting the county's ability to support its most vulnerable residents. As discussions continue, the Board of County Commissioners faces critical decisions that will shape the future of housing assistance in Arapahoe County.