Knoxville faces surge in eviction cases amid cuts to rental assistance programs

The City Council of Knoxville held a public hearing on May 17, 2025, focusing on the pressing issue of legal aid and its impact on the rising eviction crisis in the area. During the meeting, concerns were raised about the significant decrease in legal aid capacity, which has not kept pace with the surge in eviction cases. Currently, there are 238 families facing eviction, a number that has previously peaked at 360.

Speakers emphasized that without additional funding, the situation is expected to worsen, leading to more contested hearings and increased strain on the court system. The drying up of rental assistance programs has exacerbated the problem, as new applications for aid have already ended. This means that more cases that could have been resolved outside of court are now being heard, contributing to chaos and inefficiency in the legal process.

The potential cuts to Housing and Urban Development (HUD) funding were also highlighted as a looming threat, which could further diminish available rental relief and supportive housing options. Legal aid organizations play a crucial role in negotiating outcomes for families facing eviction, helping to prevent long-term damage to their rental history. However, they cannot stop evictions based on non-payment, which raises concerns about the long-term implications for those who go through the eviction process.

As the number of cases increases, the need for legal aid becomes even more critical. The council was urged to consider the importance of funding legal aid services to help families navigate the complexities of eviction proceedings and to mitigate the negative impacts on the community. The discussions underscored the urgent need for action to address the growing eviction crisis and support vulnerable families in Knoxville.