Housing authority prioritizes vulnerable groups in new wait list preferences

In a recent City Council Work Session held on June 26, 2025, in Longview, Texas, officials discussed significant updates to housing policies aimed at better serving vulnerable populations in the community. The meeting highlighted changes to waitlist preferences, occupancy standards, and measures to address fraud within housing assistance programs.

One of the key decisions made was to prioritize certain groups on the housing waitlist, including the elderly, disabled individuals, survivors of domestic violence, and the homeless. Notably, veterans and foster youth were excluded from this waitlist due to existing specialized programs that provide immediate housing solutions for these groups. The Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) program allows veterans to access housing without waiting, ensuring they receive timely support.

The council also addressed the need to tighten occupancy standards in response to rising rental costs. Currently, families have been allowed more flexibility in the number of bedrooms they can access, but with budget constraints, officials proposed a shift to a stricter guideline of two persons per room. This change aims to ensure that more families can be accommodated within the limited budget available for housing assistance.

Additionally, the council introduced a new initiative to assist families reporting zero income. A memorandum of understanding (MOU) with local workforce agencies will require these families to report monthly on their expenses and seek employment assistance, helping them transition back into the workforce.

Another significant topic was the approach to recovering funds from families who owe money to the housing program. The council proposed a new policy that would require families with debts exceeding $5,000 to repay within 18 months. For those with larger debts, the council indicated that cases would be referred to the Office of Inspector General for potential prosecution, aiming to enhance accountability and recovery efforts.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the current state of the housing waitlist, which has seen a reduction from nearly 1,000 applicants two years ago to under 100. The council anticipates reopening the waitlist in early fall, providing further opportunities for residents in need.

These updates reflect the City Council's commitment to addressing housing challenges in Longview, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the support they need while maintaining fiscal responsibility. As the council moves forward, these changes will play a crucial role in shaping the community's housing landscape.