Moscow proclaims April Fair Housing Month; commission outlines training and outreach

Mayor Art Petky proclaimed April 2025 Fair Housing Month for Moscow, citing federal and state fair housing law and the city’s own housing nondiscrimination code.

The mayor signed a proclamation marking the 57th anniversary of the federal Fair Housing Act and noting related state law and local code protections. Mayor Art Petky read the proclamation and urged residents to support programs and policies that prevent discriminatory housing practices.

Casey Holcomb, chair of the Fair and Affordable Housing Commission, told the council the commission’s work this year focuses on public education, reviewing the city code and the annual impediments-to-fair-housing analysis, and coordinating outreach with community partners. “We recommend various ways in which the city can further fair housing practices and affordable housing practices,” she said, summarizing the commission’s duties.

The commission reported several outreach steps planned for the coming year: an annual fair-housing training that will be held in a hybrid format from noon to 4 p.m. (the commission said that session will be offered April 8), tabling at the Farmers’ Market, participation in the Latah County Wellness Fair and distribution of updated tenants’ rights brochures. The commission is working to update printed materials and web links and to add a QR code so residents can find resources without searching through multiple pages.

Council members asked who should attend the training; Casey Holcomb said property managers attend frequently but recommended the session for anyone who provides or manages housing, including small private landlords. Commissioners and staff emphasized the commission’s limited authority where state law controls local action, and said the commission’s role is primarily advisory and educational.

The commission also discussed short-term rentals and local authority. Commissioners said state law limits local regulation of short-term rentals but that the commission can provide talking points and documentation if the topic draws community interest.

The council did not take any formal action on the commission’s recommendations during the meeting. The commission asked the council to continue supporting outreach and to refer specific code or program changes to the commission when council or staff identify opportunities.