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Committee reviews relocation guidelines; supervisors say state $5,000 payment is insufficient
Summary
Staff proposed relocation guidelines aligned with federal/state rules that would provide resident notice, feasibility assessments, and payments including the state $5,000 mandated under the Manufactured Home Lot Rental Act. Supervisors said the state payment and the 180‑day eligibility threshold are inadequate and may require lobbying in Richmond to change.
County staff presented draft relocation guidelines intended to reduce displacement impacts if manufactured‑home parks are redeveloped.
Ivana Escobar, manufactured housing coordinator, said the guidelines align with the Federal Uniform Relocation Act, Virginia housing guidance and the Manufactured Home Lot Rental Act, and are designed to minimize disruption and maximize resident choice. Staff described a process where the developer or property owner must conduct a resident survey and needs assessment, the county would monitor the relocation plan, and feasibility assessments would determine whether units can be moved or must be demolished.
Escobar told the committee that for permanent relocation homeowners would receive the state‑mandated one‑time $5,000 payment under the Manufactured Home Lot Rental Act plus an additional one‑time payment from the project to help with moving costs or purchasing/renting another unit, and that a rent‑differential payment is available for households at or below 60% of area median income (AMI). Eligibility for assistance would require that a resident had occupied the site at least 180 days immediately prior to initial notification and that the household income be at or below 80% AMI.
Several supervisors questioned the adequacy of the $5,000 payment and the 180‑day threshold. Supervisor Lusk said the $5,000 number "is way, way too low" and noted that changing that amount would require state legislative action. Staff confirmed the $5,000 payment and the 180‑day occupancy rule come from state law and alignment with federal requirements, and said the county—s proposed additional payment and rent‑differential are intended to supplement the state minimum.
Staff said draft relocation guidelines would be published in English and Spanish and open for public comment through August 27; outreach will include in‑person meetings at Richmond Highway communities and Meadows of Chantilly, plus two virtual sessions.
No formal action was taken; staff will post draft text for comment and continue outreach.
