Omaha Mayor Stothert Funds Tenant

Omaha NE

23 August, 2021

8:07 AM

Description

Press release from the City of Omaha: August 20, 2021 Mayor Jean Stothert has identified an alternate funding source to support the Nebraska Bar Association's Tenant Assistance Program. The program offers free legal assistance to tenants facing eviction. Omaha City Councilmember Aimee Melton submitted a 2022 budget amendment to add $50,000 to the General Fund budget for the program, however she withdrew the amendment this week due to a lack of available funds in the contingency account and support from other council members. After a review of the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) guidance, Mayor Stothert has allocated $50,000 to the Tenant Assistance Program, to be paid by the Metro Area Continuum of Care for the Homeless (MACCH). MACCH administers the City's ERAP funds. Treasury Department guidance includes legal assistance as an allowable use of the ERAP funds. "We all want to keep people in their homes. This money will help the Bar Association assist more tenants," said Mayor Jean Stothert. "I am grateful to the attorneys, including Councilmember Melton, who volunteer for this worthwhile program." In March, 2021, Mayor Stothert requested ERAP funding made available from the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021. The City received $22.2 million from the U.S. Treasury. The City is now eligible for an additional $16.9 million based on the successful distribution of the initial funds. The City Council must vote to approve the second distribution. Through August 15, $16.6 million has been distributed to qualifying Omaha residents for rent and utility assistance. This press release was produced by the City of Omaha. The views expressed here are the author's own.