MRPC News Release
Feb. 27, 2006
For more information, contact:
Bonnie J. Prigge, (573) 265-2993
SUBSIDIZED HOUSING APPLICATION, LANDLORD INFORMATION NOW ON MRPC’S WEBSITE
ST. JAMES—The Meramec Regional Planning Commission has expanded its website to include information on the Phelps County Public Housing Agency’s HUD Section 8 rental subsidy program, including the application for assistance, announced Linda Hollandsworth, MRPC’s housing programs manager. The website address is www.meramecregion.org/phelpscopha.htm.
“We are still in the process of adding information, and some documents are not yet available, but there is a wealth of information now online for both prospective tenants and landlords,” Hollandsworth explained.
With the application now online, those needing assistance can print the application and complete it prior to coming to the PHA office, which will speed up the process, Hollandsworth said. “Prospective tenants must still submit their application in person at our office in St. James; however, they no longer have to come to the office just to get the application,” Hollandsworth said.
A section of the website should also assist landlords, especially those that want to learn more about the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, Hollandsworth said. Those with property to rent can also list it through the site, and there is a link where potential renters can see what is available.
“Right now, there are no properties listed within the counties we serve, but we hope that will change,” Hollandsworth said. “We encourage landlords who are willing to serve our clients to list their available property on the site.”
The site also links to the HUD website which provides additional information on the program.
The Phelps County PHA provides subsidized housing assistance to very low-income residents in Crawford, Dent, Gasconade, Maries, Phelps and Washington counties with the exception of the city of Rolla, which has its own public housing authority. Osage County, also a part of the Meramec Region, is served by a Boone County agency, and Pulaski County is served by Missouri Ozarks Community Action, Inc. in Richland.
A seven-member board, made up of the presiding commissioners in the six counties involved and one client representative, governs the Phelps County PHA, which contracts with the Meramec Regional Planning Commission to operate the program. During the last fiscal year, over 715 families in the Meramec Region received monthly rental assistance, which totaled over $2.3 million. Payments are made directly to landlords on behalf of families who qualify for rental assistance programs.
PHA chairman is Crawford County Presiding Commissioner Ed Worley; vice chairman is Dent County Presiding Commissioner Jim Biggs and secretary-treasurer is Gasconade County Presiding Commissioner Ron Jost.
Housing assistance is provided to very low-income residents who meet federal income criteria and other eligibility requirements. MRPC takes applications for rental assistance on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at its office at 4 Industrial Drive in St. James. Persons in Washington County can meet with housing staff and complete applications from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m on the first and third Tuesdays at the Washington County Library, 235 E. High St. in Potosi.
“We are so excited that we finally have the forms and resources online for easier access for our customers,” said Hollandsworth. “We welcome suggestions for improving the site, and remind everyone that it is still a work in progress and more and more documents will be added.” Persons needing more information should contact the housing office at (573) 265-4200.