The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced today the approval of a Conciliation Agreement involving Burbank Housing Management Corporation, Burbank Housing Development Corporation, BHDC Parkwood Apartments, LLC, Oak Ridge Apartments Associates LP, and James Perez. The agreement requires the respondents to pay $41,500 in compensation to the complainant. This settlement resolves allegations that the respondents violated Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Fair Housing Act by discriminating against tenants with disabilities.
The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on disability, including refusing reasonable accommodations that allow tenants with disabilities an equal opportunity to use and enjoy their housing. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals with disabilities in any program receiving federal financial assistance, including from HUD.
“Housing providers have a responsibility to provide reasonable accommodations so that tenants can safely enjoy their homes,” said Diane M. Shelley, HUD’s Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. “This action demonstrates this Administration’s commitment to enforcing our Nation’s civil rights laws and to ensuring equal access to housing for all.”
The complaint alleged that Sonoma County-based housing providers interfered with tenants' rights to obtain reasonable accommodations and were noncompliant with Section 504 while receiving funding from HUD and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The respondents denied these allegations but agreed to settle the matter without admitting guilt or a determination issued by HUD.
Under the terms of the agreement, in addition to paying $41,500 to the complainant, the housing providers will ensure their accommodation policies comply with both the Fair Housing Act and Section 504. They are also required to process accommodation requests promptly. Both HUD and USDA will monitor compliance with this agreement.
Individuals who believe they have experienced discrimination may file a complaint by contacting HUD's Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity at (800) 669-9777 (voice) or (800) 877-8339 (Relay), or by visiting hud.gov/fairhousing.
