McEachin Asks HUD: “Where are answers on Essex Village?”

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman A. Donald McEachin (VA-04) sent yet another letter to Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Ben Carson renewing his demand for more information about, and action to address, problems at Essex Village, the Section 8 subsidized housing complex in Henrico County. He issued this statement explaining his action:

"On June 7, I asked HUD to make concrete changes to ensure that residents of Essex Village have access to safe, sanitary, and affordable housing. More than two weeks later, I have not received a substantive response — nor has any action been taken. Today, I sent a letter demanding explanations and renewing my demand for action.

"Justice delayed is justice denied. Families are living in dangerous, dirty, completely unacceptable conditions. In the face of such clear suffering, public officials have a responsibility to act -- none more so than officials at HUD. The agency has not responded to documented problems with the force or the swiftness that affected families deserve. Allowing this situation to arise in the first place, and to persist for years on end, has been a waste for taxpayers and an injustice for residents.

“Once again, my letter calls for a plan to close Essex Village and provide residents with housing vouchers. It again seeks concrete improvements that would help residents in the meantime, including a policy change to allow Henrico County's own inspectors to accompany those sent by HUD. And in the event that HUD believes such changes are not possible, it demands that they explain why -- and requests constructive alternatives that would meaningfully improve conditions.

"I remain very upset that PK management pockets millions of tax dollars for its supposed oversight of Essex Village and yet residents live in squalor. This is completely unacceptable.

"I want to commend Henrico County officials, who have demonstrated flexibility and deep commitment in their efforts to improve life for residents of Essex Village. I am proud to partner with them in these efforts. If the federal government had shown similar commitment, Essex Village would not be in the news today."

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Full letter text is available here.

Contact: Jamitress Bowden
(202) 225-6365