New York City Reaches Landmark Settlement Agreement on Fair Housing Practices

In a significant development for fair housing in New York City, Parkchester, a major residential complex in the Bronx, has entered into a comprehensive settlement agreement to address allegations of discriminatory rental practices. The deal, reached with the New York City Commission on Human Rights, outlines extensive reforms to Parkchester’s rental policies and procedures, mainly focusing on the treatment of applicants with rental assistance.

Key Provisions of the Settlement:

1. Non-Discrimination in Rental Assistance: Parkchester has agreed to consider all rental assistance types when evaluating sponsor units’ applications. This includes Section 8 vouchers, Housing Choice Vouchers, HASA, CityFHEPS, and Olmstead programs. The complex is prohibited from giving preference to one type of rental assistance over another.
2. Elimination of Minimum Income Requirements: Parkchester will no longer impose minimum income requirements for applicants using rental assistance. This change aims to increase housing accessibility for low-income individuals and families.
3. Credit Score and Housing History: The agreement prohibits Parkchester from requiring minimum credit scores or verifiable housing history for applicants with rental assistance. Credit history will not be considered in the application process for those whose rent is fully covered by assistance.
4. Fair Chance Housing: Parkchester has committed to complying with the New York City Fair Chance Housing Act, which will take effect on January 1, 2025. This includes performing individualized assessments of applicants’ criminal histories.
5. Application Process Reforms: The settlement mandates changes to Parkchester’s application and screening materials to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws. It also requires Parkchester to provide reasonable accommodations for applicants who need assistance with the digital application process.
6. Set-Aside Units: In a significant move, Parkchester has agreed to a quota system where two out of every three available sponsor units will be rented to applicants with rental assistance until 850 such applicants have moved in. This includes the 257 that have moved in since August 1, 2022.
7. Advertising and Outreach: The agreement requires Parkchester to include specific language in its advertisements and website, welcoming applicants with rental assistance and explaining the non-discrimination policies.
8. Training and Monitoring: Parkchester staff will undergo comprehensive fair housing training. The agreement also establishes a monitoring system, requiring Parkchester to maintain detailed records and provide regular reports to the Commission on Human Rights for five years.

This settlement represents a significant step forward in ensuring equal access to housing in one of New York City’s largest residential complexes.

The agreement aims to create more inclusive and diverse communities within Parkchester by addressing systemic barriers that have historically disadvantaged applicants with rental assistance.

The reforms outlined in this agreement could serve as a model for other large residential properties in New York City and beyond, potentially influencing fair housing practices on a broader scale.