Eviction Prevention
Definition
Programs and policies that help tenants avoid eviction through emergency rental assistance, legal aid, mediation, and tenant protections. Much cheaper than dealing with homelessness after eviction.
Louisville Context
Louisville sees 10,000-12,000 eviction filings annually, with 75% resulting in forced moves. Most evictions result from temporary financial crisis (job loss, medical bill, car repair). Emergency rental assistance of $500-1,500 can prevent eviction that leads to $5,000-10,000 in homelessness costs. Dave’s plan provides emergency rental assistance fund, free legal aid for tenants, pre-eviction mediation, and stronger tenant protections.
Why It Matters
Eviction destroys families: kids change schools, parents lose jobs, credit is ruined, homelessness often follows. But most evictions are preventable with modest assistance. Helping families stay housed is both compassionate and cost-effective.
Dave’s Proposal
Create $2 million emergency rental assistance fund providing 1-time assistance to prevent evictions. Expand legal aid for tenants facing unjust evictions. Require mediation before eviction filings.