Housing Tenant Selections Are Completed

06/10/2022

The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke’s Housing Unit is pleased to inform the community that the selection process for new rental tenants is now complete and that those selected have been informed. All rental applicants will receive a letter informing them of the Selection Committee’s decision.

The following information is being made available to the community as a response to several frequently asked questions:

• Why are there unoccupied rentals?

As stated above, the Housing Unit is now wrapping up the selection process, which started in May 2022. New tenants for nine (9) rental units are now confirmed, and the successful applicants have been informed. Housing took hold of the new “6-Plex” two months ago, and inspections have now been completed. Other units that appear as vacant are actually being renovated to correct identified deficiencies.

• What has Housing been doing to place applicants into the rental units?

Housing has been developing procedures and methods to conduct our business for rentals, applicant management, communications, and basically ensuring we follow the same methods to be sure that everyone is treated equally. The Housing Unit is working to ensure that we have the same methods applied by everyone.

• What other work is being done?

We are working to create and improve documented methods for tenants and drafting new leases. Continuing work includes summer projects with policy updates and newly created policies and procedures. This will lower the risk of defaults and/or failure to by abiding by the lease agreements and emphasize the fact that all rental units are community-owned.

• What is happening with the issue of arrears?

At current, there are still a number of tenants who have not attempted or refused to pay rent and are deemed to be in arrears. A new procedure and payment plan have been developed and are working well for those who are cooperating. Failure to pay rent results in a lack of community resources that are not being replenished for such essentials as renovation/repair work and equipment purchases. Additionally, it prevents/delays other community members from accessing social housing programs.

“Internally, the Housing Unit has been working diligently on re-aligning services to better meet the needs of the community,” said Director of Housing Areti Malliarou. “There have been many challenges along the way, but we are hopeful that improved policy and program changes will provide the community with a more streamlined experience in the very near future.”

For any questions, please contact the Housing Unit at 450 638-0500.