May 5, 2011

REP. BUTLER SHEPHERDS TENANT REPRESENTATION
REFORM THROUGH STATE HOUSE
Tenant Commissioner becomes an elected position

State Representative Larry Butler (D-Waterbury) successfully lead the passage of HB 6461, updating the method in which tenant commissioners are chosen for local housing authorities. The bill would allow tenants of any public housing complex the ability to elect their representative to that housing authority’s board of commissioners. Currently, the tenant representation is appointed by the municipality.

“Some tenant commissioners are chosen for reasons unrelated to their ability to speak on behalf of other tenants,” said Rep. Butler. “Allowing elections assures the tenant commissioner is a true representative.”

In Connecticut, a housing authority is governed by a board of commissioners, typically composed of five members. Both state and federal law require that one commissioner be a tenant of that housing authority. The tenant commissioner will have full voting rights, including voting on rent increases.

“This bill gives tenants the ability to elect someone who truly represents their interests,” said Rep. Butler. “Most tenants care deeply and work hard to improve the conditions where they live.”

Federal law already provides the option for tenants to elect their tenant commissioner. This bill would allow the process in Connecticut and specify when an election would be required:

• If a sufficient number of resident’s petition (10% or 75 tenants, whichever is less).
• If tenants of the specific housing authority do not petition, a housing authority jurisdiction-wide resident council shall choose the tenant commissioner.
• If the above conditions are not met, then the appointing authority shall select the tenant commissioner.

The bill now goes to the State Senate for consideration.

Rep. Butler is in his third term in the General Assembly serving the 72nd House District.