Town of Arlington, Fair Housing Action Plan (July 2021)

Citation: Town of Arlington, Fair Housing Action Plan (July 2021)
Jurisdiction: Arlington (municipal)
Source: Official source
Original Source: https://www.arlingtonma.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/57214/637641171662530000 ↗

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Fully accessible units, needed by residents with significant mobility impairments, are difficult to find. One housing
provider reported a doubling of demand for first floor and accessible units, which are desirable for seniors as
well as those with disabilities. Renovating existing units is possible in some cases, but often difficult or impossible
in older units where space is constrained.

Several providers noted that a subset of the disabled community that had particular needs is those with mental
illness, dementia, or substance abuse. For these residents, the ability to successfully maintain tenancy is often
dependent on the availability of social services. Those with behavioral or mental health issues may be asked to
leave their current living situation if they do not have access to support or someone to advocate on their behalf.
Service providers noted that a relapse of a substance abuse disorder often occurs alongside nonpayment of rent,
leading to eviction.

Several interviewees reported cases of discrimination based on disability. We heard two different cases in which
a disabled resident applied for an affordable unit in a mixed-income building but was ignored or had
appointments postponed or canceled without notice. One provider had heard of clients being removed from
waiting lists for affordable units in mixed-income buildings without notice or explanation. Some interviewees
noted discrimination towards those with substance abuse issues and reported that that clients in recovery often
feel the need to conceal time spent in treatment to avoid having their application denied.