The Chicopee Housing Authority (CHA) and its former executive director, Monica Blazic, have settled a discrimination lawsuit following allegations of systemic mistreatment of CHA tenants based on race, disability, and national origin. The settlement includes a $435,000 compensation to those affected and a $25,000 civil penalty to the United States, according to documents from the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
In a move to ensure future compliance with fair housing laws, the Consent Order necessitates the implementation of several corrective measures by the CHA. These actions include the addition of nine new accessible housing units for persons with disabilities and the appointment of a Disability Rights Coordinator. Further, the housing authority must revamp policies for processing tenant requests for reasonable accommodations and transfers. Blazic will resign from her position by the end of 2024 as part of the settlement terms, though she will not have further involvement with the CHA thereafter.
The lawsuit stemmed from a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) investigation initiated after a complaint by a tenant suffering from end-stage renal disease. The tenant's request for a first-floor or elevator-accessible unit – a necessity for daily in-home dialysis – was denied, exemplifying a breach of the Fair Housing Act. "It is completely unacceptable for public housing officials to discriminate based on race and disability," Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy stated, emphasizing the settlement's role in recompensing affected tenants and safeguarding against future discrimination.
HUD officials have expressed their staunch opposition to discrimination in housing, echoing the sentiments of justice department officials. "Racial and national origin discrimination, and discrimination against persons living with disabilities, are unlawful and will not be allowed in our country’s housing market," Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Diane M. Shelley of HUD's Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity told reporters. This resolution is a result of a joint effort between the District of Massachusetts' U.S. Attorney’s Office and HUD. It signals a rigorous commitment to enforcing our nation's housing laws.
Tenants who believe they may have been unfairly treated by the CHA, particularly with regards to disability accommodation requests or delays, are encouraged to reach out to the U.S. Attorney's Office. Eligible individuals can obtain information about participating in the settlement by calling (617) 275-8756 or emailing [email protected].
