HUD: Cairo public housing relocation starts next month

CAIRO, Ill. (AP) - Federal housing officials say they plan to relocate 185 families from two southern Illinois public housing developments that have been plagued by problems, including poor heating and mold.

The (Carbondale) Southern Illinoisan reports (http://bit.ly/2nC0CR5) that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development said it would provide residents with vouchers and fund their moving expenses.

However, options for housing in Cairo are limited and there are no plans for new public housing, which was among the frustrations of residents who attended a Monday evening community meeting.

HUD officials say they'll start moving people in May.

Federal officials took over the local housing authority last year, citing years of mismanagement and discriminatory practices by local managers. Several lawsuits have been filed.

Elected officials have pledged to support Cairo residents.

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Information from: Southern Illinoisan, http://www.southernillinoisan.com