PHA reforms Trespass List policy

PEORIA -- The Peoria Housing Authority Board of Commissioners approved a reformed Trespass List policy on June 24 which provides for an appeals process from a committee.

Anyone can file an appeal with the security administrator asking for a name to be removed. If that officer disagrees, the decision then can be appealed to the Security and Resident Relations Committee of the Board of Commissioners, whose decision is final. 

There are now specific reasons for placement on the list, and people must be notified in writing.

The policy also calls for the list to be updated regularly, and at least annually.

Hedy Elliott Gardner raised questions about the list over a year ago.  The governing policy was vague, there was no appeals process, anyone could be placed on the list by any staff member or police officer for any or no reason, and the list of about 1,500 names included deceased people and some incarcerated for lengthy periods.

I joined her in questioning the policy and asking for due process for those placed on the list.

On June 24 we both thanked the board for their work and for listening to the public.

 -- Elaine Hopkins

Comments

[Clare Howard]

Great job Elaine Hopkins and Hedy Elliott Gardner!