FAIR HOUSING

SEPTEMBER 1989

The Janesville League of Women Voters firmly believes that Fair Housing is an issue that should be addressed by city government. While there are State and Federal laws which protect a diversity of groups, it is important that local government also provide protection for the same groups to insure equitable treatment in the housing market.

​

A local ordinance should include provision for the following elements: testing, investigation of complaints, injunctive relief, conciliation or arbitration, fines, affirmative action requirements, and imposition of actual and punitive damages.

​

In the interest of fairness there should be a process by which appeals of administrative decisions can be made, recognizing that the courts have their own appeal procedure. The city should be party to any settlement reached n order to represent the public interest in assuring continued fair housing in Janesville.

​

The League of Women Voters believes that public education is a critical element in promoting Fair Housing. The City should, therefore, be involved in a significant way in community outreach that includes seminars, newspaper articles and radio/TV public messages.

​

In addition, there is a significant role for private fair housing groups in augmenting the public effort in areas including testing, education, legal assistance, and advocacy.