Governor Pence Asks HUD for Relocation Plan for East Chicago

Sends Letter to HUD Secretary Following Phone Call

Indianapolis – Following a phone call with U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Julián Castro this morning, Governor Mike Pence followed up with a letter to the Secretary asking for a specific plan regarding relocation of Hoosiers in East Chicago.

In the letter, the Governor wrote:

“Given that HUD is the lead agency overseeing the relocation effort, I am inquiring about your plan to address the following issues, which seem to be the greatest vulnerabilities we face in this process:

• Will HUD be able to fund the relocation and moving expenses for all residents, not just the most vulnerable?
• Will HUD work directly with residents who are unable to afford housing outside the West Calumet Housing Complex?
• It has come to our attention that there is a lack of affordable housing options for those currently living in 3, 4 or 5 bedroom units. What is HUD’s plan to help these large families?
• What is your plan to work with local partners to find a suitable solution for families that face a sizable differential between subsidized housing and market rates?”

The letter in full can be found attached.