PRESENTATION ITEM
FROM: Grover C. Robinson, IV, Mayor
SUBJECT:
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PRESENTATION FROM LOTUS CAMPAIGN INC.
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REQUEST:
recommendation
That City Council hear a presentation from the LOTUS Campaign, Inc. (Lotus).
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SUMMARY:
Lotus is a non-profit organization founded to bring the for-profit and nonprofit sectors together to create sustainable, scalable solutions and lasting impact.
Lotus offers a creative approach that brings together the for-profit real estate and investment communities with social service support organizations to invest in real and lasting solutions, rather than prolonging the crisis with temporary remedies.
Lotus created a unique program model -the Landlord Participation Program. Lotus partners with high-capacity social service organizations who vet individuals and families for housing, setting them up for the highest opportunity for long-term success, stability, and upward economic mobility. This is not a drop-off program. These organizations are required to continue providing supportive programming throughout the term of the lease and make monthly in-person visits with each individual or family.
On the other side of the model, Lotus works with landlords of market-rate, multi-family communities whose units would not otherwise be available to those experiencing homelessness, due to their concerns of economic and perception risks. Lotus provides economic guarantees for potential loss of rent and damages for tenants that would typically fail an application process, due to spotty housing, work, and credit histories. Lotus can also make a payment in lieu of a security deposit. And in the rare case of eviction, Lotus reimburses for legal costs and agrees to appear on behalf of the landlord in court in exchange for a 30-day cure period to resolve any issues.
PRIOR ACTION:
None
STAFF CONTACT:
Kerrith Fiddler, City Administrator
Amy Miller, Deputy City Administrator - Administration & Enterprise
Amy Lovoy, Finance Director
Lawrence Powell, Neighborhood Administrator
ATTACHMENTS:
1) Lotus Campaign Overview
PRESENTATION: Yes
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