03/04/2026
Last night we held a public forum on housing needs in our community. One of the written testimonies was especially impactful.
"The search for housing in Jefferson City has been a struggle of mine for years. During my first search for housing as a young, single mother, I had problems with having little to no credit, no rental history and no co-signer, because of this I was denied repeatedly. When I finally did find a place, it was with a landlord that I believe took advantage of my desperation which ultimately led me to being forced to live in substandard housing.
To this day, even with a full-time job I have struggled to find housing due to the requirements of making 3 times the rent amount. I have 3 children and cannot find a 3 bedroom property for less than $1,000 a month.
I have paid several application fees, prior to viewing properties, but denied a refund after not accepting the property due to the condition.
Due to these issues, my family is stuck living in an apartment filled with mold, issues that do not get repaired and a rent amount that increases every year. Not only does the problem lie in the lack of housing in general, but also the lack of regulations on landlords and affordability.
To those who have high paying jobs, very good credit, and money up front, it may not be an issue. But for those of us who struggle to find a home for our families, even though we work hard and contribute to our community, the lack of housing and unrealistic stipulations, it feels as if the town I have called home my whole life, is trying to force me out."
We need more safe, affordable housing options in our community.
