Residents demand better public housing in Mon View Heights

Residents of Mon View Heights shared their struggles with public housing during a town hall meeting on Wednesday. Syreeta Milligan described the tough choice between buying food or fixing her heater. She said repairs often go unaddressed, and some residents have faced retaliation from their landlord, NB Affordable. The meeting, organized by OnePA Renters United Allegheny County and others, aimed to highlight poor living conditions. Many residents reported issues with rodents, bed bugs, and inadequate heating. The panel included local politicians who vowed to address these concerns. In 2023, NB Affordable purchased over 1,300 units but has faced lawsuits and legal trouble, including a guilty plea for mortgage fraud. U.S. Representative Summer Lee is working on a bill to prevent problematic landlords like NB from managing public housing. Lee emphasized that housing is a human right and should not come with unsafe conditions. Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey called for control of public housing to return to local authorities, while Councilmember Erika Strassburger spoke against profit-driven privatization. Residents have explored options like placing their rent into escrow to push for quicker repairs. Local officials, including Ashley Bryant, highlighted ongoing issues like power outages and mold that families face even after paying rent. In recent months, some Mon View Heights tenants have been relocated to hotels due to frozen pipes and heating problems. Allegheny County officials are focusing on realistic solutions amid the housing crisis. Innamorato noted the county's commitment to affordable housing by allocating more funds. Community members expressed hope for change, with ongoing support from local leaders.