September 29, 2020

The City of Champaign Neighborhood Services Department hosted a Virtual Landlord-Tenant Forum on August 20, 2020. The forum was designed to share information and resources with key stakeholders as we work to limit the negative housing impact of the COVID-19 health pandemic. Presenters and key resource links are provided below:

• Associate Judge Brett Olmstead, Champaign County Circuit Court: Provided an update regarding state and federal moratoriums impacting evictions; outlined the eviction protocols currently being utilized to manage eviction proceedings for Champaign County Court system.
• Attorney John Roska, Land of Lincoln Legal Aid: Shared information on legal services available for tenants during the eviction process.
• Andy Quarnstrom, Champaign Township Supervisor: Provided a compilation of available rental assistance resources throughout Champaign County.
• Angela Carr, Senior Vice President Commercial Lending at Prospect Bank: Provided general information regarding proactively engaging bankers to assist in addressing mortgage concerns.

Overall, the forum was a resounding success with 51 property managers, landlords, tenants, tenant advocates and service providers joining the call. The information and resources provided were well received and shared widely. Based on the feedback we anticipate convening these forums regularly to provided much needed updates to housing providers, tenants, and advocates.