How local public administrators, nonprofit providers, and elected officials perceive impediments to fair housing in the suburbs: An analysis of Erie County, New York

This article examines how local public administrators, nonprofit providers, and elected officials in the suburbs of Erie County, NY perceive impediments to fair housing. This article is based on research conducted from 2007-2008 for the Analysis of Impediments for Fair Housing Choice in Erie County, NY. The research involved an examination of trends related to fair housing and housing discrimination complaints between 2000 and 2006. It also involved a series of focus group interviews with local public administrators, nonprofit providers, and elected officials. The results from this research indicate that key stakeholders emphasize specific issues and groups when discussing impediments to fair housing. These predispositions result in uneven policy implementation. In particular, there is a tendency to emphasize impediments encountered by the elderly while paying less attention to those impacting minorities, families, the disabled, and the poor. The article concludes with our recommendations to promote a more balanced approach to fair housing in suburban communities.