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City of Houston Must Return at Least $45 Million to State After Failing to Build Affordable Housing

Summary

KTRK-TV Houston reports that the City of Houston is obligated to return at least $45 million in federal funding to the state after failing to fulfill its commitment to construct affordable housing. Mayor John Whitmire expressed disappointment, highlighting the missed opportunity to address the city's housing needs. Despite efforts to utilize funds from a post-Hurricane Harvey recovery program, including the purchase of three lots for housing development, construction delays have led to the repayment obligation. The situation underscores the pressing demand for affordable housing in Houston, exacerbated by the city's ranking as the third-worst state in the U.S. for such accommodations. City officials are now navigating the process of reimbursing the state, signaling a setback in Houston's affordable housing initiatives.

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