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How Lakewood's Criminal Activity Nuisance Ordinance Undermines Housing Stability and Endangers Households in Crisis
All Maxine Goodman Levin School of Urban Affairs Publications
  • Joseph Mead, Cleveland State University
  • Megan Hatch, Cleveland State University
  • J. Rosie Tighe, Cleveland State University
  • Marissa Pappas
  • Kristi Andrasik
Document Type
Report
Publication Date
4-19-2018
Abstract

Since 2005, Lakewood, Ohio, has used a Criminal Activity Nuisance Ordinance (CANO) to penalize property owners for multiple emergency services visits to their properties. Lakewood continues to enforce its CANO despite 7 nearby cities amending similar laws to protect survivors of domestic violence. To better understand the implications of CANOs, we took a close look at their enforcement in multiple cities, including Lakewood. Using the 75 nuisance designations Lakewood issued from February 2014 to May 2016, we found several disturbing enforcement patterns. 1 of 3 nuisance letters are sent to survivors of domestic violence. African American households much more likely to receive a nuisance letter. Having a disability or mental health crisis is a common path to eviction. Tenants lack notice or chance to be heard. We urge Lakewood to reconsider its CANO in light of these findings

DOI
10.2139/ssrn.3153232
Citation Information
Mead, Joseph and Hatch, Megan and Tighe, J. Rosie and Pappas, Marissa and Andrasik, Kristi, How Lakewood's Criminal Activity Nuisance Ordinance Undermines Housing Stability and Endangers Households in Crisis (March 30, 2018). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=3153232 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3153232