Shortly after seven people were injured in a mass shooting at the Zephyr Pointe apartments off N. McCarran and W. 7th St. earlier this month on the night of October 6th, low income Section 8 benefactors said they received notices of rent hikes.
The notice which began by saying “you are a valued resident, and we do not want to see you go,” continued by indicating “If you decide to stay with us, due to the rising costs of living and other property needs, your rent will be increased to still considerable low rate of $1585 per month,” staring in 2024.
The letter also indicated that recertification to remain with Section 8 housing was due by the end of November to avoid a notice to vacate.
“There are significant penalties if you do not rectify on time, including the beginning of the eviction procedure,” the note also included.
A single of mom of two who takes care of her mom as well said she loved being in the northwest area, not too far from multiple shopping areas, but that the steep price increase would make it difficult to make ends meet.
She said the price hike puts her in a bind as section 8 housing is “hard to find.”
Currently the single mom is paying $1220 for a 2-bedroom apartment, for which her voucher pays more than half. She has been living at Zephyr Pointe for over 10 years.
Lately, in addition to the insecurity with the shooting, she said conditions there have been deteriorating, with her AC not working and the clubhouse not being available anymore.
The victims of the shooting included four adults and three teenagers. Detectives were quoted as saying the shooting appeared to be specific to a dispute between those shot.
The complex was initially placed on lockdown, with residents urged to stay inside while police cleared the scene.
Several days later, the single mom who reached out to us received the notice of forthcoming higher rent prices.