Douglas County Commissioners Consider Tenant Right To Counsel Following Resident Survey

In the heart of Douglas County, a pivotal discussion unfolded during the Board of Commissioners meeting on September 3, 2025, as community members passionately advocated for tenant rights. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as residents shared their experiences, highlighting the pressing need for a tenant bill of rights and the right to counsel in housing disputes.

Earlier this year, a violence prevention work group presented a tenant experience survey that revealed alarming statistics: 45 percent of respondents reported feeling unsafe in their rental homes. Particularly concerning were the residents from the 66044 area, who expressed heightened fears of threats from landlords and potential wrongful citations by law enforcement. These findings prompted city commissioners to consider measures aimed at enhancing tenant protections, including the establishment of a right to counsel.

Christina McKenna, a resident who spoke at the meeting, shared her personal journey of housing insecurity, emphasizing the emotional toll it takes on families. “It’s unfair to children,” she said, reflecting on her own experiences growing up without stable housing. McKenna argued that legal counsel is essential for tenants to navigate their rights, likening it to teaching students foundational skills before advancing in their education. “We expect them to sink or swim without giving them help,” she lamented, advocating for support systems that empower tenants.

Maria Pirello, another resident and advocate for affordable housing, echoed these sentiments. With extensive experience in housing issues, she urged the commissioners to place the tenant right to counsel on the agenda for a vote on October 1. Pirello emphasized that equitable practices are crucial for fostering a culture of housing abundance rather than instability. “We need to provide tools for our community,” she stated, underscoring the importance of accountability and security in housing practices.

As the meeting concluded, the call for action resonated throughout the room. The discussions not only highlighted the struggles faced by tenants in Douglas County but also illuminated a path forward—one that seeks to ensure fairness, equality, and basic human decency in housing. The upcoming vote on the tenant right to counsel could mark a significant step toward addressing these critical issues, shaping the future of housing in the community.