Public Housing Program

What is Public Housing?

Public Housing is a federally funded program for low-income families. The Stillwater Housing Authority owns 58 properties that are scattered throughout the Stillwater community. The houses and duplexes vary from one to four bedrooms.

Rent is based on 30% of the annual adjusted gross income and family composition guidelines. Residents are required to pay rent to the Stillwater Housing Authority and keep each unit in a safe, decent, and sanitary condition. A dwelling lease is signed on each unit, and all requirements must be met in order to continue living in low-income housing.

Lease Provisions

1) A security deposit of $250.00 is required before a tenant is allowed to take possession of the property. (Arrangements can be made for special circumstances)
2) Rent is due on the first of each month. Residents have until the 5th day of the month to pay rent without receiving a late charge. The late fee is $25.00 each time a payment is late.
3) Rent is based on 30% of the familys adjusted income.
4) The property will be inspected annually by the Public Housing Coordinator.
5) The tenant may terminate this lease at any time by giving thirty (30) days written notice.
6) The Housing Authority has a limited Pet Policy.
7) The tenant agrees to keep the premises and other such areas as may be assigned to him for his exclusive use in a clean and safe condition. To maintain the lawns by mowing, trimming, etc.

Qualifications for Public Housing

The Housing Authority wants to lease houses to families who will take care of the property, and maintain a good relationship with other families in the neighborhood. In order to select the best family possible for each house, the Stillwater Housing Authority has established selection criteria that includes evaluating previous rental history concerning rent payment and damage, and previous criminal records concerning violent and drug related activity.

Public Housing Targeting Income for Payne County

Sixty percent of the families that are admitted to the Public Housing program must have a gross annual income above the following income limits.

Very Low Income Limits.

Public Housing Income Limits for Payne County

In order to be eligible for Public Housing Assistance, families must have a gross annual income below the following income limits.

Low Income Limits

To apply for residency in Public Housing you will need to complete an application form, which can be obtained from the Stillwater Housing Authority office at 807 S. Lowry.

Your name will then be placed on a waiting list at the time the application is received. Keep the Housing Authority advised of your current mailing address, and phone number. When space becomes available, the Housing Authority staff will contact you as early as possible.

One Strike You Are Out

The first essential element of the One Strike policy is to ensure that those who engage in illegal drug use or other criminal activities that endanger the well being of residents are not allowed to live in public housing. To ensure this, the Stillwater Housing Authority follows the below steps:

1) Conduct comprehensive background checks that include screening for criminal activity.
2) Work with courts and law enforcement to gain access to criminal records.
3) Develop criteria to screen for drug related and other criminal activity.
4) Protect applicants with due process rights.
5) Consult with attorneys who are familiar with local laws.
6) Consider involving current residents in the tenants selection process.

Your Rights for Equal Housing Opportunity
According to the Federal Fair Housing Law it is illegal to discriminate against any person because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin. This applies to housing that is being rented or advertised for rent. Anyone who feels that they have been discriminated against may file a complaint by calling 1-800-669-9777 (Toll Free), or 1-800-927-9275 (TDD)