During a recent government meeting, officials addressed the pressing issue of housing insecurity among senior citizens and the broader population facing eviction in North Charleston, which has been identified as having the highest eviction rate in the country.

Concerns were raised about the financial struggles of seniors living on fixed incomes who are increasingly being priced out of their neighborhoods. Despite annual increases in Social Security benefits, many seniors find that rising rents negate any financial relief, pushing them closer to homelessness. Officials emphasized the urgent need for additional safety net resources to support this vulnerable demographic.

The discussion also highlighted the need for reform in eviction laws. Current practices allow landlords to file evictions at a minimal cost of $40, which contributes to the high eviction rates. Advocates suggested that increasing the filing fee could deter landlords from pursuing evictions hastily, thereby providing more stability for tenants.

Moreover, the absence of rent caps was identified as a significant factor contributing to the housing crisis, allowing landlords to raise rents dramatically without oversight. This lack of regulation exacerbates the challenges faced by low-income residents, many of whom are already juggling multiple jobs to make ends meet.

The meeting underscored the critical need for policy changes to create a more equitable housing landscape, particularly for those most at risk of losing their homes.