associations in the unincorporated area of West Boca to limit who might move in.Some of the 125 master homeowner associations have either banned or are considering a ban on a certain kind of renter — those who pay with the help of Section 8 government housing assistance.
Earlier this year, Boca Winds outlawed Section 8 housing in its community of 800 homes. Boca Falls residents are currently voting on the issue, and a subdivision of the mammoth Logger’s Run, Winding Lakes Estates, considered whether to ask residents to vote on a ban.
Section 8 is shorthand for what is officially known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program, which helps pay the rent of families who fall in a certain income bracket.
For a recipient of this aid to move in, the homeowner must have a dwelling that meets certain standards and agree to take part in the program. But those nearby often dislike Section 8 housing because of its association with poor people.
Few board members will actually say what’s fueling the drive to exclude Section 8 housing. So why the push? Boca Winds Board President Paul Pontrelli said he doesn’t know of any Section 8 homes in his community, but has heard stories: Some homeowners turn to Section 8 to avoid foreclosure. Read more: