The purpose of this agenda item is twofold. First, it is an opportunity to advance the city's commitment to fair housing practices. Secondarily, it is an effort to comply with a requirement of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development as it relates to the administration of the Community Development Block Grant Program.

Specifically, the proposed ordinance declares a prohibition in housing based on any of the following: race, color, religion, ancestry, sex, place of birth, physical handicap, national origin or familial status. The ordinance also prohibits discrimination in the brokering, sale, financing or rental of housing.  This prohibition is supported by a procedure to submit a complaint and seek remedy. The procedure involves hearings which would be conducted by the City Council. The City Council would be the body to issue findings of fact and additionally, a determination of action to be taken to address any violation which may occur.