Denver's rental assistance faces massive cut — but there's a catch
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Fewer people may access vital emergency housing assistance in Denver next year.
The big picture: Mayor Mike Johnston's proposed 2026 spending plan cuts the Temporary Rental and Utility Assistance Program (TRUA) budget by $10.8 million from its $23 million allocation this year.
Yes, but: Johnston's administration says $9 million from the current budget will roll over into 2026 — a proposed $12.2 million spending plan — translating to a $1.8 million year-over-year net loss.
- That's because the city spent $14 million of its $23 million in TRUA dollars this year, but has stopped accepting applications to save money for next year — leaving at least 67 families without assistance, 9News reports.
Why it matters: Johnston's administration is declining to use public money already set aside for one of his top priorities — curbing homelessness — even as eviction filings climb toward a potential record this year.
State of play: The move could "undercut" Denver City Council's policy decision, setting a "dangerous precedent," Councilmember Sarah Parady tells us.
- She suggested looking at other agencies, including Denver police, to find additional savings.
Threat level: TRUA's emergency aid can help people avoid living on city streets, Councilmember Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez tells us.
- Many residents already spend a large portion of their income to keep a roof over their heads.
Between the lines: Council could increase funding for TRUA, as they did in 2023 — but that was a far more flexible budget situation compared with this year's bare-bones spending plan.
- It's too early to say what, if any, budget tweaks the council could recommend, Gonzales-Gutierrez tells us.
By the numbers: Based on current costs, 1,280 households will get financial assistance next year, Department of Housing Stability (HOST) spokesperson Julia Marvin tells us.
- HOST spokesperson Derek Woodbury tells us the agency prioritizes giving money to individuals most at risk of homelessness or housing instability. TRUA served 1,419 households this year.
Without a decision to roll money from this year's budget into next year's, the city would have had $3 million available for TRUA in 2026, Woodbury adds.
What's next: Johnston will need to issue his final budget proposal by Oct. 20.