State Eviction Resolution Pilot Available for Lewis County Renters Behind on Payments

Oct. 20—With one in 10 Washington state renters behind on their housing payments, and the state's eviction moratorium set to expire Oct. 31, a new eviction prevention program in Lewis County could save many residents from eviction.

The Eviction Resolution Pilot Program (ERPP) aims to "stabilize housing and reduce a pending wave of eviction cases" through resolution, and connects renters with the Center of Constructive Resolution and Conversation in Centralia with rental assistance counseling, legal aid and mediation, according to a news release.

"Chronic housing stability issues are surging, particularly in communities disproportionately impacted by COVID-19," said Janice Juntunen, executive director of CCRC, in a statement. "The ERPP supports people in our community in immediate need and helps stabilize housing over the long term with access to services and channels for resolving rent-owned issues outside the court system."

The ERPP was developed by the state Superior Court Judges' Association in partnership with the state Office of Civil Legal Aid, Dispute Resolution Centers and other stakeholders. The program is codified by the Washington state Legislature and supported by the Office of the Governor and courts.

More information on the program and CCRC is available online at www.lewiscountyccrc.org.