HUD accuses three South Dakota housing developers of disability discrimination

From the Argus-Leader in Sioux Falls, S.D.:

The federal government is accusing developers of three Sioux Falls housing complexes of housing discrimination.

The developers designed and constructed buildings "that failed to accommodate the special needs of elderly and disabled tenants," according to a statement from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

According to HUD's investigation:

* Equity Homes Inc., along with various other entities, failed to design and construct accessible dwelling units and public and common use areas at Beverly Gardens Apartments, Sertoma Hills Apartments and Villas, and West Briar Estates.

* HUD also claims the complexes have numerous inaccessible features, including, bathrooms that lack sufficient space for a person using a wheelchair, electrical outlets and thermostats that cannot be reached by persons using wheelchairs, and narrow doorways.

A U.S. administrative law judge will consider the case, HUD says, unless either party chooses to have it heard in federal district court.