Cape News

U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) has called for a federal investigation into living conditions at the Villas of Autumn Bend, a HUD-subsidized housing complex in Blue Springs, Missouri. In a letter addressed to Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner, Hawley outlined concerns raised by tenants about the property’s state.

“[Tenants] cited sewage overflows, mold, and dirty ventilation systems, among other conditions. Upon invitation by tenants, my staff visited the Villas and confirmed that many units had visible mold infestations, unsanitary ventilation systems, broken plumbing, and sewage backups,” Senator Hawley wrote.

He continued: “The tenants of the Villas of Autumn Bend deserve to live in conditions that meet the basic standards guaranteed by federal law.”

According to Hawley’s letter, his Kansas City office received multiple complaints from residents regarding unsafe and unsanitary conditions at the property managed by Dalmark Group. One tenant reportedly hired an independent firm to conduct a mold inspection that found evidence of mold both on surfaces and in the air inside their unit.

Hawley referenced federal regulations requiring safe and sanitary housing for HUD-supported properties and requested that HUD investigate the Villas’ compliance status. He also asked for an update on enforcement actions related to these issues by October 8, 2025.

Previously, Senator Hawley introduced legislation aimed at improving coordination between federal and local authorities to address landlords who do not maintain adequate living standards for tenants.