Orange Avenue United Tenants Association, Inc.

The Orange Avenue United Tenants Association, Inc., an organization based in Tallahassee, Florida, is a non-profit entity dedicated to promoting the social welfare of low-income and public housing residents within Leon County.

Mission and Objectives

The mission of OAUTA is to support and advocate for the rights and interests of tenants in their community, focusing on housing-related issues. By working closely with local authorities and residents, OAUTA aims to ensure that affordable, safe, and decent housing is accessible to all who need it.

Legal Actions

One notable example of OAUTA's advocacy work is its involvement in a civil action against the Tallahassee Housing Authority (THA). This case, which included plaintiffs such as Oliver Hill and Elizabeth Gabriel, addressed alleged violations of the Fair Housing Act related to the redevelopment of the Orange Avenue Apartments. The settlement agreement reached in this case provided several key benefits to affected tenants, including a priority right of return to new housing units upon redevelopment and the assurance that rents would be based on residents' income to prevent financial hardship.

Operations and Partnerships

As a private non-profit organization, OAUTA operates independently and collaborates with various stakeholders, including legal services and community organizations, to facilitate its objectives. The organization has secured funding for tenant participation and for conducting resident elections in compliance with HUD regulations.

Revenue and Structure

While specific details about OAUTA's current leadership or internal structure are not widely available, the organization is known to generate substantial revenue per employee, suggesting a robust operational capacity. OAUTA is recognized within the region for its work in supporting public housing residents and advocating for affordable housing solutions.

Impact

Through its advocacy efforts and legal actions, OAUTA plays a significant role in influencing housing policy and ensuring that low-income residents have access to safe and affordable housing options. Its mission aligns with broader national efforts to address housing inequality and promote community welfare.