Show-Me State Times

U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) has requested an investigation by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) into living conditions at the Villas of Autumn Bend, a HUD-subsidized property in Blue Springs, Missouri. In a letter sent to HUD Secretary Scott Turner, Hawley cited multiple complaints from tenants about health and safety issues.

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

Hawley's letter noted that his office received several reports from residents describing unsafe and unsanitary environments within their homes. His staff's site visit corroborated these accounts. The letter also referenced a mold inspection conducted independently by one tenant, which found mold both on surfaces and in the air inside a unit.

Citing federal housing regulations (24 C.F.R. § 5.703), Hawley asked HUD to investigate whether the property is meeting required national standards for safe and sanitary housing. He requested a compliance review and enforcement action if violations are confirmed. Hawley asked for an update from HUD by October 8, 2025.

Senator Hawley has previously introduced legislation aimed at improving coordination between federal and local authorities to address landlords who do not maintain acceptable living conditions for tenants.