Lakewood’s largest Section 8 Program facing possible Shut-down

The Lakewood Township Residential Assistance Program (LTRAP), reportedly is facing a possible shut-down after nearly 40 years of service.

The U.S. Department of Federal Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is threatening to terminate the program's contract because it refuses to submit to another audit, according to The Lakewood Scoop.

Rabbi Meir Hertz founded LTRAP in the 1970's, and according to The Lakewood Scoop, it's administered by The Lakewood Tenants Organization. The LTO administers over 1,100 units.

HUD rated LTRAP as one of the top in the nation. The program received a 99% average SEMAP score over the past four years. Despite the findings, LTRAP has been subject to multiple extraordinary investigations, according to The Lakewood Scoop.

Records HUD is seeking reportedly are not subject to audit. A similar situation happened in 2001, but The Lakewood Scoop reports HUD cleared LTRAP after a thorough review.

LTRAP was notified in August, 2015 that HUD would terminate its contract effective September 1, 2015 and transfer all units to the Lakewood Housing Authority. That prompted LTRAP to file a complaint in Federal Court seeking injunctive relief. HUD withdrew the threat pending the litigation and the inadequate notice LTRAP was given, according to The Lakewood Scoop.

A judge has signed a Consent Order, setting a four-month deadline for both parties to prepare for further legal proceedings.