Families in Galveston are once again facing uncertainty regarding their housing situation as they confront another looming deadline. Many are grappling with the aftermath of a failed housing arrangement, leaving them unsure of where they will reside next.
Recent developments indicate that Galveston police are currently reviewing several complaints related to Beacons of Light Solutions LLC and its owner, Hilda Tobias. Although the police have received multiple complaints, they have not classified the situation as a criminal investigation.
The complaints are connected to a housing program that was first highlighted in May, involving Beacons of Light Solutions, a nonprofit organization that leased apartments from property owners to house families. Tenants report having paid rent to the organization, while property owners claim they have not received any payments.
Time is Running Out
LaShonda Woodard expressed her concerns, believing she had finally secured stability after being relocated following her earlier eviction. However, she recently received a notice indicating that she and her family would need to vacate their temporary housing by July 1. “I finally moved myself into the new apartment that I was promised for 90 days until I can find a permanent home for my children,” Woodard shared. “But now I’ve received papers again stating that we will have to pack up our belongings and hit the road once more.”
Other tenants echoed similar worries, under the impression that they would have more time while waiting for their housing assistance applications to be processed.
Housing Bottleneck
Community advocate Rev. Timmy Sykes has been actively working with tenants, city officials, and property owners to prevent families from facing homelessness. He attempted to negotiate a temporary arrangement, allowing residents to remain in their units while their applications for housing assistance were processed. “We tried to mediate an effort on behalf of the residents where they could stay for 90 days and pay a small amount of rent that they can afford until we can get them accepted into this program through the City of Galveston,” Sykes explained.
He also noted that landlords have expressed a willingness to accommodate some families, but delays in housing assistance approvals and inspections have hindered progress.
Owner Disputes Extension Claim
Property owner Alecs Young contested claims of a 90-day extension. Young stated that Beacons of Light Solutions leased 17 units but only paid rent for January. He mentioned that writs of possession have been filed and that he continues to cover expenses associated with the property while trying to connect families with available resources. Young confirmed that he had discussions with Sykes regarding potential solutions for tenants, but emphasized that no formal extension agreement was reached.
What the City Says
The City of Galveston first learned about the situation in late March or early April when some clients of Beacons of Light Solutions sought information about the city’s rental assistance program. City officials revealed that they have been in contact with 12 of the 18 affected households to assist them in completing their applications. However, none have been placed in housing yet, as they are still navigating the income qualification process. Once approved, families must secure housing, have their lease agreements reviewed, and complete housing inspections before assistance can be initiated. It was also clarified that the city does not provide housing directly and that its rental assistance program currently has a waiting list.
What’s Next
As families await further information, advocates are diligently working with property owners and housing providers to explore options before the impending move-out deadline. Meanwhile, the police continue to review the complaints associated with Beacons of Light Solutions and Hilda Tobias.
