$2.3M lead removal program failed Dallas residents, audit says

Audit Highlights Concerns Over Dallas’ Grant Monitoring Process

A recent audit has raised significant concerns about the effectiveness of Dallas' grant monitoring system, particularly following an investigation into the city’s failed lead removal program. The findings reveal a series of challenges that hindered the successful execution of critical public health initiatives.

In September 2024, it was discovered that only four homes received assistance through a 2019 federal grant, despite over 70 residents applying for help and approximately 50 homes being inspected. City officials had hoped to fix 130 houses using the grant money, but most of the funds were ultimately returned. This lack of progress prompted local council members to request that the lead removal program be included in the Fiscal Year 2025 Audit Work Plan.

The audit identified several obstacles that contributed to the program's shortcomings. These included difficulties in locating property owners, staff and leadership turnover, failure to maintain signed grant agreements, and challenges in finding certified contractors. Additionally, the program faced issues with communication between city officials and residents, which further delayed progress.

City Manager Kimberly Tolbert acknowledged these challenges in a memorandum, stating that while the auditor’s observations are not considered high-risk, there are clear opportunities for improvement. She emphasized the city’s commitment to implementing the recommendations provided by the audit.

Program Execution and Participant Experiences

One of the key issues highlighted in the audit was the difficulty in securing qualified contractors. Dallas County had only 11 certified lead abatement workers and five certified supervisors, which made it challenging to meet the program’s needs. Four out of five peer cities also faced similar difficulties in finding qualified professionals.

Tonya Skinner, a resident whose home was approved for the program, never received the help she was promised. “And now what? What are they going to do? I still have lead in my house,” she said. Her experience is not unique; many residents felt frustrated by the delays and lack of communication from the city.

The audit also found that 19 grant programs totaling more than $68 million were lagging in execution as of March. Among them, a federal 911 grant of $3,245,088 was terminated due to supply chain disruptions during the pandemic, and a $700,000 Federal Communications Commission grant was closed at the agency’s request due to limited funding.

Challenges in Lead Removal Program

The Dallas Housing and Revitalization Department secured a $2.3 million federal grant in 2018 to remove lead from homes built before 1978. The program aimed to target homes with children under six, as they are particularly vulnerable to lead exposure. However, the program was closed at the end of 2023, with only about $400,000 spent on administrative costs and minimal progress on home repairs.

According to a financial report submitted to the federal government, the city spent approximately $42,000 on home repairs and $75,000 on lead hazard and blood testing. Despite the initial promise of the program, the number of homes actually repaired was far below expectations.

Communication and Outreach Issues

The audit revealed that communication with residents and city council members was inconsistent and often unclear. Challenges such as staff reductions and unmet performance targets were not communicated promptly, leading to confusion and frustration among participants.

Only 11 out of 20 surveyed applicants responded to the audit’s questions about their overall experience. The average satisfaction rating was 2.9 out of 5, with many citing the time and effort invested without receiving the intended benefits. However, seven respondents expressed interest in applying again for future assistance.

Recommendations for Improvement

The audit recommended that the housing department implement stronger practices and procedures if it seeks similar grants in the future. Key areas for improvement include enhancing outreach efforts, improving communication with residents and potential applicants, and refining grant reporting systems to better track program execution.

City officials have taken steps to address these issues. The Office of Budget and Management Services has adopted a new financial system, and staff have been actively working on developing reports to improve consistent monitoring across various grants and agencies.

Despite the challenges, the audit highlights the importance of transparency, accountability, and effective communication in ensuring the success of public health initiatives. As Dallas moves forward, addressing these issues will be crucial in rebuilding trust with residents and improving the efficiency of future grant programs.