A housing report shows that more than 1,300 health and safety issues remain at two public housing complexes in southern Illinois.
The data was collected during two inspections in September 2016 and 2017 of the Elmwood and McBride properties in Cairo. The Housing and Urban Development's Real Estate Assessment Center conducted the inspections.
The 2016 inspection scores both housing complexes 17 out of 100, citing deficiencies that include mold, infestation, lead paint and water in the apartments.
Dozens of families have moved from the complexes. Approximately 150 families remain.
Community leaders who requested the most recent report are now asking the federal housing agency to review whether the complexes can be salvaged and rehabilitated to give remaining families the option to stay in the city.
