In 2023, Pima County witnessed a significant surge in eviction filings, with over 10,000 cases filed. This represents a significant increase from previous years, as eviction filings in the county rose from 5,703 in 2021 to 12,993 in 2023. The economic challenges faced by many have contributed to this surge, as people struggle to prioritize their expenses and pay essential bills.
The increase in eviction filings from 2022 to 2023 can be attributed to several factors. The onset of the pandemic and the availability of rental assistance programs led to a temporary halt in evictions in certain areas. However, with many pandemic-related programs now expired and thousands facing financial challenges, constables are navigating their responsibilities with empathy.
Eric Krznarich, the Presiding Constable for Pima County, believes that people are struggling to prioritize their expenses due to financial difficulties such as high gas costs. With the COVID-19 pandemic leading to job losses and reduced income for many families, it is crucial for officials like Krznarich and Bill Lake to offer support during the eviction process. By providing information on social services and explaining options available to those facing eviction, they can help individuals navigate challenging situations with less resistance.
The rise in eviction filings has been particularly notable since 2019 when figures were at their lowest before the COVID-19 pandemic began. As officials continue to respond to this crisis situation with empathy and support for those experiencing financial hardship, it is essential that they balance their duties with compassionate care for individuals who need it most.
Lake emphasizes the importance of treating everyone involved in the eviction process with compassion and understanding. By offering information on social services and explaining options available to those facing eviction, constables can help individuals navigate challenging situations with less resistance.
As the number of eviction filings continues to rise due to economic challenges faced by many families across the country including Pima County, officials must balance their duties with empathy and support for those experiencing financial hardship while also ensuring that justice is served fairly and efficiently.
