D.I.Y. Watchdog: Examining local HUD programs

I recently reported on a local housing department's questionable use of more than $6 million in funds from a program of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Fulton Wasted HUD's Money

If you're interested in taking a closer look at some of the HUD-funded programs in your community, a great starting point is to read the reports that have been issued in your state by HUD's Office of Inspector General. They're available on the web at: HUD OIG Reports by State

If you then want more information about a particular case, use your state's Open Records Act to request related documents, earlier HUD performance reviews and other information from the local housing department. The Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press has guides for using each state's Open Records Act, as well as the federal Freedom of Information Act. State Open Government Guide and  How to Use the Federal FOIA

If you are a member of Investigative Reporters and Editors, you can access several comprehensive tip sheets on investigating housing. IRE Resource Center