Federal Worker Faces Eviction After Rent Delay Amid Shutdown

UPDATE: A federal employee in West Palm Beach is facing eviction just weeks after the government shutdown left him without pay. Francisco Isern, an IT specialist for the Department of Veterans Affairs, has been informed by his apartment management that eviction proceedings have begun due to missed rent payments.

As the shutdown stretched into its second month, Isern, a veteran with over 20 years of service in the Army, struggled to make his $1,750 monthly rent payment for November—marking the first time in 10 years at his current residence that he has missed a payment.

On Wednesday, Isern received a distressing text confirming the eviction, with a total balance of $2,427, including filing fees. “It’s serious business. You put an eviction notice on my record. What are my chances of getting leased under my name after this?” he expressed, highlighting the long-term implications of such a filing.

Despite his appeal to the management company for additional time to pay his overdue rent, citing his federal worker status, Isern was met with a lack of response until the eviction notice arrived. “I think I have a fair reason why I’m not able to pay. It’s out of my control,” he stated to the Scripps News Group.

Patrick Franklin, president and CEO of the Urban League of Palm Beach County, termed the situation “a travesty,” noting that many federal employees are struggling to meet their financial obligations due to the shutdown. “Shame on us for not being aware of the plight of taxpaying Americans,” he added.

Isern’s situation is not unique, as many federal workers are grappling with similar concerns. However, Franklin’s organization has yet to encounter others facing eviction during this crisis. While Isern is expected to receive his back pay early next week, he remains determined to remove the eviction from his record, emphasizing, “My name, my reputation is on the line.”

As the government has reopened and back pay is anticipated, Isern is optimistic he will not lose his home. The Urban League has offered to mediate with his landlord to resolve the issue amicably.

This urgent situation underscores the broader impact of government shutdowns on individual lives, raising critical questions about support for federal workers during financial crises. As Isern fights to protect his reputation, this story serves as a reminder of the human toll associated with political disputes.