Mayor Rob Rue of Springfield, Ohio, is renting out apartments in buildings that he owns to Haitian immigrants—a move that some local residents are calling a conflict of interest.
The Haitian community in Springfield has gained national attention after former president Donald Trump's debate comments on Sept. 10, alleging that Haitian immigrants are eating cats and dogs.
However, locals argue that they're the ones being put through the meat grinder due to a strained local economy from the influx of Haitian immigrants that now comprises roughly 25 percent of the population in Springfield.
A few blocks away from Little and Rue Funeral Home, also owned by Rue, a 37-year-old man who introduced himself as “Works” lives in an apartment on an estate worth an estimated $1.3 million.
Works told Buckeye Reporter that he and other Haitian immigrants reside in properties owned by Rue.
“For me it is not a bad city,” said Works. “I have one years and two months in Springfield.”
However, he added that the Haitian community has been upset by Trump’s allegations.
“Some people are scared to go out after [Trump’s comments],” Works said.
Works cut the conversation short when he was picked up by his ride to work.
According to public records, Rue owns several rental properties in Springfield through his company, Littleton Properties of Springfield LLC.
In addition to being the mayor, Rue is the President and General Manager of Littleton & Rue Funeral Home.
Rue became the Mayor of Springfield in 2023 and previously served as City Commissioner and Assistant Mayor, and is actively involved in local community boards.
Several residents have expressed disappointment with Rue’s leadership, suspecting he may have ulterior motives as he has overseen a significant influx of Haitian immigrants over the past two years.
Approximately 20,000 immigrants from Haiti have been brought into the community, with rumors suggesting that another 10,000 may arrive.
The strain on the local economy, public safety, and school system has made him a target for criticism.
Concerns about Rue profiting from the immigration crisis have led some to call for his recusal from city matters related to the community.
