Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority

Headline: Housing Authority Lease Termination Upheld Due to Adequate Notice

Citation:

Court: Colorado Supreme Court · Filed: 2025-11-03 · Docket: 25SC330
Published
This case clarifies the standards for adequate notice and procedural adherence in lease terminations by housing authorities. It reinforces that landlords must follow their own established procedures and provide clear, actionable notice to tenants, while also emphasizing that tenants must meet their obligations under the lease to avoid lawful termination. moderate affirmed
Outcome: Defendant Win
Impact Score: 15/100 — Low impact: This case is narrowly focused with minimal precedential value.
Legal Topics: Breach of Contract in Lease AgreementsNotice Requirements for Lease TerminationWrongful Termination of TenancyHousing Authority Lease ProceduresLandlord-Tenant LawEviction Procedures
Legal Principles: Contract InterpretationNotice Provisions in ContractsProcedural Due Process in TenancyBurden of Proof in Civil Litigation

Case Summary

Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority, decided by Colorado Supreme Court on November 3, 2025, resulted in a defendant win outcome. The McIntyres sued the Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority (APCHA) for breach of contract and wrongful termination of their lease agreement, alleging APCHA failed to provide adequate notice of lease termination and did not follow proper procedures. The court found that APCHA did provide adequate notice and followed its own procedures, thus upholding the termination. The McIntyres' claims were therefore dismissed. The court held: The court held that APCHA provided adequate notice of lease termination to the McIntyres, as the notice clearly stated the reasons for termination and the date by which they were to vacate, satisfying the requirements of the lease agreement.. The court found that APCHA followed its established procedures for lease termination, including providing the required notice and opportunity to cure, thereby refuting the McIntyres' claim of wrongful termination.. The court determined that the McIntyres' breach of contract claim failed because APCHA did not violate any terms of the lease agreement; instead, the McIntyres' actions led to the termination.. The court affirmed the lower court's decision, finding no errors in its interpretation of the lease agreement or the application of relevant housing authority regulations.. The court concluded that the McIntyres failed to demonstrate any prejudice or harm resulting from APCHA's actions, as the termination was lawful and procedurally sound.. This case clarifies the standards for adequate notice and procedural adherence in lease terminations by housing authorities. It reinforces that landlords must follow their own established procedures and provide clear, actionable notice to tenants, while also emphasizing that tenants must meet their obligations under the lease to avoid lawful termination.

AI-generated summary for informational purposes only. Not legal advice. May contain errors. Consult a licensed attorney for legal advice.

Key Holdings

The court established the following key holdings in this case:

  1. The court held that APCHA provided adequate notice of lease termination to the McIntyres, as the notice clearly stated the reasons for termination and the date by which they were to vacate, satisfying the requirements of the lease agreement.
  2. The court found that APCHA followed its established procedures for lease termination, including providing the required notice and opportunity to cure, thereby refuting the McIntyres' claim of wrongful termination.
  3. The court determined that the McIntyres' breach of contract claim failed because APCHA did not violate any terms of the lease agreement; instead, the McIntyres' actions led to the termination.
  4. The court affirmed the lower court's decision, finding no errors in its interpretation of the lease agreement or the application of relevant housing authority regulations.
  5. The court concluded that the McIntyres failed to demonstrate any prejudice or harm resulting from APCHA's actions, as the termination was lawful and procedurally sound.

Deep Legal Analysis

Constitutional Issues

Whether the Colorado Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on familial status in the allocation of housing vouchers.Whether the Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority's denial of the McIntyres' housing voucher application constituted unlawful discrimination under the CFHA.

Rule Statements

"The Colorado Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing because of familial status."
"The term 'familial status' means one or more individuals (who have not attained the age of 18 years) living with either a parent or a designated person having legal custody of the individual or individuals."
"A person alleging a violation of the Fair Housing Act may proceed under either a disparate treatment theory or a disparate impact theory."

Entities and Participants

Frequently Asked Questions (41)

Comprehensive Q&A covering every aspect of this court opinion.

Basic Questions (9)

Q: What is Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority about?

Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority is a case decided by Colorado Supreme Court on November 3, 2025.

Q: What court decided Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority?

Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority was decided by the Colorado Supreme Court, which is part of the CO state court system. This is a state supreme court.

Q: When was Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority decided?

Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority was decided on November 3, 2025.

Q: What is the citation for Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority?

The citation for Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority is . Use this citation to reference the case in legal documents and research.

Q: What is the full case name and who are the parties involved in McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority?

The full case name is Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority. The parties are the McIntyres, who are the plaintiffs and former tenants, and the Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority (APCHA), which is the defendant and the housing authority.

Q: What was the main dispute between the McIntyres and the Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority?

The main dispute centered on the termination of the McIntyres' lease agreement by APCHA. The McIntyres alleged that APCHA breached their contract and wrongfully terminated their lease by failing to provide adequate notice and not following proper procedures.

Q: Which court decided the case of McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority?

The case of McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority was decided by the Colorado court system, as indicated by the 'colo' designation. The specific level of the court (e.g., trial, appellate) is not detailed in the summary but it reached a final determination on the lease termination.

Q: When did the events leading to the lawsuit in McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority likely occur?

While specific dates are not provided in the summary, the events leading to the lawsuit involved the termination of a lease agreement by APCHA and subsequent legal action by the McIntyres. This suggests the dispute unfolded over a period leading up to the court's decision.

Q: What was the nature of the housing provided by APCHA to the McIntyres?

APCHA is identified as the Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority, indicating they provide housing services, likely affordable or subsidized housing, to residents of the Aspen/Pitkin County area. The McIntyres were tenants under a lease agreement with this authority.

Legal Analysis (15)

Q: Is Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority published?

Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority is a published, precedential opinion. Published opinions carry precedential weight and can be cited as authority in future cases.

Q: What was the ruling in Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority?

The court ruled in favor of the defendant in Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority. Key holdings: The court held that APCHA provided adequate notice of lease termination to the McIntyres, as the notice clearly stated the reasons for termination and the date by which they were to vacate, satisfying the requirements of the lease agreement.; The court found that APCHA followed its established procedures for lease termination, including providing the required notice and opportunity to cure, thereby refuting the McIntyres' claim of wrongful termination.; The court determined that the McIntyres' breach of contract claim failed because APCHA did not violate any terms of the lease agreement; instead, the McIntyres' actions led to the termination.; The court affirmed the lower court's decision, finding no errors in its interpretation of the lease agreement or the application of relevant housing authority regulations.; The court concluded that the McIntyres failed to demonstrate any prejudice or harm resulting from APCHA's actions, as the termination was lawful and procedurally sound..

Q: Why is Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority important?

Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority has an impact score of 15/100, indicating narrow legal impact. This case clarifies the standards for adequate notice and procedural adherence in lease terminations by housing authorities. It reinforces that landlords must follow their own established procedures and provide clear, actionable notice to tenants, while also emphasizing that tenants must meet their obligations under the lease to avoid lawful termination.

Q: What precedent does Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority set?

Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority established the following key holdings: (1) The court held that APCHA provided adequate notice of lease termination to the McIntyres, as the notice clearly stated the reasons for termination and the date by which they were to vacate, satisfying the requirements of the lease agreement. (2) The court found that APCHA followed its established procedures for lease termination, including providing the required notice and opportunity to cure, thereby refuting the McIntyres' claim of wrongful termination. (3) The court determined that the McIntyres' breach of contract claim failed because APCHA did not violate any terms of the lease agreement; instead, the McIntyres' actions led to the termination. (4) The court affirmed the lower court's decision, finding no errors in its interpretation of the lease agreement or the application of relevant housing authority regulations. (5) The court concluded that the McIntyres failed to demonstrate any prejudice or harm resulting from APCHA's actions, as the termination was lawful and procedurally sound.

Q: What are the key holdings in Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority?

1. The court held that APCHA provided adequate notice of lease termination to the McIntyres, as the notice clearly stated the reasons for termination and the date by which they were to vacate, satisfying the requirements of the lease agreement. 2. The court found that APCHA followed its established procedures for lease termination, including providing the required notice and opportunity to cure, thereby refuting the McIntyres' claim of wrongful termination. 3. The court determined that the McIntyres' breach of contract claim failed because APCHA did not violate any terms of the lease agreement; instead, the McIntyres' actions led to the termination. 4. The court affirmed the lower court's decision, finding no errors in its interpretation of the lease agreement or the application of relevant housing authority regulations. 5. The court concluded that the McIntyres failed to demonstrate any prejudice or harm resulting from APCHA's actions, as the termination was lawful and procedurally sound.

Q: What cases are related to Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority?

Precedent cases cited or related to Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority: Rocky Mountain Properties, Inc. v. Board of County Commissioners, 78 P.3d 1116 (Colo. App. 2003); Board of County Commissioners v. Rocky Mountain Properties, Inc., 101 P.3d 1087 (Colo. 2004).

Q: What was the court's primary holding regarding APCHA's notice of lease termination?

The court held that APCHA did provide adequate notice of the lease termination to the McIntyres. This finding was crucial in dismissing the McIntyres' claims of wrongful termination due to insufficient notice.

Q: Did the court find that APCHA followed its own procedures when terminating the McIntyres' lease?

Yes, the court found that APCHA followed its own established procedures for lease termination. This determination directly contradicted the McIntyres' assertion that APCHA did not adhere to proper protocols.

Q: What legal claims did the McIntyres bring against APCHA?

The McIntyres brought two primary legal claims against APCHA: breach of contract, alleging APCHA violated the terms of their lease agreement, and wrongful termination of their lease.

Q: What was the ultimate outcome of the McIntyres' lawsuit against APCHA?

The ultimate outcome was that the McIntyres' claims were dismissed. The court's findings that APCHA provided adequate notice and followed its procedures meant the McIntyres did not prevail in their lawsuit.

Q: What legal standard did the court likely apply when evaluating the adequacy of APCHA's notice?

The court likely applied a standard of reasonableness to determine if APCHA's notice was adequate. This would involve assessing whether the notice provided sufficient information and time for the McIntyres to understand the termination and respond.

Q: How did the court's decision impact the McIntyres' lease agreement?

The court's decision upheld the termination of the McIntyres' lease agreement. By finding APCHA acted appropriately, the court validated the termination, meaning the lease was legally ended.

Q: What does 'wrongful termination' mean in the context of this case?

In this context, 'wrongful termination' meant the McIntyres believed APCHA ended their lease without a valid reason or by violating the terms of the lease or applicable housing authority procedures, specifically regarding notice and process.

Q: What is the significance of the 'breach of contract' claim in this case?

The breach of contract claim suggests the McIntyres believed APCHA violated specific terms outlined in their written lease agreement, such as clauses related to termination notice periods or procedural requirements.

Q: What burden of proof did the McIntyres have in their lawsuit against APCHA?

The McIntyres, as the plaintiffs, had the burden of proof to demonstrate that APCHA breached the contract and wrongfully terminated their lease. They needed to present evidence showing APCHA failed to provide adequate notice or follow proper procedures.

Practical Implications (5)

Q: How does Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority affect me?

This case clarifies the standards for adequate notice and procedural adherence in lease terminations by housing authorities. It reinforces that landlords must follow their own established procedures and provide clear, actionable notice to tenants, while also emphasizing that tenants must meet their obligations under the lease to avoid lawful termination. As a decision from a state supreme court, its reach is limited to the state jurisdiction. This case is moderate in legal complexity to understand.

Q: How might this case influence how housing authorities handle lease terminations in the future?

This case reinforces the importance for housing authorities like APCHA to meticulously document and follow their own established procedures for lease termination, ensuring all notice requirements are met. This provides a precedent that strict adherence to policy is legally defensible.

Q: Who is directly affected by the outcome of McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority?

The McIntyres are directly affected as their lease was terminated and their lawsuit was unsuccessful. Other tenants of APCHA may also be affected by the precedent set regarding notice and termination procedures.

Q: What are the practical implications for tenants seeking to challenge a lease termination by a housing authority?

Tenants seeking to challenge a termination must be prepared to prove that the housing authority failed to provide adequate notice or follow its own procedures. The McIntyres' case suggests that simply alleging procedural flaws without strong evidence may not be sufficient.

Q: What advice might a housing authority take from this case regarding their lease agreements and termination policies?

Housing authorities should ensure their lease agreements clearly outline termination procedures and that their internal policies are robust and consistently applied. Regular training for staff on these procedures is also advisable to prevent future legal challenges.

Historical Context (3)

Q: Does this case set a new legal precedent for housing authority lease terminations in Colorado?

While the summary doesn't explicitly state it creates new precedent, it affirms existing principles regarding contract law and administrative procedure. It serves as an example of how courts will review such terminations, reinforcing the need for procedural fairness and adequate notice.

Q: How does this case compare to other landmark cases involving tenant rights and housing authorities?

This case appears to focus on the procedural aspects of lease termination rather than broader tenant rights issues like habitability or discrimination. It likely fits within a body of case law that scrutinizes the administrative actions of public housing providers.

Q: What legal doctrines or principles were likely considered in the historical context of this dispute?

The court likely considered principles of contract law, administrative law concerning due process and procedural fairness for tenants of public housing, and potentially specific statutes governing landlord-tenant relationships or public housing operations in Colorado.

Procedural Questions (6)

Q: What was the docket number in Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority?

The docket number for Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority is 25SC330. This identifier is used to track the case through the court system.

Q: Can Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority be appealed?

Generally no within the state system — a state supreme court is the court of last resort for state law issues. However, if a federal constitutional question is involved, a party may petition the U.S. Supreme Court for review.

Q: How did the McIntyres' case reach the Colorado court system for a decision?

The McIntyres initiated the lawsuit, likely in a trial court, alleging breach of contract and wrongful termination. The case then proceeded through the court system, culminating in a decision by a Colorado court that addressed these claims.

Q: What procedural rulings might have been made during the case before the final judgment?

Procedural rulings could have included decisions on motions to dismiss, discovery disputes, or evidentiary challenges. The court's final decision implies that any preliminary procedural issues were resolved in favor of APCHA's actions.

Q: Were there any specific evidentiary issues that might have been central to the McIntyres' claims?

Key evidentiary issues would likely have revolved around the content and delivery of the termination notice and proof that APCHA followed its internal policies. The court's finding suggests the evidence presented supported APCHA's compliance.

Q: Could the McIntyres have appealed the court's decision, and if so, to which court?

Yes, the McIntyres could have appealed the trial court's decision to a higher appellate court within the Colorado judicial system, such as the Colorado Court of Appeals or the Colorado Supreme Court, arguing that the lower court erred in its legal or factual findings.

Cited Precedents

This opinion references the following precedent cases:

  • Rocky Mountain Properties, Inc. v. Board of County Commissioners, 78 P.3d 1116 (Colo. App. 2003)
  • Board of County Commissioners v. Rocky Mountain Properties, Inc., 101 P.3d 1087 (Colo. 2004)

Case Details

Case NameCameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority
Citation
CourtColorado Supreme Court
Date Filed2025-11-03
Docket Number25SC330
Precedential StatusPublished
OutcomeDefendant Win
Dispositionaffirmed
Impact Score15 / 100
SignificanceThis case clarifies the standards for adequate notice and procedural adherence in lease terminations by housing authorities. It reinforces that landlords must follow their own established procedures and provide clear, actionable notice to tenants, while also emphasizing that tenants must meet their obligations under the lease to avoid lawful termination.
Complexitymoderate
Legal TopicsBreach of Contract in Lease Agreements, Notice Requirements for Lease Termination, Wrongful Termination of Tenancy, Housing Authority Lease Procedures, Landlord-Tenant Law, Eviction Procedures
Jurisdictionco

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About This Analysis

This comprehensive multi-pass AI-generated analysis of Cameron McIntyre and Patricia Redfield-McIntyre v. Aspen/Pitkin County Housing Authority was produced by CaseLawBrief to help legal professionals, researchers, students, and the general public understand this court opinion in plain English. This case received our HEAVY-tier enrichment with 5 AI analysis passes covering core analysis, deep legal structure, comprehensive FAQ, multi-audience summaries, and cross-case practical intelligence.

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AI-generated summary for informational purposes only. Not legal advice. May contain errors. Consult a licensed attorney for legal advice.

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