Bremerton City Housing Authority

The committee reviewed the first quarter financial performance for fiscal year 2026, noting that the agency maintained stable cash reserves and positive net operating income that exceeded budget projections. Discussion topics included an analysis of agency-wide revenue and expenses, administrative cost performance, and capital investments. Specific program-level reviews covered the Housing program, Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, CMS program, and Bay Vista Commons performance. Additionally, the committee evaluated tenant receivable balances, staffing updates regarding open positions, and current applicant volumes.

The agenda for the meeting includes a public comment session, comments from the Board of Directors and the Chair, a review and motion regarding the annual conflict of interest statement, and planning discussions for the 2027 meeting.

The key discussion topic centered on the Housing Report for Pendleton Place, which is owned by Kitsap Mental Health Services with BHA providing property management for the 72-unit facility. Data reviewed comparing the five years prior to housing versus post-housing indicated significant positive impacts. Specifically, emergency room visits decreased, and total hospital days saw a dramatic reduction from 767 to 219 days. Furthermore, analysis of hospital utilization data showed a 20% reduction in emergency room visits and a 72% reduction in total emergency room days. Arrest history data demonstrated a significant decrease in criminal justice involvement, including an 89% reduction in the number of individuals being arrested and a 95% reduction in the total number of arrests following housing placement. The committee concluded that the data powerfully illustrates improved access to primary care and better public safety outcomes for residents.

The meeting covered several key operational and financial matters. Key discussions included Commissioner comments regarding constructive community engagement concerning the shelter and the approval of the Consent Agenda, excluding the November 24, 2025, minutes which required correction before subsequent approval. The Executive Director reported on the receipt of $4 million in Housing Choice Voucher shortfall funding, which increased the Authority's baseline funding, and acknowledged staff efforts in leasing units to preserve approximately $500,000 in tax credit funding. Progress in Housing Operations included a reduction in pending work orders and achieving High Achiever status for both SEMAP and PHAS evaluations. A mission moment highlighted a resident successfully participating in the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program. Contract Management Services noted that HUD extended the PBCA ACCs through July 2026, and current advocacy resulted in the FY 2027 appropriations bill reflecting efforts to prevent an immediate nationwide PBCA rebid. The Board entered executive session twice to discuss potential real estate purchase and potential litigation.

The agenda for this special meeting included an opening call to order, roll call, and a public comment forum. A key item scheduled was an Executive Session to discuss a potential real estate purchase, pursuant to RCW 42.30.110(1)(b). The main action item involved considering Resolution B26-01, which would authorize the Executive Director to enter into a Purchase and Sale Agreement for a 1.05-acre property located at 601 Highland Avenue, Bremerton, WA.