Chicago Housing Authority

This MTW Annual Plan outlines the Chicago Housing Authority's goals and objectives for Fiscal Year 2027. It focuses on enhancing the quality of life and supporting self-sufficiency for residents through various programs, and details a comprehensive revitalization and development strategy to increase affordable housing supply. Key priorities include housing delivery, streamlining operations, and administering both existing and newly modified Moving To Work activities to meet statutory objectives.

The board meeting focused on a strategic direction-setting initiative aimed at strengthening the agency's organizational health, function, and performance. The CEO provided updates on property management efforts, highlighting increased accountability through property walkthroughs, the agency's response to extreme weather conditions, and strategies for accelerating unit turns. Key discussions included improvements to Section 3 vendor relationships and the onboarding of a new intern class. Additionally, the Green and Healthy Homes Team presented on ongoing sustainability efforts, including renewable energy projects and energy efficiency upgrades designed to improve resident health and building resiliency.

The meeting agenda includes a review of the 2025 audited financial statements, updates regarding cell tower leases, discussions on a new Wi-Fi opportunity, an update on the Ogden Commons equity investment, a review of grant programming status, and oversight of expense reporting.

The meeting included an introduction of the new chairman and the establishment of a quorum. The agenda covered a closed session regarding personnel, real estate, litigation, and audit matters. Additionally, the proceedings highlighted various community initiatives, including the 18th annual Operation Warm coat distribution, a summer music festival for seniors, and a home ownership resource forum. The Board also discussed the groundbreaking of new apartment developments in the Bronzeville neighborhood.

The Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) is launching a 'Year of Renewal' initiative starting in 2025 to rebuild trust, transparency, and accountability. This effort aims to reduce barriers, enhance responsiveness, and ensure equitable service delivery to 135,000 residents across 77 Chicago neighborhoods. Key initiatives include establishing an inclusive CEO Search Committee, enhancing resident engagement through surveys, fostering greater collaboration with the City of Chicago on its 5-year Housing Plan, initiating a long-term strategic planning process, and reorganizing for increased accountability, including the creation of a Healthy Homes division.