Ann Phillips

The meeting included a review of the Director's Report, covering insurance premium increases, discussions regarding rent stratification with DOH and CHFA, the payment of the PILOT for FY 2026, and upcoming fundraiser plans. The Board reviewed the monthly budget report, received updates on the Moderate Rehab Project bidding process, and reviewed the 5-year capital improvement plan, which focuses on prioritizing projects based on urgency, impact, and available resources.

The board discussed upcoming site visits by the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority and plans to develop a new rent stratification policy. The budget report for the previous month was reviewed. The commission officially accepted a bid of $1,819,954.00 from Orlando Annulli & Sons, Inc. for the Moderate Rehab Project and received updates on the environmental status of the underground oil tank and progress regarding the Strategic Plan for 2026-2031.

The meeting included a Director's report regarding a housing unit vacancy, flooring replacement quotes, a recent resident potluck, and a letter of support for the AVFD budget increase. The monthly and 3rd quarter financial reports were reviewed. Discussion was held on the moderate rehab project, including the separation into CDBG and SSHP projects and progress on architect drawings. The board approved the FY 2027 budget, which includes adjustments for utilities, contracted services, salaries, and reserve accounts, as well as a base rent increase. Additionally, the State of the Housing Authority report, covering accomplishments from the 2021 Strategic Plan and the current financial position, was reviewed.

The board discussed the repair of a water line leak and the consideration of a new filter system to manage sediment and corrosion. The Director provided updates on rent redeterminations for the upcoming fiscal year and reviewed winter safety procedures with tenants. A consultant was selected for a Phase II environmental assessment concerning a moderate rehab project. Additionally, the commission reviewed audits for previous fiscal years, which were submitted and accepted by the CHFA, and planned for upcoming budget reviews.

The monthly meeting included a review of the January 2026 monthly budget report and the annual Ashford Housing Development Corp Contract with AHA, noting no changes from the previous year. Key discussions focused on the need to complete a Phase II Environmental Assessment for the Moderate Rehab Project before seeking bids for a general contractor. Business topics included a review of tenant survey results covering safety, security, accountability, transparency, and communications. A proposed 4.5% base rent increase for FY 2027 was announced, with a tenant meeting scheduled for March 17th. The Commission also addressed the proposal for a fair rent commission in Ashford.