Ann Phillips

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.

Key discussions during the meeting included the election of officers, resulting in the approval of the slate presented, with the Assistant Treasurer position remaining vacant. The Director's Report provided no new information for January. The Budget Report reviewed the monthly budget for December and presented the second quarter financial report, noting expenses related to a forthcoming reimbursed rehab project. Activities for the Ashford Housing Development Corp. were highlighted, and the status of the Moderate Rehab Project indicated a wait for the Department of Health to release an assistance letter. Furthermore, the commission addressed reasonable accommodation requests for reserved parking and determined a need to draft a policy to assess the continued necessity of these spaces.

The meeting included discussions regarding the director's report, which mentioned an elevator malfunction, the Housing Authority Resident Participation grant (HARP), a risk survey of the property, and gutter cleaning. The monthly budget report for November was reviewed. An update on the Ashford Housing Development Corp's "Housing Matters" publication was provided. The Commission reviewed and approved the Mandated Reporter policy, Accounting Policy, and Conflict of Interest.

The meeting included discussion of engaging Geel Audit and Accounting for the biennial audit, an update on the waitlist with 43 applicants as of October 1, 2025, and the commencement of planning for the 5-year strategic plan. The monthly budget report for September and the Quarter 1 financial statement were reviewed. Updates were provided on the Ashford Housing Development Corp's new website launch, offering information on financial assistance and accepting online donations. The commission also discussed and approved changing the monthly meeting time to 6:00 pm permanently, with remaining 2025 meetings designated as Special Meetings until a new schedule is submitted for 2026.