Arnaldo Velazquez

The meeting included a discussion regarding the repayment of a long-term loan issued from the Somerville Housing Authority Affordable Housing Trust Fund. The board approved the full repayment of the principal amount of $400,000 plus accrued interest to allow the funds to return to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund for future use in the Waterworks II closing.

The board meeting will focus on new business regarding the authorization to apply for the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities Creative Place-Making Award.

The board conducted the election of officers for the 2026 term. Discussions included an update on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's approval of the Designated Housing Plan for federal elderly properties. The Executive Director provided updates on the Clarendon Hill Redevelopment, refinancing options for existing properties, charter amendments concerning police powers for agency officers, and concerns regarding Department of Labor Standards wage rates. The board approved the Section 8 New Construction and Substantial Rehabilitation Compliance Certifications for Bryant Manor and Hagan Manor. Additionally, reports were provided on Community Preservation Act grant initiatives, including landscaping and playground improvements, and the appointment of the new Resident Opportunity Self-Sufficiency Coordinator.

The agenda includes reports from the Executive Director, development and public safety updates, and various new business items. New business includes contracts with Oakridge Construction for parking lot improvements at Bryant Manor and Hagan Manor, proposed changes to the Admissions and Continued Occupancy Policy (ACOP) and the Section 8 Administrative Plan, an audit services contract with EFPR Group, CPAs, PLLC, and review of fiscal year-end financial schedules. Additional items cover a promissory note for the SHA Waterworks II development, personnel status for a housing manager, the contract of the Executive Director, and the Section 8 Management Assessment Program submission.

The meeting primary focus was the election of officers for the organization. The board members voted on and approved the 2026 slate of officers, including positions for President, Vice-President, Treasurer, Vice-Treasurer, and Clerk.