Darlene West

The 2025 Agency Plan for the Housing Authority of the Town of Windsor (WHA) outlines its annual objectives and operations, developed in accordance with U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) guidelines. The plan supports the WHA's mission to provide safe, decent, and affordable housing to its elderly and disabled citizens.

The meeting included updates on community rooms and a financial report approval. Management reported on decreasing numbers of available units and a high delinquency rate at Shad Run due to unpaid light bills. They discussed potential staff assistance for tenants and mentioned a recent visit from Congressman Larson. New business included grant applications for Shad Run's exterior and Fitch's roof, potentially adding solar power. An executive session was held, followed by a resolution to authorize a settlement offer for pending litigation.

The meeting covered financial updates, including an increase in NED funds and upcoming rent increases at Fitch Court. The debit card's inactivity was noted. Capital improvements are ongoing as needed. There were no reports for bedbug status, eviction proceedings, or resident vacancy status. The Executive Director reported ongoing challenges with continued improvements. A resident noted the improved grounds at Shad Run with new flowers and plants, and tenants are enjoying the rehabbed gazebos at Millbrook and Shad Run.

The meeting addressed several key issues including tenant rule enforcement, such as maintenance reporting, smoking on the property, unit modifications, and rent payments. The board discussed concerns about emergency reports not being closed out, fines for smoking violations, and potential non-renewal of leases for repeated issues. They also reviewed the delinquency report and discussed unauthorized appliances. Additionally, the Housing Authority received a CDBG grant and a grant for roof repairs at Fitch Court, and is awaiting award letters for a resident activities grant. There are potential additional grants available for interior repairs at Shad, with discussions about solar installations also underway.

The meeting addressed the procurement process for Board Counsel and a short-term legal services agreement with an attorney was approved. The board entered executive session to discuss the appointment, employment, performance, evaluation, health, or dismissal of a public officer or employee, and later extended the deadline for compliance with a prior resolution. Additionally, the board convened in executive session to discuss strategy and negotiations related to pending litigation.