Joseph D'Ascoli

The board convened a special meeting to address two primary new business items. The first involved the consideration and subsequent approval of Resolution 2020-17 concerning the contract for new software systems and services. Following an evaluation of three proposals (Emphasis, MRI, and PHA Web), the board recommended switching from the incumbent provider, MRI, to PHA Web, citing superior scoring and significant cost efficiency, projecting a savings of approximately $26,000 annually. The second item was Resolution 2020-18, authorizing a designee other than the Executive Director to sign a project-based voucher contract related to placing 25 project-based vouchers into Spencer Village. The board appointed Stephen Itsu, the Deputy Director, as the authorized agent for this specific contract execution.

The meeting included discussions regarding a legal opinion on the MERS program and the possibility of withdrawing from it, involving potential costs and strategies such as legislative efforts. There was also a presentation of the audit report from Maleta and Company, with a focus on addressing concerns related to gap accounting and ensuring accurate reporting to HUD.

The meeting included a moment of silence for Commissioner Judy Taylor, followed by discussions on correspondence, including a letter from Congressman Larson regarding a capital project funding proposal that was not granted. The board also discussed accounts payable, highlighting the resolution of a water leak issue at Mayfair Gardens and the allocation of capital funds for emergency repairs. Updates were provided on financial statements, vacancy reports, and general information, including a proposal to plant a memorial tree in honor of Commissioner Taylor.

The meeting addressed public comments regarding various concerns, including resident complaints about the Executive Director's behavior, issues with bird feeders, potential Section 8 residents, and maintenance problems. The board discussed revisions to the dwelling lease, the ethics policy, personnel policy, and disaster plan. Other topics included the North Elm Management Agreement, the waiting list for housing, financial statements, and management reports. An executive session was held, and future agenda items were identified.

The meeting addressed public comments regarding sidewalk repairs, lawn maintenance, resident activities, and the no-smoking policy. The board discussed a State grant for capital improvements at Pascal Lane and the Congregate, focusing on accessibility and energy efficiency. Correspondence included concerns about Section 8 funding and the no-smoking policy. The board also discussed the definition of "family" in relation to MARC residents in scattered sites and compliance with tracking ethnicity, race, and physical handicaps. The Executive Director's reports covered financial status, vacancy rates, and work order completion. The renewal of employee health insurance was approved, and future agenda items include parking issues at Mayfair Gardens and a report on the definition of family.