Julie Kotze

The meeting addressed public comments regarding housing assistance and fines, followed by a discussion on a trip to the Tampa Housing Authority and potential collaboration. Concerns were raised about resident associations, redevelopment plans, and the need for a strategic plan. The board discussed responses to previous public comments, monthly and financial reports, updates on Bradenton Village, complaint logs, and city updates. Other topics included third-party maintenance, online rent payments, rent increases, media policy, HUD REAC scores, the PHA Annual Plan, the operating budget, public records requests, HUD reviews, the Section Eight HCV waitlist, and HVAC and eviction services.

The annual board meeting included officer elections, with a new Chairperson and Vice Chairperson appointed. Public comments addressed issues such as parking decals and fines. Discussions covered the website's status, online rent payments, communication with tenants about reduced electricity programs, and the resident council. Updates were provided on responses to public comments, eviction actions, monthly reports, compliance, complaint logs, and the Executive Director's attendance at city council meetings. The board also discussed development opportunities, a draft media/point of contact policy, and results of REAC inspections, including waiving tenant charges for repairs related to pre-REAC inspections.

The meeting addressed public comments regarding housing conditions, including issues with water damage, mold, and parking. The board discussed potential solutions to the complaints and reviewed new housing developments. The Executive Director shared monthly and financial reports, a compliance update on Bradenton Village, and details on tenant complaints. The board also discussed upcoming REAC inspections, parking space proposals, lease changes, and the PHA Annual Plan. Resolutions were approved on various matters, including IT contract updates and mold addendums.

The meeting addressed staff morale, vacancies, and the potential benefits of SACS software. Staff suggested in-classroom training and filling vacancies to improve morale. There was a discussion about addressing negative public perceptions of the agency. The board reviewed the September Executive Director's and Finance Reports, Bradenton Village Compliance update, agency complaints, and the FYE March 31, 2021 audit. Proposed revisions to the parking policy, access to the office, spending for CARES Act funds, new Fair Market Rents, proposed Flat Rents, and utility allowances were also discussed. The board also discussed requests for quotes for lawncare, office cleaning, and termite treatment, closing the office for the holidays, public records requests, and performance measures. The board authorized the Executive Director to create an RFP to secure security cameras.

The meeting included discussions on several key areas. Commissioner Kraft inquired about plans or programs for residents and requested to place a program on the next month's agenda. There were discussions about updating the website and setting up online bill payment for residents. Commissioner Wooten suggested a workshop or retreat for Commissioners to brainstorm ideas, and a retreat was scheduled for February 26, 2022. The Executive Director shared the proposed calendar year 2022 board meeting calendar and the December 2021 Executive Director's report. The board also discussed challenges faced by Section Eight families in finding affordable rents. Updates were provided on the Bradenton Village Compliance, and the board discussed the Resident and Guest Obligations Lease Addendum. The Executive Director shared plans to attend city council meetings and reported on communication with city officials. The board discussed cost of living pay increases to employees and approved a 5.9% COLA retroactive to January 1, 2022. Additionally, the board approved Resolution 22-19 and a performance bonus to the Executive Director.