Laurie Olson

The agenda for the regular meeting included public comment, roll call, and consent items such as the approval of the current agenda and the minutes from previous meetings, along with authorizing payment of November 2025 expenditures. Action items involved authorizing staff to make the draft 2026-2027 One-Year Public Housing Agency Plan available for public comment, approving the write-off of delinquent tenant accounts receivable, and amending the HASCO Personnel Policy. Information items included reports from Legal Counsel, Commissioners, and the Chief Executive Officer. The CEO report covered updates on development projects (including funding secured for the 200th Street transit-oriented project and property acquisition due diligence), operations updates (strategic plan draft, risk management initiatives like fire mitigation devices, and community engagement events), and intergovernmental affairs concerning Continuum of Care changes and proposed legislation clarification. The CEO also provided updates on coordination with the Everett Housing Authority and submission of the HCV shortfall application.

The Resident Advisory Board meetings included real estate development updates focusing on two upcoming affordable housing projects: one in Marysville, WA (Cedar and Grove) and another in Lynnwood, WA (200th Street), detailing unit composition and timelines through 2027/2028. Attendees provided extensive input on desired amenities, such as hobby areas, dog parks, community spaces, gardens, pools, and enhanced security and parking. Discussions also covered the strategic plan, including where HASCO should build more housing across Snohomish County, with suggestions like Mountlake Terrace, Lynnwood, Edmonds, and semi-rural areas. Regarding HASCO's goals, participants discussed the affordable homeownership process via Habitat for Humanity collaboration, educating the community on homelessness needs through personal stories, and the value of the Landlord Engagement Specialist role. The virtual session included discussions about voucher funding continuation (especially Emergency Housing Vouchers), exploring single-family home options, and clarifying contact procedures for voucher issues.

The agenda includes public comments, roll call, and consent items such as approving the agenda for the November 18, 2025, regular meeting and the minutes of the September 8, October 2, and October 9, 2025, special meetings. It also includes Resolution No. 2556 authorizing payment of August, September, and October 2025 expenditures. Action items include resolutions to amend the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program Payment Standards, adopt annual updates to the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Administrative Plan, ratify the purchase of 3 new inspection vehicles, and amend the Position Classification Plan. Information items include the Finance Report, Legal Counsel Report, Commissioners' Report, and Chief Executive Officer Report.

The Resident Advisory Board meeting discussed HASCO's housing programs and the RAB's role in reviewing the draft plan, providing feedback on voucher programs, and learning more about HASCO. Key discussion points included using HASCO's resources to increase affordable housing options, advocating for affordable housing and services in Snohomish County, and informing the community on the needs of families who are homeless or rent-burdened. Participants shared their stories and suggestions for improving communication, destigmatizing vouchers, and educating the public about housing assistance.

The Public Housing Agency Plan for the Housing Authority of Snohomish County outlines a strategic direction to meet the diverse needs of residents by expanding housing opportunities that promote stability, strengthen community, and provide affordability. The plan focuses on three main goals: increasing affordable housing options through resource utilization, advocating for affordable housing and services within Snohomish County, and informing the community about the needs of homeless and rent-burdened families. The overarching vision is a future where all Snohomish County residents have safe and affordable housing, fostering opportunity and a sense of home.