Leslie McKnight

The Board of Commissioners discussed and approved several key initiatives, including the engagement of a firm to evaluate the Health and Housing Pilot Program and the awarding of funding for new projects under the Health and Housing Pilot Program. Additionally, the Board authorized the engagement of a vendor for Business Continuity Plan development and software development services. Further approvals were granted for the commitment of Housing 2030 Program funds for multiple affordable housing developments, a preliminary reservation of HOME-ARP funds for the 183 Washington Street project, and the reservation of Low-Income Housing Tax Credits alongside preliminary financing commitments for the Champagne Heights development.

The committee reviewed and recommended the engagement of Housing Innovations and the Cloudburst Group to provide technical assistance and training for the homeless response system. Additionally, the committee recommended engaging Adoption Rhode Island to serve as the Youth Action Board backbone agency to support youth homelessness initiatives. The committee also held a discussion regarding compliance with the FTC Safeguards Rule, outlining the organization's progress in implementing a Zero Trust security model and its ongoing efforts to protect consumer financial data.

The Board of Trustees discussed the rebranding and retooling of the land bank program into the Non-Profit Acquisition Bridge Loan Program, approving an allocation of up to eight million dollars for its implementation. Furthermore, the Board reviewed and approved the Predevelopment Loan Program, including the authorization of a two million dollar funding allocation to support non-profit developers with activities such as architectural studies, permitting, and site control.

The Board meeting covered a broad agenda, including reports on Homeownership and Development activities, staff transitions, and the approval of various vendors and financing initiatives. Key approvals included the engagement of the Narragansett Indian Tribal Historic Preservation Office for LeadSafe Homes Program consultations, the selection of Reals Projects LLC for radon testing, and the engagement of inspection and laboratory service providers. Additionally, the Board authorized bond issuance, approved penetration testing and security consultation services, and granted preliminary financing commitments for the Lockwood Plaza Phase II and Shalom Apartments rehabilitation projects.

The State of Rhode Island's Annual Action Plan serves as an application to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for funding various programs, including the Community Development Block Grant, HOME Investment Partnerships Program, National Housing Trust Fund Program, and Emergency Solutions Grant Program. This plan outlines progress and new initiatives in support of the strategic goals identified in the 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan. The primary objectives include increasing and preserving affordable housing opportunities for low- and moderate-income households, ending homelessness, adapting aged housing, eliminating lead hazards, making infrastructure improvements, and investing in public services and facilities, including transitional and permanent supportive housing. Expected outcomes for the program year 2026 include the construction or rehabilitation of 50 rental units, the addition or rehabilitation of 85 homeowner units, assistance to approximately 2,000 persons through homeless shelters, and an enhanced focus on healthy homes and non-housing community development.