Luis Velazquez

This Action Plan outlines the establishment and implementation of the Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) Program by the Bristol Housing Authority. The program aims to enable low-income families to achieve financial independence by identifying and removing barriers to self-sufficiency. Key components include participant selection, a comprehensive range of supportive services (such as childcare, education, job training, and financial literacy), community referrals, and a structured Contract of Participation with individual training and service plans. The plan also details an incentive program, including an FSS Escrow Account, to encourage participation and successful completion, ultimately fostering independence and breaking cycles of dependency.

The board convened to discuss several key items, including union contract negotiations, a review of the completed audit for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2020, and staff reports for March 2021. The board also reviewed and took action on a list of invoices and financial reports for February 2021. Additionally, they approved a new User Password Policy and changes to the BHA Personnel Policy. The General Counsel provided updates on BDO Fee Accountant recommendations related to a loan by BNDC to BHA.

The meeting included staff reports, board committee reports, and actions on financial matters. The board reviewed and took action on a list of invoices and financial reports. They also approved an amended resolution to write off uncollectible, vacated tenant balances. The board approved the Zbikowski Park Neighborhood LP 2021 budget and the 2021 Regular Board Meeting Schedule with changes to eliminate the July and December meetings and adjust the start time. Additionally, they extended the J Associates Architects contract, approved a Memorandum of Understanding with the State of CT Coordinated Access Network, and authorized the CEO to apply for and implement Komanetsky Estates Priority Needs Funding. An executive session was held to discuss litigation related to Carabetta, resulting in the approval of a resolution to purchase work product from Fuss and O'Neill, Inc. and Monroe Partnership.

The meeting included discussion and approval of staff reports and financial reports. The board approved a lease agreement with Ricoh USA, Inc. for copier equipment and maintenance. An executive session was held to discuss union contract negotiations, but no action was taken afterward. The Bristol Boys & Girls Club presented their program and needs, requesting a contribution from the Housing Authority, and will provide additional information for consideration.

The meeting included staff reports, board committee reports, and action on a list of invoices and financial reports. The board approved Resolution #1369 to approve Tandem Care, Inc. quote to prepare the application for the HUD Choice Neighborhood Program grant, Resolution #1370 to allow the CEO to prepare and submit the application for the Choice Neighborhood Planning grant, and Resolution #1371 to allow the CEO to prepare and file application to DOH for Substantial Rehabilitation funding of $2,537,370 for the D.J. Komanetsky Estates. Also, the board approved the extension for one year the BDO USA, LLC contracts to provide services to BHA and Zbikowski Park Neighborhood LP and authorized the Housing Authority of the City of Bristol to borrow from the Bristol Neighborhood Development Corp. up to $300,000 at 3% per year interest as a pre-development loan for D.J. Komanetsky Estates. The board went into executive session to discuss litigation related to Carabetta.