Melissa Witt-Smith

The Board meeting covered several administrative and operational topics, including the approval of finance matters for January and February 2026. Key discussions included contract status updates, the current suspension of Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) issuances to preserve existing assistance, and a notification regarding a change in the legal firm's name representing the authority. The Board also addressed growing safety concerns for staff due to tenant hostility, resulting in a new policy requiring team members to work in pairs. Additionally, the Board discussed plans to replace three agency vehicles and the mandatory process of selecting an external contractor to perform an audit as required by HUD.

The Board approved finance matters including general disbursements and payroll. They reviewed tenant statistics and reports. Key actions included the approval of Resolution #26-03 regarding PHA certification of compliance, the approval of bad debt write-offs for vacated public housing residents, and the approval of the 2026 Annual Plan Update. Additionally, the Board received updates on the contract status and progress of the RAD project.

The meeting agenda addressed financial matters including general and payroll disbursements, the treasurer's report, and comparative income and expense reports. Tenant statistics and vacancy reports were reviewed across various housing programs. New business items included the authorization of rental assistance and bad debt write-offs for tenants, the approval of Resolution #26-03 and budgets for the upcoming fiscal year, and the consideration of legal services for corporate counsel and collections. Additionally, reports were provided regarding contract status, property portfolio summaries, and program explanations.