Russ Jehl

The commission reviewed a Certificate of Appropriateness application regarding a proposal to paint an unpainted brick residential property. Following a detailed discussion and review of findings of fact related to historic preservation guidelines and potential long-term damage to porous masonry, the commission voted unanimously to deny the application. Additionally, the commission reviewed and approved the staff report for the preceding month.

The meeting featured an office report detailing employment case processing statistics and housing case processing for the current contract period. Outreach activities conducted by commission staff, including various training sessions and participation in community events, were reviewed. A legal update provided information on a lawsuit filed by FHAP agencies against HUD, as well as an overview of a relevant EEOC case. New business items included an update on 2025 HUD funding, preparations for the upcoming 2026 Fair Housing Summit and the new Fair Housing Advocate Award, the status of the 2025 annual report, commissioner onboarding procedures, the utilization of approved technology funds, and a report on current case age metrics.

The commission conducted a public hearing and regular meeting. A key agenda item included the review and unanimous approval of the nomination for listing the Beacon Heights Apartments on the National Register of Historic Places. Additionally, the commission reviewed and approved the staff reports for November and December.

The agenda includes an office report by the Executive Director, discussion of old business, and consideration of new business matters before the commission.

The commission reviewed the Office Report detailing EEOC and HUD employment and housing case processing statistics, including closures and current pending caseloads. The Director provided updates on outreach activities, personnel training, and the current budget status. Discussions under new business covered the status of 2025 HUD funding and 2026 EEOC funding, the upcoming February Fair Housing Series, and the keynote speaker selection for the 2026 Fair Housing Summit.