Theresa A. Reustle

The meeting featured a workshop session that included staff recognition, the announcement of scholarship recipients, and an overview of NSPIRE inspections. Discussions also covered the progress of the Oakbrook Recreation Park project, renovation plans for the River Oak Apartments, and an update on operational transitions involving software and unit turnover challenges. Additionally, the Board addressed efforts to reduce unnecessary fire calls and reviewed departmental updates. During the formal session, the Board approved travel for an upcoming multifamily affordable housing conference and conducted an executive session regarding a personnel matter.

The meeting featured a workshop session that included a review of the draft budget for the upcoming fiscal year, encompassing seven separate account areas. The President's report covered recent operational challenges due to severe weather, including power outages and HVAC equipment issues, as well as the implementation of new snow removal procedures and equipment. Discussions also addressed community safety, engagement efforts, and an update on the transition to the Rent Café portal, which has resulted in an 89.8% rent collection rate. Furthermore, the board reviewed and approved the Secretary/Treasurer's report and the President's report.

The meeting included a workshop and regular board session where staff service milestones were recognized. Key discussion topics included a safety update on ALICE training for critical incidents and a review of the 2026-2027 Operating Budgets, noting adjustments in security contracts, IT expenses, and HVAC funding. The Board discussed the revolving line of credit for the Neighborhood Resource Center project and received reports on federal housing policy advocacy from a recent legislative conference. Operational updates addressed rent collection rates, voucher program expenditures, and preliminary NSPIRE inspection findings regarding compliance. Additionally, the Board authorized a contract for security and building access systems and formally adopted various operating budgets for the upcoming fiscal year.

The meeting agenda included a workshop segment covering the Chairwoman's Remarks, the President's Report, an Executive Session, and a Review of Resolutions. The subsequent Commissioners' Meeting involved roll call, acknowledgment of visitors, reports from the Secretary/Treasurer for October and November 2025, and the President's Report. Key resolutions addressed the adoption of Public Housing Flat Rents and Affordable Rental Rents effective April 1, 2026. Further resolutions authorized the payment in lieu of taxes for specific projects for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025, and approved travel for staff to attend the 2026 PAHRA Legislative Summit and the 2026 NAHRO Washington Conference. Additionally, resolutions covered executing contracts and purchase orders for HVAC upgrades, laundry room service/maintenance, fire alarm system upgrades, utility task vehicles, general vehicle purchases, building management system upgrades, and replacement of staff mobile tablets.

The meeting encompassed a Workshop, Annual, and Commissioners Meeting. Key discussions during the workshop included recognition of a new ROSS Service Coordinator, RHA's participation in the Reading Holiday Parade, and a detailed review of the draft 2026 Annual Plan, which was delayed due to federal issues. Proposed policy adjustments for the Housing Choice Voucher Program, specifically concerning families transitioning from COVID-related Emergency Housing Vouchers, were outlined. Potential 2026 fiscal year activities involved using the HUD Restore-Rebuild strategy at Emma Lazarus Townhomes and soliciting Project-Based Vouchers. The board agreed to schedule a special virtual meeting in January to facilitate the timely adoption of the Annual Plan. A major operational discussion centered on heating systems, particularly the need to advance the Hensler Homes project—converting its 64-year-old heating infrastructure to an all-electric heat pump system due to safety and reliability concerns. This advancement necessitates reprioritizing the rolling five-year capital plan. The Annual Meeting portion involved the election of 2026 officers, including the Chairwoman, Vice-Chairwoman, Assistant Secretary-Treasurer, and Secretary-Treasurer, and the formal approval of the 2026 Board of Commissioners Meeting Schedule. The subsequent Regular Meeting portion acknowledged the approval of the October 28, 2025, minutes.