Spokane City Housing Authority

The meeting commenced with a roll call and public/commissioner comments, including a query regarding RFP/RFQ availability. The consent calendar, which included the approval of previous minutes and financial reports, was unanimously approved. Key agenda items discussed included the Asset Management Report, which detailed progress on developments such as Hifumi En, Orchard Vista (nearing June lease up), and Keystone rehabilitation scheduled for early 2026, along with updates on the Parsons elevator and pump station completion. The Executive Director's Report covered staff transitions, updates on Kaniksu Village inspections, engagement with the AFLCIO pension fund regarding housing investments, and discussions with state representatives concerning upcoming legislation. Union contract negotiations, focusing on COLA caps, PTO accrual, and holidays, were discussed, with a formal recommendation pending for December. New business included the unanimous appointment of Tammy Marshall as the new Resident Commissioner and the nomination and election of officers for the upcoming year, alongside the approval of the 2026 Legislative Advocacy Agenda after minor revisions.

The meeting included updates to the Executive Director's report, progress on developing a Leadership Development Program for staff, positive feedback from the salary survey, and updates on Kaniksu Village. The Asset Management Report covered progress on Hifumi En, Orchard Vista, Chalice Place, Keystone Rehab, the Parsons elevator replacement, and the fire suppression project at Heritage Heights. The board discussed and approved updates to utility rates, changes in benefits provided to SHA employees, and updates to voucher payment standards. There was also a discussion on SHA's Strategic Plan priority around Relationships, including building stronger relationships with Landlords and business process improvements.

The meeting included recognition of Keith James for his service to the SHA Board. Updates were provided on voucher processing, Family Self Sufficiency program funding, and the Yardi conversion. Hifumi En development was discussed, including Housing Trust Funds and tax credits awarded in December. The board considered revisions to SHA’s Housing Choice Voucher Administrative Plan and approved out-of-region travel for conferences. An executive session was held to review a public employee's performance.

This document addresses racial and social injustice as a monumental barrier to SHA's mission of creating and sustaining quality affordable housing. It outlines a commitment to prioritizing racial and social justice by examining all organizational aspects through an equity lens. Key initiatives include establishing a SHA Equity and Social Justice Committee, adopting an agency Equity Plan, and providing regular staff training on equity, diversity, and inclusion. The plan aims to build understanding of racism's historical impacts, foster a supportive and inclusive working environment, promote empathy, and facilitate growth.

The meeting included announcements regarding the Zone Project receiving the Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners Mission in Action Award for 2021, and the upcoming Switzer Haven grand opening. The Executive Director reported on staff hiring and turnover, COVID restrictions, and a legal services request for proposal. Discussions covered the Emergency Housing Voucher program, the cohort #4 application, and the selection of BDS Planning and Urban Design for the agency's Strategic Planning process. The Development Director provided updates on the Daybreak site, University Road Site, Cedar West ADA enhancements, Volunteers of America -- Crosswalk Youth Shelter, and the Cornerstone, Pearl and Agnes Kehoe Place year 15 conversion of the partnership. The board approved Resolution #750 to approve Ecology Grant Funding.