Peoria Housing Authority Observer Report

 A quorum of the Board of Commisioners of PHA was present.  Jackie McGavin, Housing Voucher Specialist, was introduced as new employee.  Jackie Newman, CEO reported staff continuing to complete HUD required documents to meet deadline for financing of Taft redevelopment project this month.  The next phase will be demolition of existing structures prior to start of new construction of homes.  PHA staff continue to meet with local building trades and training of eligible residents for project.
Chairman Cannon asked Lt. McCall, Security Chief, to report on incident that occurred near Taft location in early hours past weekend resulting in gunshots in area.  Concerns expressed over coverage hours of security staff contracted by PHA, as well as proximity of liquor store nearby.  Current security staff shift ends at 1:00 A.M.  Lt. McCall to report back on issue. 
During Community Comments, two residents of River West complex shared concerns regarding disruptive behavior of non-residents, gunshots in area and litter.  Safety issues included recent incident of 15 youths walking through complex, kicking in doors, threatening behavior. They also expressed concerns about lack of lighting in area between buildings. Chairman Cannon responded that he would work with PHA staff and Security  to investigate this issue and identify strategies to manage issue.   Chair Cannon will also meet with new Peoria City Police Chief.  CEO Newman encouraged residents to call local police for incidents.
In other business, the Board approved updates to PHA Board Policy Manual to be compliant with Illinois and Federal law regarding asking residents about income status and hours worked.   Collection loss write-off of $32.172 for uncollectable rent payments.  CEO Search Committee will be reviewing vendors for applicants.
The next regular meeting will be Tuesday, September 7, 2021 at 4:30 P.M.

Connie Romanus, Observer