Peoria Housing Authority Observer Report

​A quorum was present at the monthly meeting of PHA Board of Commissioners.  Two topics for community concern included one resident with issue of mistaken identity affecting her status with PHA and Rhonda Sexton, union bargaining representative, regarding employee contract issues related to Taft redevelopment.
Two residents of PHA completed Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) Program that enables them to increase their income and reduce reliance on welfare and rental assistance.  Both are in process of purchasing a home for their family. 
Jackie Newman, Executive Director of PHA, gave overview of Taft redevelopment project status.  The new housing development will be names Provident Pointe, with ground breaking scheduled on October 6.  Reports to Board were approved by consent agenda.  A resolution was approved to accept revisions to Administrative and Occupant Plan which will change eligibility to allow persons without crime record in past six months to apply for housing, as well as maintaining records of denial for review by state Criminal Justice Board.
Kadar Hefner announced selection of CEO search firm, Organizational Leadership Edge, to find applicants for PHA Executive Director position.  Board approved this action.  Resolution passed to approve FY2022-2026 5 Year Plan and FY 2022 Annual Agency Plan which are posted on PHA website.  The 5 Year plan has 45-day public comment period.
The Board discussed current lack of Resident Councils at PHA sites and effort to promote these.  Latasha Perry, Board member, cited the benefits of these to address common issues and share information with residents.  Councils have rules process and elections to elect residents to individual council.
Board adjourned for closed session to discuss collective bargaining issue.
Connie Romanus, Observer