Staff presented a discussion item (no vote) on issuing an RFP by March 2026 for project-based vouchers under the Bring It Home program, with awards expected in April/May. The HRA anticipates awarding up to 80 units total across two rounds (2026 and 2027), with priority for households at or below 50% area median income and families with children at or below 30% AMI. Commissioners debated prioritizing rehabilitation of existing NOAH properties versus new construction, and whether to prioritize larger family units.
Commissioner Wooten asked how the HRA vets prospective RFP applicants' ability to deliver services given recent state-level program shutdowns, including whether debarred or delicensed businesses are screened out. Staff confirmed checks include review of other funding awarded, track record on affordable projects, and screening against state and federal debarment lists.
Staff reported a sharp recent increase in requests for emergency rental assistance and said the City Council approved a walk-on item designating up to $350,000 in Local Affordable Housing Aid (LAHA) funds for this purpose, with $50,000 allocated immediately to VEAP. The HRA will administer the funds and bring a distribution framework back to the board.
The HRA's February 10 meeting will be its annual meeting, featuring an introduction of the new city manager and a 5:15 p.m. reception. Staff also flagged a tentative April 25 Home Fair (location TBD) and a possible joint meeting in March with City Council and Planning Commission on the 10-year comprehensive plan process.
Staff said a federal funding bill passed the House with a slight funding increase for most HRA programs (not enough to add vouchers, but enough to sustain current service levels); it has not yet passed the Senate, and a continuing resolution expires at the end of January. Staff noted HUD has continued voucher funding through past shutdowns and does not currently anticipate service disruption. A commissioner raised concerns about ICE funding reportedly bundled in the same bill.
In response to a commissioner question, staff confirmed demolition has begun this winter at the Heights project, with construction slated to start in spring 2026 and complete by the end of 2026.
