The first official meeting of the new Housing Authority Board was held this week, and new policies are already in the works for the entity.
Chairman Danny Neely said the Housing Board is looking to make a few changes when it comes to operational hours, vehicle use, financial records and public input.
“The new board simply wants to create and implement a better and effective policy for all our employees and for the community,” Neely said. “We really just want to get back to the policies and laws of HUD (the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development).”
Neely said the Housing Board wants to create “an open-door policy” for its staff.
“I believe we are in the right direction,” he said.
Neely also said new operational hours could be in the future for the Housing Authority. Currently, the Housing Authority’s main office is open on Monday through Fridays from 7 a.m. until 4 p.m. The office is closed during its lunch hour.
“We are looking at changing the hours so tenants can come during lunch time,” Neely said. “Some tenants have to pay their rent during their lunch hours.”
For traveling purposes with staff members, Neely said the Housing Board is considering implementing a new policy surrounding Housing vehicles.
“We want to only provide millage and meals if you use a company vehicle,” he said. “If you choose to drive your personal vehicle, you cannot expect to receive millage. The company vehicles are to be used for company business.”
Neely said the new Housing Authority Board also expects more detailed statements when it comes to credit cards, checks and balances with its financial records.
“We are asking for more details of statements to assure we are approving what really needs to be approved,” Neely said.
Public comments during the Housing Authority Board meetings are also being considered, Neely said. Although housing tenants may have to follow a different procedure, the general public could have an opportunity to address the board in the future. In the past, public participation at the Housing Authority Board meetings has not been allowed.
“It will take some time, but with our new commissioners, I am sure we are heading in the right direction,” Neely said.
