Complete modernization of the elevators at the Samuel Elliot Apartments
New electric ranges at SEA
New playground
for tots at Ledgewood Heights with other playground improvements.
Replacement of 3 transformers, conduit and electrical lines following
a lightning strike.
New crosswalks were identified by the residents and painted by the Town at Hayes Court and Melrose Terrace.
The main office is undergoing expansion.
New site identification sign at Hayes Court.
A new emergency 911 telephone was installed in the Hayes Community Room.
All front and back doors were replaced at Moore Court.
· Hiring of an in house Finance Manager as the final action needed to fully
implement
HUD’s system of asset management.
· Reduced turnover and vacancy days by 60%.
· Publication and distribution of a new brochure on BHA and its programs.
· Welcomed
Anna Duca and Mary Houghton to the staff.
There are over 700 adults and 250 youth assisted through our various programs. The housing we own and the Section 8 rental vouchers
are programs administered in accordance with the rather extensive regulations of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Our funding comes primarily from HUD and rental income.
Section 8 had another difficult financial year as HUD continued
to tinker with the funding system. Last year we reported that the funding had stabilized and we were able to distribute many rental
vouchers to those on our waiting list. Unfortunately, this year we had to close the list and no vouchers were distributed at
all. We were able to raise the minimum payment standard and permit increases in the amount we pay in support of our participants.
In
addition to administering the regular Section 8 Program and the innovative Pathways to Housing Program, we continued to provide the
housing administration for the Shelter Plus Care Program. This Program provides case management from one of three local service agencies
and a housing certificate to homeless individuals and a limited number of families with certain chronic disabilities. The Shelter
Plus Care Program continues to be at capacity and very active and successful in providing support and housing to its twenty participants.
Through the close working relationship our Section 8 staff has built with area landlords, we are able to be of significant assistance
to those looking for apartments in our service area. (The service area includes Brattleboro, Vernon, Guilford, Halifax, Marlboro,
Newfane, Brookline, Putney and Dummerston.)Though Brattleboro is notorious for its challenging rental housing market, we, and our
partner human service agencies, are able to house our program participants generally within 45 to 60 days. This is a testament to
the cooperation and collaboration of all involved.
What we do:
Public Housing: BHA owns and operates 284 units of subsidized housing for low-income families, the elderly and persons
with disabilities.
Section 8: We also provide housing financial assistance through 182 rental vouchers for use in the private
market.
And we now offer increased housing assistance through creation of the Pathways to Housing Program and increased apartment
search assistance.