Annual Report of the Brattleboro Housing Authority
2008
· Awarding
of the Thomas C. Yahn Housing Leadership Award to Betty Elwell.
Tom presented Betty with the award first given to him in 2007.
Tom noted that the Award was to recognize someone who not only demonstrated a long term commitment to affordable housing but also
to those who live in affordable housing throughout the County. “I am honored to be recognizing someone so in tune with the spirit
and intent of this award and so well deserving of this recognition.” Tom recognized Betty’s sucessful career as a Director of the
Brattleboro and Springfield State Health Department offices and her long service to the Brattleboro Reformer Christmas Stocking which
she chairs. Betty is also a former Commissioner of the Brattleboro Housing Authority serves on its non-profit Board and has been very
involved in the work to create affordable assisted living in the community. She is a co-founder and Board member of the Aids Project
of Southern Vermont and serves as a Town Meeting Member. Betty is also very involved in the life and ministries at St. Michael's Episcopal
Church.
BHA Mission and Values Statement
To ensure the provision of quality affordable housing opportunities in viable communities for
lower income households
The Authority and each staff member are guided in their activities by values of: open and honest communication,
respectfulness, integrity, fairness, and responsibility. The collective well being of each neighborhood is of paramount importance
in our deliberations and decision-making.
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.
We are the housing administrator for the Shelter Plus Care Program.
Resident Relations, Services and Involvement
Goal: To continue to build partnerships with residents, involving them in every
aspect of BHA business to the extent they are willing an able.
Continue to strive for a safe and secure environment in
BHA housing developments.
