Houston Housing Authority Grapples with Oversight Issues, $2.7 Million in Uncollected Fees Uncovered
Amid an ongoing scrutiny of Houston's approach to handling affordable housing, the Houston Housing Authority (HHA) has faced questions over its tax incentive programs. A recent internal audit, as reported by the Houston Chronicle, has revealed significant gaps in oversight, including a startling $2.7 million in uncollected fees from developers. HHA President David Northern has assured that the agency's projects now comply with affordability requirements and developers have settled their dues.
Despite these challenges, officials seek to defend and advocate for the potency of public facility corporations (PFCs). "This is the most effective tool I've seen in my thirty-year housing career," Northern told the Houston Chronicle. Yet, experts and city residents continue to critically appraise whether these efforts are enough to robustly support those most in need, particularly as a mere 1% of the units created to serve the lowest income bracket.
The Houston Housing and Affordability Committee deliberated over a proposal to redirect $20 million from a $50 million grant aimed at assisting homeowners affected by the 2021 Texas freeze. However, as detailed by ABC13, this proposal was later dropped after reconsideration of community interests.
The freezing episode, which wrought havoc on over 50,000 homeowners, stands as a stark reminder of the vulnerability within Houston's housing landscape. "Houstonians have waited. Houstonians have been patient in waiting to get help," Houstonian Marla Lewis told ABC13, encapsulating the sentiment of many residents still grappling with the storm's aftermath. Transparency in the allocation of funds is a pressing concern, underscored by Houston Council Member Tiffany Thomas's insistence on integrity with stated intentions for financial relief.
Welcome to Billionaire Club Co LLC, your gateway to a brand-new social media experience! Sign up today and dive into over 10,000 fresh daily articles and videos curated just for your enjoyment. Enjoy the ad free experience, unlimited content interactions, and get that coveted blue check verification—all for just $1 a month!
Account Frozen
Your account is frozen. You can still view content but cannot interact with it.
Please go to your settings to update your account status.
Open Profile Settings