Agenda Information Sheet
DEPARTMENT: Community Development
CM/ ACM: John Cabrales, Jr.
Date: October 18, 2016
SUBJECT
Title
Receive a report and hold a discussion on the review of the housing programs and other activities carried out by the Denton Housing Authority (DHA).
Body
BACKGROUND
The Denton Housing Authority’s mission is to transform into a premier housing authority through honest and effective leadership by providing quality affordable housing and promoting programs that fosters economic independence to enhance the lives of our clients and enrich our communities.
The Denton Housing Authority (DHA) was formed in 1970 to address the housing needs of low-income families in the City of Denton. The Housing Authority is a quasi-governmental agency, in which the Mayor of the City of Denton appoints a five-member Board of Commissioners. The Board oversees the Authority and approves policy. They also hire the Chief Executive Officer, who is responsible for the daily operations of the agency.
DHA currently administers 1526 rental vouchers under the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This program allows families to rent property in the community and pay approximately 30% of their income towards their rent and utilities.
DHA administers a Section 8 Homeownership Program that allows voucher holders to own instead of renting a home.
There are over 3,000 families currently on our waiting list, and the wait time is now up to 2-3 years or longer. Our waiting list is currently closed.
We currently work with over 500 private landlords and apartment owners throughout Denton County.
DHA owns and operates an affordable senior property with 114 units, and has developed two Low-Income Tax Credit (LIHTC) properties in Denton with a combined 174 units. We are currently in development of 322 additional affordable units using the LIHTC and tax exempt bonds.
DHA has partnered with United Way of Denton County (UWDC) to build a new office building that provides office and meeting space for DHA client briefings, eligibility, and annual renewal appointments. Information regarding UWDC services and programs such as Bank On Denton, free tax preparation, a mentoring program, emergency and disaster planning, and other services will be provided.
DHA will be starting the Ready to Rent Program, which provides families with education and information on how to locate suitable homes in better opportunity neighborhoods.
DHA has also partnered with a local agency to assist voucher holders with security deposit and application fees while searching for available housing.
DHA has continued to provide housing and assistance for housing to the Denton community for over 45 years.
STRATEGIC PLAN RELATIONSHIP
The City of Denton’s Strategic Plan is an action-oriented road map that will help the City achieve its vision. The foundation for the plan is the five long-term Key Focus Areas (KFA): Organizational Excellence; Public Infrastructure; Economic Development; Safe, Livable, and Family-Friendly Community; and Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship. While individual items may support multiple KFAs, this specific City Council agenda item contributes most directly to the following KFA and goal:
Related Key Focus Area: Safe, Liveable & Family-Friendly Community
Related Goal: 4.5 Provide support to citizens in need through social service agencies and programs
EXHIBITS
Exhibit:- PowerPoint presentation.
Respectfully submitted:
Lancine Bentley
Community and Neighborhood Services Manager
Prepared by:
Barbara Ross
Community Development Manager