Auburn Forward Fall 2022

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - Cover

Auburn Forward

Fall 2022

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - From the CEO

Sharon N. Tolbert, Chief Executive Officer

Welcome to the Fall 2022 edition of the Auburn Forward! As we prepare to say goodbye to Summer, we welcome the Fall season that brings the anticipated football season, cooler temperatures, and the Thanksgiving holidays.

Summer has been eventful for our team! We added new staff, the Board approved the FYB2022 operating budgets, revised policies, and implemented the Career Incentive Program. AHA sponsored a Landlord Symposium, completed a risk assessment for our properties, implemented virtual initiatives, and hosted onsite Farmer's Markets in Auburn, LaFayette, and Roanoke. Staff and Commissioners attended the 2022 AAHRA Annual Conference and received two awards. Thank you to our team for your hard work during the previous quarter!

We anticipate the Fall season being as exciting as the Summer. To kick off Fall, AHA is looking forward to its Operation CommUNITY event that will be held on October 17th. Other initiatives include preparing a 2023 Low Income Housing Tax Credit application in hopes of redeveloping our Ridgecrest community, implementing Moving to Work flexibilities, and preparing for the FYE2022 audit. AHA anticipates offering its Housing Choice Voucher Homeownership Program by the end of the year.

As always, I want to thank the Board for entrusting me to continue to serve as the CEO of the Auburn Housing Authority and its managed agencies. Thank you to our community partners for your contributions as we strive to provide valuable services and resources to our families.

I hope that you find the Fall 2022 Auburn Forward edition to be a useful tool to communicate upcoming news, events, and more. For more information, please visit our website at www.auburnhousingauth.org and sign up for "News and More" to receive email and text notifications. Also, be sure to connect with us on social media!

As we enjoy the cool and crisp weather that comes with the Fall season, I hope that you stay safe and enjoy all the beauty this lovely season may bring.

Until next time, "please take care of yourself and each other."

Bountiful Blessings,

Sharon N. Tolbert, CEO

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - Commissioner's Corner

AHA is governed by a five-member Board of Commissioners, representing a cross-section of the community and appointed by the Mayor of the City of Auburn. One member must be a resident of an AHA property or program.

The Commissioners are responsible for overseeing the fiscal management of the agency and approving policies. Board members also appoint a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to administer the daily affairs of the housing authority.

Board meetings are held at noon on the last Tuesday of each month. The meeting date is subject to change.

Robert Smith,
Chairperson

Nolan Torbert, Sr.,
Vice Chairperson

Rene Waldrop,
Commissioner

Marguerite White,
Commissioner

Not Pictured Deborah Hand,
Resident Commissioner

AHA Board Meetings

Date: October 25th and November 29th
Time: 12:00 pm (CST)

Location: Auburn Housing Authority
931 Booker Street, Auburn, AL

The date, time, and location are subject to change.

Board Updates

During the last quarter, Robert Smith was re-elected Chairperson, and Nolan Torbert was re-elected Vice Chairperson. Both will serve in their respective positions from July 1, 2022 - June 30, 2023. The Board also approved the fiscal year beginning (FYB) 2022 operating budgets for Business Activity, HCV Programming, and the AHA Development LLC. Various policy revisions, grant awards, FYB2021 budget adjustments, and other action items were also approved.

Commissioners Deborah Hand, Marguerite White, and Nolan Torbert attended the 2022 AAHRA Annual Conference in Gulf Shores, AL. Commissioners participated in training sessions on Commissioner's roles and responsibilities, state laws impacting PHAs, conducting effective meetings, PHA financials, and more. Thank you to all Commissioners that took time out of your busy schedule to attend the conference.

Thank you to all Commissioners for your loyal and dedicated service to the AHA!

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - ACDC

Under Sharon Tolbert's leadership, the AHA Board of Commissioners approved the Auburn Community Development Corporation (ACDC) as a non-profit affiliate of the AHA on May 7, 2019.

ACDC's mission is "Empowering individuals and families by expanding affordable housing and economic opportunities in an effort to build vibrant neighborhoods and communities."

The ACDC has partnered with the City of Auburn to administer a Food Pantry at the Boykin Community Center. ACDC is also exploring affordable housing opportunities in an effort to expand housing for families in the Auburn community.

Sharon Tolbert, President

Marguerite White, Vice President

Rene Waldrop, Secretary/Treasurer

Robert Smith, Director

Nolan Torbert, Director

Not Pictured Deborah Hand, Director

ACDC Board Meetings

Date: October 25th and November 29th
Time: 1:00 pm (CST)

Location: Auburn Housing Authority
931 Booker Street, Auburn, AL

The date, time, and location are subject to change.

Board Updates

ACDC would like to thank the City of Auburn for its continued financial support of the Food Pantry. During the last fiscal year (July 2021 - June 2022), the Food Pantry had 1,156 visits and distributed 44,435 pounds of food.

Congratulations

Congratulations to Commissioner Nolan Torbert for receiving a Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award.

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - AAHRA Conference

Staff and Commissioners attended the 2022 Alabama Association of Housing and Redevelopment Authorities (AAHRA) Conference in Gulf Shores, AL, on August 22 - 24. Commissioners attended training sessions on Commissioner's roles and responsibilities, state laws impacting PHAs, conducting effective meetings, PHA financials, and more. Staff participated in various training sessions including but not limited to HUD reporting requirements, CFP, EPIC, and PHA Plans, CDBG/Section 108 funding, resident programs, asset repositioning, and more. All conference attendees thoroughly enjoyed the Scholarship Dinner and Awards Banquet.

The Auburn HA received the 2022 Best Practices Award (medium category) for the Food Pantry, and Roanoke HA was awarded the Best Practices Award (small category) for its Onsite Farmer's Market.

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - HR News

Retirement and Transfers

Tim Wright was hired on September 4, 2012, as RHA's Maintenance Mechanic, and retired on October 1, 2022, after 10 years of service.

Charlotte Bowen transferred to HCV Caseworker II (TBV) effective 9/19/22.

Employee Spotlight: Dominique Moore

Dominique Moore joined the AHA Team in November 2020 as the Property Manager. Having previous property management experience allowed her to hit the ground running. Dominique has a calm and friendly demeanor enabling her to work and assist all residents. She played a vital role in helping residents and Multi-Family Department navigate the Coronavirus Pandemic. Due to her hard work and dedication, she was recently promoted to Interim Property Management Supervisor. The AHA team is fortunate to have Dominique as a part of our team.

Staff Directory

Sandra Sanders Executive Admin Assistant 237 ssanders@auburnhousingauth.org

Housing Choice Voucher (HCV)

Wendy Cochran Chief Operating Officer 247 wcochran@auburnhousingauth.org

Shannon Walters HCV Manager 221 sbarrios@auburnhousingauth.org

Charlotte Bowen HCV Caseworker II 224 cbowen@auburnhousingauth.org

Stephine Carter HCV Caseworker I 217 scarter@auburnhousingauth.org

Rachel Harris Family Self Sufficiency Coordinator 259 rharris@auburnhousingauth.org

Multi-Family Housing (MFH)

Laura Squiers MFH Director 243 lsquiers@auburnhousingauth.org

Dominique Moore Property Manager 242 dmoore@auburnhousingauth.org

Greg Moore Regional Maintenance Manager 262 gmoore@auburnhousingauth.org

Tina Rodriguez Cashier/Receptionist 212 trodriguez@aubrunhousingauth.org

Finance

Wendy Cochran Chief Operating Officer 247 wcochran@auburnhousingauth.org

Richetta Stephens Procurement Officer 228 rstephens@auburnhousingauth.org

Sylvia Impson Purchasing Clerk 255 simpson@auburnhousingauth.org

Public Relations (PR) & Compliance

AJ Harris Director of PR & Compliance 210 ajharris@auburnhousingauth.org

Charlotte Mattox Resident Services Coordinator 230 cmattox@auburnhousingauth.org

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - HR News Continued

Office Closures

Veteran's Day (November 11)

Thanksgiving (November 23 - 24)

Christmas (December 26)

New Years (January 2)

Observed holidays that fall on Friday or Saturday will be observed on the preceding Thursday because the Housing Authority's office is closed on Friday. Observed holidays that fall on Sunday will be observed on the following Monday.

Careers

Current Openings

Maintenance Mechanic (RHA site)

Landlord Liaison

HCV Caseworker ll (PBV)

Visit www.auburnhousingauth.org/careers for job descriptions.

Employee Benefits:

BCBS medical benefits

BCBS dental benefits

Group life insurance

State retirement

Supplemental insurance

Annual leave

Sick leave

Paid holidays

Career Incentive Program (CIP)*

Four-day work week (Monday - Thursday)

*The Board of Commissioners approved the CIP in May 2022. The CIP encourages employees to obtain and develop job-related knowledge and skills which enhance their value to AHA and its managed agencies. To foster participation in higher-level career development opportunities, the CIP incentivizes employees to achieve various professional development milestones.

Procurement

E-Procurement Process

To improve our communication with our vendors, reduce administrative costs, and streamline our procurement process, AHA conducts most of its competitive solicitations on the e-Procurement Marketplace site. Please be advised that AHA absorbs all costs for using this Marketplace. Therefore, your firm incurs no additional charges to use this Marketplace site to respond to a published procurement solicitation.

To take part in the e-procurement process, please follow these instructions:
1. Visit ha.economicengine.com (no "www").
2. Registered Users - Click on the "login" button on the upper left side
3. Non-registered Users - Click on the "Sign up as a Vendor" button on the lower-left side of the screen and follow the listed directions to register.
4. Select - Auburn Housing Authority as your Agency
If you have any problems accessing or registering on the Marketplace, please contact their customer support at (866) 526-9266.

Benefits of utilizing e-Procurement include:
• Automatic notification of bid opportunities
• The ability to download procurement documents
• Automatic notification of addenda
• Access to procurement

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - Landlord Symposium

The Auburn Housing Authority (AHA) Team hosted a Landlord Symposium at the Auburn Chamber of Commerce on July 14th. The Landlord Symposium aimed to educate, recruit, and retain landlords for Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Tenant-Based Voucher (TBV) program. Thirty (30) individuals attended and were composed of current landlords, potential landlords, community partners, and other housing agencies. Attendees learned the HCV program basics, the HCV housing need, and the benefits of participating in the HCV program. Bill Benson (Alabama DHR), LeJasmine Gary (Veteran Affairs), and Andrea Harris (Alabama Rural Coalition for the Homeless) were in attendance to discuss specialized vouchers we work collaboratively to offer. AHA is committed to providing upward mobility opportunities to our residents/participants. We will continue to take actions that allow us to promote our programs to ensure we can provide opportunities that are accessible to all those we serve.

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - Awards & Accolades

2022 AAHRA Conference (state):
Best Practices Award (medium category): Food Pantry

2022 AAHRA Conference (state):
Best Practices Award (small category): Onsite Farmer's Market (RHA)

2022 NAHRO National Award of Merit (regional):
Administrative Innovation Award - Rebranding and Virtual Initiative

2022 SERC Award: Collaboration Award Category - Onsite Farmers Market

2022 HAI Group's Low Loss Award (national)
2022 HAI Loss Prevention Fund Award (national)

For a complete list of awards visit www.auburnhousingauth.org/awards.

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - Back to School Events

Our AHA youth celebrated the last days of summer in their various communities with a fun event filled with free food and back-to-school supplies!

AHA values our young residents. We hope these school supplies will help each of you start the school year strong. Education can provide you with opportunities to achieve whatever goals you desire in life. Continue to strive to achieve academic excellence. Please know that your AHA staff is here to assist you.

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - Auburn Police Back to School Event

Auburn Police Department (APD) collected school supplies leading up to National Night Out to benefit Auburn Housing Authority's (AHA) families. On August 8th, APD and AHA distributed school supplies and popsicles in the Ridgecrest community.

AHA appreciates our partnership with APD, and we are thankful for their commitment to serving our families and community.

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - Farmers Market

Auburn Housing Authority (AHA) partnered with the Food Bank of East Alabama to host a Farmers Market in the Moton community on July 22nd. Eighty-three (83) families throughout the community received fresh produce, fruits, juices, and more. AHA would like to give a special thanks to Target (Opelika Store) for allowing their team members to volunteer and assist the AHA team during the Farmers Market.

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - Food Pantry

Boykin Community Center Food Pantry is Open!

Providing free dry goods and other household items.

Open for Walk-ins at 400 Boykin St.

Tuesdays from 8-10 AM

Thursday from 2-4 PM

Schedule an appointment by calling 334.821.2262 ext. 208 or emailing foodpantry@auburnhousingauth.org.

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - Partner Spotlight

Lee County Literacy Coalition (LCLC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing adult literacy programs at no cost to the community. LCLC offers one-to-one tutoring, Family Literacy, ESL Book Club, Financial Literacy workshops, Digital & Workplace Literacy workshops, Health literacy workshops, and much more. Austin Pearson of LCLC gave a presentation to the AHA Team on the importance of identifying literacy needs and tips for dealing with literacy needs. LCLC provided AHA with a Pop-Up Library stationed in the AHA Admin Office. The Pop-Up Library is stocked with books for all ages. The books are free and can be kept or returned. AHA appreciates LCLC for its partnership and its service to the community.

For more information about LCLC, visit their website leecountyliteracy.org.

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - Landlord Corner

New Inspection Provider

Ozark Housing Development, Inc. (OHDI) was selected as the new inspection services provider for AHA. OHDI's mission of assuring decent, safe, and sanitary housing aligns perfectly with AHA.

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Address Change

If you move, remember to report your new address to our office in writing. Also report changes in anticipated changes of ownership as soon as possible. You must advise us before you sell the property rented to a voucher holder. There is paperwork that must be done to adjust ownership and rental assistance.

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Lease Renewal

Landlords: If you are entering into a new lease at the annual renewal, you must provide a copy of the new proposed lease prior to the tenant signing the lease. If you have questions about the program, don't guess, please call the Housing Choice Voucher Office Program (HCVP) at (334) 821-2262 ext. 217. Thank you for partnering with Auburn Housing Authority (AHA) to provide decent, safe, and sanitary housing for low income families.

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Safe Communities

Do you know what to do if you suspect fraud or criminal activity occurring at an HCVP assisted home? You can do your part to help keep your community safe by using the link below to report fraudulent or criminal activity.
www.auburnhousingauth.org/contact

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Domestic Violence

Did you know the HCVP has housing preferences for homeless families and victims of domestic violence? If you are being assisted by or receiving assistance from a homeless shelter and/or are a victim of domestic violence, you may qualify for additional points to be housed. The agency that is assisting you would only need to provide a letter verifying your need on their letterhead with a signature stating that you are being assisted by their agency. The letter needs to be faxed, mailed, or hand delivered by that agency to the HCVP office.

Report Changes

Participants of the HCV Program are required to submit all changes in writing within 10 calendar days. These changes may include loss of employment, new employment, updated phone numbers and emails and change in student status. Landlords who are aware of an unauthorized individual residing in the home should contact the HCVP Department immediately. Updating household information is vital to keeping your HCVP participation in good standing. The voucher size is based on household composition. Families receive deductions for dependents. It is very important to keep this updated.

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Emergency Rental Assistance Program

LANDLORDS: Are some of your tenants behind on their rent?

Emergency Rental Assistance Alabama is here to help. COVID-19 has affected residents across the state. The state has emergency funds available to help Alabama renters pay rent and utility bills (including past-due rent and utilities).

Visit eraalabama.com to learn more or to apply.

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Auburn Housing Authority would like to say Thank You to all our landlords. Landlords provide housing opportunities to our Tenant Based Voucher (TBV) program participants. Without our landlords' commitment and partnership, AHA would not be able to provide many of the services we offer.

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - HCV Programs

Tenant-Based Vouchers (TBV)

Auburn Housing Authority's (AHA) Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Tenant Based Voucher (TBV) Program allows low-income families to rent quality housing in the private market via federal funds provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Through the HCV Program, AHA pays a portion of eligible families' rent each month directly to the property owner. Families can use their vouchers to rent a house or apartment in the private market throughout Lee County, with the exception of the city limits of Opelika, AL.

Because there are more families who need rental assistance than there are funds available, AHA uses a waiting list to administer the program to eligible families.

Applicant families must meet the following eligibility requirements to qualify for the HCV Program:
• Meet HUD's definition of family
• Meet income limits specified by HUD
• Qualify on the basis of citizenship or eligible immigrant status
• Provide Social Security number
• Sign required consent forms
• Pass screening process

Currently, AHA's tenant-based voucher waiting list is closed. AHA will provide notice through a variety of media outlets when it reopens. To learn more contact Charlotte Bowen at 334-821-2262 ext. 224 or by e-mail at cbowen@auburnhousingauth.org.

Project-Based Vouchers (PBV)

PBV is similar to TBV. However, the differences between the two are that PBV assistance is tied to the unit, and once HCV determines eligibility, the applicant is referred to the PBV landlord to determine if the applicant is suitable for tenancy. The waitlist is currently open for bedroom sizes 3-5.

Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH)

The VASH program combines HUD's Housing Choice Voucher rental assistance for homeless Veterans with case management and clinical services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). VA provides these services for participating Veterans at VA medical centers (VAMCs), community-based outreach clinics (CBOCs), through VA contractors, or through other VA designated entities. If you are a Veteran and wish to utilize the VASH voucher, please contact the Central Alabama Health Care System (CAVHCS) at 334-727-0550 or 800-214-8387.

Mainstream Vouchers

Mainstream vouchers assist non-elderly persons with disabilities. Aside from serving a special population, Mainstream vouchers are administered using the same rules as other Housing Choice Vouchers. Funding and financial reporting for Mainstream vouchers are separate from the regular tenant-based voucher program. AHA's Mainstream waiting list is closed. AHA will provide notice through a variety of media outlets when it reopens.

Foster Youth to Independence Initiative (FYI)

HUD's FYI targets housing assistance to young people aging out of foster care and who are at extreme risk of experiencing homelessness. The initiative offers housing vouchers to local public housing authorities to prevent or end homelessness among young adults under the age of 25 who are, or have recently left, the foster care system without a home to go to. Eligible applicants must be referred to AHA by the Alabama Department of Human Resources. If you are a foster youth that is about to age out of foster care and wish to utilize the FYI voucher, please contact the Alabama Department of Human Resources at (334) 242-1310.

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - HCV Programs Continued

The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Homeownership Program allows families that are assisted under the Tenant-Based Voucher (TBV) program to use their voucher to buy a home and receive monthly assistance in meeting homeownership expenses.

The HCV Homeownership Program is available only to families that have been admitted to the TBV program. To participate in the HCV Homeownership Program, the HCV family must meet specific income and employment requirements (the employment requirement does not apply to elderly and disabled families), be a first-time homeowner as defined in the regulation, attend and satisfactorily complete the pre-assistance homeownership and housing counseling program required by AHA, and meet any additional eligibility requirements set by the AHA. If you are a current TBV participant and wish to utilize the homeownership program, please contact your caseworker.

Charlotte Bowen, HCV Caseworker II
Ph.: (334) 821-2262 ext. 224
Email: cbowen@auburnhousingauth.org

Rachel Harris, FSS Coordinator
Ph.: (334) 821-2262 ext. 259
Email: rharris@auburnhousingauth.org

The FSS program is a HUD workforce program offered to participant families. The goal of FSS is to assist participants to increase their income in order to decrease their reliance on housing subsidies. Because we recognize that true self-sufficiency means more than simply an increase in earned income, AHA's program focuses on all barriers.

The FSS Program provides participants with individualized case management, referrals to resources and services, educational workshops, and guidance in goal setting and achievement over a five-year period. The program is completely voluntary.

If you are interested in the FSS program, please contact the FSS Coordinator, Rachel Harris, at 334-821-2262 ext. 259 or by email at rharris@auburnhousingauth.org.

AHA was awarded 44 Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHVs) funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021 (Public Law No: 117-2). EHVs provide rental assistance for individuals and families who meet one of the following criteria:

Homeless, At the risk of homelessness, fleeing, or attempting to flee, domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking, or were recently homeless or have a high risk of housing instability.

EHVs help individuals and families find housing and remain stably housed long-term. Our agency has partnered with Alabama Rural Coalition for the Homeless (ARCH) to determine which individuals and families will be eligible to receive an EHV.

To be eligible for an EHV, an individual or family must meet one of the eligibility categories:

Lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence.

Has an income below 30 percent of median family income for the area as determined by HUD.

Reasonably believes that there is a threat of imminent harm in their current residence.

If you are an eligible individual or family and wish to utilize the EHV voucher, please contact Sabrina Betts at ARCH by calling 334-273-0668, and when prompted, select option 2.

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - Resident Corner

Resident Notice

The Auburn Housing Authority's (AHA) mission is to provide safe, decent and affordable housing for families. The AHA's Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program is funded by the federal government and AHA must comply with the Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) regulations and AHA's internal policies and procedures. AHA encourages families to comply with the following requirements to maintain their housing assistance.

a. Comply with your annual recertification requirements and submit the requested information by the deadline.

b. Report all changes in income and household composition.

c. Comply with your landlord's dwelling lease.

d. Comply with all written requests that are submitted by the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Department and forward the requested information by the deadline.

Not complying with the requirements above may result in the termination of your assistance or eviction. The list above is not all inclusive.

If you have questions about your HCV assistance, please contact the HCV Department at (334) 821-2262 option 5.

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Project-Based Voucher Case Management

Project-Based Voucher case management services are now being administered in-house. If you have questions or require information, please contact Charlotte Bowen, HCV Caseworker ll (PBV) at (334) 821-2262 ext. 224 or cbowen@auburnhousingauth.org.

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HCV Updates

Staff members are working to process interim for loss of wages and income decreases in the order received. Delays may occur. Please continue to report these changes by emailing your respective Caseworker.

-Participants are not required to report stimulus funding to AHA.
-However, you must request an extension before your voucher expires. Please contact nhall@auburnhousingauth.org with questions concerning your Tenant-Based Voucher (TBV).
-All transfer requests and vacate notices from current participants are being reviewed. HCV staff will contact participants and landlords to determine the next steps on a case-by-case basis.
-Issuance of new vouchers will resume. Briefings will be conducted via phone. An appointment letter will be sent to applicants with instructions.
-Landlords payments will continue to be processed without interruption.
-Current participants are still required to report all household income and composition changes. Please send emails to the respective caseworker.

-Available units known to AHA are listed under the Locations tab at www.auburnhousingauth.org.

If you have any questions, please contact the HCV Department at (334) 821-2262 option 5, or contact the caseworker assigned to your specific area of concern or voucher program.

Stephine Carter - Application & General Inquiries
Ext. 217 or by email at scarter@auburnhousingauth.org

Charlotte Bowen - Tenant-Based Vouchers (TBV), Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHV), Foster Youth Initiative (FYI), Veteran Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH), and Mainstream Vouchers
Ext. 224 or by email at cbowen@auburnhousingauth.org

Project Based Vouchers (PBV)
Ext. 217

Shannon Walters - HCV Manager
Ext. 221 or by email at sbarrios@auburnhousingauth.org

We are here to serve you!

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - HCV Notice

The Housing Choice Voucher Program is converting to an online system!

Auburn Housing Authority's Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program is converting to an online format for all applications and recertifications. All future applications and recertifications will be completed using the new online portal for HCV. The online portal will allow applicants and participants to enter their current information online and upload any documents needed directly through the portal. In addition, once HCV staff has completed processing the application or recertification, all required documents can be sent for signature and returned by email. The conversion to the online format will allow faster processing time and eliminate the need to schedule appointments for applicants or participants to meet with their case managers. We are attempting to streamline the online process to make things easier for our families and to provide the best service with quick response times.

Before the next scheduled recertification, all current HCV participants must register for an online tenant account if they have not already created one. To register for an online tenant account, participants can go to the following link: https://apps.auburnhousingauth.org/UserCreateAcct.aspx. After accessing the online portal at the link provided, select "TENANT" as the Registrant Type and complete the requested information to create the online account.

By registering for an online tenant account, participants can update family information for recertifications by answering the online questions and uploading the required documents using the document portal. Project-Based Voucher (PBV) holders can use the same online process to make rent payments or upload documents for the project managers.

If you or anyone in your family is a person with disabilities or requires a reasonable accommodation to fully utilize Auburn Housing Authority's programs and services, feel free to contact your assigned case manager or you may contact the HCV Department at (334) 821-2262, extension 217.

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - Resident Corner

Rent Payment

1) As of July 1, 2021, cash payments are no longer accepted. If you place your payment in drop box, please pay by check or money order. You may also pay by debit/credit card in person or online at apps.auburnhousingauth.org.

2) Late fees have been reinstated beginning with September 2021 rent. Please remember rent is due on the 1st and late after the 6th. If the 6th falls on a holiday or weekend, you will have until the end of the following business day to pay without penalty.

3) If you have a prior balance, please contact the property manager to set up a repayment agreement. For those that submitted an Authorization Form for consideration in the Emergency Rental Assistance Alabama (ERAA) program, please be sure to check your email for directions from ERAA on completing your application

Compliance Cameras

Compliance Cameras have been installed on the exterior of various units. The Compliance Cameras will allow AHA staff to better monitor properties and improve the level of service we provide to our residents. AHA staff will continue to evaluate and expand the Compliance Camera project. Contact the Director of Public Relations and Compliance, AJ Harris, via phone at 334-821-2262 ext. 210 or via e-mail at ajharris@auburnhousingauth.org for questions concerning the Compliance Cameras.

Rental Insurance

Residents are encouraged to obtain rental insurance. Rental insurance helps to protect your belongings after a covered loss.

Smoking Policy

Smoking is NOT permitted inside the unit. See the Smoke-Free Policy that's included as an addendum to your lease for more information.

Pet Policy

AHA Development LLC's Pet Policy is included within the Lease Addendum signed by all Residents. By signing, residents agreed to report all pets and pay deposits. Per the lease, AHA residents agree to:

"Not keep or allow dogs, cats, or any other animals or pets on the premises without the prior written consent of the Landlord and in accordance with the Landlord's Pet Policy. Residents are only allowed to keep common household pets in their units subject to the execution of the pet policy of the Landlord and proper execution of the Lease addendum for pets. Resident agrees to comply with the Pet Policy. Violation of the pet rules, as outlined in the lease addendum, will be grounds for removal of the pet, fines, termination of pet owner's tenancy, or both. Violation of this Paragraph shall be considered a serious violation of this lease;."

If you have a pet and have not notified the property manager, do so immediately. Failure to comply can lead to financial penalties and/or eviction. To request a copy or questions concerning the AHA's Pet Policy, contact Dominique Moore via phone at 334-821-2262 ext. 242 or via e-mail at dmoore@auburnhousingauth.org.

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - Resident Corner Continued

Policy Reminder

AHA is committed to providing all residents with safe, decent, and sanitary housing and ensuring that all residents have the right to peaceful enjoyment of their apartment. As a part of this commitment, AHA has implemented weekly property assessments. As a result, AHA requests residents' assistance in addressing frequent issues observed. (Please note all residents agree to abide by this policy upon signing a lease failure to do so can lead to fines and eviction.)

No parking on or driving across the grass is permitted at any time.
Before bringing a pet and/or service animal home, you must contact AHA's office. AHA has no pet visitation policy.
All smoke detectors inside the home must be operable. Residents should contact the office to request batteries for all beeping smoke detectors. Smoke detectors should not be tampered with, removed, disconnected, or covered.

Contact Interim Property Management Supervisor Dominique Moore via phone at 334-821-2262 ext. 242 or by e-mail at dmoore@auburnhousingauth.org.

Exterior and Groundskeeping

AHA is committed to providing an attractive environment for all our communities. Residents, please be reminded that:

All garbage and debris must be disposed of in the City of Auburn assigned garbage carts. No trash should accumulate on the grounds or porch of the apartment.

All garbage carts must be stored appropriately at the rear of the apartment. Garbage carts are allowed on the street the night before the scheduled pickup and returned to storage the next day.

All child(ren)/guests' conduct must be controlled to prevent damage to the interior and exterior of the apartment.

Roofs must be free of litter, sticks, and other debris.

Do not accumulate items on the porch, yard, or any other property premises.

Inoperable vehicles are not allowed in parking areas, sidewalks, or grass.

All bicycles and toys must be stored appropriately and not scattered around the yard.

All large items (sofas, mattresses, etc.) must not be on the curb earlier than one day before the scheduled City of Auburn garbage pickup.

For the safety of our residents and maintenance staff, effective immediately, residents will not be allowed in the vicinity of our maintenance staff while they are performing maintenance repairs inside of AHA units. Residents will be required to go into another room until all maintenance issues have been addressed. If you have any questions and/or concerns, please contact Director of Public Relations and Compliance AJ Harris via phone at 334-821-2262 ext. 210 or via e-mail at ajharris@auburnhousingauth.org.

Maintenance

An emergency work order will be completed within twenty-four (24) hours. If a situation is determined to not be an emergency, the resident will be informed that the request will be considered as "any other resident work order request". Normal work orders will be resolved within 3 business days. Emergency Work Orders are when the situation constitutes a serious threat to the life, safety, or health of resident(s) or staff; or the situation will cause serious damage to the property, property structure, or systems if not repaired within twenty-four (24) hours.

Examples of a work order emergency are:
-Broken exterior door lock
-Fire
-Loss of power - mechanical failure
-Broken water line
-Loose or falling ceiling
-No Heat (when the outside temperature is less than 35 degrees)

Please call to request a work order:

Greg Moore
Regional Maintenance Manager
Phone: (334) 821-2262 ext. 262

For Police and Fire Emergencies, dial 911

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - More Resident Corner

Curb Stopper Award

AHA is looking for residents with the best curb appeal. We invite you to decorate your front and back yard and porch for a chance to win a $50 gift, a yard sign, and a feature story in the quarterly newsletter. Awards will be given quarterly. The AHA Team will assess yards during the seasonal period and place signs in yards under consideration for the Quarterly AHA Curb Stopper Award. Winners will be announced via social media, website, and other available outlets at the end of the seasonal period.

The seasonal periods will be:
Fall - September - November
Winter - December - February
Spring - March - May
Summer - June - August

Eligible yards must:
-Comply with all AHA policies (Contact the AHA office to request copies)
-Include Front and Back yards and porches
-Get approval from the Property Manager before making any fundamental changes to the yard or building structure.

AHA encourages all residents to participate! Contact Interim Property Management Supervisor Dominique Moore via phone at 334-821-2262 ext. 242 and e-mail at dmoore@auburnhousingauth.org for questions concerning the AHA Curb Stopper Award Contest.

FREE Transportation Services Available for AHA Residents:

Need transportation to:
Job/Employment Training
Employment/Work
Drug Testing or Assessment Testing
Educational Courses for Job Training

To qualify for the Job Access & Reverse Commute Program:
You must be a current "low-income" resident of Auburn Housing Authority PBV or HCV and you must meet the requirements on the "Eligibility and Affirmation for TANF" form.

You may be able to qualify by a combination of the following three (3) criteria: your Size of Family Unit, Gross Monthly Income, and Gross Annual Income.

Residents who would like to receive FREE transportation assistance need to schedule an appointment with Charlotte Mattox to determine eligibility for this program by calling (334) 821-2262 ext. 230.

Internet Service

Public housing residents and Section 8 program participants are eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The program provides a discount of up to $30 per month towards internet service for eligible households. Households can also receive up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers if they contribute between $10 and $50 toward the purchase price.

To enroll in the program, a household has to do the following:
1. Complete an online or mail‐in application at ACPBenefit.org; and
2. Contact a participating provider to select an internet plan and have the ACP discount applied.

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - RAB

Dedicated Board Members Wanted!

The Resident Advisory Board (RAB) members work with the housing authority team to provide feedback, make suggestions, and represent the community at various events.

Member Characteristics

The Resident Advisory Board (RAB) is composed of residents and program participants who want to be community leaders.

Desire to make a difference in your community

Wish to engage with other members of your community

Wish to engage with housing authority team members

Have a lot of ideas that you want to share

Desire to be an active community leader

Desire to be more actively engaged in your community

Love working on a team

Requirements

Must be in good standing with the Housing Authority

Available to attend Monthly Meetings and represent the authority at events

Commit to making an impact in their community

Express Interest

To apply Complete, the Resident Advisory Board Interest Application.

Contact Resident Services Coordinator Charlotte Mattox at 334-821-2262 ext. 230 with any questions.

Auburn Forward Fall 2022 - Basketball Flyer

Calling All Ballers & Cheerleaders!

Auburn Housing Authority is organizing basketball teams and cheer squads to compete in the 2023 SERC-NAHRO MLK Basketball Tournament and Cheer competition held in Goldsboro, NC, January 13 - January 15, 2023.

Teams will compete in divisions 18 and under, 15 and under, or 12 and under.

To Be Eligible:
You must be served by AHA (PBV or TBV) or a member of Auburn Boys and Girls Club
18 or younger as of January 13, 2023
Must be enrolled in school or an approved GED program.
Have a C or better average or enrolled in a tutoring program
Cannot be a member of the Auburn City Schools' Basketball Team

If interested, please contact
AJ Harris by phone at 334-821-2262 ext. 210 or by e-mail at ajharris@auburnhousingauth.org by September 28, 2022.

CDC Guidelines will be followed.