Auburn Forward Winter 2023
Auburn Forward Winter 2023 - Cover
Auburn Forward
Winter 2023
Auburn Forward Winter 2023 - From the CEO
Sharon N. Tolbert, Chief Executive Officer
Welcome to the Winter 2023 edition of the Auburn Forward! I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Fall 2022 was fun, festive, and busy for our team! During the Thanksgiving holidays, the Auburn Housing Authority (AHA) partnered with the City of Auburn and the East Alabama Food Bank to host an onsite Farmer's Market on November 22, 2022; 150 families were served. The Christmas Farmer's Market was held on December 20, 2022; 131 families were served. Thank you to the City of Auburn and the Food Bank for your continued support.
During the last quarter, our team was busy preparing for the FYE2022 audit. I commend our team for a successful audit and their hard work and dedication throughout the fiscal year. After the audit, our team and the Board of Commissioners had our first Iron Bowl Tailgate and enjoyed food, games, and fellowship.
To close out 2022, Commissioners, Resident Advisory Board members, staff, and guests attended AHA's Annual Christmas Luncheon on December 15th. We reflected on 2022 accomplishments, shared a delicious meal, recognized Commissioner and staff anniversaries and accomplishments, shared laughter during "Dirty Santa," and much more!
We anticipate 2023 to be as eventful as 2022, but our team is up for the challenge. During Winter 2023, our team will draft AHA's HUD FYB2023 Annual Plan, conduct resident meetings to implement MTW flexibilities, and the FYE2022 audit will be submitted to HUD for review and approval. The HCV Department will test the online portal for annual and interim recertification.
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 Winter 2023 Auburn Forward edition a valuable 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!
Wishing everyone a safe, healthy, and prosperous 2023! "Please take care of yourself and each other."
Bountiful Blessings,
Sharon N. Tolbert, CEO
Auburn Forward Winter 2023 - 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,
ChairpersonNolan Torbert, Sr.,
Vice ChairpersonRene Waldrop,
CommissionerMarguerite White,
CommissionerNot Pictured Deborah Hand,
Resident Commissioner
Board Updates
During the last quarter, the Board approved the FYB2021 Annual Action Plan End of the Year Report and the FYB2022 Annual Action Plan.
The reports are available for review at the link https://www.auburnhousingauth.org/aha-strategic-plan.
The 2023 HCV Payment Standards, tenant write-offs, and other action items were also approved.
Thank you to all Commissioners for your loyal and dedicated service to the AHA! Special thank you to the Commissioners that volunteered at the onsite Thanksgiving and Christmas Farmer's Market and those that attended the Iron Bowl Tailgate!
Commissioner Anniversaries (5-year increments)
Commissioner Deborah Hand: 5 years (January 2017)
Commissioner Marguerite White: 5 years (May 2017)
AHA Board Meetings
Date: Jan 31st, Feb 28th, & March 28th
Time: 12:00 pm (CST)
Location: Auburn Housing Authority
931 Booker Street, Auburn, AL
The date, time, and location are subject to change.
Auburn Forward Winter 2023 - 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
Board Updates
ACDC would like to thank the City of Auburn for its continued financial support of the Food Pantry. Below is an overview of the Food Pantry's performance for FYB2022 (July 2022 - June 2023).
Outcome July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec # Visits 121 159 120 138 140 136 Pounds 4641 6104 4792 5175 5586 4593 Four (4) emergency food boxes were distributed in November, and thirty-two (32) boxes were distributed in December.
The ACDC partnered with the East Alabama Food Bank to offer onsite holiday Farmer's Markets at the Auburn, LaFayette, and Roanoke Housing Authorities. The Farmer's Markets provided free fresh produce to 307 families during the Thanksgiving holidays, and 274 families were assisted for Christmas.
ACDC Board Meetings
Date: Jan 31st, Feb 28th, & March 28th
Time: 1:00 pm (CST)
Location: Auburn Housing Authority
931 Booker Street, Auburn, AL
The date, time, and location are subject to change.
Auburn Forward Winter 2023 - Annual Employee Meeting
AHA had its Annual Employee Meeting at the Boykin Community Center on October 27, 2022. The staff enjoyed breakfast catered by Byron's Smokehouse.
During the meeting, the CEO discussed fulfilling the agency's mission and vision statements, FYE2022 updates, FYE2023 goals and objectives, employee recognitions, and more.
Executive Management Team Finance Team HCV Team Multifamily Housing Team Resident Services Team
Auburn Forward Winter 2023 - iron Bowl Tailgate
Employees and Commissioners wore their favorite team colors during our Iron Bowl Tailgate.
We enjoyed food, games, and music as we celebrated the Auburn vs. Alabama football game!
View the full photo gallery on our website.
Auburn Forward Winter 2023 - Christmas Luncheon
Commissioners, Resident Advisory Board, employees, and guests gathered to enjoy great food and fellowship during the 2022 Christmas Luncheon.
Many were recognized for various achievements, an update was provided on 2022 accomplishments, and we all shared many laughs during Dirty Santa.
View the full photo gallery on our website.
Auburn Forward Winter 2023 - HR News
New Team Member
Todd James
HCV Caseworker ll - PBV (10.24.22)
Transfers
Richetta Stephens, Business Activity Specialist (11.07.22) Employee Anniversaries
Shannon Walters
HCV Manager
(20 years)
Beth Redding
Property Manager l - RHA (10 years)
Farewell to AJ Harris
AJ's last day of employment with the AHA was on November 4, 2022. He was an important part of our team for the past three years. Wishing AJ the best in his new role at the Boys and Girls Club! Employee Spotlight: Shannon Walters
Congratulations to Shannon Walters on celebrating 20 years of employment with the Auburn Housing Authority (AHA)! Shannon was hired on April 2, 2002, as the Public Housing Coordinator. She is a loyal and dedicated team player. Shannon has worn many hats and served in different capacities, including Public Housing, Property Management, and the HCV Program. She was promoted to her current position as the HCV Manager in 2021 and received her HCV Specialist Certification in June 2022. Shannon manages the daily operations of the HCV Department overseeing and implementing various initiatives with the HCV Program. Shannon's broad experience makes her a tremendous asset to AHA and its managed Agencies. We look forward to her continued leadership and contributions to the HCV Department!
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
Rachel Harris Family Self-Sufficiency Coordinator 259
Multifamily Housing (MFH) Laura Squiers MFH Director 243 lsquiers@auburnhousingauth.org
Dominique Moore Interim Property Management Supervisor 242
Greg Moore Regional Maintenance Manager
262
Tina Rodriguez Cashier/Receptionist 212 trodriguez@auburnhousingauth.org
Charlotte Mattox Resident Services Coordinator 230
Finance Wendy Cochran Chief Operating Officer 247 wcochran@auburnhousingauth.org
Richetta Stephens Business Activity Specialist 228 rstephens@auburnhousingauth.org
Sylvia Impson Purchasing Clerk 255
Auburn Forward Winter 2023 - HR News Continued
Office Closures
- Dr. Martin Luther King Day (January 16)
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 Asst. (LHA site)
- Maintenance Mechanic (RHA site)
- HCV Landlord Liaison
- Procurement Specialist
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 Winter 2023 - Operation CommUNITY
AHA hosted its Operation CommUNITY event on October 17th. The event was about unifying the community and developing new relationships. It was free and open to the public.
Community partners were available and provided helpful information regarding resources, programs, and services. Attendees were able to meet and interact with local public safety and community officials.
All enjoyed food, games, fellowship, and the live DJ.
View the full photo gallery on our website.
Auburn Forward Winter 2023 - Senior Luncheon
Our seniors enjoyed great food and fellowship during their Christmas Luncheon at Cracker Barrel on December 14th.
Auburn Forward Winter 2023 - Holiday Farmers Market
AHA sponsored an onsite Thanksgiving Farmer's Market in the Ridgecrest community on November 22, 2022; 150 families attended. The Christmas Farmer's Market was held at the Boykin Community Center on December 20, 2022; 131 families were served. Both events provided fresh fruits and vegetables, canned goods, frozen meals, juices, pastries, and more.
AHA sponsored the event in partnership with the East Alabama Food Bank. The Farmer's Markets were funded by the City of Auburn's CDBG Program. With the help of volunteers from AHA staff and Commissioners, Target, and community volunteers the Farmers Market was a success. Thank you to our partners and volunteers for helping us to provide this wonderful service to our community!
Auburn Forward Winter 2023 - 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 Winter 2023 - Scholarships
PHADA has implemented a scholarship program for graduating seniors who are preparing to enter college. Applications for the 2023 Scholarship Program Are Due to PHADA by January 27, 2023.
HAI Group's 2023 Resident Scholarship Program will launch on Monday, February 6, 2023. To be eligible, you also must be attending an institution of higher education in the Fall of 2023.
The NAHRO Merit College Scholarship awards $1,000 each to eight scholars, one from each NAHRO region, who are pursuing their first post-secondary degree.
Additional scholarships are available.
Learn more about these and other scholarships at www.auburnhousingauth.org/college-resources.
Scholarship Fair
High School Seniors, Parents, and Students enrolled in college are invited to the upcoming Scholarship Fair to learn about scholarships offered to our housing residents.
Thursday, January 19th from 3-4 PM
Porter Community Center
415 White Street, Auburn, AL 36832
for questions, please contact charlotte Mattox at 334-329-5010.
Auburn Forward Winter 2023 - 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---
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
As of December 2022, the temporary COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Alabama (ERA Alabama) Program has distributed nearly all available funding provided by the U.S. Treasury. ERA Alabama is no longer accepting any new applications or new additional funds requests,
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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 Winter 2023 - 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 processCurrently, 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 Winter 2023 - 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.orgRachel Harris, FSS Coordinator
Ph.: (334) 821-2262 ext. 259
Email: rharris@auburnhousingauth.org
Now that it's the New Year, many of you will start to set New Year's resolutions or just goals for 2023. As you think about your plan for 2023, remember that the FSS Program is here to help you succeed! The FSS Coordinator is so excited to work with you and help you set goals and overcome any obstacles you have in achieving your dreams.
The FSS Program is open to anyone receiving a voucher from AHA. Through the FSS Program, you will set goals, access community resources, create an escrow account (savings account), and receive encouragement and support from the coordinator! Maybe you have wanted to achieve more in life but haven't known where to start - now is the time to contact FSS Coordinator Rachel Harris, through email at rharris@auburnhousingauth.org or by phone at (334) 821-2262 ext 259.
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 Winter 2023 - 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.
HCV Updates
Effective January 18, 2023, the HCV Department will close to the public on Wednesdays at 12 pm. The AHA office will remain open to the public.
Project-Based Voucher case management services are now being administered in-house. If you have questions or require information, please call Mr. Todd James, PBV Case Manager II (PBV) at (334) 821-2262 ext. 267 or tjames@auburnhousingauth.org.
- 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.
- Please contact cbowen@auburnhousingauth.org with requests to extend your Tenant-Based Voucher (TBV). The request must be done in writing prior to the voucher expiring.
- Issuance of new vouchers will resume.
- HCV Department is currently testing the online portal for annual and interim recertifications. Please make sure you create a login and account on the website at www.auburnhousingauth.org.
- Briefings will continue to be conducted via phone. An appointment letter will be emailed to applicants with instructions.
- Available units known to AHA are listed under the Locations tab at www.auburnhousingauth.org.
If you have 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.
- Application & General Inquiries Ext. 217.
- 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.
- Todd James: Project-Based Vouchers (PBV)
Ext. 267 or by email at tjames@auburnhousingauth.org.
- Shannon Walters - HCV Manager
Ext. 221 or by email at sbarrios@auburnhousingauth.org.
Emergency Rental Assistance Alabama (ERAA)
Effective December 15, 2022, new ERAA applications will no longer be accepted. Further, additional funds cannot be requested for existing applications. If you have questions, please contact the following:
Laura Squiers, Multifamily Housing Director
Email: lsquiers@auburnhouisngauth.org, Phone: (334) 821-2262 ext 243
Auburn Forward Winter 2023 - 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 of Auburn Housing Authority's Tenant-Based Voucher Program or residing in the Project-Based Voucher units located in Auburn can go to the following link: https://apps.auburnhousingauth.org/UserCreateAcct.aspx.
- Participants residing in the Project-Based Voucher units located in Lafayette can go to the following link: https://lha.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 Winter 2023 - Resident News
Public Hearings & Resident Meetings
MTW Flexibilities/Supplement and HCV Admin Plan Revision
Date: March 9, 2023
Time: 3:00 pm
Location: Auburn Housing Authority, 931 Booker Street, Auburn, AL
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HUD FYB2023 Annual Plan, MTW Flexibilities/Supplement, and HCVAdmin Plan Revision
Date: March 21, 2023
Time: 10 am CT
Location: Auburn Housing Authority, 931 Booker Street, Auburn, AL
Surveillance Cameras
Surveillance cameras have been installed on the exterior of various units. The cameras will allow AHA staff to monitor properties better and improve the level of service we provide to our residents. AHA staff will continue to evaluate and expand the camera project.
If you have questions, contact Laura Squiers, Multifamily Housing Director, at (334) 821-2262 ext. 243 or lsquiers@auburnhousingauth.org.
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.
Rent Payment
Beginning December 29, 2022, ALL locations will stop taking rent at 4:30 p.m. on the last business day of each month.
Housekeeping Workshop
Tuesday, January 17th - 10:00 am
Porter Community Center
415 White St., Auburn, AL
Have you ever spent the whole day trying to clean your house to find your home messier at the end of the day for lack of organization? Join us and learn housekeeping techniques to make housekeeping more enjoyable!
Auburn Forward Winter 2023 - Drug and Crime Eviction Policy
Auburn Forward Winter 2023 - Resident News 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. 262For Police and Fire Emergencies, dial 911
Auburn Forward Winter 2023 - More Resident News
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 - AugustEligible 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 TrainingTo 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.
Family Literacy via Lee County Literacy Coalition
We are excited to be hosting our Family Literacy Program once again! All families and children are invited to participate. The first session will be held January 19, 2023, at the Frank Brown Recreation Center (235 Opelika Rd., Auburn, AL 36830), from 6:00 - 8:00pm. Dinner will be served! For more information and registration, please follow the link to our website.
https://www.leecountyliteracy.org/familyliteracy. If you have any questions, please call us at 334-705-0001 or email austin@leecountyliteracy.org. We cannot wait to see everyone!
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 Winter 2023 - Resident Advisory Board Member Flyer
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.