Auburn Forward Spring 2023
Auburn Forward Spring 2023 - Cover
Auburn Forward
Spring 2023
Auburn Forward Spring 2023 - From the CEO
Sharon N. Tolbert, Chief Executive Officer
Welcome to the Spring 2023 edition of the Auburn Forward! Spring is in the air...
Winter 2023 was an eventful quarter. The Auburn Housing Authority (AHA), along with its co-developer, The Michaels Organization, continued to work on the 9% Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) application for the anticipated 2023 funding cycle. The desire is to utilize LIHTC to fund (along with other funding sources) the proposed Ridgecrest redevelopment. Also, during the Winter quarter, the FYE2022 audit was presented to the Board of Commissioners, AHA drafted its FYB2023 HUD Annual Plan and Moving to Work (MTW) Supplement, AHA welcomed three (3) new Resident Advisory Board members, our team compiled the 2023 Community Resource Directory, AHA sponsored a table at the 2023 MLK Scholarship Breakfast, and more. I want to thank our team for their hard work during Winter 2023!
Good things are in store for Spring! Upon HUD's approval, our team plans to implement Housing Choice Voucher MTW flexibilities, submit the LIHTC application to fund the proposed Ridgecrest redevelopment, prepare for the 2023 Summer Feeding Program, close FYE2023, submit the FYE2024 operating budget, revise applicable policies, install additional streetlights at all sites, and other applicable goals and objectives.
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 Spring 2023 Auburn Forward edition to be 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!
As we end the Winter season and start Spring, make sure to slow down and smell the roses. As always, "Please take care of yourself and each other."
.Bountiful Blessings,
Sharon N. Tolbert, CEO
Auburn Forward Spring 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. Thank you to all Commissioners for your loyal and dedicated service to the AHA!
Robert Smith,
ChairpersonNolan Torbert, Sr.,
Vice ChairpersonRene Waldrop,
CommissionerMarguerite White,
CommissionerNot Pictured Deborah Hand,
Resident Commissioner
Board Updates
During the previous quarter (January - March 2023), the Board approved the 2023 utility allowance schedule, 2023 FSS grant award, tenant write-offs, FYB2023 HUD Annual Plan and MTW Supplement, and other action items.
Commissioners Nolan Torbert and Barbara Leverett (LaFayette HA) attended the 2023 PHADA Commissioner's Conference in Orlando, FL in January 2023. The Commissioners attended numerous sessions related to their respective areas of responsibility.
Commissioners Nolan Torbert, Marguerite White, and Barbara Leverett (LaFayette HA) attended the 2023 NAHRO Washington Conference in Washington, DC in March 2023. The Commissioners attended numerous training sessions and met with various Congressional leaders to express the needs of Public Housing Authorities (PHA).
Thank you to all Commissioners for taking time out of your busy schedule to attend conferences during the Winter quarter.
AHA Board Meetings
Date: May 30th and June 27th
Time: 12:00 pm (CST)
Location: Auburn Housing Authority
931 Booker Street, Auburn, AL
*The Board will not meet in April due to schedule conflicts; however, there may be a Special Meeting if there are time-sensitive action items that require the Board's approval. The date, time, and location are subject to change.
Auburn Forward Spring 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 Jan Feb March #Visits 121 159 120 138 140 136 170 174 191 Pounds 4641 6104 4792 5175 5586 4593 6982 6927 8199
Fifteen (15) emergency food boxes were distributed in January - March 2023, and 378 pounds of food was distributed. Ninety-seven (97) households were provided food during special outreach events, where 518 pounds of food was distributed.
Food Pantry @ 400 Boykin St.
Tuesdays from 8-10 am
Thursdays from 2-4 pm
Volunteers are needed. To express interest call
334-821-2262 ext. 208 or email foodpantry@auburnhousingauth.org.
ACDC Meetings
Date: May 30th and June 27th
Time: 1:00 pm (CST)
Location: Auburn Housing Authority
931 Booker Street, Auburn, AL
*The Board will not meet in April due to schedule conflicts; however, there may be a Special Meeting if there are time-sensitive action items that require the Board's approval. The date, time, and location are subject to change.
Auburn Forward Spring 2023 - Partner Spotlight
The City of Auburn (City) is a valued partner of the Auburn Housing Authority (AHA)! The City has been instrumental in the AHA's housing and community development initiatives.
The City has awarded AHA Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to support its Resident Enrichment Program. The funds were used to pay laptop fees for students; 145 student laptop fees were paid during the 2022 - 2023 school year. CDBG funds were also used to provide transportation for work and educational commutes.
The City has generously provided CDBG funds to support the AHA's Food Pantry located at the Boykin Community Center. During FYE2022 (June 2021 - July 2022), there were an average of 96 visits, and an average of 3700 pounds of food was distributed.
The City's staff has gone "above and beyond the call of duty" to assist AHA with its quest to apply for the 9% Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) application in hopes of redeveloping the Ridgecrest community. I want to thank everyone for taking time out of your busy schedule to respond to numerous emails, attend impromptu meetings, and everything in between to assist with AHA's LIHTC application. I also want to thank the Planning Commission and City Council for approving AHA's zoning request and the City Council's approval for the Section 108 Loan.
The AHA is fortunate to have the backing of its municipality, and AHA cannot say enough how much we appreciate the City's support and continued partnership!
Auburn Forward Spring 2023 - HR & News
New Team Member
Christopher Perry
Maintenance Mechanics Asst.
(LHA 02.28.23)
Promotions
Richetta Stephens
Interim Accountant
(AHA 02.22.23)
Employee Spotlight: Beth Redding
Beth has been working with public Housing Agencies since 1971. Ms. Redding was employed at Roanoke Housing Authority as the Property Manager in September 2009 until Auburn Housing Authority took over Management of Roanoke Housing Authority and became an employee of AuburnHousing Authority July 2, 2012, celebrating 10 years in July 2022. She is the Housing Assistant Property Manager at Roanoke Housing Authority and is well known throughout the Roanoke community, working closely with our tenants and Board of Commissioners. She is instrumental in collecting rent, filling vacancies and general management of everyday operations. She began her career in Public Housing in Boston in March of 1971 in the Transfer Department until she married and moved to Georgia in November of 1985 and was Property Housing Manager 5. We are so lucky to have her at Roanoke with her many years of experience and look forward to many more years of service.
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
Todd James
HCV Caseworker II (PBV) 267 Charlotte Bowen
HCV Caseworker II (TBV) 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 Interim Accountant 228 rstephens@auburnhousingauth.org
Sylvia Impson Purchasing Clerk 255
Auburn Forward Spring 2023 - HR & News Continued
Office Closures
- Memorial Day - May 29th
- Juneteenth - June 19th
- Independence Day - July 4th
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
- Executive Business Coordinator
- HCV Caseworker I
- HCV Landlord Liaison
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 Spring 2023 - Scholarship Breakfast & Wonderful Wednesdays
2023 MLK Scholarship Breakfast
The AHA sponsored a table at the 2023 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Breakfast. The MLK Breakfast featured a panel discussion led by Dr. Joan Harrell and one of the participants was Sarah Collins Rudolph, who is a survivor of the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing in 1963. The event also included the presentation of the MLK Community Service Award, MLK Educator Award, and awarding college scholarships to local students. Commissioners and staff attended.
Wonderful Wednesdays
Wonderful Wednesdays allow residents 60+ to come together for fellowship, food, and fun. Recently, our meetups included tips for protecting against scams and fraud and training sessions related to quality child care enhancement.
We appreciate our community partners, the Family Guidance Center of Alabama, and the Campus Kitchens at Auburn University, for helping us make these events a success!
Auburn Forward Spring 2023 - Health Screenings & Mindfulness Workshop
Senior Health Screenings
Some of our seniors were recently transported to the Boykin Community Center Health Fair hosted by Auburn University's School of Pharmacy, where students were on hand to provide blood pressure checks, blood glucose checks, and information on smoking cessation at no cost to participants.
Mindfulness Workshop
On our senior trip to the City of Auburn's Mindfulness Workshop, Seniors learned how to clear their minds to lower blood pressure and develop less stress.
Auburn Forward Spring 2023 - Homeownership & Smart Money Habits
Homeownership Workshop
Preparing for homeownership can seem like a daunting process, but with a series of workshops hosted by our community partners at Cadence Bank, the process is becoming much smoother for our residents.
To learn more about this program or to participate, contact Charlotte Mattox, Resident Services Coordinator, at 334-329-5010 for more information.
Smart Money Habits
Our residents are indulging in a series of financial literacy workshops hosted by Regions Bank aimed at helping them better manage their money!
If you're interested in learning how to manage your finances better and how to make smart financial decisions, we invite you to join us at our next workshop. Visit our website calendar for more information and to register!
Auburn Forward Spring 2023 - Mentoring Moms
East Park Mentoring Moms
Moms are coming together on the first Wednesday of the month to participate in our new program, Mentoring Moms. This luncheon brings moms together to help each other cope with the stresses of being a mother in various situations.
To learn more about this program or to participate, contact Charlotte Mattox, Resident Services Coordinator, at 334-329-5010 for more information.
Auburn Forward Spring 2023 - Summer Feeding
Summer Pandemic EBT Program
The Alabama Department of Human Resources reported qualifying households will get $120 for each participating student to buy food that is eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program at stores that accept Electronic Benefit Transfer cards.
The Summer Pandemic EBT program benefits are expected to begin rolling out in mid-to-late summer. Summer P-EBT benefits are limited to students who receive free or reduced-price meals under the National School Lunch Program. To become eligible, families may apply by contacting their schools. Applications must be approved by May 16 to qualify for summer benefits.
AHA Summer Feeding Schedule
Sparkman Community Center
June 6, 13, 20, 27
East Park Community Center
June 8, 15, 22, 29
Time: 1 pm
Auburn Forward Spring 2023 - High School and College Resources
Class of 2023 Graduation Reception
The AHA will sponsor a reception for all college and high school graduating seniors. To sign up, contact Charlotte Mattox at cmattox@auburnhousingauth.org or (334) 821-2262 ext 230.
Date: Tuesday, May 16, 2023
Time: 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Location: Boykin Community Center
2023 High School Leadership Conference
High school students attended a one-day leadership conference hosted at Auburn University by AU student leaders! The conference was a fun-filled day of leadership activities, student leader panels, breakout sessions, and an interactive campus tour!
College Resources and Scholarship Information
- Laptop fees were paid for 145 students during the 2022 - 2023 school year. The program is funded by the City of Auburn's CDBG program.
The 2023 HAI Group Resident Scholarship Program is now open! Electronic applications will be accepted until 3 p.m. ET on Friday, April 28, 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.
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.
Monday, April 17th - 2 PM
Porter Community Center
415 White Street, Auburn, AL 36832
For questions, please contact Charlotte Mattox at 334-329- 5010.
Learn more about these and other scholarships at www.auburnhousingauth.org/college-resources.
Auburn Forward Spring 2023 - Landlord Corner
Smoke Detectors
On July 1, 2023, OHDi will implement a companywide policy in accordance with meeting the INSPIRE requirements. INSPIRE will require a smoke detector in each sleeping area, outside each sleeping area, and on each level. The expected implementation date for INSPIRE is July 1, 2023, for public housing and October 1, 2023, for HCV and PBV.
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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 Spring 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 households that include a non-elderly person(s) with a disability. This is defined as any family that includes a person with a disability who is at least 18 years old and not yet 62 years old at the effective date of the initial Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) Contract. Aside from serving a special population, Mainstream Vouchers are administered using the same rules as other Housing Choice Vouchers. AHA's Mainstream Voucher waiting list is currently closed; however, HCV will open the waiting list for Mainstream Vouchers on May 15, 2023, and accept the first 100 qualifying applicants.
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 Spring 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 Spring 2023 - Resident Corner
Resident NoticeThe 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 Spring 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 must 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.
Applicant Information: Once your application has been received and accepted by HCV, applicants will need to register for an online applicant account which will enable applicants to update their information and check their current status on the waiting list. To register for an online applicant account, applicants will access the online portal through the following links, depending on which Voucher Type the applicant applied for:
- Applicants for Tenant-Based Vouchers:
https://apps.auburnhousingauth.org/UserCreateAcct.aspx
- Applicants for Project-Based Vouchers located in Auburn: https://apps.auburnhousingauth.org/UserCreateAcct.aspx
- Applicants for Project-Based Vouchers located in LaFayette: https://lha.auburnhousingauth.org/UserCreateAcct.aspx
After accessing the online portal at the correct link above, select "APPLICANT" as the Registrant type and complete the requested information to create the online account. Once the online applicant account is created, applicants will need to make sure they update their contact information through the portal to ensure they are notified once their application is selected for processing. In addition, the online portal will enable applicants to securely upload all required documentation and forms.
Participant Information: Before the next scheduled recertification or no later than June 30, 2023, all current HCV participants are required to register for an online tenant account if they have not already created one. To register for an online tenant account, participants will access the online portal through the following links, depending on which voucher Type they currently utilize to receive housing assistance:
- Participants with Tenant-Based Vouchers:
https://apps.auburnhousingauth.org/UserCreateAcct.aspx
- Participants with Project-Based Vouchers located in Auburn: https://apps.auburnhousingauth.org/UserCreateAcct.aspx
- Participants with Project-Based Vouchers located in LaFayette https://lha.auburnhousingauth.org/UserCreateAcct.aspx
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 property 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 Spring 2023 - Resident Corner Continued
Surveillance Cameras
As you may have noticed, surveillance cameras have been installed at all sites. There are plans to add more cameras in the near future. In addition, some residents have expressed concern that there is not enough lighting. Property Management has been working with Alabama Power to add and/or upgrade lighting at all sites. You may see Alabama Power personnel working at your site in the coming months as the installation process begins.
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.
Upcoming Events
April 11th - Domestic Violence Intervention, East Park, 1 pm
April 11th - Poster Contest, East Park, 3 pm
April 12th - Poster Contest, Sparkman, 3 pm
April 17th - Scholarship Class, Porter, 2 pm
April 18th - Senior Bingo, Harris Center, 10:30 am
April 20th - Poster Contest, Ridgecrest, 3 pm
April 24th - Poster Contest, Moton, 3 pm
April 26th - Wonderful Wednesday, Porter, 1 pm
May 2nd - Senior Bingo, Harris Center, 10:30 am
May 3rd - Mentoring Moms, East Park, Noon
May 9th - AHA Farmers Market, Boykin, 2:30 pm
May 16th - Finance Class, Porter, 1 pm
May 23rd - Seniors Fishing Trip, WSC, 8 am
May 23rd - Homeownership Class, Admin Building, 4 pm
May 31st - Wonderful Wednesday, Porter, 1 pm
For more information about these and other events, visit our website calendar or contact Resident Services.
Housekeeping Workshop
Tuesday, April 18th - 4:00 pm
East Park Community Center
900 Old Mill Rd., 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 Spring 2023 - Drug Crime Eviction Policy
Auburn Forward Spring 2023 - Resident News
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 Spring 2023 - Resident News Continued
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.
Lee County District Attorney's Office
Family Fun Day
Saturday, April 22, 2023
10AM - 1PM
Lee County Justice Center
2311 Gateway Drive, Opelika, AL
Calling all Ballers and Cheerleaders!
Auburn Housing Authority is organizing basketball teams and cheer squads to compete in the 2024 SERC-NAHRO MLK Basketball Tournament and Cheer competition held in Opelika, AL, in January 2024.
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 12, 2024
- 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 Charlotte Mattox by calling (334) 821-2262 ext. 230 or emailing cmattox@auburnhousingauth.org.
Auburn Forward Spring 2023 - RAB
Members of the Resident Advisory Board
Janice Hutchinson, Resident of
Moton
Marquitta Floyd, Resident of Sparkman Erin Hightower, Resident of
Porter
Ashley Nearer, Resident of
East Park
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 Spring 2023 - Back Cover
Mainstream Voucher Waiting List Opening May 15, 2023
- Mainstream Vouchers are for households with a non-elderly disabled person.
- This is defined as any family that includes a person with a disability who is at least 18 years old and not yet 62 years old.
We need your help to keep OUR communities clean!
Garbage cans
- Can be placed at the curb the night prior to pick up.
- Must be removed from the curb the evening after pick up and placed at the back of your unit.
- Fines could be imposed if cans are left by the curb on days that there is no garbage pick up.
Now that spring is here, we want to give you a few reminders from your lease.
- The Resident agrees only to use authorized grills and to use grills (including storage) in areas authorized by the HA. In no circumstances shall the grills be used under a porch/covering or within 10 feet of any overhang or housing authority building.
- The use of any swimming pools on the premises is prohibited.
- Playground equipment, including swings, slides, trampolines, basketball goals, etc., which is not HA approved and/or provided, is prohibited.