On Thursday, March 9, 2006 the Atlanta Regional Office's Administrative Resources Division hosted the first "Town Hall" meeting. More than � of the Atlanta HUD employees attended the Town Hall meeting. The purpose of the meeting was to inform HUD employees of initiatives of various organizations that affect both the work environment as well as employees who commute within the surrounding downtown area and to provide a forum for dialog on the HUD building at 40 Marietta Street.

Eric Williams Admin.

The agenda of this first meeting was full of highly knowledgeable speakers from organizations very relevant to everyday work in downtown Atlanta. Ms. Jawana V. Jackson discussed upcoming changes to the MARTA fare system and the "Breeze Card." Dave Wardell followed representing Atlanta Central Progress. Mr. Wardell talked about the role of the Ambassadors and the services they provide and discussed some of the upcoming commerce for the area. LT. Trudy Boyce, with the Atlanta Police Department, provided crime statistics and highlighted several initiatives to reduce vagrant and panhandling problems. Atlanta City Hall sent Ms. Terri Lee who gave an interesting and insightful overview of the Mayor's plans to bring more residents back to the downtown area.

Lt. Trudy Boyce Atlanta Police Department

Matters regarding the 40 Marietta Street HUD building were discussed by GSA, R.B. Management and the HUD Administrative Resources Division. Quaison Crosby outlined the role of GSA with regard to our lease and services to be provided by the Lessor, R.B. Management. Carla Laverde, who represented R.B. Management, fielded a barrage of questions and complaints from employees. HUD Atlanta Administrative Resources Division was represented by Lance Wasdin, who provided an overview of the growing recycle program at HUD. Eric Williams, of the HUD Atlanta Administrative Resources Division closed the meeting stating that attention would be given to issues raised and that resolution to these issues was a priority and status reports would be given at future Town Hall meetings.

HUD Employees

This Town Hall Meeting occurred just a few weeks after another HUD Administrative Resources Division Initiative. On Wednesday, February 22, 2006, the Atlanta Offices of Administrative Resources and Information Technology held their first Administration/IT Services Fair. The fair was informative and showcased equipment and services available to local employees. The equipment showcased was: digital cameras, GPS devices, projectors and sound systems; available supplies; Employee Personal Page; TSP Website; HIHRTS registration; HUD's Virtual University (HVU); Health Unit; Employee Assistance Program (EAP); Atlanta Ambassadors, and Hotline to the ESC.