Regional Director Galvan Praises Rock Island Homeownership Efforts

Following his remarks, Region V Director, Joseph Galvan, right, visits with Rock Island Housing Authority Commissioner, Vern Winter

"Housing Authorities, like Rock Island, are acting, building, creating with increasing insight, creativity, and entrepreneurship," said Director Galvan. The Rock Island Housing Authority and Renaissance Rock Island partnered to create and support the first Section 8 homebuyer in Illinois and one of the first in the country. He noted that as of December 2002, the Section 8 Homeownership Program had enabled over 550 low-income families around the Nation to attain the dream of homeownership. He said that over 200 Public Housing Authorities in the country are now actively involved in the program.

The Authority has unveiled an asset management plan, prepared in accordance with HUD requirements, that outlines goals for the transformation of the authority's six housing developments. Galvan said, "We know that the Rock Island Housing Authority has transformed it operations during the last three years. It took leadership, planning, partnership, commitment, and a lot of hard work to become the "High Performer" you are today. I celebrate the farsightedness and forward-thinking you demonstrate that are such an asset to the Rock Island community."

"Public housing must continue to serve as a vital resource, providing safe and affordable housing. But public housing must be a way station rather than a destination, the means rather than the end," the Regional Director told the group. "We celebrate the partnerships forged between the Housing Authority, other agencies, local government, nonprofit organizations, and private businesses to leverage support and resources."