HUD TO ADMINISTER MICHIGAN'S HIGHLAND PARK HOUSING COMMISSION OPERATIONS

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) on Tuesday announced that it has taken possession of the Highland Park Housing Commission (HPHC) programs, projects, and assets to reverse years of financial mismanagement, increase occupancy rates and improve physical conditions.

"The safety and health of HUD-assisted families is one of our highest priorities," said Dominique Blom, General Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Office of Public and Indian Housing (PIH). "The decision for HUD to take possession of a public housing authority is exercised with great restraint out of respect for local leadership, and only when the law permits. We will work closely with the community, local leaders, and the residents to reach a positive outcome."

Citing a decade of neglect, a high number of unit vacancies, poor physical condition of units and properties, un-auditable financials and records, HUD will help HPHC get on the right path and improve the quality of life for the residents.

On April 29, HUD informed HPHC of its intention to take possession of its programs, projects, and assets. Upon possession on Monday, May 10, a HUD Recovery Administrator began serving as the Board and will make decisions necessary to ensure decent and safe housing for residents by implementing the following:

• Take over fiduciary responsibilities, establishing internal controls, procurement actions and repositioning strategies.
• Work with the existing third-party management agent, Continental Management, to perform day-to-day operations for its public housing program.
• Assess options to reposition HPHC's public housing.

The completion of the Recovery Agreement/Recovery Action Plan will serve as the platform for improved service delivery to residents towards the ultimate goal of ensuring decent and safe housing for HPHC families.

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HUD's mission is to create strong, sustainable, inclusive communities and quality affordable homes for all.
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