Housing office welcomes new commissioner

The Freeport Housing Authority has welcomed a new face to its Board of Commissioners in addition to the return of an old one. Valeria Jackson and Anita Scott have been elected by tenants to serve as commissioners for the FHA. 

Jackson will enter her third term, and Scott, her first. The commissioners are appointed by the mayor and elected by tenants, making it a crucial process for ensuring representation and accountability.

The board plays a vital role in shaping policies, procedures, and new developments for the housing authority. They are responsible for overseeing capital funds and entering into contracts. Any significant decision related to contracts or new developments requires a resolution from the commissioners. 

“As the executive director, I am not authorized to proceed with any actions, such as entering into contracts, initiating new development deals, or funding roof replacements, without obtaining a resolution from the Board of Commissioners,” Housing Authority Executive Director John Hrvatin said. “These actions are governed by the policies set by the housing authority. Needless to say, all housing authorities are obligated to adhere to HUD policies and procedures,” he added referring to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

“Additionally, each housing authority may establish its own specific policies and procedures. The decisions and directives resulting from these discussions are then implemented by the Board of Commissioners.”

With a seven-member board, five commissioners are appointed by the mayor, while the remaining two are elected by the tenants. This balanced approach ensures that the voices of both appointed and elected commissioners carry equal weight, with each member having a vote on all matters.

Jackson, a long-time Freeport resident, has been passionate about serving her community for the past four years. Her dedication to helping people and improving housing conditions has been evident through various such as the construction of a new administration building, installation of new windows, and upgrading elevators in various buildings under the jurisdiction of the Freeport Housing Authority.

“What motivated me to get started was a concern for people, and my main focus has always been on helping others in any way I can,” Jackson said. 

To ensure all voices are heard, Jackson holds monthly meetings where tenants can express their concerns and ideas. This open dialogue has been crucial in addressing issues and finding solutions to improve living conditions for the residents.

“Well, anything that concerns them, you know, I am always there to listen and address their issues,” Jackson said. “They come and talk to me during meetings or even come talk at my place, and I make sure to follow through on whatever is happening with them. It’s important to me that their needs are met, and we have the best director in the world who takes action and follows through.” 

While new to the role of commissioner, Scott brings a wealth of experience from her past responsibilities as the Chief Information Officer at Bethel Church, where she was actively involved in decision-making and overseeing various projects such as new rules, driveways, and security systems. 

With a strong background in community engagement and a commitment to helping others, Scott’s entrance into the role of FHA Commissioner promises a fresh perspective and dedication to the well-being of tenants.

“We’ve always been there for the people, especially the seniors.,” Scott said. “Things such as housing assistance, access to food banks, clothing, and transportation like getting them back and forth to church and other things similar to that.”

Scott’s community-oriented background and her tenure as a tenant in one of the Freeport Housing Authority buildings have given her a unique understanding of the challenges faced by fellow tenants. Having lived in the community for nearly a decade, she has been actively attending meetings and engaging with the commissioners.

The process of becoming a commissioner has been smooth for Scott, thanks to her previous engagement and familiarity with the tenants and fellow commissioners. Her approachability and willingness to listen to others have played a significant role in building trust among the tenants, which ultimately led to her election.

“The other tenants are familiar with me, and they know that I actively participate in meetings,” Scott said. “ I have always been open to anyone to ask or answer any questions.”

In addition to the exciting developments such as the new Moxie Ruby project, which promises to improve housing conditions for residents, the Housing Authority is also preparing to unveil its new headquarters next month. Scott and Jackson will work with the rest of the team from the new facility.