HACA History Book by HACA

HACA 631706 • Cover • Feburary 13, 2018, version 2

1124 S. IH 35 Austin, TX 78704 Phone: 512-477-4488 | Fax: 512-767-7607

The Story of the Housing Authority of the City of Austin - BRINGING OppORtuNIty HOme

Housing Authority of the City of Austin

BRINGING OppORtuNIty HOme The Story of the Housing Authority of the City of Austin

PART VI: OUR FUTURE

in spring 2017, the City of austin adopted

properties through HUD’s rental assistance

HaCa’s 80-year history is a story deeply

its first ever comprehensive plan for housing,

Demonstration (raD), dramatically

interwoven with the story of austin. it is one

the austin strategic Housing Blueprint.

improving and modernizing the quality of

of grit and tenacity, of overcoming obstacles

the Blueprint establishes numerical goals,

the units and ensuring that the properties

and facing challenges head on.

timelines, and strategies to maintain and

provide opportunity and a helping hand for

create housing for austinites at all income

generations to come.

levels. Calling for 60,000 additional

in the face of these challenges, HaCa continues to be the largest provider of

affordable housing units (affordable to

given austin’s housing shortage and

housing for austin’s poor and low-income

households at or below 80 percent MFi) over

affordability crisis, HaCa has been able to

residents who have nowhere else to turn.

the next 10 years, the Blueprint depends on

acquire nearly 1,000 apartments in austin’s

true to its mission, HaCa will continue

strategic partnerships to achieve austin’s

rental market, preserving these units over the

to create sustainable and affordable

ambitious housing goals. in fact, the Housing

long term for persons of low- and moderate-

communities that inspire self-reliance,

authority of the City of austin (and HaCa’s

income. in addition, the agency has entered

growth, and optimism.

austin affordable Housing Corporation) are

into a series of joint ventures to develop

specifically called out as crucial partners.

nearly 1,500 new, Class a, affordable housing

regardless of the obstacles, and in spite of

units in areas of higher opportunity, utilizing

the challenges in the years to come, the

the current climate is challenging. On the

the low-income Housing tax Credit

Housing authority of the City of austin will

one hand, we are experiencing increasing

and bonds.

continue doing what it does best: Bringing

demand. austin is growing; low wage jobs

Opportunity Home.

are increasing; and housing is out of reach.

HaCa is not stopping there. its focus has

On the other hand, we are faced with

always been on ensuring that programs

declining resources. the federal government

benefit real people. That is why the agency is

is rethinking its commitment to directly

unique in having provided more than

subsidize the creation of affordable housing.

$1 million in scholarships for higher

state and local resources are limited.

education over the past 17 years, and why it continues to build strong and dynamic

that is why HaCa is taking the bold

partnerships in job skills training, education,

step of converting its 18 public housing

and health and wellness.

Bringing Opportunity Home The story of the Housing Authority of the City of Austin CELEBRATING 80 YEARS 1937 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2017

Published by The Housing Authority of the City of Austin ÂŠ 2018 Housing Authority of the City of Austin 1124 S. IH 35, AUSTIN, TX 78704 https://www.hacanet.org/ No taxpayer dollars were used in the publication of this book.

Acknowledgments The Housing Authority of the City of Austin would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of several individuals who helped this project come to fruition. Deserving of special mention are our commissioners, partners and staff members who dedicated their time to provide us with invaluable insight into the housing industry and the Austin community. We especially thank Commissioner Charles Bailey, who provided much encouragement for this project. This book would not have been possible without the expertise of Susan Engelking of Engelking Communications LLC, Molly Kendrick, Mandy DeMayo, Awais Azhar, and Norris Deajon and Nora Linares-Moeller of HousingWorks Austin. We are truly grateful for the hours you spent researching, interviewing, writing, and editing this manuscript. We also would like to thank Joanne Trubitt of Trubitt Design and Kristine Loubris of Grafico Design for their enthusiasm and patience in creating a beautiful design that showcases some of our favorite photos and truly brings HACAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s story to life. Finally, we are most grateful to our residents and clients who have shared their stories and who inspire us through their courage and determination.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 1124 S. IH 35 Austin, TX 78704 Phone: 512-477-4488 | Fax: 512-767-7607

PART I

THE GREAT DEPRESSION AND EARLY HOUSING EFFORTS

FIRST HOUSING AUTHORITY IN THE COUNTRY

RADIO ADDRESS: “TARNISH ON THE VIOLET CROWN”

AUSTIN HOUSING AUTHORITY: EARLY LEADERSHIP

CONSTRUCTION BEGINS

PART II

POSTWAR EFFORTS

GROWING AND IMPROVING

SENIORS AND THE GREAT SOCIETY

CIVIL RIGHTS ERA

MORATORIUM

J.J. “JAKE” PICKLE: CONGRESSMAN, ALLY, & ADVOCATE

THE ORIGIN OF HOUSING CHOICE VOUCHERS

THE STATE OF THE UNION

CHALLENGING TIMES

TURNAROUND TEAM

HACA OVER THE YEARS: STAFF PERSPECTIVES

HACA: HOMEGROWN TEAM TALENT

AZIE TAYLOR MORTON

5 2

SOUTHWEST HOUSING COMPLIANCE CORPORATION (SHCC)

HACA Beginnings

Postwar Growth & Civil Rights 16

PART III

HACA Evolves 29

PART IV

Our Organization & Portfolio 51

PART V

Our Work Today 68

PART IV

Our Future 90

5 4

AUSTIN AFFORDABLE HOUSING CORPORATION (AAHC)

5 9

AUSTIN PATHWAYS

6 0

BLUEPRINT HOUSING SOLUTIONS

RENTAL ASSISTANCE DEMONSTRATION (RAD) PROGRAM

6 2

PATHWAYS ASSET MANAGEMENT

6 4

A WORKING BOARD

FAMILY SELF-SUFFICIENCY

RESIDENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR SELF-SUFFICIENCY

SIX-STAR RESIDENT PROGRAM

FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYER DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

AUSTIN PATHWAYS HACA SCHOLARSHIPS

UNLOCKING THE CONNECTION

JOBS PLUS ATX

YOUTH EDUCATIONAL SUCCESS

8 0

I-DADS (INVOLVED DADS OF ACTION, DEVELOPING AND SUCCEEDING)

RESIDENT COUNCILS: IMPROVING COMMUNITIES

MARY APOSTOLOU

COMMUNITY PARTNERS: MAKING IT POSSIBLE

PROGRAMS MADE POSSIBLE BY PARTNERS

VETERANS AFFAIRS SUPPORTIVE HOUSING (VASH) PROGRAM

CHAIRMAN’S CALL TO WORK TOGETHER

HOUSING AUTHORITY OF T

2003

2011

1980

1989

1990

2004

2005

2006

THROUGH T 2012

2013

2014

F THE CITY OF AUSTIN STAFF

1999

2000

2001

2002

2007

2008

2009

2010

H THE YEARS 2015

2016

PART I: HACA BEGINNINGS

PART I

HACA Beginnings The story of the Housing Authority of the City

It is a story of thousands of Austinites who

of Austin (HACA) is woven into the fabric of

have needed housing assistance since 1937

Austin. Over its 80-year history, HACA has

and before â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the poor, the elderly, persons

experienced enormous change and growth,

with disabilities, and low-income families

and faced daunting challenges. But HACA is a

with children. It is also the story of how an

pioneer and innovator, infused with the spirit

organization can stay true to its mission

of creativity, collaboration, and optimism.

to cultivate sustainable affordable housing communities and partnerships that inspire

HACAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s story is about the struggles of the

self-reliance, growth, and optimism in the

people of Austin, their hopes and dreams,

face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

their empathy and generosity, their spirit, and the belief that opportunities can change lives.

The story begins more than 80 years ago.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 2

PART I: HACA BEGINNINGS

THE GREAT DEPRESSION & EARLY HOUSING EFFORTS

ABOVE: Dorothea Lange’s “Migrant Mother” was taken in 1936 and brought to light the hardships faced by Americans during the Great Depression. PHOTOGRAPH: THE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS Call Number: LC-USF34- 009058-C [P&P] LC-USF346-009058-C b&w film transparency LC-USF347-009058-C b&w film safety neg.

Beginning with the stock market crash of

“[o]n the farms, in the large metropolitan

1929, the Great Depression slowly made its

areas, in the smaller cities and in the villages,

way to Texas. At first, many Texans believed

millions of our citizens cherish the hope that

the Lone Star State would escape the Great

their old standards of living and of thought

Depression altogether. By the early 1930s,

have not gone forever. Those millions cannot

economic conditions had worsened around

and shall not hope in vain. I pledge you, I

the United States, and it was clear that Texas

pledge myself, to a new deal for the American

would not be spared.

people.”

Even though Austin fared better than other

In the 1932 election, along with the rest of

parts of the state, it was a difficult time for

the country, a majority of Texans voted for

many. Businesses struggled to pay wages,

Roosevelt as president of the United States.

and unemployment increased. Drought in

With an arduous task ahead, President

the agricultural heartland affected not only

Roosevelt quickly began creating agencies

rural parts of the state, but cities like Austin

and programs that could help the country

as well. As businesses and families defaulted

recover from the Great Depression and

on their loans, banks began to fail throughout

provide Americans with a better standard of

the county. Impoverished Austinites were

living, including jobs and adequate housing.

forced to live in poor conditions just blocks from the historic State Capitol, its dome 15

As a part of the New Deal, the Public Works

feet taller than the U.S. Capitol and topped by

Administration (PWA) was formed under the

the Goddess of Liberty.

National Industrial Recovery Act in 1933. The very next year, the PWA Housing Division

The Great Depression was not only a financial

began construction of federally-owned low-

struggle. It was a depression of the spirit. As

rent housing, paving the way for future public

the years passed, struggling Austin families

housing projects. In total, 51 projects across

lost hope.

the country were created by the PWA, all of which were segregated by race and ethnicity.

The man who would lift the country out

3 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

of this depression would be none other

At the same time, to stop the flood of housing

than President Franklin D. Roosevelt. In his

foreclosures nationwide and to address

acceptance speech at the Democratic National

critical housing needs faced by so many

Convention in 1932, the future President said

impoverished Americans, Congress passed

PART I: HACA BEGINNINGS

the U.S. Housing Act of 1934 to make home mortgages more affordable. As an integral piece of New Deal legislation, the Housing Act of 1937 created the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and the Federal Savings and Loan Insurance Corporation (FSLIC) to support the mortgage and private sector housing industries. Similar to other public efforts at the time, these efforts built on historically racist policies that perpetuated segregation. The Underwriting Handbook used by the FHA endorsed the practice of redlining, literally drawing a red line around â&#x20AC;&#x153;undesirableâ&#x20AC;? neighborhoods, by refusing to provide mortgages for predominantly African American neighborhoods.

TOP: January 13, 1938 Austin American article about public housing in Austin. BOTTOM: May 1, 1939 Austin American article about the Santa Rita Project.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 4

PART I: HACA BEGINNINGS

A New Approach. In the 1930s, a young woman named Catherine Bauer wrote a book that changed the landscape of housing in America. Bauer’s Modern Housing provided a history of housing in the United States and Europe and argued that the market alone could not provide decent homes for the poor. Having toured well-organized, sanitary, safe, and affordable post-World War I communities in Europe, Bauer contended that the federal government should finance construction and help cities build decent, low-cost housing. She believed housing should open opportunities to the poor. Bauer’s passion was persuasive and before long, she was leading a national movement to build public housing. Bauer was instrumental in growing sentiment around preserving the dignity of the poor. ABOVE: A poster from 1936 promotes planned housing by asking the question, “Must we always have this? Why not housing?”

Working with key members of Congress, Bauer helped write the U.S. Housing

PHOTOGRAPH: THE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS Call Number: POS - WPA - NY .01 .M87, no. 1 (C size) [P&P]

local housing authorities to improve the lives of low-income families. The

Act of 1937, which provided for subsidies from the federal government to 1937 Act created the United States Housing Authority, and Bauer served as a director for two years. Over the next 30 years, Bauer advised every U.S. president on housing-related matters. The last to benefit from her insight was Texas’ own Lyndon B. Johnson.

5 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

PART I: HACA BEGINNINGS

FIRST HOUSING AUTHORITY IN THE COUNTRY In 1936, President Roosevelt was elected

In Austin, many ramshackle homes had dirt

to remove slums along with creating and

to his second term. His New Deal had put

floors, no electricity, no refrigeration, no

managing public housing to improve living

millions of people to work building roads,

insulation, no heat, and no indoor plumbing.

conditions for low-income families. Federal

bridges, and dams and the American people

Families lived in unsanitary and crowded

subsidies ensured that housing was affordable

were hopeful about these signs of progress. In

settlements, referred to as slums. For these

for those in need.

Austin, the Tom Miller Dam had been funded

families, prosperity was a fading dream.

under New Deal efforts and provided many Austinites with jobs.

Since public housing programs were designed In response to these conditions, the Housing

and managed by local officials, they more

Act of 1937 was built on previous legislation

often than not perpetuated racial segregation.

However, even these efforts were not

and responded to criticisms that local control

Project locations were based on pre-existing

enough. Poverty still plagued Austin and

was necessary to address the housing crisis

patterns of segregation, and eligibility criteria

many other parts of the country. Around

and to achieve long-lasting results.

to participate in housing programs further

the United States, families continued to

perpetuated discrimination.

live in dangerous, squalid homes. Families

The Act created the United States Housing

of four, five, six, and more had to move in

Authority (USHA), as well as Local

with relatives, staying until all too often the

Housing Authorities (LHAs) in various

relatives themselves lost their homes.

local jurisdictions. The Act allowed LHAs

LEFT: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s moving day as the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first USHA tenants move into Santa Rita Project. PHOTOGRAPH: REPORT OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN FOR THE YEARS 1938-1939

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 6

PART I: HACA BEGINNINGS

In 1937, Lyndon B. Johnson was elected

Johnson was instrumental in the passage of

to the U.S. House of Representatives to

the Housing Act of 1937 aiming to create

represent the City of Austin, as well as

jobs and build public housing. As a skilled

Central Texas and the Hill Country.

and insightful politician, he had the list of the first three participating cities – New

Johnson’s career in public service began

York City, New Orleans, and Austin – read in

at age 20 as a schoolteacher in Cotulla,

alphabetical order in Congress. Starting with

Texas. The Welhausen School was created

“A”, Austin was at the top of the list.

to provide an education to children from low-income Mexican-American families. The

As soon as Congress passed the Housing Act

poverty he saw there left a deep mark on

of 1937, Johnson urged Austin leaders to

him. Years later he remembered how he saw

seize the opportunity it created. Two days

“Mexican children going through a garbage

before Christmas in 1937, the Austin City

pile, shaking the coffee grounds from the

Council created the Austin Housing Authority,

grapefruit rinds and sucking the rinds for the

with the support from Mayor Tom Miller.

juice that was left.” The Austin Housing Authority (later known Even as a young congressman, Johnson’s top

as the Housing Authority of the City of Austin

priorities were to address poverty and provide

or HACA) became the first public housing

equal opportunities to his native Texans. He

authority in the nation. HACA immediately

was willing to try new ideas to help low-

began working on the first public housing

income Americans, and the Housing Act of

development in the City of Austin (and

1937 seemed like the perfect opportunity to

the country), Santa Rita Courts, for

advance progressive legislation.

Latino residents.

TOP LEFT: Lyndon B. Johnson deep in conversation in 1939. BOTTOM LEFT: Santa Rita placard. PHOTOGRAPH: LYNDON B. JOHNSON LIBRARY AND MUSEUM Serial Number: B11689

7 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

PART I: HACA BEGINNINGS

RADIO ADDRESS: “TARNISH ON THE VIOLET CROWN” Little known to Johnson, the efforts of the

there and get themselves a bucket of water

families gathered around the radio in their

newly formed Austin Housing Authority to

and take it inside for washing the dishes or

homes to listen to Congressman Johnson’s

create public housing in east Austin would be

bathing, but no inside plumbing facilities

now-famous “Tarnish on the Violet Crown”

met with fierce opposition.

whatever, and toilets out behind each

radio address.

house, just as one had in the country, the Local businessmen in the real estate industry

old-fashioned privy. He spent several hours

Johnson explained, “[l]ast Christmas, when

resisted public housing efforts, fearing both

doing that and just came back all fueled up

all over the world people were celebrating the

competition in the real estate market and

and ready to do battle for a better type of

birth of the Christ child, I took a walk here in

overreach in local government efforts. Local

housing in Austin.”

Austin, a short walk, just a few short blocks

residents were afraid that public housing

from Congress Avenue, and here I found

would depress nearby property values and

As pressure mounted and some on the Austin

people living in such squalor that Christmas

questioned whether public housing was the

City Council wavered in their support for the

Day was to them just one more day of filth

best use of public money. Local advocates

public housing project, Johnson took to the

and misery …. Here the children were so

responded with impassioned arguments

airwaves in Austin to make his appeal. On

much in need of the very essentials of life that

for social responsibility and charity. But

January 23, 1938,

they scarcely missed the added pleasures of

opposition mounted to the construction of

our Christmas Celebration.”

the first public housing project. Years later in an interview, Lady Bird Johnson explained, “Lyndon’s campaign for the Austin Public Housing Project has got to be one of the big, interesting accomplishments. The subject of government housing had come up and he was trying to get it for Austin. We were home for Christmas in 1937. On Christmas morning, he got up before sun-up and made a walk all over East Austin, where a lot of poor people lived and he counted the outdoor toilets …. He saw that there were many houses where there were outdoor water taps, faucets, and people could go out RIGHT: Substandard houses like these were demolished to make room for housing projects in Austin.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 8

PART I: HACA BEGINNINGS

He went on to say, “[n]o one is more aware

To local businessmen he explained,

of the beauty and attainments of the City of

“[T]here will be no competition with

Austin than I. But for that very reason, I am

legitimate private business which rents

unwilling to close my eyes to the needless

decent quarters; but we want to get those

suffering and deprivation which is not only a

shacks which are in disrepair and unfit to live

curse to the people immediately concerned,

in either repaired or removed.” Touting the

but is also a cancerous blight on the whole

support of the National Association of Real

community.” Johnson explained that

Estate Boards for the Housing Act of 1937,

according to the Department of Commerce,

he detailed the benefits of public housing

nearly 3,000 homes in Austin were deemed

to the local business community and other

dangerous due to disrepair or unfit for

special interests.

habitation. Johnson’s impassioned plea had the desired Speaking directly to his constituents, the

effect, and the city moved forward with the

congressman described the poor housing

plans to create its first public housing project.

conditions in Austin and the need to address

In 1968, as President of the United States,

them. He spoke passionately of the need for

Johnson reflected, “I cannot think of any

better housing conditions to fight disease

action that I have ever taken in public life –

and crime and to create a better quality of

and I have taken a good many that generated

life for residents. Appealing to the business

opposition - that generated more than that

community, Congressman Johnson argued

first [housing] project.”

that this was the fiscally responsible thing to do; otherwise, taxpayers were compelled to maintain blight-ridden areas through public money. He also argued that by not addressing blight, the city was already depressing property values.

TOP: The old wood stove cooks its last meal as its owners prepare to move to the Santa Rita Project. PHOTOGRAPH: REPORT OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN FOR THE YEARS 1938-1939

MIDDLE: Guiton Morgan, seen here (far left) working in his office in 1940, served as the first Executive Director of the Austin Housing Authority. BOTTOM: Mayor Tom Miller, seen here (standing) in 1942, was instrumental in forming the Austin Housing Authority in 1937. PHOTOGRAPH: AUSTIN HISTORY CENTER, AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY Accession or Local Control No: ND-40-210(A)-01

9 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

PART I: HACA BEGINNINGS

AUSTIN HOUSING AUTHORITY: EARLY LEADERSHIP To shore up support for the Austin Housing

Alvin J. Wirtz was a Texas State Senator

Mayor Miller, who sat opposite Morgan

Authority and its high-profile projects, Mayor

from 1923 to 1931, representing nearby

in an adjoining office, knew well of his

Miller and Congressman Johnson sought

Guadalupe County. As a state legislator, he

management abilities and commitment to

Austin’s best leadership. Edgar H. Perry was

was a great promoter for the Lower Colorado

Austin. Morgan had played a crucial role in

appointed as chairman of the newly formed

River Authority. He is credited with writing

assisting the mayor in successfully securing

Austin Housing Authority, with Alvin J. Wirtz

the legislation that established the Colorado

federal funds during the New Deal. He was

as vice-chairman, and Guiton Morgan as

River Authority in 1934 as a state agency

a strong choice to lead an unproven start-up

executive director.

and for working with Lyndon B. Johnson

enterprise. Morgan would provide important

to secure grants for its work. Wirtz was a

leadership and direction to the Housing

Perry was a retired cotton broker who

stalwart supporter of Johnson and aided him

Authority in its early years.

started his career in Taylor, Texas. He moved

in running for the United States Senate.

to Austin in 1904, where he established a successful career as a real estate developer.

In 1934, Wirtz moved to Austin and

He is credited with building the Commodore

established his law practice. He was

Perry Hotel, developing the Highland Park

appointed as the first vice-chairman of the

West subdivision, and partnering in the

Austin Housing Authority, going on to serve

development of the Stephen F. Austin hotel.

as a board member until his death in 1951.

Perry was not only a prominent Austin

Wirtz would also be appointed undersecretary

businessman and philanthropist but also

of the Department of the Interior by President

a close friend of both Miller and Johnson,

Roosevelt, serving both the country and

both of whom trusted his knowledge and

Austin throughout his life.

Mayor Miller and Congressman Johnson sought Austin’s best leadership.

depended on him for advice. Guiton Morgan was nominated to be the first Looking back years later, Lady Bird Johnson

executive director of the newly formed Austin

described the efforts of her husband,

Housing Authority. Prior to this appointment,

“[h]e enlisted immediately some of the good

Morgan had served as Austin’s City Manager,

businessmen, the real establishment. How

working closely with Mayor Miller. He

he got them is really remarkable, but he got

also served as President of the Texas City

Mr. E. H. Perry, who was one of the most

Management Association in 1936.

respected and successful businessmen in the town, to be the Chairman of the [Austin Housing Authority].”

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 10

PART I: HACA BEGINNINGS

CONSTRUCTION BEGINS To support public housing construction in the City of Austin, Mayor Miller and the city council requested $450,000 in funds from the United States Housing Administration that would be matched with $50,000 from local funds. Over the next two years, the federal

CITY OF AUSTIN 1928 MASTER PLAN Eighty years later, it can be hard to fathom that a city government prescribed segregation, but it was an explicit part of the City of Austin’s 1928 master plan. With a growing population of more than 50,000 people, the City of Austin wanted an updated master plan and zoning map for the community. Consulting engineers Koch and Fowler delivered the 1928 “A City Plan for Austin, Texas.” A shameful component of the master plan, which has left a legacy of intentional and de facto racial and ethnic segregation that endures today, was the creation

contribution would increase to $700,000.

of a special district for the African American population. Responding to the “race

Against Johnson’s wishes, the first three

district . . . And that all the facilities and conveniences be provided the negroes in

public housing projects in Austin were racially and ethnically segregated: Santa Rita Courts for Hispanic residents, Rosewood Courts for

segregation problem,” Koch and Fowler recommended the creation of a “negro this district, as an incentive to draw the negro population to this area.” Previously living in communities throughout the city, African American Austinites were forced from their homes and neighborhoods (through strategies such as

African American residents, and Chalmers

elimination of utility services and school closures) and into the newly-formed

Courts for white residents. As a compromise

“negro district” in East Austin. Newly created restrictive covenants ensured that

with local conservatives and segregationists, the projects would be built in pre-existing segregated neighborhoods.

people of color were prohibited from living in neighborhoods outside of East Austin. The 1928 plan and city policies ensured that the first public housing built in Austin was segregated along racial lines. This approach was not unique to Austin but practiced around the country. It was in 1962 at last that President John F. Kennedy issued Executive Order 11063, prohibiting discrimination in public housing. This was followed by the passage of the Fair Housing Act in 1968 signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson, leading to the banning of discrimination based on race and ethnicity in housing around the country. The Austin Housing Authority desegregated public housing in the city a few years later. The effects of the 1928 master plan and these patterns of segregation endure today, as the city continues to grapple with issues of gentrification, displacement, and equity.

LEFT: The 1928 City Plan for Austin, Texas created by Koch and Fowler consulting engineers prescribed segregation in the city. PHOTOGRAPH: EDIE AND LEW WASSERMAN PUBLIC AFFAIRS LIBRARY

11 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

PART I: HACA BEGINNINGS

Austin leaders were committed to getting the design and architecture of public housing right.

LEFT: LBJ visiting one of the first families to move to Santa Rita in 1939. PHOTOGRAPH (CREDIT): NEAL DOUGLASS

The Housing Act of 1937 required that one

Leaders pooled together all staff resources to

down its loan while building up its financial

dilapidated dwelling be demolished for each

ensure that construction finished in record

reserves. These efforts allowed the housing

new unit constructed. Austin’s approach

time. Santa Rita Courts opened in June 1939,

authority to help hundreds of Austinites.

was to reach out to property owners to

with the other two projects being completed

bring dwellings up to livable standards. It

later that year.

encouraged owners to improve and rebuild.

At the opening of the first public housing units in the city, Johnson said it was,

Cooperation, not condemnation, was Austin’s

Construction by the Austin Housing Authority

“worth all the effort … to see the change in

appeal to property owners.

cost an average of $2,100 per unit, as

environment and outlook and spirit of those

compared to $4,500 per unit nationally. A

folks” who were moving into the project. He

Austin leaders were committed to getting the

five-bedroom unit in the new developments

went on to say, “This country won’t have to

design and architecture of public housing

cost a family $15 per month plus utilities, the

worry about isms [communism and fascism]

right. They incorporated many of Catherine

same as the rent for the poor quality, cramped

when it gives its people a decent, clean

Bauer’s ideas. Trees, courtyards, playgrounds,

quarters they lived in before.

place to live and a job. They’ll believe in the

and meeting spaces were incorporated into

government. They’ll be ready to fight for it.”

the designs for Santa Rita Courts, Rosewood

The Austin Housing Authority operated

Courts, and Chalmers Courts. The housing

under a contract with the U.S. government.

authority wanted strong buildings that would

The contract provided federal money to

stand the test of time. As a result, cinder

help operate and maintain the properties.

blocks were chosen for construction.

The Austin Housing Authority began to pay

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 12

183

PART I: HACA BEGINNINGS

PFLUGERVILLE

MANOR

360

130

ROLLINGWOOD

AUSTIN

WEST L A K E H IL LS

290

D EL VALLE

S A N TA R I TA CO U RTS FO R FA M I L I ES | 97 U N I TS

45 OPENED

I N 1939

183

BU DA SANTA RITA COURTS WAS THE FIRST 35PUBLIC HOUSING PROPERTY IN AUSTIN AND THE UNITED STATES. IT

ORIGINALLY HAD 40 UNITS. FIFTY-SEVEN ADDITIONAL UNITS WERE LATER ADDED TO THE PROPERTY. WHEN IT WAS ORIGINALLY BUILT, NEW RESIDENTS MARVELED AT THE INDOOR PLUMBING AND AT ITS OPENING, LYNDON JOHNSON NOTICED THAT THE CHILDREN “ALREADY HAD TAKEN TWO OR THREE BATHS THIS MORNING.” THE PROPERTY HAD UNITS WITH ONE TO FIVE BEDROOMS, SERVING FAMILIES OF ALL SIZES. THE BUILDING SURROUNDED LARGE COURTYARDS THAT SERVED AS OUTDOOR COMMUNAL SPACES FOR RESIDENTS TO DRY LAUNDRY, CHILDREN TO PLAY AND NEIGHBORS TO INTERACT. TODAY THE PROPERTY OFFERS RESIDENTS SOME UPDATED AMENITIES INCLUDING WASHER HOOKUPS, TWO COMMUNITY ROOMS WITH COMPUTERS, THREE PLAYGROUNDS, AND A BASKETBALL COURT.

ABOVE: The Santa Rita Project was completed in 220 Working Days. PHOTOGRAPH: REPORT OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN FOR THE YEARS 1938-1939

COMMUNITIES IN SCHOOLS PROVIDES ON-SITE YOUTH PROGRAMS AND ADULT EDUCATION IS ALSO AVAILABLE. IN 2008, THE ORIGINAL 40 UNITS AT SANTA RITA WERE ADDED TO THE NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES BECAUSE OF THEIR HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE.

LEFT: The original 40 units at Santa Rita Courts were listed on the National Register of Historic Places on April 17, 2008.

13 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

183

PFLUGERVILLE

PART I: HACA BEGINNINGS

MANOR

290

History of Public Housing in Austin 1937 AUSTIN HOUSING AUTHORITY CREATED

360

290

O P E N E D I N 1939 45

1939 - ROSEWOOD COURTS

D EL VALLE

C H A L M E R S CO U RTS FO R FA M I L I ES | 158 U N I TS

1939 - CHALMERS COURTS

130

ROLLINGWOOD

1939 - SANTA RITA COURTS

AUSTI N MA

W EST L A K E HI L LS

183

1952 - MEADOWBROOK APARTMENTS

CHALMERS COURTS ORIGINALLY HAD 86 UNITS WITH BU DA 35 VARYING SIZES, RANGING FROM ONE BEDROOM TO

1953 - BOOKER T. WASHINGTON TERRACES 1966 - SALINA APARTMENTS

FOUR BEDROOMS. CHALMERS COURTS COST $350,000 TO BUILD, INCLUDING THE PURCHASE OF THE LAND FOR CONSTRUCTION. ARCHITECTS E. C. KRISLE AND R. MAX BROOKS DESIGNED THE COMPLEX, UNDER THE

1967 - LAKESIDE APARTMENTS

SUPERVISION OF HUGO FRANZ KUEHNE WHO IS CREDITED WITH SUPERVISING ALL THREE HOUSING AUTHORITY PROJECTS. BUILT ALONG THE LINES OF THE EUROPEAN ZEILENBAU MODEL, BLOCKS OF RECTANGULAR BUILDINGS FRONT RECTANGULAR COURTYARDS. DURING WORLD WAR II, CHALMERS COURTS ORGANIZED A “WAR NURSERY” WHERE MOTHERS COULD LEAVE THEIR CHILDREN WHILE THEY WENT TO WORK FOR THE WAR EFFORT. IT WAS THE FIRST NURSERY IN A PUBLIC HOUSING PROPERTY IN THE COUNTRY. TODAY, THE PROPERTY BOASTS ON-SITE YOUTH PROGRAMS INCLUDING A BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB, ADULT EDUCATION PROGRAMS, A PLAYGROUND AND A BASKETBALL COURT, AND A COMMUNITY ROOM WITH

ABOVE: Photo of a kitchen at Chalmers Courts in 1940.

1972 - BOULDIN OAKS

BOTTOM: Chalmers Courts units today.

1973 - GEORGIAN MANOR 1973 - GOODRICH PLACE 1973 - THURMOND HEIGHTS 1973 - GASTON PLACE

COMPUTERS. CHALMERS WILL BE REDEVELOPED UNDER THE RENTAL ASSISTANCE DEMONSTRATION (RAD) PROGRAM TO PROVIDE RESIDENTS WITH BETTER

1975 - NORTH LOOP APARTMENTS

QUALITY HOUSING AND SOCIAL SERVICES.

1978 - SHADOWBEND RIDGE 1978 - MANCHACA VILLAGE APARTMENTS 1979 - NORTHGATE APARTMENTS 1979 - MANCHACA II 1982 - RIO LADO APARTMENTS 1982 - CORONADO HILLS Housing Authority of the City of Austin 14

183

PART I: HACA BEGINNINGS

PFLUGERVILLE

MANOR

360

AUSTIN

130

ROLLINGWOOD

WEST L A K E H IL LS

290

D EL VALLE

RO S E W O O D CO U RTS FO R FA M I L I ES | 124 U N I TS

45 O P E N E D I N 1939

290

183

BU DA COURTS OPENED IN 1939, ROSEWOOD 35 WAS THE FIRST

PUBLIC HOUSING PROJECT BUILT IN THE UNITED STATES UNDER THE 1937 HOUSING ACT TO SERVE AFRICAN AMERICANS. UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF H. F. KUEHNE, THE AUSTIN-BASED ARCHITECTURE FIRM PAGE AND SOUTHERLAND DESIGNED THE PROJECT WITH ONE TO FOUR-BEDROOM UNITS. THE ONE- AND TWO-STORY BUILDINGS ARE SCATTERED OVER AN EIGHT-ACRE SLOPING SITE DOTTED WITH MATURE TREES. CUL-DE-SACS RUN EAST TO WEST, WITH BUILDINGS LAID OUT IN THE ZEILENBAU MODEL WITH RECTANGULAR COURTYARDS. ORIGINALLY, THE PROJECT INCLUDED 60 UNITS BUT THIS NUMBER WAS LATER INCREASED TO 124 UNITS. THE ROSEWOOD COURTS SITE IS OF PARTICULAR HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE. ORIGINALLY, ONE OF THE SITES OF THE EMANCIPATION PARK IN AUSTIN, THE SITE, ALONG POQUITO CREEK, WAS THE FOCUS OF JUNETEENTH EVENTS AND OTHER CELEBRATIONS FOR AUSTIN’S AFRICAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY. THE SITE WAS TAKEN THROUGH EMINENT DOMAIN TO BUILD THE ROSEWOOD COURTS PROPERTY. TODAY, THE 124-UNIT FAMILY PROPERTY OFFERS YOUTH PROGRAMS, CHILDREN’S PLAYGROUNDS, A BASKETBALL COURT, A COMMUNITY ROOM WITH COMPUTERS, AND ON-SITE JOB TRAINING AND PLACEMENT SERVICES BY GOODWILL CENTRAL TEXAS.

15 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

TOP: Children pose for a photo at Rosewood Courts playground in 1943. BOTTOM: Rosewood Courts playground today.

PART II: POSTWAR GROWTH & CIVIL RIGHTS

PART II

Postwar Growth & Civil Rights On December 7, 1941, Pearl Harbor was

The nursery was created as a part of the

attacked and the United States entered

efforts of the Works Progress Administration

World War II. President Roosevelt declared

and sponsored by the Austin branch of the

it “a day that will live in infamy.” Virtually

American Association of University Women

all government and private resources were

and the Austin Independent School District.

redirected to war efforts.

The nursery served 25 children from age two to age seven.

The federal government restricted building materials to military needs like aircraft, ships,

Many of the men who worked at the housing

tanks, and military barracks. Lumber and

authority in a variety of roles, either enlisted

steel were in short supply. Public housing

or were drafted into service. Fighting-age

construction was put on hold.

eligible residents also enlisted in the defense of the nation. But it was the women staff

TOP: Children painting in Chalmers Nursery. BOTTOM: A doctor examines a child during a well-baby clinic at Chalmers Courts in 1943.

As men enlisted in the military, they left

members who stepped up to key roles at the

behind gaps in the workforce. Answering

agency to keep it moving forward and to do

the call to serve, American women entered

their part in the war effort.

the workforce in large numbers to fill the labor shortages.

President Roosevelt, who had played a key leadership role in shaping public housing

In Austin, the housing authority stepped up to

and developing progressive programs to help

help the women in the domestic workforce.

the poor, died on April 12, 1945. Soon after,

The Chalmers Nursery School was created at

the war ended on August 15, 1945 with the

Chalmers Courts in 1941 as a “war nursery”

surrender of Japan.

where mothers could leave their children while they went to work for the war effort. It was the nation’s first nursery of its kind located in a public housing property.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 16

PART II: POSTWAR GROWTH & CIVIL RIGHTS

POSTWAR EFFORTS The halt in housing construction across

President Truman signed the American

clearing slums and rebuilding blighted areas.

the country limited housing supply in the

Housing Act of 1949 on July 15 of that

It authorizes a comprehensive program of

City of Austin as well. When young veterans

year. A part of the President’s new Fair Deal

housing research aimed at reducing housing

returned from the war ready to find homes

of domestic programs, the act was meant

costs and raising housing standards.”

and build new lives, Austin faced a

to address the lack of sufficient affordable

real challenge.

housing in the United States. In a show

To achieve these goals, the bill expanded the

of bipartisan support, Republican Senator

role of the Federal Housing Administration in

Robert Taft sponsored the bill.

mortgage insurance, provided the funds and

The effects of the housing shortage during the war were magnified as thousands of Texas

authority required for fighting blight through

veterans who had grown up on farms and

Taft declared, “I believe that the Government

urban renewal, and provided initial federal

ranches migrated to Texas cities after the war.

must see that every family has a minimum

funding for the development and construction

Many veterans chose Austin because of the

standard of decent shelter.... The hand-me-

of more than 810,000 public housing units

opportunities to earn a college degree. With

down theory works, but it works to provide

around the country by 1955.

the federal government paying for education

indecent housing to those who get it on the

under the G.I. Bill, veterans could enroll at

last hand-down. ... We cannot pour in all the

Even though the federal government was

one of the many outstanding educational

assistance from the top, and that is all private

unable to achieve its ambitious goal, the

institutions in the city.

industry can do, or be expected to do. I think

law encouraged homeownership through

we must also attack the problem from

mortgage financing and allowed the

the bottom.”

development of large public housing projects

At the start of U.S. involvement in World War II, 88,000 people called Austin home. By 1948, the city had grown to 150,000.

throughout the country. Austin leaders were In his statement on the signing of the bill, the

able to use this opportunity to increase the

President stated, “[t]his far-reaching measure

supply of public housing units in the city.

is of great significance to the welfare of the American people. It opens up the prospect of decent homes in wholesome surroundings for low-income families now living in the squalor of the slums. It equips the Federal Government, for the first time, with effective means for aiding cities in the vital task of

LEFT: Harry S. Truman, seen here speaking at Arlington National Cemetery on Memorial Day in 1948, signed the American Housing Act of 1949 as President. PHOTOGRAPH: NATIONAL ARCHIVES AND RECORDS ADMINISTRATION National Archives Identifier: 6341184

17 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

PART II: POSTWAR GROWTH & CIVIL RIGHTS

GROWING & IMPROVING In the early 1950s, as funding finally became

sufficient open spaces for residents to enjoy.

available to achieve the goals from the 1949

The concepts from her book, Modern Housing,

Housing Act, a federal grant enabled the

were used to create contemporary living

housing authority to construct 520 new

spaces with up-to-date amenities. For the first

units. These new communities included

time, the Austin Housing Authority provided

Meadowbrook Apartments and Booker T.

refrigerators in its public housing units. These

Washington Terraces, with an additional 57

amenities were more than mere convenience;

units at Santa Rita Courts. These new units

they provided residents with both safe food

housed nearly 2,000 low-income residents.

storage and opportunities towards selfsufficiency.

In keeping with Catherine Bauer’s original vision, HACA’s properties were designed to provide sturdy and efficient buildings, with

TOP: Meadowbrook aerial sketch from 1951. BOTTOM: Meadowbrook at the southwest end of Wirtz Avenue looking northeast in 1951. Wirtz Avenue is named after Texas State Senator and former Vice Chairman of the Austin Housing Authority Alvin J. Wirtz. Nearby Perry Avenue is named after Edgar H. Perry, former chairman of the Austin Housing Authority.

RIGHT: Artist’s rendering of Booker T. Washington from 1950.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 18

PART II: POSTWAR GROWTH & CIVIL RIGHTS183

PFLUGERVILLE

MANOR

360

290

45 OPENED

I N 1953

Austin and housing authority residents did

Washington Terraces offered on-site childcare.

not own cars. As a response, the Austin

These services were so popular with the

Housing Authority brought services and

working mothers that waiting lists were

events on-site to residents. Among the

needed. The Austin-Travis County Health

activities were Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, the

Department held weekly clinics at public

YMCA, sewing clubs, canning classes, and

housing properties to promote better health

D ELnutrition VALLE

M E A D O W B RO O K FO R FA M I L I ES | 160 U N I TS

Meadowbrook Apartments and Booker T.

130

ROLLINGWOOD

AUSTIN MA

WEST L A K E H IL LS

At the time, most low-income families 290 in

183

BU DA OPENED MEADOWBROOK APARTMENTS 35 IN 1952 AS A

education. Austin Public Library’s

and wellness. They served as many as 7,000

Bookmobile visited the properties often,

children on-site each year, including children

and there were social gatherings for

from the surrounding neighborhoods.

senior residents.

FAMILY PROPERTY IN SOUTH AUSTIN. THE 160 UNITS RANGE FROM TWO-BEDROOM TO FIVE-BEDROOM CONFIGURATIONS. TODAY, MEADOWBROOK OFFERS MANY INNOVATIVE OPPORTUNITIES FOR FAMILIES, INCLUDING ON-SITE YOUTH PROGRAMS, SUCH AS THE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB. ADULT EDUCATION CLASSES ARE ALSO AVAILABLE, ALONG WITH GOOGLE FIBER CONNECTIONS FOR RESIDENT DIGITAL CONNECTIVITY. PLAYGROUNDS AND BASKETBALL COURTS PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES AND SOCIALIZING AMONG NEIGHBORS. IN 2014, THE HENRY FLORES EDUCATION AND TRAINING CENTER OPENED ON-SITE. THE 10,000-SQUARE-FOOT, STATE-OF-THE-ART EDUCATION AND TRAINING CENTER OFFERS ON-SITE PROGRAMS FOR ALL AGES, A LIBRARY, A RECORDING STUDIO, AND AN OUTDOOR AMPHITHEATER. RESIDENTS USE THE COMPUTER LAB TO TAKE ONLINE CLASSES AND BUILD SKILLS TOWARDS SELF-SUFFICIENCY.

Austin’s public housing developments are more than properties. They are communities of opportunity. 19 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

ABOVE: Meadowbrook Apartments offers many innovative opportunities for families, including on-site youth programs, such as the Boys and Girls Club. LEFT: The Henry Flores Education and Training Center was named in honor of longtime HACA commissioner and chairman Henry Flores, Sr.

P FLUGERVILLE

PART II: POSTWAR183 GROWTH & CIVIL RIGHTS

MA N OR

360

290

AUST I N

130

RO L L I N G W O O D

W EST L A KE HI L LS

DE L VA L L E

B O O K E R T. W A S H I N GTO N T E R R AC ES FO R FA M I L I ES | 216 U N I TS

OPENED 45

I N 1953

183

BUILT IN EAST AUSTINB IN 1953, BOOKER UDA 35 T. WASHINGTON

TERRACES (BTW) IS THE LARGEST OF HACA’S PROPERTIES. THE ONE- AND TWO-STORY BUILDINGS HAVE UNITS OF VARYING SIZES, RANGING FROM ONE TO FIVE BEDROOMS. THE PROPERTY’S LOCATION AND AMENITIES SUPPORT FAMILIES AND THEIR CHILDREN. BTW IS ACROSS THE STREET FROM OAK SPRINGS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL AND

As the population of Austin grew, so did

struggled to meet the growing demand for

the Austin Housing Authority. By the end of

affordable housing in the city.

the 1950s, the agency operated more than

WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE OF CHILDCARE SERVICES. THE PROPERTY IS ALSO A FIVE-MINUTE WALK FROM AUSTIN COMMUNITY COLLEGE’S EASTVIEW CAMPUS. BTW OFFERS FOUR PLAYGROUNDS, YOUTH PROGRAMS, A BASKETBALL COURT, AND A COMMUNITY ROOM EQUIPPED

750 units, providing homes and services

Most residents who moved out of Austin’s

to thousands of low-income families. The

public housing from 1939 through the

average household income for public housing

mid-1950s moved into their own homes.

residents was $1,750/year — about $14,000

The Austin Housing Authority was doing

FIBER. BTW IS ONE OF TWO HACA SITES (CHALMERS

in today’s dollars. Even with the increased

exactly what it had set out to do — provide

PARTICIPATE IN JOBS PLUS ATX. THE JOBS PLUS ATX

number of units and some residents moving

a stepping-stone that allowed struggling

out, the Austin Housing Authority

families in Austin to build the foundation for a successful and self-sufficient life.

WITH COMPUTERS. OVER ITS 60+ YEAR HISTORY, BOOKER T. WASHINGTON HAS UNDERGONE SEVERAL MAJOR RENOVATIONS. IN 2017, THE PROPERTY WAS CONNECTED TO GIGABIT SPEED INTERNET SERVICE THROUGH GOOGLE COURTS IS THE OTHER) WHERE RESIDENTS MAY TEAM IS A COLLABORATIVE GROUP OF HACA AND COMMUNITY PARTNERS WHO EMPOWER RESIDENTS TO PURSUE SELF-SUFFICIENCY GOALS. RESIDENTS RECEIVE FINANCIAL INCENTIVES THAT MAKE WORK PAY BY ALLOWING THEIR RENT TO ESSENTIALLY BE FROZEN DURING PROGRAM PARTICIPATION.

TOP: Booker T. Washington Terraces under construction in 1952. LEFT: Today, Booker T. Washington is HACA’s largest public housing property.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 20

PART II: POSTWAR GROWTH & CIVIL RIGHTS

SENIORS & THE GREAT SOCIETY The 1960 census uncovered some alarming

units were occupied by at least one person

trends about housing conditions in the

above the age of 60. The median income

United States. Thirty-eight percent of the 53

for households with seniors ($1,400) was

million housing units across the nation were

half the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s overall median income

occupied by renters. Almost 20 percent of all

($2,800). Housing for seniors was generally

units were either dilapidated or deteriorating,

more dilapidated and more likely to lack

tensions were growing, and it was clear

with no running water or indoor toilets.

plumbing as compared to the rest of the

that successes and opportunities in the

country, with 19 percent of the housing units

broader economy were not reaching minority

for seniors in poor condition.

communities.

a growing concern across the country and in

Housing was only one of the problems

As a response to these conditions, President

Austin. To address this challenge, the Austin

plaguing the nation. Other challenges

Lyndon B. Johnson unveiled his plan for the

Housing Authority opened its first properties

included inadequate work and educational

Great Society during the 1964 presidential

to serve seniors, as well as persons with

opportunities, poor medical care, urban

election. In a commencement speech at the

disabilities and their families. Opened in 1966

decay, racial segregation, poverty, and poor

University of Michigan in 1964 Johnson

and 1967 respectively, Salina Apartments and

transportation infrastructure. The postwar

explained, â&#x20AC;&#x153;[t]he challenge of the next half

Lakeside Apartments ushered in a new era

prosperity the nation had seen after World

century is whether we have the wisdom to

in public housing in Austin. One-third of all

War II was beginning to decline. Racial

use that wealth to enrich and elevate our

Following the 1960 census, poor housing conditions and poverty among seniors were

national life, and to advance the quality of our American civilization. Your imagination, your initiative, and your indignation will determine whether we build a society where progress is the servant of our needs, or a society where old values and new visions are buried under unbridled growth. For in your time we have the opportunity to move not

TOP: President Johnson signs the bill establishing the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in 1965. PHOTOGRAPH: LYNDON B. JOHNSON LIBRARY AND MUSEUM Serial Number: 476-5-WH65

LEFT: The Austin Citizen, a local newspaper, reports on the efforts of the Austin Housing Authority to serve seniors at Lakeside.

21 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

P FLUGERVILLE

PART II: POSTWAR GROWTH & CIVIL RIGHTS 183

insurance for veterans, and subsidies for low-

As a part of the Great Society efforts, President Johnson passed the Housing and

income families to live in privately-owned 71

W EST L A KE HI L LS

units. Furthermore, the act provided grants for infrastructure and public amenities.

360

RO L L I N G W O O D

Urban Development Act of 1965 in August

AUST I N

of that year. He remarked at the signing of

Four weeks later, in September 1965,

the law, “[t]oday, we are going to put on

President Johnson established the

the books of American law what I genuinely

Department of Housing and Urban

believe is the most farsighted, the most

Development (HUD) as a separate cabinet-

comprehensive, the most massive housing

level agency. Dr. Robert Clifton Weaver was

program in all American history.”

appointed as the first Secretary of HUD in

OPENED IN 1966, ACROSS ROSEWOOD COURTS B UDAFROM 35

1966, a position he held until 1968. Secretary

EFFICIENCY-STYLE AND ONE-BEDROOM APARTMENTS

290

130

society, but upward to the Great Society.”

MA N OR

low-income homeowners, mortgage

only toward the rich society and the powerful

DE L VA L L E

SALINA FOR SENIORS & DISABLED | 32 UNITS

OPENED 45

I N 1966

183

APARTMENTS, SALINA APARTMENTS INCLUDES 32

CATERING TO SENIORS AND PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES.

The Housing and Urban Development

Weaver was the country’s first African

Act of 1965 increased federal funding for

American to be appointed to a cabinet-level

existing housing programs while introducing

position. As secretary, he would later

PART OF THE MODERN AMENITIES PROVIDED TO

numerous new programs, including rent

advocate for the passage of the Fair Housing

AND THE COMMUNITY IS WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE TO

subsidies to the elderly and persons with

Act of 1968.

disabilities, rehabilitation grants for

CENTRAL AIR-CONDITIONING, A LAUNDRY ROOM, AND A COMMUNITY ROOM EQUIPPED WITH COMPUTERS ARE RESIDENTS. ADULT EDUCATION IS AVAILABLE ON-SITE, THE GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER MUSEUM AND THE DEWITTY JOB TRAINING AND EMPLOYMENT CENTER. THE UNITS ARE ACCESSIBLE AND WELL CONNECTED WITH PUBLIC TRANSIT, ALLOWING RESIDENTS TO LIVE INDEPENDENTLY.

LEFT: Residents receive Christmas baskets at Salina Apartments. BOTTOM: Today, Salina Apartments offers resident social activities and an on-site computer lab.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 22

PART II: POSTWAR GROWTH & CIVIL RIGHTS 183

PFLUGERVILLE

MANOR

360

290

AUSTIN

130

ROLLINGWOOD

WEST L A K E H IL LS

D EL VALLE

L A K ES I D E FO R S E N I O R S & D I S A B L E D | 16 4 U N I TS

OPENED 45

290

I N 19 67

183

ON THE BANKS OF LADY BIRD LAKE, LAKESIDE APARTMENTS BU DA IS A UNIQUE AFFORDABLE RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY

BECAUSE OF ITS LOCATION IN DOWNTOWN AUSTIN. THE DEVELOPMENT INCLUDES 164 UNITS, RANGING FROM EFFICIENCIES TO TWO BEDROOMS. WHEN IT WAS FIRST CONSTRUCTED, THE PROPERTY FEATURED CONTEMPORARY ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN, BRIGHT DÃ&#x2030;COR, COMMUNITY ROOMS, AND BALCONIES OVERLOOKING LADY BIRD LAKE. AT 12 STORIES, LAKESIDE APARTMENTS IMMEDIATELY BECAME ONE OF THE TALLEST BUILDINGS IN DOWNTOWN AUSTIN AND A DESIRABLE PLACE TO LIVE. TODAY, RESIDENTS ENJOY ACCESS TO DOWNTOWN AMENITIES, AS WELL AS VIEWS OVERLOOKING THE LAKE AND THE ANN AND ROY BUTLER HIKE AND BIKE TRAIL. RESIDENTS ARE PROVIDED ON-SITE LAUNDRY ROOMS, COMMUNITY ROOMS WITH COMPUTER ACCESS AND AN ON-SITE LIBRARY. A WELLNESS SPECIALIST AND A FAMILY ELDERCARE STAFF MEMBER ARE AVAILABLE ON-SITE TO PROVIDE RESIDENTS WITH PERSONALIZED HEALTH AND WELLNESS CARE OPTIONS.

23 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

LEFT: A view of Lakeside Apartments at night in 1967. BOTTOM: Situated on the banks of Lady Bird Lake, Lakeside Apartments remains a deeply affordable senior property, a rarity in Downtown Austin today.

PART II: POSTWAR GROWTH & CIVIL RIGHTS

GLORIA ARZOLA

La keside Re s ide nt Gloria Arzola, 84, has lived at Lakeside for 25 years. A single parent, Gloria raised four children at HACA’s Manchaca II community before transferring to Lakeside. She has always been very active in HACA’s resident events and meetings, and she loves to dance and socialize. Gloria goes on weekly shopping trips with her daughter and caregiver, Marina. She has received several awards for good housekeeping.

Over the years, public housing agencies

This struggle was exacerbated in 1969 by

struggled to recover the cost of maintaining

the Brooke Amendment to the Housing Act

and managing public housing solely through

of 1937. The amendment stipulated that

the rents they collected. Agencies charged

residents in public housing could only be

tenants below market rents in order to

required to pay 25 percent of their income

provide affordable housing. However,

towards rent. The amendment helped

restricting rental income meant that housing

standardize rent calculation and set a

authorities could not sufficiently cover

requirement to ensure affordability. At the

operating costs. In order to address this

same time, however, it limited the funds

issue, HUD began to provide subsidies to

agencies could raise through rents. This

agencies during the 1960s that would cover

standard was later raised to 30 percent of a

the widening gap between rental income and

resident’s income and is generally followed to

ongoing operating costs.

this day.

TOP RIGHT: North Loop residents play shuffleboard in 1977. BOTTOM RIGHT: A group of musicians play for residents at North Loop in the late 1970s.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 24

PART II: POSTWAR GROWTH & CIVIL RIGHTS

CIVIL RIGHTS ERA In the early 1960s racial tensions simmered. Disparity was wide-spread. Discrimination limited housing options for African Americans and other minorities across the country, including in public housing. From the Housing Authority’s inception, Austin’s public housing developments were segregated by race and ethnicity. Prior to the Civil Rights Movement, the federal government allowed, and sometimes even encouraged, racial segregation. Additionally, segregation originally enacted by the City of Austin’s 1928 master plan became entrenched with the opening of Interstate 35 in May 1962. Slicing through Austin, IH-35 now provided a figurative and physical barrier, separating East Austin from the rest of the city. For years, segregation and housing discrimination in Austin and the rest of the country remained unaddressed. In November 1962, President John F. Kennedy issued Executive Order 11063, prohibiting discrimination in the “sale, leasing, rental, or other disposition of properties and facilities owned or operated by the federal government or provided with federal funds.” This was the first time discrimination was explicitly prohibited in federally funded public

TOP: John F. Kennedy meeting with Civil Rights Leaders in the Oval Office of the White House after the March on Washington, D.C in 1963.

housing. However, since it was left up to local

PHOTOGRAPH: THE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS CALL NUMBER: LC-U9- 10379-6 [P&P]

jurisdictions to follow the order, it failed to

BOTTOM: Lyndon B. Johnson is sworn in as President aboard Air Force One after the assassination of President Kennedy.

produce meaningful results.

PHOTOGRAPH: LYNDON B. JOHNSON LIBRARY AND MUSEUM Serial Number: 1A-14-WH63

25 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

PART II: POSTWAR GROWTH & CIVIL RIGHTS

In 1963, tragedy hit the nation with President Kennedy’s assassination. Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson, in his new role of President of the United States, quickly picked up the Civil Rights banner from his predecessor and called on Congress to pass a new Civil Rights Act to honor the fallen president. In his address to Congress following the assassination, Johnson urged, “no memorial oration or eulogy could more eloquently honor President Kennedy’s memory than the earliest possible passage of the civil rights bill for which he fought so long. We have talked long enough in this country about equal rights. We have talked for one hundred years or more. It is time now to write the next chapter, and to write it in the books of law.”

TOP: Lyndon B. Johnson speaks to the nation before signing the Civil Rights Act of 1964 at the White House. PHOTOGRAPH: LYNDON B. JOHNSON LIBRARY AND MUSEUM Serial Number: C522-2-WH64

BOTTOM: Lyndon B. Johnson speaking at the Signing ceremony for the Voting Rights Act in 1965. PHOTOGRAPH: LYNDON B. JOHNSON LIBRARY AND MUSEUM Serial Number: 34957-1

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 26

PART II: POSTWAR GROWTH & CIVIL RIGHTS

Congress enacted the Civil Rights Act in 1964 and the Voting Rights Act in 1965. The former prohibited discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, or national origin and provided equal protection under the Constitution. Increasing involvement in the Vietnam War and the pressures felt by the Johnson Administration stalled meaningful federal action on civil rights. The Civil Rights Act of 1968, popularly known as the Fair Housing Act, proposed to prohibit discrimination concerning the sale, rental and financing of housing based on race, religion, national origin and sex. However, the legislation, facing widespread opposition, was at a standstill in Congress. Tragedy would strike the country again in April 1968, when Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee. President Johnson immediately asked Congress to pass the Fair Housing Act of 1968. He argued that the bill would be a fitting testament to the man and his legacy, and he wanted it passed prior to Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s funeral in Atlanta. After a strictly limited debate, the House passed the Fair Housing Act on April 10, and President Johnson signed it into law the following day. Upon signing the Civil Rights Act on April 11, 1968, President Johnson remarked, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I do not exaggerate when I say that the

27 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

PART II: POSTWAR GROWTH & CIVIL RIGHTS

President Johnson had not forgotten his efforts in creating the Austin Housing Authority 30 years earlier. proudest moments of my Presidency have been times such as this when I have signed into law the promises of a century. I shall never forget that it was more than 100 years ago when Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation--but it was a proclamation; it was not a fact …. Now, with this bill, the voice of justice speaks again.” Present at the signing of the act was the Arzola family of Santa Rita Courts in Austin, who were flown to Washington, D.C. at the President’s request. President Johnson had not forgotten his efforts in creating the Austin Housing Authority some 30 years before and his inability at the time to create public housing that was not segregated. For the President, the ‘promises of a century’ included his personal commitment to housing for all, in the United States and in Austin. The Fair Housing Act of 1968 stands as one of the most important civil rights legislative achievements of the Johnson Administration.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 28

PART III: HACA EVOLVES

PART III

HACA Evolves Following the creation of the United

with planning requirements that could ensure

States Department of Housing and Urban

that all housing serving low-income families,

Development (HUD) in 1965, the Housing

was dispersed throughout a community.

and Urban Development Act of 1968 built on the goals of earlier housing legislation. The

During the late 1960s, congressional leaders

1968 act set a goal of building 26 million

called for public-private partnerships and

housing units in the following decade,

leveraging private sector investments to

including six million units for low- and

meet housing goals. These policies would

moderate-income residents.

drive public housing production in the next decade, even as support for public housing

The Housing Act of 1968 also provided new sources for funding public housing, coupled

ABOVE: Austin Housing Authorityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (or AHAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) logo before the agency changed its name to the Housing Authority of the City of Austin in the late 1990s. RIGHT: Old Austin Housing Authority office on East 3rd Street.

29 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

diminished.

183

PFLUGERVILLE

PART III: HACA EVOLVES MANOR

360

AUSTI N

130

ROLLINGWOOD

W EST L A KE HI LLS

290

D EL VALLE

BOULDIN 45

OA KS

FO R FA M I L I ES | 144 U N I TS BU DA O P E N E D I N 1972

183

OPENED IN 1972, BOULDIN OAKS CONSISTS OF SCATTERED-SITE SINGLE-STORY DUPLEXES, RANGING FROM ONE- TO FOUR-BEDROOM UNITS. SURROUNDED BY LARGE SHADE TREES, BOULDIN OAKS SEAMLESSLY BLENDS INTO THE SURROUNDING SOUTH AUSTIN NEIGHBORHOOD. SEVERAL UNITS WITH ACCESSIBILITY FEATURES ENABLE RESIDENTS WITH MOBILITY CHALLENGES TO LIVE INDEPENDENTLY. BOULDIN OAKS IS ADJACENT TO THE SOUTH AUSTIN NEIGHBORHOOD PARK, WHICH INCLUDES A RECREATION AND TENNIS CENTER. ON-SITE YOUTH PROGRAMS, PLAYGROUNDS, AND A COMMUNITY ROOM EQUIPPED WITH COMPUTERS PROVIDE FAMILIES WITH RECREATIONAL AMENITIES AND EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES.

TOP: Former Austin City Council Member Raul Alvarez and HACA residents enjoying National Night Out at Bouldin Oaks in the early 2000s. BOTTOM: Bouldin Oaks is adjacent to the South Austin Neighborhood Park, which includes a recreation center and a tennis center.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 30

183

PART III: HACA EVOLVES

PFLUGERVILLE

MANOR

garden at Gaston Place. A Gaston Place

130

resident since 1986, Jesse has some amazing stories. He played semi-pro basketball

290

with Jackie Robinson, and he got to know

D EL VALLE

many well-known political figures like

G A STO N P L AC E FO R S E N I O R S & D I S A B L E D | 10 0 U N I TS

45 OPENED

Gas ton Place Re s ide nt managing his pet project, the community

AUSTIN R

ROLLINGWOOD

JESSE SIMS

Ninety-one-year-old Jesse Sims finds joy

360

WEST L A K E H IL LS

290

I N 1973

Lyndon Baines Johnson while working at

183

the legendary Austin Club. Sims also ran a

non-profit for Job Corps that helped youth

BU DA 35 IN 1973 IN NORTHEAST GASTON PLACE WAS CONSTRUCTED

offenders gain employment.

AUSTIN. THE 100-UNIT PROPERTY SERVES SENIORS AND RESIDENTS WITH DISABILITIES. MOST OF THE UNITS ARE ONE-BEDROOM WITH A FEW TWO-BEDROOM UNITS. RESIDENTS CAN ENJOY A LARGE COMMUNITY GARDEN, A LIBRARY, A COMMUNITY ROOM EQUIPPED WITH COMPUTERS, AND TWO COMMUNITY ROOMS FOR LARGE MEETINGS AND PROGRAMS. AMENITIES AT THE PROPERTY INCLUDE CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONING, A LAUNDRY ROOM, AND LOBBY MONITORS. A FAMILY ELDERCARE STAFF MEMBER IS AVAILABLE ON-SITE ALONG WITH A WELLNESS SPECIALIST TO ASSIST RESIDENTS.

GENE RODGERS

G asto n Pla ce Residen t Gene Rodgers recognizes how fortunate he is to have an affordable and accessible home in Austin. A resident of Gaston Place since 1998, Gene co-hosts a TV show on Austin Access which focuses on the rights of the disabled. He became a quadriplegic due to a hiking accident in 1972, but that did not extinguish his love for adventure. Gene travels the world to take part in mountain climbing, sailing, skydiving and other adventure sports and he was part of a documentary about traveling to the Mt. Everest Base Camp.

LEFT: Gaston Place was constructed in 1973 in northeast Austin and has been serving residents ever since.

31 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

183

PFLUG ERVILLE

183

MANOR

290 45

G EO RG I A N M A N O R FO R FA M I L I ES | 94 U N I TS O P E N E D I N 1973

ROLLINGWOOD

130

290 DEL VALLE 183

PFLUG ERVILLE

PART III: HACA EVOLVES

MA N OR

290

AUSTIN

T H U R MO N D H E I G H TS FO R FA M I L I E S | 1 4 4 U N I TS O P E N E D I N71 1 973

290

130

360

AUSTI N R

ROLLINGWOOD

WEST LAKE H ILLS

360

WEST L A KE H I L LS

D EL VALLE

183

GEORGIANBUDA MANOR OPENED 35 IN NORTH AUSTIN IN 1973. THE 94-UNIT DEVELOPMENT INCLUDES ONE-BEDROOM

LOCATED IN NORTH 35 AUSTIN, THURMOND HEIGHTS BUDA

TO FOUR-BEDROOM UNITS. RECENTLY INSTALLED

RENOVATED WITH NEW KITCHENS AND BATHROOMS,

AMENITIES SUCH AS WASHERS AND DRYERS IN THE UNITS

UPDATED WIRING, CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONING, ENERGY

ALLOW RESIDENTS TO ENJOY MODERN CONVENIENCES.

EFFICIENT WINDOWS, AND CERAMIC TILE FLOORS. WASHER

PLAYGROUNDS, A BASKETBALL COURT, AND YOUTH

HOOKUPS ARE PROVIDED ON-SITE AND GARDEN SPACE IS

PROGRAMS ARE AVAILABLE, INCLUDING COMMUNITIES

AVAILABLE FOR THE USE OF THE RESIDENTS. PROXIMITY

IN SCHOOLS. ADULT EDUCATION IS ALSO PROVIDED

TO CHILDCARE FACILITIES, PLAYGROUNDS, BASKETBALL

ON-SITE AND A COMMUNITY ROOM WITH COMPUTERS

COURTS, ON-SITE YOUTH PROGRAMS AND A COMMUNITY

IS AVAILABLE FOR RESIDENTS’ USE. WHEELCHAIR

ROOM EQUIPPED WITH COMPUTERS PROVIDE FAMILIES

RAMPS AND OTHER FEATURES PROVIDE ACCESSIBILITY

WITH NECESSARY AMENITIES. ADULT EDUCATION IS ALSO

TO RESIDENTS WITH DISABILITIES AS REQUESTED.

AVAILABLE, AND ACCESSIBLE UNITS ARE AVAILABLE AT THE

OPENED IN 1973. ALL 144 UNITS HAVE BEEN RECENTLY

PROPERTY. LOCATED ALONG NORTH LAMAR BOULEVARD, IT IS CONNECTED TO PUBLIC TRANSIT, INCLUDING THE METRORAPID BUS SYSTEM.

FAR LEFT: Adult education is provided on-site at Georgian Manor and a community room with computers is available for residents’ use. LEFT: Thurmond Heights is located along North Lamar Boulevard, and is connected to public transit, including the MetroRapid bus system.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 32

183

PFLUG ERVILLE

PART III: HACA EVOLVES MANOR

ROLLINGWOOD

AUSTI N

290 45

130

360

W EST L A KE HI LLS

290

D EL VALLE

G O O D R I C H P L AC E FO R FA M I L I ES | 40 U N I TS

183

O P E N BUDA E D I N 1973 35

GOODRICH PLACE OPENED IN 1973 IN SOUTH AUSTIN IN AN OPPORTUNITY-RICH NEIGHBORHOOD, ADJACENT TO SOUTH LAMAR BOULEVARD. THE 40-UNIT FAMILY PROPERTY HAS UNITS RANGING FROM ONE-BEDROOM TO FIVE-BEDROOMS. IT IS CONVENIENTLY LOCATED CLOSE TO CHILDCARE FACILITIES, ZILKER ELEMENTARY. THE DEVELOPMENT IS WELL CONNECTED BY PUBLIC TRANSIT, INCLUDING THE METRORAPID BUS RAPID SYSTEM. GOODRICH PLACE WILL BE THE SITE OF HACA’S FIRST MAJOR REDEVELOPMENT OF A PUBLIC HOUSING PROPERTY UNDER HUD’S RENTAL ASSISTANCE DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM. THE ORIGINAL 40 UNITS WILL BE COMPLETELY

DANIEL ESTRADA

G o o dric h Pla ce Residen t Without public housing, many native Austinites like Daniel Estrada, could no

REDEVELOPED AND AN ADDITIONAL 80 UNITS WILL BE

longer afford to live in their hometown.

ADDED. CONSTRUCTION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN IN 2018,

Daniel lived in East Austin at his

WITH FAMILIES MOVING INTO THE PROPERTY AS EARLY AS 2020.

grandfather’s home until his grandfather died. Relatives decided to sell the property because the tax value had skyrocketed. After a couple of years, Daniel found a new home at Goodrich Place. Now, he’s looking to give back to the community through volunteering both at his property and at church.

LEFT: Goodrich Place will be the site of HACA’s first major redevelopment of a public housing property under HUD’s Rental Assistance Demonstration program.

33 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

PART III: HACA EVOLVES

MORATORIUM Since its inception, public housing has faced

In January 1973, President Richard Nixon

housing situation. The moratorium would not

numerous challenges and criticisms. By the

imposed an 18-month moratorium on

be lifted until the summer of 1974, towards

1970s, limited operating funds, segregation

all subsidized housing programs. The

the end of the president’s time

and racial disparity, entrenched poverty, and

moratorium encompassed all subsidized

in office.

the deterioration of the aging public housing

homeownership and rental programs.

stock, led many to believe that public housing

President Nixon requested a formal review

as a program did not live up to its initial

of all subsidized housing programs and an

promise.

assessment of their impact on the national

BOTTOM: The Frances Cabrini Row-houses and William Green Homes in Chicago, commonly known as Cabrini–Green were often cited as an example of the failure of public housing in the United States. PHOTOGRAPH: THE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS Call Number: HAER ILL, 16-CHIG, 148—1

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 34

PART III: HACA EVOLVES

J.J. “JAKE” PICKLE: CONGRESSMAN, ALLY, & ADVOCATE Like the rest of the country, Austin was

from 1963 to 1995.He was a tireless advocate

unable to escape challenges surrounding

for low-income people, building on the

the aging of its public housing properties.

legacy of Lyndon Johnson, with whom he

The lack of sufficient funds for maintenance,

worked closely. Like President Johnson,

suburbanization and segregation, and poor

Pickle recognized that quality, safe, affordable

design choices were beginning to cause

housing was vital for the poor.

problems years after the various public housing developments were built.

Pickle worked with the Austin Housing Authority to secure more than $5 million

When HACA built Booker T. Washington

in federal funds for modernizing properties

Terraces, the housing authority planned to

in the 1970s. He exclaimed, “I’m pleased

use masonry for the walls. However, in a cost-

that the government finally lived up to its

cutting effort, federal authorities mandated

responsibility to these people.”

that plywood be used instead. Plywood, as the residents would later find out, proved

When a city manager reportedly said,

to be a very flammable and dangerous

“I couldn’t care less whether the conditions

construction material.

[at Booker T. Washington] are good, bad or indifferent,” Pickle forcefully responded

In its first 20 years, the residents of Booker

“[n]one of us can afford to ‘wash our hands’

T. Washington Terraces had been hit hard by

of the problem. What we need to do is put

several devastating fires, resulting in the loss

our hands to work — all of us on the local

of seven young children. After another fire

and federal level — and find solutions to the

ended in the death of an infant named Byron

problem.” In Pickle’s view, decent housing for

Justice, Texas congressional leaders mobilized

the poor was a community concern.

and convinced HUD to release modernization funds that had been held up by congressional

Throughout his 32-year tenure, Congressman

inaction.

Pickle continued to advocate tirelessly for Austin and especially its low-income

One of these leaders was Congressman James Jarrell “Jake” Pickle. Pickle represented the Austin and 10th congressional district of Texas as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives for more than 30 years,

35 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

residents.

ABOVE: Congressman Jake Pickle speaks at the Booker T. Washington community room dedication in 1989.

PART III: HACA EVOLVES

As we celebrate our 80th year, think of Austin’s good fortune. For 50 of our 80 years, Austin was represented in Congress by Lyndon Johnson and then Jake Pickle. Both were compassionate, respected advocates for Austin’s poorest families. They believed that providing safe homes and opportunities for the poorest among us would benefit their entire district. They set the standard of caring for our neighbors. Our challenge is to build on their legacy. — CHARLES C. BAILEY

Board Member,

Housing Authority of the City of Austin

ABOVE: Congressman Jake Pickle with Emma Price, the first resident at North Loop Apartments in 1975.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 36

PART III: HACA EVOLVES

THE ORIGIN OF HOUSING CHOICE VOUCHERS In August 1974, President Ford signed the

portable rental certificate to use in the private

Housing and Community Development Act.

housing market. The housing authority made

This enacted a major shift in federal housing

payments directly to landlords and the tenant

policy focusing on rental housing in the

paid a pre-determined portion of their income

private market, as opposed to subsidized, as

for rent.

opposed to subsidized housing provided by public agencies.

Today, Housing Choice Vouchers serve approximately 2.2 million households

ABOVE: A 2014 Austin Housing Choice Voucher applicant.

The act established the Community

across the United States and is the federal

Development Block Grant (CDBG), replacing

governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest housing assistance

previous categorical grant programs and

program. Project-Based Rental Assistance

supporting local decision making for housing

(PBRA) serves approximately 1.2 million

and community development investments.

households. Traditional public housing serves

Funds were allocated based on a formula that

approximately 1.1 million households across

used population figures to distribute funds to

the country.

states and local jurisdictions. HACA currently administers Housing Choice Perhaps most significantly, the act created

Vouchers for 14,084 families, providing

the Section 8 program that included two

housing opportunities for these Austinites.

distinct components. The first component

However, the need in the community is far

was the New Construction and Substantial

greater than the supply. The waiting list for

Rehabilitation program, commonly known as

the program was last opened in October

Project-Based Section 8. Under this program,

2014, when more than 19,000 families

the federal government provided private

applied for assistance.

landlords with a direct subsidy in return for providing affordable units in properties built or rehabilitated under the program to income-qualified residents living there. The second component was the TenantBased Section 8 certificate program, later consolidated under the title of the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program. Under this program, the tenant was provided a

37 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

183

P FLUGE RVIL L E

PART III: HACA EVOLVES MA N OR

ROLLI N G W O O D

1 290 45

AUST I N

130

360

W EST LAKE HILLS

DE L VA L L E

N O RT H LO O P

183U N I TS FO R S E N I O R S & D I S A B L E D | 130 O P E NBUDA E D I N 1975

NORTH LOOP APARTMENTS IS A FIVE-STORY DEVELOPMENT THAT PROVIDES HOUSING AND SERVICES FOR SENIORS AND PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES. THE DEVELOPMENT INCLUDES 130 ONE- AND TWO-BEDROOM UNITS. A FAMILY ELDERCARE STAFF MEMBER AND AN ON-SITE WELLNESS SPECIALIST PROVIDE RESIDENTS WITH SUPPORT AND PERSONALIZED CARE. THE PROPERTY FEATURES CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONING, A LAUNDRY ROOM, LOBBY MONITORS AND A COMMUNITY ROOM EQUIPPED WITH COMPUTERS.

ABOVE: North Loop Apartments

RESIDENTS CAN ALSO ENJOY AN ON-SITE LIBRARY, TWO COMMUNITY ROOMS FOR LARGE MEETINGS AND PROGRAMS, AND A COMMUNITY GARDEN. FOR MANY RESIDENTS, HACA HAS GIVEN THEM NEWFOUND HOPE. REMEMBERING THEIR MOVE TO NORTH LOOP APARTMENTS, ONE RESIDENT SAID, “THIS PLACE SAVED ME.”

ABOVE: North Loop residents playing cards, circa late 1970s.

ABOVE: North Loop residents enjoying a party at the property.

RIGHT: A Family ElderCare staff member and an on-site wellness specialist provide residents with personalized services at North Loop Apartments.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 38

290

C EDA R PA R K

PART III: HACA EVOLVES

ROUND ROCK

183

PFLUG ERVILLE

MANOR

ROLLINGWOOD

1 290

AUSTI N

130

360

W EST L A KE HI LLS

SHADOWBEND RIDGE

290

D EL VALLE

FO R FA M I L I ES | 50 U N I TS

O P E N E D I N 1978

183

SHADOWBEND RIDGE OPENED IN 1978 TO PROVIDE A BUDA FOUNDATION FOR FAMILIES 35 BUILDING BETTER LIVES.

THE 50-UNIT SOUTH AUSTIN PROPERTY HAS UNITS OF VARYING SIZES, RANGING FROM ONE BEDROOM TO FIVE BEDROOMS. THE DEVELOPMENT IS CLOSE TO PLEASANT HILL ELEMENTARY, BEDICHEK MIDDLE SCHOOL AND PRIVATE CHILDCARE FACILITIES. RESIDENTS ALSO HAVE CONVENIENT ACCESS TO PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION. THE PROPERTY WAS RECENTLY RENOVATED THROUGH THE RENTAL ASSISTANCE DEMONSTRATION (RAD PROGRAM) AND HAS CONVERTED TO PROJECT BASED RENTAL ASSISTANCE (PBRA).

WINNIE NELSON

S hadowb e nd Ridge Re s ide nt Winnie Nelson (standing, right) manages one of the most active households in the Shadowbend Ridge Apartments. After the death of her daughter, Winnie became the single guardian of eight grandchildren. Thanks to housing assistance, she has time LEFT: Recently renovated, Shadowbend Ridge includes all new kitchens and bathrooms, covered playgrounds, and a community room equipped with computers and gigabit speed internet connections through Google Fiber.

39 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

to make sure the children are excelling in school and various other activities. Winnie teaches her grandchildren to focus on the possibilities the future holds, and the importance of family.

183

PFLUG ERVILLE

MA N OR

ROLLINGWOOD

AUSTIN

290 45

130

360

WEST LAKE H IL LS

290

PART III: HACA EVOLVES

D EL VALLE

MANCHACA VILLAGE

183

BUDA FO R FA M I L I E35 S | 3 3 U N I TS

O P E N E D I N 1 978

MANCHACA VILLAGE APARTMENTS OPENED IN SOUTH AUSTIN IN 1978. THE DEVELOPMENT HAS 33 UNITS, RANGING FROM ONE TO FIVE BEDROOMS. THE PROPERTY IS IDEALLY LOCATED WITHIN PROXIMITY OF CROCKETT HIGH SCHOOL AND THE AUSTIN COMMUNITY COLLEGE SOUTH AUSTIN CAMPUS.

CHRISTEEN WEIR

ON-SITE AMENITIES INCLUDE CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONING,

M a n cha ca V i l lage Re s i d e n t

A COVERED PLAYGROUND, A BASKETBALL COURT, A

Christeen Weir credits much of her success

INTERNET. MANCHACA VILLAGE WAS HACA’S FIRST

in school to the free Google Fiber connection in her home in Manchaca Village. Her family was never able to afford internet service, which made it difficult for her to keep up at Harmony School of Excellence with its STEM-based curriculum. Google Fiber

COMMUNITY SPACE WITH COMPUTERS AND HIGH-SPEED PROPERTY TO UNDERGO EXTENSIVE RENOVATIONS INCLUDING NEW KITCHENS AND BATHROOMS, FLOORING, FIXTURES, AND CABINETRY, AND WASHERS AND DRYERS THROUGH HUD’S RENTAL ASSISTANCE DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM, AS WELL AS THE FIRST PROPERTY TO RECEIVE FREE HIGH-SPEED INTERNET CONNECTIONS FROM GOOGLE FIBER.

also made it easier to apply for college scholarships. Christeen graduated valedictorian of her class. She’s now an engineering student at the University of Texas at Austin.

RIGHT: Manchaca Village is well located within proximity of Crockett High School and the Austin Community College South Austin Campus.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 40

PFLUG ERVILLE

183

ROLLINGWOOD

AUSTI N

360 ROLLINGWOOD

130

N O RT H G AT E

183 45

BUDA FO R FA M I L I ES35 | 50 U N I TS

PFLUG E RVIL L E

MA N OR

290

AUSTIN

D290 EL VALLE

290 45

W EST LAKE HILLS

360

W EST L A KE HI LLS

MANOR

290

130

PART III: HACA EVOLVES

183

D EL VALLE

MANCHACA II

183

BUDA FO R FA M I L I E 35 S | 3 3 U N I TS

O P E N E D I N 1979

O P E N E D I N 1 979

NORTHGATE APARTMENTS OPENED IN 1979 IN NORTH

MANCHACA II OPENED IN 1979 IN SOUTH AUSTIN.

AUSTIN. THE FAMILY PROPERTY INCLUDES TWO

THIRTY-THREE UNITS RANGE IN SIZE FROM ONE TO

PLAYGROUNDS, ON-SITE YOUTH PROGRAMS AND A

FOUR BEDROOMS. NESTLED IN AN ESTABLISHED

COMMUNITY ROOM WITH COMPUTERS. THE DEVELOPMENT

NEIGHBORHOOD, THE DEVELOPMENT IS LOCATED

HAS 50 UNITS WITH ONE TO FIVE BEDROOMS. NORTHGATE

CONVENIENTLY TO CUNNINGHAM ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

APARTMENTS IS CONVENIENTLY LOCATED NEAR MULTIPLE

AND CUNNINGHAM SCHOOL PARK. ALSO NEARBY ARE

BUS LINES. ALSO NEARBY ARE JAIME PADRON ELEMENTARY

CROCKETT HIGH SCHOOL AND A PRIVATE CHILDCARE

AND LANIER HIGH SCHOOL. THE PROPERTY IS A SHORT

FACILITY. ALONG WITH AN ON-SITE PLAYGROUND,

TRIP TO THE AUSTIN COMMUNITY COLLEGE NORTHRIDGE

THESE FEATURES PROVIDE FAMILIES WITH INCREASED

CAMPUS WITH ITS MANY EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR CHILDREN. PROXIMITY TO

AMENITIES SUCH AS CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONING AND

THE AUSTIN COMMUNITY COLLEGE SOUTH AUSTIN

WASHER HOOKUPS IN UNITS PROVIDE FAMILIES WITH

CAMPUS PROVIDES RESIDENTS WITH EDUCATIONAL

MODERN COMFORTS. THE PROPERTY IS UNDERGOING A

OPPORTUNITIES THAT CAN ASSIST THEM ON THE PATH

FULL RENOVATION AS PART OF THE RENTAL ASSISTANCE

TO SELF-SUFFICIENCY.

ABOVE: Construction at Manchaca II in 1979.

DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM.

FAR LEFT: Northgate Apartments include two playgrounds, on-site youth programs and a community room with computers. LEFT: Manchaca II is located in an established neighborhood.

41 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

PFLUG ERVILLE

PART III: HACA EVOLVES MANOR

RO L L I N G WOOD

AUSTI N

290 45

290

130

360

WEST L AKE H I L LS

183

DEL VA L LE

CO RO N A D O H I L LS FO R FA M I L I ES | 50 U N I TS

183

O P E NBUDA E D I N 1982 35 LOCATED IN NORTHEAST AUSTIN, CORONADO HILLS OFFERS FAMILIES MULTIPLE EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES, BOTH ON-SITE AND OFFSITE. THE SINGLE-STORY DEVELOPMENT HAS UNITS RANGING FROM ONE- TO THREE-BEDROOMS. THE PROPERTY IS SERVED BY ANDREWS ELEMENTARY AND BERTHA SADLER MEANS YOUNG WOMENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LEADERSHIP ACADEMY, A MAGNET PROGRAM AT PEARCE MIDDLE SCHOOL. IN ADDITION, CORONADO HILLS IS NEAR AUSTIN ACHIEVE PUBLIC SCHOOL, A TUITION-FREE CHARTER SCHOOL. CORONADO HILLS INCLUDES A COMMUNITY ROOM WITH COMPUTERS EQUIPPED WITH HIGH-SPEED INTERNET THAT HELPS

ABOVE: Coronado Hills Brownie Troop in 1995.

RESIDENTS WITH SCHOOLWORK AND ONLINE COURSES. YOUTH PROGRAMS AND PLAYGROUNDS SERVE FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN.

LEFT: Coronado Hills is located in an established neighborhood, conveniently close to several public schools.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 42

PART III: HACA EVOLVES

THE STATE OF THE UNION In his January 1975 State of the Union

Even though the recession ended in 1975,

Poverty, housing quality, and affordable

address, President Ford spoke to the nation

its effects were felt throughout the decade

housing remained major concerns in Texas

from his heart, “… I must say to you that

and into the 1980s when another recession

and in Austin. Data from the 1970 census

the state of the Union is not good. Millions

occurred.

shows that, at the time, nearly two million

of Americans are out of work. Recession and

Texans lived in poverty, roughly 18 percent

inflation are eroding the money of millions

Unlike the rest of the nation, Austin escaped

of the state’s total population. During the

more. Prices are too high, and sales are

the worst of the recession in the 1970s.

latter half of the 1970s, Austin built the last

too slow.”

Anchored by the University of Texas at Austin

of its federally subsidized public housing

and state government, the City of Austin had

properties.

The recession of 1973 to 1975 was a period

the benefit of built-in economic resiliency.

of economic decline that hit large parts of

Furthermore, around this time Austin

the world. In the United States, the recession

emerged as a center for technology and

lasted from November 1973 until March

innovation, with IBM calling Austin home

1975. The recession was marked by high

in 1967, Texas Instruments in 1969, and

unemployment coupled with high inflation.

Motorola in 1974.

ABOVE: Rick Gentry (second from right) and his staff accept a National Award for the Greatest Improved Large Public Housing Authority in Washington, D.C. in November 1989.

43 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

PART III: HACA EVOLVES

CHALLENGING TIMES After his 1980 victory, President Ronald

significantly. Between 1984 and 1991, the

Unfortunately, a series of executive directors

Reagan appointed the President’s Commission

rate of housing construction dropped to the

in the 1990s left the Austin Housing

on Housing to reassess the nation’s housing

lowest it had been since World War II. Federal

Authority leaderless and adrift.

programs. The commission concluded that

disinvestment, coupled with an economic

the production of public housing was not an

crisis, had serious consequences for Austin’s

Certain well-intended practices had

effective tool to address the challenge but

public housing.

unforeseen consequences. Hard-line “zero

rather a “Housing Payments Program … for

tolerance” policies led to rigid admissions and

lower-income consumers is the most efficient

In 1984, the Austin Housing Authority

way to help the largest number of poor

reported, “The Housing Authority is at the

families in their quest for a decent home.”

strategic crossroads between the national

Rather than prepare vacant units for new

economic slump and a reduction in our

residents, many were boarded up. Capital

Furthermore, the budget obligations required

operating budget. Never before in our

improvements were completed on just one

to subsidize the Project-Based Section 8

history has the need for competent financial

property at a time. Elsewhere in the public

program significantly outsized the obligations

responsibility been so great.”

housing portfolio, critical repairs weren’t

for the Tenant-Based Section 8 program.

eviction policies, which led to empty units.

made. By 1996, more than 300 units were

Accordingly, in 1983, President Reagan called

The same year, HUD designated the Austin

boarded up while the wait list for public

for a repeal of the Project-Based Section 8

Housing Authority a financially troubled

housing grew to 10,000 families.

housing production program.

agency, citing critically low financial reserves. HUD imposed sanctions on the agency and

In 1996, in the face of community complaints,

The rental voucher program was authorized

subsequently reduced federal funding. The

HUD conducted an audit of the Austin

in 1984 as a demonstration program. The

Austin Housing Authority’s ability to serve

Housing Authority. In the July 1997 report,

program was similar to the earlier rental

more residents diminished, even as the need

the auditors cited mismanagement, disrepair

certificate program but gave families greater

for help grew in the community.

of units, a lack of timely housing provision,

flexibility in selecting an apartment. The

inadequate monitoring of the Section 8

program was later formally authorized under

HACA tackled its problems head-on. New

Housing Assistance Payments Program, a lack

the Housing and Community Development

executive director Rick Gentry led the effort

of compliance with federal cost principles,

Act of 1987. The rental certificate and

to improve performance through tough

and an inability to provide safe housing to

voucher programs were consolidated in 1999

actions to restore accountability and address

residents. It was obvious that Austin’s once

under the title of Housing Choice Voucher

critical needs. In 1988, four years after being

innovative housing program was unraveling.

(HCV), the name by which it is known today.

designated a financially troubled agency, Austin Housing Authority was recognized

At the same time, starting in the 1980s, the

with the “Most Improved Large Housing

country was hit with the savings and loan

Authority” award by HUD.

crisis. This impacted Texas and Austin

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 44

PART III: HACA EVOLVES

TURNAROUND TEAM The Austin Housing Authority had a

The first job was getting families off the

The first job was getting

challenge to overcome. The agency needed

waitlist and into clean and safe dwellings.

families off the waitlist

to find an experienced leader who could

Workers removed the plywood covering

rebuild an organization, repair properties,

windows and doors, and vacant units were

manage federal programs, and serve residents

made ready for eagerly awaiting families.

efficiently and effectively.

The management of the Housing Choice

and into clean and safe dwellings. The Housing Choice Voucher program

Voucher program was improved, and staff Before the audit report was published in

worked to ensure that residents had homes

1997, HACA’s board chose Jim Hargrove

that exceeded federal standards.

was improved. Staff

as the agency’s next executive director.

worked to ensure that

accomplishment. As executive director of the

residents had homes

Hargrove already had an extensive record of Texarkana Housing Authority, Hargrove led it from troubled to high performing within

that exceeded federal

months. A former Marine and Vietnam

standards.

building teams to tackle tough challenges.

veteran, Hargrove was experienced in

To accomplish his ambitious plans, Hargrove found untapped talent throughout the organization. As he put it, “I started finding employees who were absolute gems. They knew what was needed.” Hargrove recognized and cultivated talented employees. Then he challenged and promoted them.

45 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

ABOVE: Jim Hargrove, seen here in 1999, was chosen by the board of the Austin Housing Authority to lead the agency in 1997.

PART III: HACA EVOLVES

Customer service became an integral part of

In 2017, 20 years after HACA’s course

President and CEO Michael Gerber. “Our

the organizational culture, instilled in every

correction, the agency has carried on the

top priority is to provide safe housing for

new and tenured employee. Residents who

legacy of earning HUD’s high-performer

the lowest-income people in our community,

had been previously thought of as “numbers”

designation under the leadership of current

and then help them get on the path to self-

became people and families instead.

President Michael Gerber.

sufficiency. HACA will continue our efforts

Customer service and serving residents

to expand affordable housing opportunity

became HACA’s new focus. Part of this new

“HACA is proud of our High Performer status

in Austin, and provide critical job training,

focus came through a rebranding. The Austin

and to be one of the leading public housing

education, and wellness programs that

Housing Authority officially became the

agencies in the nation,” said HACA’s current

transform lives.”

Housing Authority of the City of Austin. The agency’s goals were clear: “To cultivate hope, opportunity, and community.” Dozens of changes made HACA more responsive and efficient. Property managers were given more authority, responsibility, and discretion. This decentralized approach created a new sense of ownership and accountability for staff. Circulating maintenance teams were assigned to each property. Residents could inquire about maintenance requests directly on-site. Hargrove and his team’s hard work were showing results. In 1999, HACA earned a perfect performance score from HUD. When the residents saw staff taking responsibility for the appearance and maintenance of properties, they also began to take pride in

ABOVE: Jim Hargrove at a HACA awards ceremony with children in 1999.

where they were living.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 46

PART III: HACA EVOLVES

HACA OVER THE YEARS: STAFF PERSPECTIVES ANGIE CORTEZ has a long history with HACA. When she was 27 years old, her husband was shot two days before Christmas in 1972 at the convenience store where he worked. With two sons and a daughter to raise, Cortez applied for public housing and became a resident of Chalmers Courts. She was hired by HACA in September 1974 as a resident Outreach Specialist. To this day she serves HACA residents as an Outreach Specialist. For Cortez, the highlight of her work is seeing residents graduate from one of HACA’s many self-sufficiency programs and gain employment. “When I’m out there in different places, I see kids that weren’t even born. And now they’re grown, and they tell me about all of the wonderful things that I did for their mom. And they appreciate it.” Cortez sees her career and connection to HACA as a source of pride. It is no wonder that all three of her children have worked at HACA at some point. Her two sons worked for HACA’s maintenance department after they graduated high school, and her daughter worked in the agency’s daycare centers.

47 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

Cortez sees her career of working and serving HACA’s residents as a source of pride.

PART III: HACA EVOLVES

MARY GONZALES-LIMAS dropped out of

HENRIETTA WASHINGTON is another

high school at age 16 to get married and

longtime HACA employee, starting in

start a family. However, as a young mother

February of 1981. After a short break, she

she decided to return to work. In September

returned to HACA in August 2002 and has

1974, she got a job as a social worker at

been with the organization since then. When

HACA. To start working at HACA Gonzales-

Washington started, she used to go door to

Limas got her GED and later took college

door collecting rent. In those days, many

classes in psychology.

residents paid in cash and she remembers residents trying to give her $25 in pennies.

Since the day she started, she has loved helping people, and it shows. Today she

Washington remembers that in the past,

serves as an Outreach/ROSS Specialist at

“you worked closely with the family, you got

HACA, helping residents reach their goals of

close to the children, only to see a successful

self-sufficiency through workforce training

program end, and the family slip backwards.”

and education.

However, with a renewed emphasis and commitment to family self-sufficiency at HACA, she sees the organization aligned to help residents improve their lives. Today, Washington’s serves as an Appeals

[Henrietta’s] dedication and service at HACA have made her a recognizable figure in the community.

Officer at HACA. Her dedication and long career at HACA have made her a recognizable figure in the community. “My grandchildren laugh when we go to the grocery store because it always seems someone says, ‘Hello’.”

Since the day [Mary] started, she has loved helping people, and it shows. Housing Authority of the City of Austin 48

PART III: HACA EVOLVES

HACA: HOMEGROWN TEAM TALENT Everywhere you look, you will find talented team members who have grown with the organization over time. Their commitment to HACA and know-how is the reason for the agency’s success and service to the community. These are but a few examples of the many dedicated and talented team members who have and continue to contribute to the mission of HACA.

NORA MORALES began her career at HACA

SYLVIA BLANCO began her career at

JAMES TEASDALE proved to be another

in 1991, when she joined the Procurement

HACA in 1999 as a Family Self-Sufficiency

valuable asset to HACA through his 23 years

Department as a Warehouse Coordinator.

Coordinator. Her management talent soon

of service. James worked with Jim Hargrove

Today, Nora serves as the Director of

became evident. She served in jobs across

during some of the most challenging times

Purchasing and oversees purchasing for

the agency. In 2003, Jim Hargrove persuaded

at HACA. He swiftly moved up the ranks,

the entire agency. Early on, Nora devoted

her to become Admissions Director. She

from Housing Inspection Manager to

herself to her work at HACA and set about

worked with property managers to keep

Director of Planning and Development.

streamlining systems.

properties clean, safe, and fully occupied.

Now, James oversees all of HACA’s

Working out of a small office in a warehouse

In 2005, Sylvia became Vice President for

development contracts and awards.

that had once served as the organization’s

Housing and Community Development.

James has been crucial to the process

administrative offices, she took on the task

In 2013, Sylvia was appointed to serve as

of redeveloping HACA properties to

of realigning the way in which HACA’s

HACA’s Executive Vice President.

provide residents with the best housing

maintenance department received their

Sylvia’s passion is creating opportunities

and amenities. He is dedicated to creating

parts. Winning the respect of administrative

for residents. Her teams have won national

public housing that meets the needs of

staff and the maintenance workers, Nora

recognition and grants for innovative

all residents. Through James’ efforts,

set the stage for the pilot program for HACA

programs like HACA’s ground-breaking

HACA has been a leader in revitalizing

to move from a centralized maintenance

digital inclusion initiative, Unlocking

units, increasing energy efficiency and

system to a site-based system.

the Connection.

performance, and preserving the stability

Over the past 25 years, Nora has proved her

of Austin’s deeply affordable housing

“We can, and should, do better!” attitude at

inventory.

HACA and won the respect and admiration of her colleagues.

Nora Morales

49 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

Sylvia Blanco

James Teasdale

PART III: HACA EVOLVES

AZIE TAYLOR MORTON

HACA Board Pioneer & Leader

Azie Taylor Morton was born in 1936 in Dale, Texas. She was raised by her maternal grandparents and worked in the cotton fields as an adolescent. Due to a lack of a high school for African American children, Morton attended the Texas Blind, Deaf, and Orphan School. In 1952, she attended what is now HustonTillotson University, the first institution of

ABOVE: Azie Taylor Morton (1936-2003) with President Carter, 1977.

higher learning in Austin, Texas. Even though

of Industrial Organizations in Austin. In

education and achieve self-sufficiency. The

Morton wished to attend the University of

1961, President Kennedy invited her to

Azie Taylor Morton Scholarship Fund for

Texas for graduate studies, she was unable

join the Committee on Equal Employment

low-income students at Huston-Tillotson was

to do so because she could not complete

Opportunity, where she stayed for the next

created by HACA in memory of her service to

the undergraduate requirements due to

20 years. From 1972 to 1976, Morton

the agency.

segregation in the program.

served as Assistant to Democratic National

The Azie Taylor Morton Scholarship Fund for low-income students at Huston-Tillotson was created by HACA in

Committee Chairman and fellow Texan

Known for her remarkable abilities, Morton

Robert Strauss.

also had a joyous side that allowed her to build a sense of camaraderie to meet

President Jimmy Carter invited Taylor in

any challenge.

1977 to serve as the 36th Treasurer of the United States. Morton served in this position

James Teasdale recalls one tense afternoon

from 1977 to 1981, becoming the first and

as the HACA board deliberated in the

only African American treasurer in the

community room at Booker T. Washington

history of the country.

Terraces. Morton suddenly motioned the room to hush and asked, [l]isten, is that

memory of her service.

In the 1980s, Morton returned to Austin. She

an ice cream truck?” It was. “I feel like an

later became a formidable board member for

ice cream cone.” Morton marched outside

After working as a teacher, she became

two institutions: Huston-Tillotson University

as others followed her. “The board got

the assistant to the President at Huston-

and HACA. While only serving from 1999 to

ice cream, the staff got ice cream, the

Tillotson University. After her position there,

2001, Morton pushed the housing authority

neighborhood kids got ice cream. Everyone

Morton joined the Texas headquarters of the

to better serve its residents and to advance

was smiling,” Teasdale says. “It was Azie’s

American Federation of Labor and Congress

programs to help residents receive an

unique way of lightening the mood.”

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 50

PART IV: OUR ORGANIZATION & PORTFOLIO

PART IV

Our Organization & Portfolio As Austin’s population has grown, the

Affordable housing is a complex – and

struggle for affordability has grown. At the

seemingly intractable – challenge that

housing authority’s inception in the 1930s,

demands innovative solutions. The Housing

the population of the City of Austin was a

Authority of the City of Austin (HACA)

little more than 60,000 people. Today, the

has responded to the call for action with a

population approaches 1 million. The City

multifaceted and pioneering approach. To

of Austin is now the 11th largest city in the

achieve the organization’s mission and to

nation and boasts a thriving technology

support its important work throughout the

industry, in addition to its long-standing

community, HACA has created an innovative

status as the state capital and home to the

and responsive organizational structure

University of Texas at Austin.

with mutually-supportive subsidiaries. Each subsidiary has a unique purpose that supports

The thriving local economy has not benefited all segments of the population equally. In addition, economic growth has fueled a red hot real estate industry. The result is rising rents and property values. Lowwage workers and people living on fixed incomes, including seniors and persons with disabilities, are increasingly priced out of the real estate market.

51 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

the organization’s overall mission.

PART IV: OUR ORGANIZATION & PORTFOLIO

BLUEPRINT HOUSING SOLUTIONS Blueprint Housing

and HUD housing compliance contractor.

compliance assessments, inspections,

Solutions (Blueprint)

It provides customized consulting services,

contract renewals and rent adjustments,

is a national

trainings and products to the affordable

tenant re-certifications and submissions and

consulting services

housing industry. The company has a proven

on-demand technical assistance services.

company. Established in 2014, Blueprint’s

track record managing and implementing

The organization has provided services to

mission is assisting clients in delivering

complex housing program requirements

109 clients in more than 30 states across the

exceptional affordable housing and

while exceeding performance expectations.

country. Blueprint’s work allows HACA to

community development solutions.

pursue its mission and provide services Services at Blueprint include operational

Blueprint serves as a program administrator

to residents.

assessments, file and program review,

SOUTHWEST HOUSING COMPLIANCE CORPORATION (SHCC) The federal

late 1990s, HUD provided monitoring and

2000 and as PBCA for Arkansas since

government

oversight with internal staff.

September 2004.

housing with the Housing and Community

With declining resources and capacity, HUD

In addition to on-site management &

Development Act of 1974. Section 8 of

established the procurement of Performance

occupancy reviews, SHCC’s role also includes

that federal legislation authorized HUD to

Based Contract Administrators (PBCAs)

adjusting contract rents, processing contract

provide rental payments (through a Housing

in 1999 to more effectively and efficiently

renewals and terminations, responding to

Assistance Payment contract) to private

provide oversight and monitoring of the

health and safety issues, processing special

landlords who set aside all or a portion of

PBRA program. PBCAs perform important

claims, and processing and disbursing

their units for lower income households.

functions such as on-site management and

monthly voucher payments on Housing

Today, there are currently 1.2 million

occupancy reviews, while at the same time

Assistance Payment contracts.

households across the country who benefit

reducing costs and enhancing oversight.

ushered in a new era of affordable

from the Project-Based Rental Assistance (PBRA) Program.

SHCC currently has oversight responsibility Founded by HACA in 2000, Southwest

for 858 contracts, representing 60,747

Housing Compliance Corporation (SHCC)

Project-Based Section 8 units throughout the

Each property with a Housing Assistance

was competitively selected to serve as HUD’s

states of Texas and Arkansas. Out of these

Payment (HAP) contract requires extensive

PBCA for Project-Based Section 8 properties

contracts, 66 percent are currently under

oversight and monitoring to ensure that the

in Texas and later in Arkansas. SHCC has

20-year contracts with HUD due to training

federal funds are properly spent. Until the

served as PBCA for Texas since September

and technical assistance provided by SHCC.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 52

PART IV: OUR ORGANIZATION & PORTFOLIO

SHCC’s expertise has resulted in considerable cost savings for HUD and federal taxpayers. Since 2007, SHCC’s Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) Department’s thorough voucher auditing has resulted in over $18 million in subsidy savings. Additionally, the Contracts Department’s review of ownersubmitted Rent Adjustment requests, Rent Comparability Studies, and Utility Allowance Analyses has resulted in an additional subsidy savings of $37 million. Through on-site subsidy error tracking, SHCC has also recouped nearly $1.5 million in incorrect HAP subsidy payments. Combined, these efforts total more than $56.5 million in subsidy savings. SHCC income proceeds are used to enhance HACA’s endeavors and provide sustainable funding for resident programs. These efforts have funded the housing authority’s workforce development programming, resident academic scholarships, and youth programs such as after-school tutoring and mentoring. SHCC works hand in hand with property owners and residents. SHCC makes sure that rules and regulations are followed and that subsidy payments are timely and correct. Perhaps more importantly, SHCC works with the residents to ensure that tenants are living in decent, safe, and healthy housing, thereby furthering HUD’s mission of quality homes for all.

53 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

ABOVE: HACA residents learn from staff about managing their health at the 2017 Health Fair.

SHCC PROGRAM EXPERIENCE AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS INCLUDE: • 100 percent earned of eligible fees as HUD’s PBCA by meeting all Incentive Based Performance Standards (IBPS) under its Annual Contributions Contract • 8,700 Management and Occupancy Reviews (MORs) • 65,000 tenant file audits • 120,000 HAP vouchers totaling over $4. 5 billion in subsidy payments • 10,000 HAP contract renewals and rent adjustments • 8,000 special claims yielding over $3. 5 million in approved payments to owners • 12,000 inquiries concerning crime and safe ty, management operations, maintenance and leasing and occupancy issues resolved • $56. 5 million saved to HUD through vouche r audits, rent adjustments, rent comparability studies, and Utility Allowance Analyses

PART IV: OUR ORGANIZATION & PORTFOLIO

AUSTIN AFFORDABLE HOUSING CORPORATION (AAHC) Austin Affordable

at Booker T. Washington Terraces and other

to meet the needs of the greater Austin

Housing Corporation

nearby properties. The decision was made

community. These acquisitions include:

(AAHC) is a non-profit

that purchasing the center was worth the risk.

Sterling Village Apartments and Bent Tree

subsidiary of the

The acquisition represented an opportunity

Apartments in 2004; Sweetwater Apartments

Housing Authority

to serve residents and neighbors, as well as to

in 2007; Leisure Time Village and the Park

generate stable income for HACA’s programs.

at Summers Grove in 2008; Lexington Hills

of the City of Austin (HACA). Created in 2003, AAHC ensures and preserves quality,

in 2013; Bridge at Tech Ridge and Bridge at

affordable housing opportunities for low-

Today, Eastland Plaza is fully leased with

Center Ridge in 2015; Bridge at South Point

to moderate-income families in Austin

well-established retail tenants that provide

and Bridge at Volente in 2016; and Bridge at

as well as provides financial literacy and

services to the surrounding neighborhood.

Sterling Springs in 2017.

homeownership opportunities. AAHC’s

At the same time, the rent collected from

activities secure long-term financial support

the commercial tenants provides revenue

AAHC has also prioritized joint public-private

for HACA’s resident programs.

for HACA’s programs. An important part

partnerships with skilled development

of Eastland Plaza is the establishment

lenders to build new, high-quality affordable

AAHC was originally conceived when HACA

of an incubator for resident businesses,

housing in high-growth, high-opportunity

had a unique opportunity to purchase

in partnership with the Austin Hispanic

areas. These new properties include: The

an underutilized and undervalued retail

Chamber of Commerce.

Pointe at Ben White and The Villages at Ben

shopping center. The property – Eastland

White (for seniors) with LDG Corporation

Plaza – was located in northeast Austin, in

Building on the success of the Eastland

in 2014; Urban Oaks Apartments with

proximity to several HACA properties. There

Plaza purchase, AAHC began strategic

Ryan Companies in 2015; Harris Branch

were significant questions about whether it

acquisitions, rehabilitation, and ultimately

Senior Apartments with LDG Corporation

was appropriate for the agency to purchase

new construction of affordable housing.

in 2015; The Reserve at Springdale with

the shopping center. The shopping center

Ryan Companies in 2015; and Studios at

had been a haven for drugs and crime,

AAHC has prioritized the purchase and

thinkEAST with Madhouse Development and

threatening the quality of life for residents

preservation of affordable housing properties

Atlantic Pacific Companies in 2017.

ABOVE: Bridge at Tech Ridge is a 294-unit family property located in North Austin.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 54

PART IV: OUR ORGANIZATION & PORTFOLIO

LEFT: Bridge at Center Ridge offers all the latest amenities such as a swimming pool and central outdoor space. BELOW: Bent Tree Apartments, located in Northwest Austin, is a 126-unit property that caters to families in one of Austin’s highest opportunity areas.

One of AAHC’s first multifamily acquisitions

purchased two multifamily properties in

affordable housing properties by forging

was Bent Tree Apartments in 2004. Built

north Austin. Consisting of 642 units, Bridge

strategic partnerships. The acquisition of

in 1979, the 126-unit apartment complex

at Center Ridge and Bridge at Tech Ridge

Bridge at Center Ridge and Bridge at Tech

is located in northwest Austin, near jobs,

were constructed between 2006 and 2008.

Ridge properties was made possible through

restaurants, healthcare, and transportation.

With a significant amount of population

a partnership with Community Development

Bent Tree is one of the few affordable

and job growth in the area, the properties

Trust, a mission driven Community

properties in all of West Austin. With

are ideal for workforce housing, including

Development Financial Institution and Real

professional management, market apartment-

employees of nearby Dell, Samsung Austin

Estate Investment Trust.

style amenities (including a pool), and

Semiconductor, AT&T, Hewlett-Packard,

fastidious upkeep, surrounding neighbors

and Apple.

are unaware that the property is considered

The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program has provided the bulk of financing for AAHC’s

“affordable.” Bent Tree’s one- and two-

More than half of the current residents earn

nearly 1,200 units of new construction.

bedroom units provide affordable housing

at or below 80 percent median family income.

Created as part of the 1986 tax code, the tax

for service industry workers, office workers,

With AAHC’s acquisition, rents will remain

credit program is the federal government’s

retirees, and people living on fixed incomes.

below market, while serving the growing

primary resource for creating affordable

moderate-income workforce in the area.

housing. The tax credit program generates

More recently, in September 2015, AAHC undertook its largest acquisition to date and

55 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

private equity for the development of AAHC has been able to acquire and develop

affordable housing through a public-private

PART IV: OUR ORGANIZATION & PORTFOLIO

partnership structure. Utilizing tax credit

2020. The “4040 by 2020” goal is ambitious.

Qualified homebuyers are given $10,000 to

financing, AAHC has partnered with several

But AAHC – under HACA’s leadership – is well

pay for closing costs and a down payment.

private developers to create new, affordable

on its way toward achieving that goal.

Even though the money is given in the form

rental communities that meet Austin’s growing affordability needs.

of a loan, the homebuyer does not have to It’s important to note that AAHC is more

make payments. As long as homeowners

than just housing. As HACA has identified

occupy the home for five years, the loan

AAHC recently purchased 6.3 acres of

emerging needs in the community, the

is forgiven. To date, 56 Down Payment

undeveloped land in the thinkEAST Creative

organization has created programs and

Assistance loans have been released and

District to construct more than 180 units of

services to meet those needs. AAHC’s

paid in full.

affordable housing in central East Austin.

additional programs include down payment

A public-private partnership comprised

assistance, affordable homeownership

AAHC’s Six-Star Resident Program, created

of AAHC, national affordable housing

opportunities, and business incubator

in 2004, provides quality, affordable housing

developer Atlantic Pacific Companies,

services. These are described below.

opportunities to families of low- to moderate-

and local affordable housing developer

incomes while they work to overcome

Madhouse Development plans to construct

Since its inception in 2004, AAHC’s Down

the barriers to becoming self-sufficient. In

the affordable apartment community.

Payment Assistance Program has assisted 103

addition, the program provides an incentive

One-hundred percent of the units will be

people with the purchase of their first home.

for public housing residents to become

affordable to families earning 60 percent of

The program is open to all tenants receiving

free from public assistance and ultimately

Austin’s median family income.

Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) and

transition to market rate housing.

Public Housing assistance from HACA. Rental Building on AAHC’s successful track record,

assistance is relinquished by the tenant

The three-year program is open to all

HACA has established a goal of building an

upon closing.

qualifying HACA public housing residents.

affordable housing portfolio of 4,040 units by

An apartment will be provided from

LEFT: Lexington Hills Apartments is a 238 unit family property located in Southeast Austin.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 56

PART IV: OUR ORGANIZATION & PORTFOLIO

AAHC’s inventory at a discounted rent for a

Located in Eastland Plaza, the Economic

business. EGBI provides office space,

12-month period. The 12-month period will

Growth Business Incubator (EGBI) founded

materials, computers, and classes in business

be extended twice and the rent will increase

in 2003, is an innovative nucleus for

management. For much of the past 14 years,

$50 at each extension. This rent increase

entrepreneurs. EGBI was formed to meet the

EGBI was headed by Al Lopez, a bold leader

and contributions from HACA will go into an

needs of those who have the desire to start a

and business professional who formerly

escrow account and will be awarded to the

business, and provide them with the means

served at Dell.

resident at graduation from the program.

and skills to own and operate a successful

In 2009, AAHC created Equity CLT – a separate non-profit 501(c)(3) – that serves as a community land trust for homeownership. A community land trust (CLT) is a unique and innovative ownership structure that facilitates

Each family is required to meet the following (Six-Star) criteria: H

PAY TH E I R RE NT ON TI ME

K EEP T H EI R C H I LD R EN I N S C H OOL

TAKE CARE OF TH E PROPE RTY

MA I NTA I N F U LL-T I ME EMPLOYMENT

BE DRUG FRE E AND FRE E OF ALCOH OL DE PE ND ENC E

B E R EG I ST ER ED TO VOT E

affordable homeownership. In a CLT, a non-profit retains ownership of the land and sells the improvements – the home – to an income-qualified buyer. By separating the land and the improvements, the CLT is able to secure long-term affordability and reduce the cost of ownership. AAHC’s Equity CLT program is open to qualifying public housing residents of HACA. CLT ownership provides permanent and sustainable homebuyer opportunities for very low-income families. Currently, Equity CLT has two homes in its inventory and is working to expand use of

ABOVE: Eastland Plaza on Airport Boulevard is part of the commercial property owned by the Austin Affordable Housing Corporation.

this creative program.

AAHC has been able to significantly expand its portfolio over recent years and currently includes:

2,183

multifamily units

(acquired and preserved)

1,317

multifamily units (new construction)

57 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

single-family houses

151,839

square feet of office space

88,774

square feet of retail space

PART IV: OUR ORGANIZATION & PORTFOLIO

G e o rge to w n

AUSTIN AFFORDABLE HOUSING CORPORATION (AAHC)

Multifamily Portfolio C E DAR PAR K

183

290 45

BUDA

14 13

6 7 8

MANOR

290

7. T H E POI NT E AT B EN WH I T E 2 5 0 U N I TS 8. T H E VI LLAG ES OF B EN WH I T E 1 83 U N I TS

10. H A R R I S B R A NC H S ENI OR A PA RTMENTS 21 6 U N I TS

R MA

5. LEI S U R E T I ME VI LLAG E 2 2 U N I TS 6. LEX I NGTON H I LLS 238 U N I TS

RO L L I N G W O O D

4. PA R K AT S U MMERS G ROVE 240 U N I TS

9. T H E R ES ERVE AT S PR I NG DA LE 292 U N I TS

AUSTIN

360

3 . SWEET WAT ER A PA RTMENTS 1 52 U N I TS

P F LU G E R V IL LE

12 11

2 . B ENT T R EE A PA RTMENTS 1 2 6 U N I TS

ROUND ROCK

WEST L AK E H I L LS

1 . ST ER LI NG VI LLAG E A PA RTMENTS 2 07 U N I TS

130

11. B R I D G E AT T EC H R I D G E 294 U N I TS 12 . B R I D G E AT C ENT ER R I D G E 348 U N I TS 13 . U R BA N OA KS 1 94 U N I TS

D E L VA LL E

183

14. B R I D G E AT S OU T H POI NT 1 76 U N I TS 15. B R I D G E AT VOLENT E 2 0 8 U N I TS 16. S T U D I OS AT T H I NK EA ST 1 82 U N I TS 17 . B R I D G E AT ST ER LI NG S PR I NG S 1 72 U N I TS

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 58

PART IV: OUR ORGANIZATION & PORTFOLIO

AUSTIN PATHWAYS: SCHOLARSHIPS AND DIGITAL INCLUSION Austin Pathways is a

Austin Pathways provides scholarships to

501(c)(3) non-profit

eligible residents who are living in HACA’s

subsidiary of the Housing

public housing communities and participants

Authority of the City

of its Housing Choice Voucher program.

of Austin (HACA)

Scholarships enable these individuals, most

that supports the

of whom are the first in their family to attend

organization’s scholarship and self-sufficiency

college, to build the knowledge and skills

programs.

needed to be economically successful and independent of public assistance.

Austin Pathways has its roots in the HACA Scholarship Foundation. The foundation

HACA scholarship recipients are empowered

was established in 2010 as a permanent

to break the cycle of poverty and contribute to

endowment fund for the HACA scholarship

Austin’s rich economic and social life. In fact,

program and to bolster supportive

several people who went to college on HACA

community services for public housing

scholarships are significant contributors and

residents and participants in other assisted

leaders in the city’s corporate, government,

housing programs.

and philanthropic sectors.

Since 2001, HACA has awarded 602 HACA Scholarships to 391 residents with $1,116,600 awarded in total. HACA is unique among housing authorities in prioritizing higher education and providing a renewable scholarship program which residents can access.

LEFT: Santa Rita Courts resident Lupe Garcia receives a scholarship at the 2017 Austin Pathways HACA Scholarship Ceremony.

59 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

PART IV: OUR ORGANIZATION & PORTFOLIO

Unlocking the Connection, a first-of-its-kind

Open Society Foundations, IBM, Best Buy

ways, is a collaborative effort to bridge the

partners.

digital inclusion initiative of Austin Path-

digital divide for the more than 4,300 public housing residents of all ages who reside in HACA’s 18 housing developments.

This award-winning program brings 3 criti-

cal elements together for maximum impact: •

access to a free or low-cost internet

•

access to an earned reburbished

•

access to meaningful digital

connection

computer device

literacy education

This initiative would not be possible without vital partnerships and investments from

and other corporate and philanthropic

Residents who adopt technology find jobs, go to school, stay connected with family

and friends, and report increased health and civic engagement benefits. HACA resident

Digital Ambassadors and Mobility Ambassadors help their neighbors use technology to navigate transportation, lower energy bills, and enjoy the riches of Austin.

In July, 2015 a White House-HUD initiative, ConnectHome, was established. Austin

was named the Mentor City and in that role has provided guidance to more than 50 other cities.

Google Fiber, Austin Community College, the City of Austin, the Ford Foundation,

ABOVE: A mother and her children at an Austin Pathways STEM camp computer distribuition at Booker T. Washington in 2015.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 60

PART IV: OUR ORGANIZATION & PORTFOLIO

TRANSFORMING PUBLIC HOUSING:

HACA’S RENTAL ASSISTANCE DEMONSTRATION (RAD) PROGRAM By the early 2000s, the nation’s public housing stock had

HACA began the conversion of its 18 public housing

accrued more than $26 billion in deferred maintenance and

communities to this more stable source of funding in 2016.

repair needs. In 2012, Congress created the Rental Assistance

With RAD, HACA will receive the same amount of funding

Demonstration (RAD) program, a potentially transformational

from the federal government as it has for traditional public

tool that enables housing authorities to make significant

housing subsidies. However, the funding will be converted

upgrades to housing properties and improve residents’

to Project Based Rental Assistance (PBRA), allowing HACA

quality of life.

to leverage that subsidy to finance rehabilitation and

HACA carefully considered its options and made the

preservation of aging properties.

bold decision in 2014 to become one of the few housing

Many HACA properties will see in-depth improvements in

authorities in the United States to fully convert its public

each unit: floors, kitchens, bathrooms, air conditioning, and

housing portfolio through RAD.

other upgrades and modernizations. HACA is also focused

Under RAD, existing (and declining) public housing subsidies are converted into more stable rental assistance contracts for each property.

61 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

on improving the energy efficiency of its entire portfolio. Furthermore, HACA is working to increase the number of accessible and adaptable units across its properties.

PART IV: OUR ORGANIZATION & PORTFOLIO

LEFT TO RIGHT: Gaston Place under construction as part of the Rental Assistance Demonstration program in 2017. HACA staff members check in residents at a Rental Assistance Demonstration Meeting at North Loop Apartments in 2016. Residents of Georgian Manor hear from staff about the renovation of their homes under the Rental Assistance Demonstration program in 2017. A kitchen at Manchaca Village renovated as part of the Rental Assistance Demonstration program in 2017.

In later phases of the RAD conversion, HACA will explore

see little difference in their financial requirements (rent and

opportunities to create additional affordable or market rate

utilities), and their eligibility for public housing is protected.

units at certain properties. None of HACA’s existing 1,839

Every resident has the right to stay in assisted housing and

subsidized units will be eliminated as part of the

return to an upgraded unit in their original property.

RAD conversion. As of 2017, 10 properties have been converted to PBRA.

PATHWAYS ASSET MANAGEMENT

Most recently, in July 2017, HACA was awarded 9 percent

Pathways Asset Management, Inc. is a non-profit subsidiary

competitive tax credits to leverage Goodrich Place’s PBRA

of the Housing Authority of the City of Austin. Pathways Asset

with $15 million in tax credit equity. As a result of this

Management was formed as a separate corporate entity in

financing, HACA will completely rebuild Goodrich Place’s

2016 in order to manage HACA’s public housing after the

existing 40 units and add an additional 80 affordable units.

Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) conversion.

Each of HACA’s properties will be rehabilitated based on its

Pathways Asset Management will manage service-enriched

needs. Some properties will see moderate renovation and

housing to low and moderate-income residents and provide

some will be completely transformed.

social and human services to residents living in Pathways

For individual residents, the process is transparent. They will

Asset Management and HACA properties.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 62

PART IV: OUR ORGANIZATION & PORTFOLIO

Housing Authority of the City of Austin and its Subsidiaries

Southwest Housing Compliance Corporation

Austin Affordable Housing Corporation

Blueprint Housing Solutions

Developing Expertise

Equity Community Land Trust

Supporting Family Self-Sufficiency

Increasing Austinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Affordable Housing Stock

63 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

Pathways Asset Management

Developing Reputable Models

Austin Pathways 501(c)(3)

PART IV: OUR ORGANIZATION & PORTFOLIO

A WORKING BOARD Carl S. Richie, Jr. Carl S. Richie, Jr. is an attorney and lobbyist.

and Commissioner of the Year Award by the

Capitol Inside has ranked him among the top

Texas Chapter of NAHRO — not once, but

five Texas “Corporate In-House Lobbyists.” He

twice. He served as NAHRO Executive Vice

has also distinguished himself as a lobbyist in

President from 2015 to 2017, and became the

private practice representing some of Texas’

first Board Commissioner to serve as national

largest companies.

NAHRO president in October 2017.

Richie spent considerable time in Texas state government. He was Deputy Chief of Staff to Texas Governor Ann W. Richards. He led the Governor’s Ethics Task Force, which established the Texas Ethics Commission. He later served as its first Director.

Carl S. Richie, Jr.

When Mayor Kirk Watson was elected Mayor in 1997, he immediately appointed Richie to serve on the Housing Authority Board of Commissioners. Having spent part of his childhood living in public housing in Wichita Falls, Richie immediately said yes, determined to make a difference in the lives of residents. Richie has served on the HACA board for the past 20 years and has chaired the board since 2014, during a time of transition and growth. He has earned the highest state and national awards given by the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO). These include the Elizabeth B. Wells Memorial Award, the Commissioner’s Public Service Award from the Southwest Regional Council of NAHRO,

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 64

PART IV: OUR ORGANIZATION & PORTFOLIO

Charles C. “Chuck” Bailey

in 2004 reveals Bailey’s cooperative spirit.

Charles C. “Chuck” Bailey is an attorney

Flores supported the purchase of the Eastland

in private practice. Bailey has had a

Plaza shopping center. Bailey considered

distinguished career beginning as a district

commercial real estate outside the realm of

attorney in Lubbock, then as general counsel

a public housing authority and voted against

for the Texas Department of Public Safety.

the acquisition. But he seconded the motion

He has a gift for developing policy solutions

enabling the board to move forward. Years

across party lines. It takes such a bridge-

later, Flores recalled Bailey’s respect for the

builder to serve as Assistant General Counsel

decision-making process. And Bailey is the

for Governor Bill Clements, and later as

first to recognize the purchase has benefited

General Counsel and Chief of Staff for Lt.

HACA and the East Austin community.

Commissioners Carl S. Richie, Jr. and Henry

Governor Bob Bullock. A history aficionado, Charles C. “Chuck” Bailey

Bailey’s first book was Texas Political

Bailey has consistently pressed for

Memorabilia, in 2014. His second book,

modernization across HACA’s properties.

Picturing Texas Politics, was published in

He has also insisted on transparency and

2015. A pivotal vote by HACA Commissioners

integrity in all HACA operations.

Edwina Carrington

Legislature put the agency on probation in 2001.

Edwina Carrington is president of CHK Enterprises, a consulting company focused on

Carrington has strengthened HACA’s

commercial real estate, affordable housing,

financial base and structured its subsidiaries

non-profit management, and strategic

for success. Carrington’s experience

planning. HACA benefits from her affordable

includes the Bank One and JPMorgan Chase

housing and real estate knowledge.

Community Advisory Boards, and the Fannie Mae Housing Impact Advisory Board. She is

Edwina Carrington

65 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

Before becoming a HACA commissioner,

past chair of the Austin Community College

Carrington served as executive director

Foundation Board of Directors, chair of the

for the Texas Department of Housing and

Texas State Affordable Housing Foundations

Community Affairs from 2002 to 2006, where

Fund, past president of the Texas Affiliation of

she administered $700 million in federal

Affordable Housing Providers, and a member

and state funds and managed a tax-exempt

of the Housing and Community Development

bond portfolio of $1.5 billion. Carrington is

Council for the Austin Chapter of the Urban

credited with a turnaround after the Texas

Land Institute.

PART IV: OUR ORGANIZATION & PORTFOLIO

Tyra Duncan-Hall, Ph.D.

serve?” “What are the success rates?” “What

Tyra Duncan-Hall, Ph.D., retired educator and

property?” Valid, reliable data helps the staff

provost of Austin Community College, has

and board analyze and assess its programs

served on the HACA Board of Commissioners

— what works, what doesn’t, and why. At

since 2005. Duncan-Hall brings a research

her urging, HACA began collecting data more

and data mindset to HACA. When she first

extensively than what is required by HUD.

is the age composition of residents at each

joined the board, Duncan-Hall craved more resident data.

Duncan-Hall exemplifies the board’s efforts to improve the services provided to residents

Tyra Duncan Hall, Ph.D.

“I’m a big proponent of measurable

and a commitment to serving all. And, as a

outcomes,” Duncan-Hall says. “To test

former professor and educator working with

assumptions and draw accurate conclusions,

at-risk youth, Duncan-Hall remains active in

you need solid data.” During her tenure on

the Austin community as a staunch advocate

the board, she has posed many questions

for dropout prevention, youth enrichment,

challenging and pushing staff to meet

and higher education. She has pushed HACA

resident needs. For example: “What

to grow and enhance scholarships and

percentage of residents does each program

educational partnerships.

Isaac Robinson

with National Church Shops in Austin. He has been a part of the Austin community

Isaac Robinson was born in Elgin, Texas

ever since.

in 1934. The youngest of two children, Mr. Robinson was raised by a school teacher

In 2013, a retired Robinson was appointed

and a minister.

resident commissioner for the Housing Authority of the City of Austin’s Board of

Isaac Robinson

In 1951, Robinson graduated as

Commissioners. Robinson lives at HACA’s

valedictorian from Booker T. Washington

Lakeside Apartments, where he takes pride

High School in Elgin. He went on to attend

in helping other public housing residents. He

Huston-Tillotson University in Austin, for

also enjoys attending NAHRO conferences

two years before enlisting in the U.S. Army

and meeting and interacting with people

in 1953.

throughout the country. He has also been an active member of HACA’s Citywide Advisory

After serving as an army personnel

Board, helping ensure resident needs

management specialist for six years,

are heard.

Robinson left the military and took a job

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 66

PART IV: OUR ORGANIZATION & PORTFOLIO

Michael Gerber

HACA is as necessary and

Michael Gerber has served as President and

From 2006-2011, Gerber served as Executive

CEO of HACA since September 2012. Building

Director of the Texas Department of

on the legacy of James Hargrove, Gerber has

Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA),

prioritized quality of life improvements at all

the state agency for affordable housing,

HACA public housing properties through the

homeownership, community services, energy

Rental Assistance Demonstration program,

assistance, and colonia housing programs.

expanding affordable housing opportunity

From October 2004 to May 2006, Gerber

in Austin, and building and strengthening

served as an advisor to Texas Governor

partnerships in education, health, and job

Rick Perry in the Governor’s Office of

skills training.

Budget, Policy and Planning. From January 2003 to October 2004, he served in the Administration of President George W. Bush at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, first as senior advisor to the Assistant Secretary for Public and Indian Housing, and later as senior advisor to the Assistant Secretary for Policy Development and Research. Gerber served as a Legislative Advisor to U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison from 1997-2001, and as a Special Assistant for State Projects to U.S. Senator Phil Gramm from 1990-1997. Gerber has been active in many professional and civic organizations including the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials, the Federal Home Loan Bank

Michael Gerber

of Dallas’ Affordable Housing Advisory Committee, HousingWorks Austin, and the Trinity Center (a downtown Austin homeless community center).

67 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

relevant today as at any time in our 80 years. The challenges faced by lowincome persons have seldom been greater. We are proud to provide quality affordable housing. And, with our amazing partners, we create the chance to live in dignity, grow, get an education, raise children to succeed, and break the cycle of poverty before it begins. Serving our clients, and working with our exceptionally experienced commissioners and staff is a true privilege. — MICHAEL GERBER

President & CEO,

Housing Authority of the City of Austin

PART V: OUR WORK TODAY

PART V

Our Work Today The Housing Authority of the City of Austin (HACA) strives to provide more than safe, quality affordable housing opportunities to its residents. HACA serves as a catalyst for residents to become economically

MISSION: To cultivate sustainable affordable housing communities and partnerships

self-sufficient and to create meaningful

that inspire self-reliance, growth,

partnerships to maximize available

and optimism.

community resources for residents. The work of HACA today focuses on improving community quality and providing residents with opportunities to break the cycle of poverty. In order to accomplish this, HACA has developed various programs to support residents, often in collaboration with

VISION: We envision neighborhoods where poverty is alleviated, communities are healthy and safe, and all people can achieve their full potential.

community partners.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 68

PART V: OUR WORK TODAY

69 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

PART V: OUR WORK TODAY

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 70

PART V: OUR WORK TODAY

FAMILY SELF-SUFFICIENCY HACA encourages and supports residents’

documenting their personal and professional

HACA honors the FSS graduates’

goals toward economic independence

goals. As the resident’s rent increases, due to

achievements each year. The objectives and

through the Family Self-Sufficiency

earning higher wages, a portion of the rent

accomplishments of each FSS member are

(FSS) Program.

is matched by the FSS Program and credited

announced and recognition is given to their

monthly to an escrow account, which they

future aspirations such as homeownership,

will receive upon graduation.

education or career.

public housing and Housing Choice Voucher

Participants in the FSS Program are also

The FSS Program has proven to be effective

programs to become financially independent.

linked to additional services such as GED

in helping residents pursue education,

With links to supportive services, members

classes, computer training, scholarships,

increase their earnings, and accomplish their

receive the help they need to provide for

financial training, job training, child care

long-term goals. The FSS Program is at the

their families without public assistance.

assistance, transportation assistance, and

core of HACA’s mission to Bring Opportunity

work placement services in order to achieve

Home, with more than 250 residents

residents’ goals.

graduating from the program to date.

The FSS Program was created in 1990 to provide opportunities to residents of the

At HACA, FSS Coordinators work with the participants to develop a five-year plan

DESHAUN BRADLEY EALOMS In the early ‘90s, Deshaun Bradley was in a financial crisis. At the time, she was the single parent of an autistic son. She entered the Housing Choice Voucher program with HACA, which allowed her to go to work part time and go to college full time earning her master’s degree in special education. With bigger goals in her sights, like homeownership, she also joined the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program. As her education increased, so did her wages. All the while, her escrow account with FSS was growing. In 2001, Deshaun paid the closing costs toward the purchase of her new home with her escrow account funds. She officially became one of HACA’s first FSS graduates. Today, Deshaun is a Parent Program Expert with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services and still resides in the home she bought in 2001.

71 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

PART V: OUR WORK TODAY

RESIDENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR SELF-SUFFICIENCY Since 2010, the Resident Opportunities

including education, employment, financial

trainings, depending on their individual

for Self-Sufficiency (ROSS) program has

management, parenting and homeownership.

personal and professional goals.

connected adults and youth living in public

Goals for youth focus on education (high

housing to local agencies and organizations

school completion and college/vocational

HACAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s extensive partnerships and the

providing supportive and workforce

training readiness), leadership and skill

continuum of services are one of the major

development activities that help them

development, especially in science,

strengths of the ROSS Program. ROSS

become more self-sufficient.

technology, engineering and math-related

specialists find local partner organizations

fields (STEM).

such as the Austin Community College

Participating residents are matched

and ASCEND Center for Learning that

with a ROSS specialist and together

Incentives are provided at the successful

can help participants turn their goals,

they collaboratively develop personal,

completion of each goal and its required

such as education, employment, financial

professional, and academic goals. Goals for

activities. Participants define their own level

management, and homeownership,

adult residents fall into multiple categories,

of involvement from single events to ongoing

into reality.

LENORA WILLIAMS Georgian Manor resident Lenora Williams is dedicated to making sure her sons, 16-year-old Roy and 13-year-old Joseph, excel. The Housing Authority is helping her meet that goal. Joseph is an honor student and wants to be an astrophysicist. A HACA ROSS specialist encouraged Lenora to apply for Joseph to attend the STEM camp at the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, NY. He was accepted and HACA helped cover travel arrangements. Roy got involved in scouting through the Housing Authority and recently returned from Philmont Scout Camp in New Mexico.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 72

PART V: OUR WORK TODAY

73 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

PART V: OUR WORK TODAY

SIX-STAR RESIDENT PROGRAM The Six-Star Resident Program offers affordable

The Six-Star Resident Program was developed

housing opportunities to exemplary HACA

to encourage residents on their journey to

residents while they work to overcome barriers to

self-sufficiency and leave public housing.

self-sufficiency. The Six-Star Resident Program is

Residents enrolled on the program must meet

intended for those who are ready to move out of

the following six criteria:

public housing, but are not yet ready to purchase a home. Participants are eligible to reside at one of Austin Affordable Housing Corporationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s apartment communities at a reduced rental rate. Once the family is housed in the Six-Star Resident Program, all public housing assistance is discontinued. The program must be completed within three years, with the rent amount increasing gradually every year until self-sufficiency is achieved and the fair market rental rate is reached.

H Established history of paying rent on time H Maintain the appearance and upkeep of their apartments

H Remain drug-free and free from the dependence on alcohol

H Ensure that children attend school H Be employed full-time H Become a registered voter

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 74

PART V: OUR WORK TODAY

ABOVE: Residents with former and current HACA board members at the 2016 Family Self-sufficiency and Homeownership Recognition Luncheon.

FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYER DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM HACA created its own down payment

in the last three years. Participants must

of each yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s FSS and Homeownership

assistance homeownership program in 2004

contribute $2,500 toward the down payment,

Recognition Luncheon is shredding the loan

for both public housing and Housing Choice

closing cost or reserves.

documents, symbolizing that the resident has

Voucher tenants. The program provides a

fulfilled their commitment and that the loan

maximum loan of $10,000 to residents who

To date, HACA has assisted 103 residents

meet program requirements.

purchase their own home. As long as they occupy the home for five years, the loan is

To participate, residents must be a first-time

forgiven. To date, more than half of those

homebuyer or cannot have owned a home

loans have been released. An exciting part

75 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

is forgiven.

PART V: OUR WORK TODAY

AUSTIN PATHWAYS HACA SCHOLARSHIPS The Austin Pathways HACA Resident

must be attending or planning to attend a

to 391 individuals. This support has allowed

Scholarship was designed in 2001 to inspire

college, university, technical school, or other

individuals, most of whom are the first

and support HACA residents and Housing

post-secondary school.

in their family to attend college, to build

Choice Voucher participants planning to

the knowledge and skills needed to be

attend an institution of higher education. The

The Austin Pathways HACA Resident

economically successful and independent of

scholarship serves to support individuals who

Scholarship is supported by Austin Pathways,

public assistance.

desire to further their education and work

as well as other non-profit HACA subsidiaries.

toward self-sufficiency.

The scholarships are available annually on a competitive basis, and the award amount

Scholarships are offered to eligible HACA

varies from year to year, depending on the

public or subsidized housing residents or

availability of funds.

Housing Choice Voucher participants who are graduating high school seniors or already

Over the past 17 years, HACA has awarded

have a high school diploma/GED. Recipients

$1,116,600 as 602 renewable scholarships

HANAN MOHAMMED After fleeing conflict in Iraq, Hanan Mohammed and her father, Ibrahim Mohammed, found refuge in Austin. They struggled to find housing they could afford, and the situation got worse when Hanan suffered an injury that affected her vision and hearing. The Mohammeds say they were blessed to move into HACAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Santa Rita Courts. The Mohammeds have taken advantage of various HACA educational programs. An avid volunteer, Hanan has received an Austin Pathways scholarship so she can pursue a career as a volunteer coordinator and program administrator.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 76

PART V: OUR WORK TODAY

UNLOCKING THE CONNECTION Unlocking the Connection is a

internet. Every HACA household can earn

Collaboration has been a key in realizing the

groundbreaking collaborative effort

a refurbished computer device thanks

overall vision of Unlocking the Connection.

developed by HACA to bridge the digital

to partnerships with Austin Community

Through community partnerships and

divide for the more than 4,300 public housing

College City of Austin GTOPS, and Indeed.

commitment, the program has offered

residents of all ages who reside in 18 housing

In addition, Austin Pathways partners

focused digital literacy services to residents

developments throughout Austin owned

with Austin Free-Net to design and deliver

from early childhood, to K-12 STEM

and operated by HACAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s public housing

linguistically, culturally and age-appropriate

programming, workforce development and

properties.

digital literacy services to residents.

senior services.

Grounded in HACAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2013 Strategic Plan

Ford Foundation and Open Society

Equitable access to technology directly

and led by Austin Pathways, Unlocking

Foundations invested early in providing

enables workforce development, education,

the Connection aims to raise family self-

digital literacy and program evaluation

social inclusion, health, and civic engagement

sufficiency through digital inclusion. The

funding. Program evaluation was provided

opportunities. In July 2015, HACA was

City of Austin, Google Fiber and Austin

through the University of Texas Moody

recognized for its efforts and named a mentor

Community College are a few of the partners

College of Communication. Local and

city by the U.S. Department of Housing and

that helped launch the nationally-recognized

national funders including IBM, KDK Harman

Urban Development in its ConnectHome

initiative in November 2014.

Foundation, Best Buy and Next Century Cities

digital inclusion initiative.

followed. All of our partners are committed to Through a partnership with Google Fiber,

supporting the program in ways that meet the

residents in 1,838 residential public housing

diverse needs of HACA residents.

units will have access to free high-speed

LEFT: HACA families explore their new computers at the Summer STEM Camp in 2015.

77 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

PART V: OUR WORK TODAY

Jobs Plus ATX aims to empower residents

Housing and Urban Development funded

to meet their goals by connecting them to

demonstration program designed to

partner organizations. These organizations

completely immerse public housing residents

help residents with employment services,

at Booker T. Washington Terraces and

educational services, financial coaching

Chalmers Courts with the knowledge and

and community support. Jobs Plus ATX is

tools needed to work their way toward long-

designed to build a culture of work and a

term employment and self-sufficiency.

community that celebrates the achievements of residents pursuing self-sufficiency goals.

ATX Plu s ob

Jobs Plus ATX is a new U.S. Department of

JOBS PLUS ATX

Moving Forward Together

This grant, awarded in 2015, reflects the largest competitive grant HACA has ever received, $2.7 million from HUD with an additional $4.5 million being matched by HACA and a wide array of community partners, including Workforce Solutions, Capital Idea, Goodwill Industries of Central Texas, Literacy Coalition of Central Texas, Austin Area Urban League, Skillpoint Alliance, Economic Growth Business Incubator, BiG Austin, Austin Community College, Austin Pathways, African American Youth Harvest Foundation, and Austin Affordable Housing Corporation. The collaborative Jobs Plus ATX team specializes in various employment, educational, and financial literacy services. Residents receive financial incentives allowing their rent to be essentially frozen during participation in the program, rather than increasing with income from a new job

ABOVE: Congressman Lloyd Doggett speaks to HACA residents and staff at the Jobs Plus Pilot Initiative kick off in 2016.

or a raise.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 78

PART V: OUR WORK TODAY

YOUTH EDUCATIONAL SUCCESS The Youth Educational Success (YES)

programs onsite at HACA communities, an

Program supports children’s success in school,

academic incentive program and higher

provides fun and enriching after-school and

education scholarship programs.

summer programs, and develops beneficial

HENRY FLORES EDUCATION AND TRAINING CENTER

social, communication and problem-solving

HACA’s YES Program coordinates with local

skills.

providers of quality after-school enrichment programs, including Boys and Girls Clubs

Started in 2002, the YES Program is a vital

and Communities In Schools, to ensure youth

component in the effort to break the poverty

are engaged in healthy, safe and meaningful

cycle by supporting HACA residents under 18

activities outside of school. In addition,

years of age. Working with the community,

parenting classes are provided at various

cutting ceremony for the Henry Flores Education

HACA sponsors in-school case management

HACA properties to help parents provide

and Training Center at Meadowbrook Apartments.

services for students, after-school tutoring

supportive environments for their children.

In 2014, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) secretary Julián Castro joined residents, staff, and community leaders at the ribbon

The Flores Center will help build resident selfsufficiency and serve as a community learning hub. “Brainpower is the currency of success in the 21st century global economy. The comprehensive training and resources now available will transform lives and uplift families,” said Castro. “Equipped with classrooms, a library, an outdoor amphitheater and green space for events, this center will cultivate community and a knowledge-based culture.” THE 10,000-SQUARE-FOOT, ENVIRONMENTALLYCONSCIOUS FACILITY INCLUDES: Classrooms for Youth and Adult Education Programs Community Library Outdoor Amphitheater for Cultural and Other Events Community Meeting Space State-Of-The-Art Computer Lab for On-Site Classes and Distance Learning Outdoor Green Space to Foster Community and Learning Video and Sound Production Lab A Boys and Girls Club

79 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

ABOVE: HUD Secretary Julián Castro with Henry Flores and the HACA Board at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Henry Flores Education and Training Center at Meadowbrook apartments in 2014.

PART V: OUR WORK TODAY

I-DADS (INVOLVED DADS OF ACTION, DEVELOPING AND SUCCEEDING) The I-DADS (Involved Dads of Action,

and resources to improve their finances,

provides low-income fathers/father

management, making positive choices,

Developing and Succeeding) program figures, age 18 and older who have

children living in HACA public housing,

with mentoring and access to supportive services.

health, communication, job skills, anger developing self-esteem and confidence,

and being a positive role model for their children and families.

The program also hosts a men-only

Launched in 2016, the program consists of

field trip and a family focused program

a minimum of five participants, held at

the cycle of poverty and promote self-

10 weekly sessions and three cohorts with

HACA properties yearly. During the weekly training and support sessions, participants have an opportunity to develop skills

graduation. I-DADS is designed to combat sufficiency by strengthening families living in HACA properties.

ABOVE: HACA residents attend an I-DADS Orientation in 2016.

ERNESTO RESTO When Ernesto Resto moved his family into Meadowbrook Apartments it turned out to be the perfect place to jump-start his career. Ernesto had moved to Austin to work in technology, but he was told he lacked the necessary certifications. Ernesto enrolled in the Tech Starters program at the Henry Flores Center located at Meadowbrook, and he quickly became the instructorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s assistant. Afterward, he was hired by HACA partner Skillpoint Alliance to teach technology classes.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 80

PART V: OUR WORK TODAY

RESIDENT COUNCILS: IMPROVING COMMUNITIES In the 1980s, Austin’s Housing Authority

to emergencies, planning resident activities,

established Resident Councils at each of its

and providing a voice on how to reduce crime

communities, an important practice that

in their communities.

continues to this day. Since then, Resident Councils have been instrumental in voicing

Resident leaders get to know HACA staff

the needs of residents and in shaping HACA

and help communicate policies and offer

programs and policies.

feedback on policy or programmatic changes. Every month all of the presidents and vice

“We work at building these relationships.

presidents from each Resident Council gather

They are built on trust and shared concerns,”

as a City-Wide Advisory Board of Residents.

says Executive Vice President Sylvia Blanco.

In summer 2017, the City-Wide Advisory Board came together for an inaugural

Each HACA property has a Resident Council

Citywide Strategic Planning Session. Resident

with residents electing the president and

Council presidents and vice presidents

vice president. Resident Councils work

worked together to identify three strategic

collaboratively with property managers and

priorities: safety, resident engagement, and

staff to ensure that resident concerns are

connection to resources. The team will work

addressed and to strengthen their community.

together to address these topics over the next three years.

Since the start, residents have been organized and empowered to make their communities

“We’re neighbors. We help each other speak

safer, more peaceful, and more engaged.

up,” says Mary Apostolou, president of the

Typical activities include social events and

Chalmers Courts Resident Council.

holiday celebrations, children’s activities, distributing food and necessities, responding

81 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

PART V: OUR WORK TODAY

MARY APOSTOLOU

President, Chalmers Courts Resident Council Mary Apostolou grew up on Rainey Street

ensures that everyone knows about upcoming

and worked in childcare for most of her

events. Bingo night is always popular. As a

adult life. She cherishes the mementos and

Spanish speaker herself, Mary makes sure

memories of the children she helped raise as

that Spanish-speaking residents do not let

a nanny, and later as a childcare provider out

language barriers keep them from becoming

of her south Austin home.

involved. Several of the Spanish-speaking residents are essential volunteers when it

Divorce and health issues have a way of

comes time to run community events.

upending lives. Four years ago, Mary moved

WHAT DOES MARY LIKE MOST ABOUT LIVING AT CHALMERS?

Having a roof over my head. I consider myself fortunate.

into Chalmers Courts, which has been her

Residents who cannot attend meetings â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

home ever since. Always looking to improve

often because of work or school â&#x20AC;&#x201D; know they

lives, Mary began attending Resident Council

can count on Mary to keep them informed.

meetings. Within four months, she was

Mary was appointed Resident Commissioner

elected president.

with the HACA Board of Commissioners in December 2017.

As president, Mary devoted herself to helping residents learn about the resources

She succeeds former Resident Commissioner

and opportunities available to them, like

Isaac Robinson of Lakeside Apartments,

Jobs Plus ATX, through which they can take

who served on the HACA board from 2013

courses and apply for job placements. The

to 2017.

social component is as important. Mary

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 82

PART V: OUR WORK TODAY

LEFT: HACA Resident Council members get together at the Citywide Advisory Board Strategic Planning Session in 2017.

RACHEL MARTINEZ (1953-2017) Being a HACA resident since 1995 provided the late Rachel Martinez with safe, affordable housing, and also allowed her to put her leadership skills to good use. She was active in the Resident Council and served as president at Georgian Manor Apartments and the HACA Citywide Advisory Board. Her friends and family remember her as a kind, generous person who was always ready to give back by volunteering to help other families in need. Rachel led the Citywide Advisory Boardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strategic planning process and efforts to expand opportunity for all HACA residents.

83 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

PART V: OUR WORK TODAY

COMMUNITY PARTNERS: MAKING IT POSSIBLE Since its founding in 1937, HACA has

with various public, private and non-profit

economic independence, job readiness, and

provided more than just shelter to families in

organizations to support and strengthen

self-sufficiency. These are just a few examples

need. HACA is committed to comprehensive

residents and their families.

of the community partners that help to ensure

resident services and residents’ success.

HACA residents have the tools for success. Community partners help with every aspect

Recognizing that one agency alone cannot

of resident life. Community partnerships

meet all resident and client needs, HACA

are integral to HACA’s model for addressing

has forged and expanded partnerships

the community’s needs, such as fostering

PROGRAMS MADE POSSIBLE BY PARTNERS FAMILY PROGRAMS

mentoring and access to supportive services

Apartments. The program provides

Any Baby Can is a Texas-based non-profit

designed to combat the cycle of poverty and

customized support services, including:

that provides free in-home parenting classes

promote self-sufficiency by strengthening

counseling, basic needs assistance, graduate

and family support services for HACA

families.

support, and college readiness.

Washington, Bouldin Oaks, Georgian Manor,

United Way partners with KLRU (Austin

Boys & Girls Club of the Capital Area

Santa Rita, Chalmers Courts, Rosewood,

public television) to deliver high-touch,

focuses on education and whole-child

Meadowbrook, and Thurmond communities.

high-tech, early childhood education to

wellness and success for kids ages 6 to 17.

parents and toddlers at Meadowbrook,

HACA has three Boys and Girls Clubs on its

Mainspring Schools provides full-time

Bouldin and Shadowbend Apartments. The

properties: at Meadowbrook Apartments

childcare at a HACA-owned building adjacent

program provides technology education and

in south Austin; at Thurmond Heights in

to Meadowbrook Apartments. Preference is

child development activities through the

north Austin; and at Chalmers Courts in east

given to HACA children. Child, Inc. offers an

use of tablets. Parents that participate in 80

Austin. These clubs serve youth from HACA

Early Head Start Program at Meadowbrook’s

percent of the classes are awarded a tablet at

properties to provide an array of programs

former management building.

course completion.

including Power Hours, physical fitness

residents. Classes rotate among the Booker T.

activities, and arts and crafts. The Man in Me founder, Isaac Rowe,

C HILDREN AND YOUTH P ROGRAMS

facilitates the I-DADS (Involved Dads of

American YouthWorks - Youth Build

Action, Developing and Succeeding) program.

prepares students ages 16 to 24 for careers

I-DADS provides low-income fathers/

in computer technology, healthcare, or green

father figures age 18 and older who have

construction at the Henry Flores Education

children living in HACA public housing with

and Training Center at Meadowbrook

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 84

PART V: OUR WORK TODAY

Boy Scouts holds troop meetings that

Girl Scouts is open to all girls, grades K-12.

Salvation Army provides emergency shelter

encourage physical fitness, build character

During troop meetings, girls play games,

and support services. HACA, the Salvation

and foster responsibility and good citizenship.

cook, make crafts, do STEM activities, learn

Army, the City of Austin and other community

Boy Scouts, for boys ages 11-17, meet

life skills, and sell cookies. Girl Scouts of

partners, provide temporary rental assistance

regularly at Georgian Manor, Santa Rita, and

Central Texas serves HACA youth from

to homeless families through the Tenant

Booker T. Washington.

Georgian Manor, Santa Rita, Shadowbend,

Based Rental Assistance program (TBRA).

Manchaca Village, Booker T. Washington,

Through this partnership, temporary rental

Rosewood, and Northgate.

assistance is provided for 12 months to

Communities In Schools provides mentoring and targeted case-based

households that meet the federal McKinney

management to help students complete

HOMELESS ASSISTANCE

Homeless Assistance Act definition of

college and scholarship applications.

Front Steps is dedicated to ending

homeless. Case management and supportive

SmartKids Coordinators provide after-school

homelessness in Austin. In addition to

services are provided by one of the following

tutoring and enrichment activities at four

operating the Austin Resource Center

community partners to include: Salvation

public housing properties: Bouldin Oaks,

for the Homeless (ARCH), they provide

Army, Caritas, SafePlace, Foundation for the

Meadowbrook, Santa Rita, and

support for homeless veterans through the

Homeless, or Lifeworks

Booker T. Washington.

HUD-VASH (Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing) program, a special rental assistance program for veterans who are eligible for Veteranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Affairs healthcare services and are experiencing homelessness.

RAYMOND AND JESSICA LEIBAS Unable to afford rent on their salaries, Raymond and Jessica Leibas moved their family into Austin public housing in 2003. In 2015, Raymond began taking free HVAC training classes through HACA partner Skillpoint Alliance. He graduated and was immediately hired by National Instruments. The family has now moved on to the six star program, getting a home in the private rental market through AAHC.

85 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

PART V: OUR WORK TODAY

GLORIA PETERSON AND RODNEY HALL Gloria Peterson and her boyfriend, Rodney Hall, say HACA’s ban on smoking in, or near, apartments may have saved their lives. As part of a focus on health initiatives, the Housing Authority implemented a smoke-free policy in September of 2015. Six months ahead of the policy, residents were offered free cessation classes and resources to kick the habit as well as counseling, patches and gum. Both smokers since childhood, Gloria and Rodney have struggled with health issues. Now, they’re smoke-free, and their new habit is taking daily walks around Georgian Manor.

Caritas of Austin, Inc. provides vouchers for

Capital IDEA partners with HACA and other

E DUCATION AND DIGITAL LITERACY

clothing, prescriptions, medical assistance,

local organizations to provide employment

AEM Foundation assists in providing

eyeglasses, rent and utility assistance, and

services and counseling to residents in the

Spanish-language computer classes to

groceries for HACA families.

Jobs Plus ATX program at Chalmers Courts

residents as a part of the Unlocking the

and Booker T. Washington Terraces.

Connection initiative. The computer literacy

V ETERANS

efforts of AEM are a key part of HACA’s digital

Veterans Services of Travis County connects

Goodwill Industries of Central Texas

inclusion efforts. The classes help residents

veterans with the HUD-VASH program,

provides HACA residents with workforce

excel in their professional and educational

which can get them the support and housing

development training including job readiness

careers.

services they need.

training, and certifications, job placement and programs to help residents earn a GED

ASCEND Center for Learning and Austin

E MPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE LITERACY

or high school diploma. Goodwill staff travel

Community College offer GED preparation,

Austin Area Urban League provides job

to HACA sites to meet with residents and also

Adult Basic Education and English as a

readiness and office skills training, case

have offices located at Booker T. Washington,

Second Language (ESL) courses to

management, job placement, and other job

Chalmers Courts and Rosewood Courts.

eligible residents.

training classes.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 86

PART V: OUR WORK TODAY

Austin Community College provides free

Grounded in Music mentors HACA youth

Literacy Coalition of Central Texas

on-site GED classes; ESL and Adult Basic

and helps develop their musical talents.

provides HACA residents with free GED,

Education for HACA residents. ACC also

The organization is helping to develop

computer training and workplace competency

provides retired computers that Austin

a new production studio facility at the

training at Chalmers Courts in Central

Pathways refurbishes and distributes to HACA

Meadowbrook Henry Flores Education

East Austin.

residents who complete a minimum number

and Training Center with help from a

of hours of digital literacy training.

Best Buy Foundation Grant for a music

Skillpoint Alliance provides computer

education program.

literacy training at HACAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s community

Austin Free-Net provides free computer

computer labs and workforce development

access and basic computer training to

Latinitas hosts several workshops at

training and support for HACA residents.

Austinites, with support from the City

the Henry Flores Education and Training

Skillpoint also offers the Gateway rapid

of Austin, IBM, and other employers.

Center at Meadowbrook surrounding

job training program with offerings in

It has offered Tech Starters classes at

digital media and technology. Residents can

five certifications in the construction and

Lakeside, Manchaca Village, Shadowbend,

learn about photography, video creation,

healthcare industries.

Meadowbrook, and Bouldin Oaks.

creating smartphone applications, and using technology to support their educational and work efforts.

ABOVE: HACA youth engage with mentors from Grounded in Music to develop their musical talents. LEFT: Mayor Steve Adler speaks to HACA residents in 2015 at the Austin B-Cycle Dedication at Santa Rita Courts.

87 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

PART V: OUR WORK TODAY

H EALTH & WELLNESS

Wright House Wellness Center provides

Central Texas Food Bank collaborates with

HIV testing and sex education at Booker

HACA for a Summer Lunch Program for

T. Washington Terraces. The center’s

HACA Youth, and a federal Senior Grocery

programs and services emphasize treatment

Program that provides qualified senior

adherence, disease prevention and personal

HACA residents with 30 pounds of

responsibility.

groceries monthly. S ENIOR SERVICES CommUnity Care Health Clinic provides

Family Eldercare provides wellness

HACA residents with a full-service

specialists and activities, primarily for

mobile healthcare clinic each month

residents at Lakeside, North Loop, Gaston

at Meadowbrook and Georgian Manor.

Place and Salina Apartments. Funding comes

Residents have access to primary care,

from St. David’s Foundation, City of Austin

dental care, behavioral health, and

Social Services, and Aging’s Community

other services.

Innovations and Aging in Place program.

Integral Care helps get Housing Choice

S AFETY

Vouchers to families with a disabled head

Austin Police Department (APD) contracts

of household. They also provide 24-hour,

with HACA for approximately 50 officers

confidential telephone counseling and crisis

to patrol properties and maintain public

intervention, as well as information and

safety. An APD liaison is assigned to HACA

referrals to human service agencies and

to act as the main point of contact between

support groups in the Austin-Travis

the housing authority and the city’s police

County area.

department.

Sendero Health Plans is a non-profit

A ND MORE

organization that assists families covered by

Austin Outreach, Christian Women’s Job

publicly-funded health insurance programs.

Corp., Crosspointe Church, Kinney Avenue

Sendero provides residents with educational

Christian Fellowship, KLRU, Making Awesome

material and information regarding health

Things Happen (MATH) Mobile Mathematics

programs and affordable health insurance.

Tutoring, Phoenix House, Southwest Key, and

TOP: Children explore materials at the HACA Back-to-School Supply Distribution in 2017. BOTTOM: Children enjoy a petting zoo at HACA’s National Night Out in 2016.

Workforce Solutions.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 88

PART V: OUR WORK TODAY

VETERANS AFFAIRS SUPPORTIVE HOUSING (VASH) PROGRAM permanent housing. The challenge could not have been met without partners like HACA, as well as resources like the VASH voucher. The Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) program combines HUD Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) rental assistance for homeless veterans with case management and clinical services provided by Veterans Affairs (VA). HUD-VASH reduces veteran homelessness by providing funding for In summer 2016, Julián Castro, then Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD),

both the housing and supportive services for thousands of veterans nationwide, including those who call Austin home.

declared that the City of Austin had achieved “functional

The VA makes referrals, verifies the veteran’s homeless

zero” in veteran homelessness. In order to tackle the

status, and provides case management. Veterans must

problem of veterans experiencing homelessness, the Mayor

comply with a case management program through the

of the City of Austin brought together various stakeholders

VA to continue receiving assistance. The VASH program is

from the real estate, affordable housing, philanthropy, and

administered in accordance with the regular

social service agencies serving veterans. Of course, HACA was

HCV requirements.

at the table.

VASH participants are selected by the local VA clinic through

Over a time period of more than two years, the City of

the Coordinated Assessment system and referred to HACA for

Austin focused energy and resources on the challenge of

final eligibility screening and enrollment. HACA is proud to

veteran homelessness. Ultimately, nearly 400 veterans found

be playing a major role in ending veteran homelessness in Austin.

89 Housing Authority of the City of Austin

PART VI: OUR FUTURE

PART VI

Our Future Nearly 80 years ago, then-Congressman

Originally established to provide safe,

Lyndon B. Johnson delivered his passionate

decent housing for the city’s poor and low-

and personal radio address, “Tarnish on

income residents, HACA began at a time the

the Violet Crown.” Johnson was moved by

community was in crisis, when many families

the plight of the poor and disenfranchised

had given up hope.

families that he observed in the shadows of the Texas State Capitol on Christmas

As the City of Austin has grown, HACA’s

day 1937. Congressman Johnson urged the

mission has grown. In 1937, Congressman

community to support the Austin Housing

Johnson spoke of the Austin Housing

Authority’s plans to lift people up out of

Authority’s plans to build 200 units of

squalid and dangerous conditions by building

housing for the poor. Today, HACA and

the nation’s first public housing.

its subsidiaries own and manage nearly 4,000 units, in 46 properties, serving

Today, we celebrate the 80th anniversary of

nearly 26,000 residents.

the Housing Authority of the City of Austin.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin 90

PART VI: OUR FUTURE

CHAIRMAN’S CALL TO WORK TOGETHER This story captures 80 eventful years in Austin’s history. HACA was

become scarcer, our partnerships are more vital than ever. We seek

there, from the depths of the Depression to the city of today.

innovative solutions to bring collective impact. HACA stands ready

Today, Austin’s affordability is on high alert.

to blaze new trails. Whether it’s through talent, time or treasure, we invite you to work with HACA to bring opportunity home for more

HACA is on the front line. We try to meet the needs of families who

families. Thank you to our residents, our partners, our staff, and the

desperately need help. There are more that can be helped.

Austin community for all of their support for our mission.

We have built strong alliances over the past eight decades. Our

— CARL S. RICHIE , JR.

partners include schools, non-profits, employers, developers,

Chairman of the Board of Commissioners

REALTORS®, and foundations to name a few. As federal funds

Housing Authority of the City of Austin

91 Housing Authority of the City of Austin