2025 Annual Report
We provide safe, affordable housing & foster partnerships for economic vitality.
MISSION
The mission of the Housing Authority of Poplar Bluff is to assist low income households through the provision of decent, safe and affordable housing, to create partnerships of awareness with the City, Community and local organizations, to improve the quality of life, promote self-sufficiency and economic vitality, ensure fair housing, and to encourage affordable housing opportunities for persons of low to moderate income.
VISION
Empowering Communities: Creating vibrant, inclusive communities where every resident has access to safe, affordable housing and opportunities for personal and economic growth.
Mr. Darrin Taylor
Executive Director, Board Secretary/ Treasurer
Ms. Rebeca Pacheco
Deputy Director
Mr. John Scott
Esq. Legal Counsel
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Mr. William Cobb
Chairperson
Mr. Lonnie Taylor Vice Chairperson
Ms. Barbara Siliven
Commissioner
Mr. Dennis Keeling
Commissioner
Mr. Arnold Edmondson
Commissioner
Front Row: Commissioner Dennis Keeling, Deputy Director Rebeca Pacheco, Commissioner Barbara Siliven, Chairman William Cobb Back Row: Commissioner Arnold Edmondson, Legal Counsel John Scott, Vice-Chairman Lonnie Taylor, Executive Director Darrin Taylor
Dear Stakeholders,
As we reflect on the past year, it is vital to address the increasing need for affordable housing in our community. The challenges faced by individuals and families in securing safe, affordable homes have intensified, both statewide and within Butler County. This issue directly impacts not only residents but also the workforce and economic stability of our region.
Statewide Overview
In Missouri, the gap between income levels and housing costs continues to widen. The National Low Income Housing Coalition reports the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,083 per month. To afford this without spending more than 30% of their income on housing, a household must earn $43,320 annually, which equates to an hourly wage of $20.83. However, the state’s minimum wage stands at $13.75 per hour, making it difficult for many working families to meet housing costs.
Furthermore, Missouri faces a shortage of approximately 120,102 rental homes that are both affordable and available to extremely low-income (ELI) households. Many of these households allocate more than half their income toward housing, forcing difficult choices between essential needs such as food, healthcare, and transportation.
Butler County Specifics
In Butler County, the median listing home price in December 2024 was $191,200—a substantial 27.9% increase from the previous year. This surge reflects the growing demand and limited supply of affordable housing in our area. Additionally, 27.94% of Butler County residents are renters, and rising home prices have put significant pressure on these households.
Affordable Housing as Workforce Housing
Affordable housing is not just about shelter; it is a critical component of workforce housing. When working families have access to affordable homes near their places of employment, it strengthens the local economy and supports business growth. Teachers, healthcare workers, retail employees, and
other essential workers are better able to contribute to our community when housing is within their financial reach.
Stable housing allows workers to focus on their jobs, reduces absenteeism, and increases productivity. Employers benefit as well, as they can attract and retain talent more effectively when affordable housing options are available nearby. In Butler County, expanding affordable housing is essential to meeting the needs of our workforce and ensuring the economic vitality of our region.
Our Commitment
The Poplar Bluff Housing Authority is committed to addressing these challenges head-on. We are actively pursuing partnerships, securing funding, and implementing programs aimed at increasing the availability of affordable and workforce housing. By investing in affordable housing, we are investing in the stability and growth of our community.
We extend our gratitude to our partners, stakeholders, and the community for their unwavering support. Together, we can address the affordable housing crisis, strengthen our workforce, and create a brighter future for all residents of Butler County.
Sincerely,
Rebeca Pacheco, MBA, PHM Deputy Director Poplar Bluff Housing Authority
An Inspiring Journey from Resident to Real Estate Leader FAMILY HOUSING
When Gina Ginocchio faced one of the most challenging times in her life, the Poplar Bluff Housing Authority became the foundation for her future success. After a divorce left her unable to afford her home, Gina needed a stable place to rebuild her life.
I felt defeated and needed a safe, stable living environment for me and my children” said Gina.
Securing a family unit through the Housing Authority gave Gina the stability she needed to refocus on her career. In just 15 months, she gained financial traction, allowing her to transition to private housing.
While working full-time in customer service and sales, Gina also assisted a local real estate broker part-time. Within a year, she was offered a full-time office manager position, immersing her in the real estate industry.
“The role gave me so many opportunities to learn the real estate business from top to bottom,” said Gina. “I didn’t realize at the time that the job was preparing me to start my own company.”
When her position was eliminated, Gina’s industry connections helped her transition smoothly into launching Borrowed Time Real Estate in 2016. Her business grew quickly, and in 2024, she was recognized as Missouri Agent of the Year by Rate My Agent.
Gina credits the Poplar Bluff Housing Authority for playing a pivotal role in her journey. “Income-based housing can help families get back on their feet,” she said. “It provides a safe place to live while you gain financial and emotional stability. The staff is caring, and the programs create positive support systems for families.”
Now a successful entrepreneur, Gina often refers others—especially single mothers—to the Housing Authority, encouraging them to use available resources and stay focused on their goals. “It took me four years of careful planning and sacrifices to buy my first home as a single mother,” she said. “But it’s because Poplar Bluff provided a place to land when I was at my lowest.”
Under Gina’s leadership, Borrowed Time Real Estate has also become known for giving back to the community. She actively supports local organizations that address food insecurity, housing, workforce training, and education.
I see people struggling, and I want to help,” said Gina. “If my story can inspire others, it gives me hope.”
Gina’s journey from housing assistance to real estate success is a testament to the power of stability, determination, and community support. Her experience with the Poplar Bluff Housing Authority didn’t just provide a home—it set the stage for a thriving career and a lifelong commitment to uplifting others.
3
SENIOR HOUSING
Housing Authority Provides Stability and Community for
Retired Artist
When Stephanie Wetton retired as an EMT paramedic, she faced financial uncertainty. With limited income, she turned to the Poplar Bluff Housing Authority for a secure and affordable place to live.
Moving into the Twin Towers, a senior living community where rent is based on income, provided her with stability and peace of mind.
Stephanie shares her home with her cat, George, and enjoys the many amenities offered, including an on-site nutrition center serving daily lunches and a variety of social activities.
I would recommend Poplar Bluff to anyone with limited income looking for a safe and well-maintained home,” she said. “The staff is caring and helpful, and they appreciate my sense of humor and my art.”
A lifelong artist and musician, Stephanie spends her days drawing, painting, and playing instruments. Her love for art began in childhood when her mother encouraged her to draw for hours. Over the years, she explored different mediums, from oil painting to commercial illustration. She also plays multiple instruments by ear, favoring big band music from artists like Glenn Miller.
Her daily routine at Twin Towers includes morning art sessions, lunch with fellow residents, and afternoons filled with music. With limited mobility due to a hip condition, she appreciates the convenience of accessible transportation for grocery shopping and errands. From her apartment on an upper floor, she enjoys watching the changing seasons and the activity of the town below.
Beyond personal fulfillment, Stephanie finds joy in sharing her creativity with others. When she visits the housing office to pay rent, she brings along her latest cartoons, bringing smiles to the staff.
It’s nice to be part of a community that values me and what I do,” she said.
The support and security provided by the Housing Authority have allowed Stephanie to focus on her passions without the stress of financial instability. Her story highlights the importance of affordable housing for seniors seeking independence and companionship in their retirement years. By offering a safe and welcoming environment, the Poplar Bluff Housing Authority continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of residents like Stephanie, helping them thrive in their golden years.
IMPACT FACTS
4 Buildings
302 Senior Adults
Average Age: 66
265 1-bedroom Units
20 2-bedroom 1 3-bedroom
ECONOMIC IMPACT
The Poplar Bluff Housing Authority plays a vital role in fostering economic stability and growth in our community.
By providing affordable housing, it reduces homelessness and housing insecurity, allowing residents to allocate their resources toward education, healthcare, and transportation. This increased financial flexibility boosts local businesses and strengthens the economy.
Beyond housing, the Housing Authority generates significant economic activity by awarding over $1 million annually in contracts for construction, renovation, and property management. These investments create jobs for contractors, maintenance workers, and administrative staff, driving employment and supporting related industries. Additionally, the Housing Authority contributes heavily to the local economy through the purchase of materials, services and supplies from local businesses.
During economic downturns, the Housing Authority acts as a stabilizing force, preventing evictions and reducing strain on social services.
Stable
housing
enables
individuals
to maintain consistent employment, improving workforce participation rates and reducing the need for costly emergency interventions.”
REBECA PACHECO Deputy Director, Poplar Bluff Housing Authority
Residents of the Housing Authority contribute to the local workforce, filling essential roles in factories, restaurants, schools, medical facilities, and retail establishments. By providing a secure foundation, the Housing Authority helps break cycles of poverty, offering opportunities for residents to build stable, independent lives.
Access to affordable housing leads to better educational outcomes, improved health, and increased workforce productivity. By addressing these fundamental needs, the Poplar Bluff Housing Authority serves as a cornerstone for sustainable economic growth and community well-being.
Employment for PBHA Residents
45% of families earn wages from jobs (excluding senior/disabled)
7% of our seniors and disabled residents earn wages from jobs
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
Strengthening the Poplar Bluff Housing Authority
The Poplar Bluff Housing Authority (PBHA) thrives through strong community partnerships that enhance programs and services for residents. These collaborations with local businesses, nonprofits, and organizations create opportunities that go beyond housing, fostering stability and growth for individuals and families.
Community partners provide essential in-kind donations such as household supplies, school materials, and food assistance, ensuring residents have access to basic necessities. Additionally, local professionals contribute valuable services, including healthcare consultations, financial literacy workshops, and job training, empowering residents to achieve self-sufficiency.
Financial contributions from businesses and organizations further amplify PBHA’s impact. These funds support resident-focused activities such as senior programs, youth education initiatives, and community-building events like National Night Out. By investing in these efforts, partners help create a supportive environment where residents can thrive.
The shared commitment between PBHA and its partners strengthens the entire community.
By working together, they address critical social challenges, promote economic stability, and enhance the quality of life for residents. These partnerships demonstrate that sustainable housing solutions require collective effort, ensuring long-term success for individuals and the broader Poplar Bluff community.
Resident Opportunity for Self-Sufficiency (ROSS) Grant
Impact
The Resident Opportunity for Self-Sufficiency (ROSS) program, funded by HUD, empowers Poplar Bluff Housing Authority residents by providing critical services that foster independence. The program connects residents to employment training, education, digital literacy, and health services, reducing barriers to self-sufficiency.
A dedicated ROSS Coordinator assists 135 participants with financial literacy, job training, and wellness initiatives. Successes include record expungement for employment, covering licensing fees, and fostering intergenerational engagement through programs like “Young at Heart.”
Leveraging $110,500 of in-kind services annually, ROSS collaborates with local organizations to eliminate barriers to self-sufficiency.
Partners include health departments, educational institutions, and community action agencies, ensuring residents have access to essential resources for long-term stability and success.
• Boy & Girls Club of the Heartland
• Butler County Community Resource Council
• Butler County Health Department
• FCC Behavioral Health
• Three Rivers College
• MU Extension
• Northside Nutrition Center
• Poplar Bluff Municipal Library
• South Central Missouri Community Action Agency
• Southeast Missouri Transportation Service
Dear Supporters, Partners, and Community Members,
Housing is more than just bricks and mortar - it’s the foundation for stability, opportunity, and a better future. As we reflect on the past year, we are proud to share the progress we have made in providing safe, affordable housing for individuals and families in need.
Through our programs, we have improved housing conditions, expanded support services and served over 1,000 family members. These accomplishments are only possible because of the dedication of our Board of Commissioners, staff, and the resilience of our residents.
While we celebrate these successes, we also recognize the need for affordable housing continues to grow. We remain committed to strengthening our programs, advocating for housing equity, and ensuring every person has a place to call home.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Your support, collaboration, and belief in our mission help us build stronger communities and brighter futures.
With gratitude,
Darrin J. Taylor, PHM Chief Executive Officer Poplar Bluff Housing Authority