This will probably be my final blog post for 2009, and I felt a short review was in order, and might even be marginally entertaining for those of us in the compliance side of the housing management business.
Secretary Donovan and his team at HUD are also soon to mark the end of their first year, and what a year it has been. The main focus of the agency has been on matters of economic stimulus, as well as a Green Retrofit Program. Public Housing Authorities moved toward asset management at a variety of paces ranging from total stealth to aggressive resolve.
The HUD Handbook 4350.3, Rev. 1 had Change 3. And, of course, we have the mandatory use of Enterprise Income Verification (EIV) now slated for January 31, 2010. EIV didn't originate with the present administration, but the numerous HUD-RHIIP generated emails over the past few weeks make clear that Secretary Donovan is committed to its implementation.
(I am personally glad, because these numerous changes in the implementation dates: March 2009; September 2009; January 31, 2010 reminded me of the kind of indecisiveness that occurs when certain members of my family are at a restaurant that features a menu with too many choices).
On the tax credit side, the dismal economy has created some difficulties as there are fewer entities signing on as part of syndication deals; it is easier to find interest when the economy is performing in a robust fashion and there is an associated desire to benefit from the tax credits. Moreover, residents in a tax credit property, with the exception of those receiving Housing Choice Vouchers, pay an "affordable" rent that is fixed. If the household loses their income, and a Housing Choice Voucher is not available for them, the result is a vacancy through the household moving out of their own volition, or by way of an eviction.
While I cannot celebrate 2009 from a compliance perspective, I can and will celebrate the people who are part of our industry. I don't think I am being sentimental by telling you that the constant travel and the degree of energy training demands is sometimes more difficult for me to manage as I get older. What makes it worthwhile for me, always, are the men and women I meet. I don't think there are many industries which can hold a candle to ours for compassion, diligence, and professionalism. The skill sets that are demanded are constantly changing, and my colleagues at NCHM and I are constantly developing new training offerings to compliment and strengthen those skills.
I wish all of you another year of health, happiness, and success. See you again in 2010.
