The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has recognized the Wichita Housing Authority’s Public Housing Program as a “High Performer.” The designation, based on a review of standard operating criteria, reflects sound management practices, high occupancy levels, strong fiscal oversight, and quality property maintenance and management.
High performer designation is the highest recognition level given by HUD. High performers are provided incentives that include relief from reporting and other requirements. The Wichita Housing Authority’s Section 8 program is also rated at the “High Performer” level, a status earned 5 of the past 6 years.
“The entire Housing Authority has achieved that recognition,” Mary K. Vaughn, Director of Housing and Community Services, said.
The Public Housing Program manages 575 housing units, including 226 scattered site single family units. A staff of 31 performs tasks related to property management, including tenant screening, initial and annual income certification, unit inspection and routine and on-demand maintenance needs. The program is 100% federally funded.
Vaughn credits a spirit of teamwork and partnerships for the achievement.
“Our maintenance staff has stayed on top of required maintenance needs,” she said. “So have our property managers, who have improved communications with our tenants on a number of issues including the importance of timely rent payments. In addition, our office support staff continues to provide excellent customer service in their encounters with current and prospective tenants. We also have received excellent support from our fiscal unit and the City Attorney’s office.”
Tom Byler, Housing Manager for the Public Housing Program agrees. “We could not have achieved this milestone without the commitment of each member of our team.”
Back to Top