Photo Caption: The BHA’s 86 Dummer Street property opened in 2015 – the largest new construction of affordable housing in Brookline in more than 30 years.
To the Editor,
Recent statements by a candidate for elected office have characterized Brookline Housing Authority (BHA) properties as “distressed.”
The objective criteria noted below indicate that BHA properties are well maintained.
- BHA properties and operations are regularly inspected and are closely regulated by the state government (DHCD) and the federal government (HUD). The properties and the agency consistently receive strong grades from all regulators.
- In the most recent round of HUD inspections, BHA properties exceeded HUD standards.
- The BHA maintains a vacancy rate of less than 2% – a key indicator of effective management.
- Capital needs are addressed with approximately $1.2 MM in annual repairs. Recent improvements include new and upgraded playgrounds, community rooms, energy efficient utility systems, security cameras, roadways, and more. The Town of Brookline supports BHA’s capital repairs with annual funding from Community Development Block Grant funds. Further, the BHA’s long term strategic plan, for totally renovating the properties commences this year with a total renovation of the seniors’ property at 61 Park St.
- In addition to safe, decent housing, the BHA provides extensive resident services ranging from English language and financial literacy classes, to free tax preparation, an on-site food pantry, and service coordination for seniors. In our most recent quarterly report, the BHA delivered more than 1,400 instances of service to our residents.
The Housing Authority’s property, and public housing nationwide, regrettably has been under-funded for decades by state and federal government. But here in Brookline we are collectively and successfully maintaining the properties as functional and valuable community assets.
Patrick Dober
Executive Director
Brookline Housing Authority
