HACM and HUD outline sustainability plan to improve public housing by 2026

Milwaukee's Housing Authority (HACM) is embarking on a significant recovery journey, following a recent agreement with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) aimed at improving its troubled status. During a meeting on April 9, 2025, HACM's acting executive director, Ken Barbot, outlined a comprehensive sustainability plan designed to elevate the agency from a low performance score of 53 to a target of 60 by 2026.

The sustainability plan, still in draft form, is a response to HUD's concerns about HACM's performance. Barbot emphasized that the plan includes critical areas such as governance, financial management, and tenant services. Key initiatives involve enhancing board training, improving data reporting, and refining asset management practices. The plan also addresses staffing needs, with Barbot indicating that additional hires may be necessary to meet the ambitious goals set forth.

Commissioners expressed their support for the plan, with Vice Chair Gotzler suggesting the creation of a visual dashboard to track progress transparently. This would allow both the commission and the public to monitor milestones and achievements in real-time, fostering accountability and community trust.

The meeting also featured a public listening session, where community members were encouraged to provide feedback on the sustainability plan. Barbot reiterated the importance of community input, stating that the agency is committed to engaging with residents to ensure their voices are heard in the recovery process.

As HACM moves forward, the focus will be on implementing the sustainability plan effectively, with a clear timeline for achieving results. The agency aims to demonstrate significant improvements within the next 20 months, ultimately striving to regain its standing as a high performer in public housing management.