Flagstaff agrees to transfer Williams voucher program amid ongoing housing challenges

The Flagstaff Housing Commission convened on June 26, 2025, to discuss critical updates regarding housing assistance programs in the city. The meeting began with an update on the transfer of the Williams voucher program to the City of Flagstaff. The speaker noted that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has been cooperative in facilitating this transfer, although they did not acknowledge certain conditions set by the housing authority, such as financial protections.

The speaker confirmed that written approval for the program transfer has been received, and a letter outlining the necessary conditions is in progress. However, due to the lack of administration since September 2023, the city has not yet received a list of current voucher holders and landlords. This information is expected to be processed in early July, and residents with vouchers are reassured that they can remain in their homes during this transition.

Additionally, the commission discussed the Emergency Housing Voucher (EHV) program, which was established to assist households facing homelessness or domestic violence. The city has been allocated 27 of these vouchers, but due to specific conditions, only 24 remain available. The current administration has ceased ongoing funding for these vouchers, with funding set to terminate at the end of 2026.

HUD has recently published a notice allowing the city to request a waiver that would enable EHV holders to apply for the Section 8 waiting list with local preference. This process will be initiated in late summer or early fall and requires approval from the housing authority board. The speaker emphasized the importance of this waiver for maintaining stable housing for current voucher holders.

The meeting concluded with a note on the city's current leasing situation, which is slightly above capacity at 105% utilization. The speaker indicated that as some households surrender their vouchers, new vouchers will soon be available, helping to stabilize housing assistance in the community.

Overall, the meeting highlighted significant developments in housing assistance programs, with a focus on ensuring continuity and support for vulnerable residents in Flagstaff.