Budget Reports Highlight Grant Fund Delays and Increased Housing Voucher Funding

The Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority reported a stable financial outlook during its recent meeting, highlighting positive trends in grant funding and housing voucher allocations. The financial reports for June and July indicated that the authority is in "pretty decent shape," despite some delays in receiving certain grant funds, including the Virginia homeless solution planning funds and service coordinator grant funds.

The authority anticipates receiving funding soon, as applications for the service coordinator grant were submitted last month. Additionally, the Housing Choice Voucher program is experiencing unprecedented funding levels, with allocations rising from $6 million to nearly $8 million. This increase is attributed to a successful application for additional funding to address previous shortfalls.

However, the authority is facing some unexpected expenditures, including emergency repairs to an HVAC system and IT upgrades, each costing around $30,000. A sewer line collapse at the Roosevelt Street office is also projected to incur costs of approximately $20,000. Despite these expenses, the overall budget remains stable, with all programs operating within their financial parameters.

The authority is also adjusting its payment standards for housing vouchers to manage rising costs, proposing to lower the payment standard from 120% to 110% of the fair market rent. This strategic move aims to ensure continued support for residents while addressing budgetary constraints.

Overall, the meeting underscored the authority's commitment to maintaining financial health and effectively managing housing resources in Harrisonburg, with a focus on adapting to changing funding landscapes and community needs.