The Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority held a productive meeting on September 17, 2025, focusing on community engagement and maintenance efforts. A key highlight was the upcoming Community Advisory Board (CAB) meeting scheduled for next Monday, which aims to enhance participation from local residents, particularly those from the Northeast community. The meeting will address the Community Connection Project, fostering collaboration between the city and community members.

Participants noted the challenges faced by CAB members, many of whom have demanding work schedules and family commitments, limiting their availability for daytime activities. To address this, the CAB plans to explore alternative options to encourage greater involvement in community projects.

Additionally, the meeting discussed a new grant received from Eastern Virginia Medical School, which will support mental health training and activities. This initiative, known as CELLA, aims to engage CAB members and the broader community in vital mental health discussions and practices.

The maintenance report revealed that staff had been exceptionally busy in August, completing 114 out of 119 work orders, with a year-to-date total exceeding 1,000. This included six emergency work orders, all resolved within the required 24-hour timeframe, showcasing the dedication of the maintenance team. The increase in emergency work orders was attributed to plumbing and HVAC issues, indicating a need for ongoing attention to infrastructure.

Overall, the meeting underscored the commitment of the Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority to enhance community engagement and maintain housing quality, setting a positive tone for future initiatives.