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North Chicago Housing Authority director briefs council; HUD, staffing and policing cited as constraints
Summary
North Chicago Housing Authority (NCHA) Executive Director Nina Chalmers told the council on Feb. 11 that HUD oversees the Authority, NCHA is short‑staffed, and HUD is aware of reported problems at the towers; the authority receives no city operating funding and faces potential funding shortfalls.
Nina Chalmers, executive director of the North Chicago Housing Authority, appeared at the Feb. 11 meeting to respond to council and resident questions about management, policing and oversight at the city’s public housing properties.
Chalmers said the housing authority is governed by HUD rules and that the mayor appoints the authority’s board of commissioners; the authority does not receive direct city operating funds. She said the authority has been operating short‑staffed — noting there has been no deputy director for roughly two years — and that HUD is regularly informed of operational concerns. Chalmers said she has a monthly call with their HUD representative, John Garrett, on the first Monday of each month to brief HUD on issues.
On policing and safety at the towers, Chalmers said many incidents occur inside private units and that the authority’s role is to secure resources and referrals for residents; she acknowledged that a stronger police presence at building entry points could be a deterrent and said the authority welcomed collaboration. Chalmers said she had earlier forwarded a letter designating conditions in the buildings to HUD and that Lake County housing officials had also been engaged.
Council members asked whether the city could provide funding or assistance; Chalmers replied the authority receives no city operating funds and said two board members’ appointments were near expiration and would need reappointment. She said the authority had tried to recruit a deputy director but lacked applicants with requisite housing experience; a job description can be shared with the city for help in outreach.
Why it matters
NCHA operates properties that house residents who raised safety and maintenance concerns during public comment. The director’s statement clarifies the limits of the city’s direct authority over the housing authority, the role of HUD oversight and the authority’s staffing and budget constraints.
What officials said next
Council members and staff discussed possible grant opportunities and increased police patrols; the mayor and police chief said they would explore grant and workforce programs including civilian security positions and patrol assignments and coordinate with HUD and Lake County officials.
Ending
Chalmers said the authority will continue monthly HUD reporting and provide meeting minutes and board schedules on request; council members agreed to pursue targeted options for security and staffing support and to consider board reappointments as needed.
