The Housing Opportunities through Modernization Act or HOTMA was signed into law in 2016 and it amends the U.S. Housing Act and other housing laws to modify multiple HUD programs. The new law means new requirements for the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) and Public Housing programs. It is important to note that HOTMA changes will streamline and strengthen federal housing programs by reducing administrative burdens for housing agencies and private owners and adding flexibility to further expand key goals. However the core characteristics of federal rental assistance will remain in place. The three areas that HOTMA will improve are 1) simplifying rules for setting tenant rent payments, 2) streamlining housing quality inspections in HCV and 3) providing added flexibility to project based vouchers. HOTMA is a federal tool that will assist Cincinnati Metropolitan Housing Authority in improving customer service to residents, partners and employees.  

 

Also, we are currently working on various projects that will strengthen the affordable housing solutions offered to Hamilton County families. Recently Congress lifted the cap on the number of public housing units that can be converted to the Rental Assistance Demonstration program (RAD). CMHA received notification to move forward with the process for converting possibly all CMHA owned and operated units to RAD. As a reminder, RAD is the HUD program that stabilizes funding for public housing authorities while positioning agencies to leverage millions of dollars in private dollars to address capital needs and preserve the affordable units. The change to RAD is very important and to keep everyone up-to-date staff was informed of the conversion plan and resident communication teams held approximately 40 meetings to discuss CMHA's preliminary conversion plan. If you're interested in learning more about RAD, please visit our website or email [email protected].   Another need is more affordable housing for a growing population, our seniors. West Union Square, located in Colerain Township, is a development that will provide one and two bedroom homes for the aging population. The West Union Square groundbreaking was held in May and after many weeks of construction the building is beginning to take shape. The foundation is set and some walls are up ( photo below). And finally Hamilton County is expected to have one of the largest groups of returning citizens. Therefore, our team is creating a family unification referral program. It is in the early stages at this time but the goal is to strengthen, support and help provide stability for men and women who are leaving the justice system and want to reunite with family members. CMHA has secured a partnership with the Hamilton County Office of ReEntry and further partnerships are being developed that will provide solutions for families. Once the program is fully developed a public comment period will be established, be sure to check the website for details.

 

You can always stay connected to what's happening with CMHA by visiting our website and following the agency on social media. Find out how to register as a vendor on the Business Opportunities tab, see the calendar on the News and Events tab, and learn about our major programs on the CMHA Programs tab of www.cintimha.com. Plus you can always share information with us by calling our Talk 2 Us Hotline (513) 721-CMHA.