PITTSFIELD, [November 9, 2023] — In response to a prolonged lack of demand, Pike County Housing Authority (PCHA) has announced plans to eliminate up to 38 units throughout the county starting next year. Executive Director Chris Bruns detailed the decision, revealing that six units in Baylis and 12 in Perry are slated for sale, while two buildings in Pittsfield, encompassing eight units, face demolition. A third building in Pittsfield with 12 units is under consideration for destruction.
Bruns emphasized that the authority faced an average of 40 vacancies per month over the past three years, resulting in an annual loss of approximately $120,000. This consistent shortage negatively impacted the authority’s standing with the federal government, affecting funding and overall status.
“The federal government scores all housing authorities on their occupancy rates. That’s part of our main score,” explained Bruns. “It definitely affects our scoring and our status with the federal government. It affects our funding with the government.”
The decision to demolish or sell these units has been in the works for several years, as the authority grappled with difficulties attracting tenants. Bruns cited various factors, including the absence of essential amenities like gas stations and grocery stores in Baylis and Perry. Additionally, challenges in Baylis stemmed from the lack of a city sewer system, necessitating the housing authority’s maintenance of a wastewater treatment facility.
Addressing the Pittsfield units, Bruns noted their less desirable location “tucked back far off the city street,” making them less accessible. Moreover, these units were one-bedroom apartments, which did not align with the community’s demand.
“Of our 220 apartments, we have roughly 170 one-bedroom apartments,” Bruns remarked. “So we have way too many one-bedroom units for the need of the community.”
While some residents still occupy these units, many have been relocated, with the remaining tenants being assisted in finding alternative housing within the authority’s portfolio. Those opting to stay will be eligible for a “tenant protection voucher,” a collaboration between PCHA and another housing authority with a Section 8 housing program. This voucher will offer income-based rent at a location of their choosing.
Bruns clarified that the authority had fulfilled local requirements and was awaiting federal approval for the demolition process. Once the PCHA achieves the desired size and fills its waiting list, it plans to leverage the Low-Income Tax Credit program to develop two-, three-, and four-bedroom residences.
“Low-income tax credit properties are very popular,” Bruns explained. “They look like a regular home. You would not know the difference from it to another property, but it is an affordable property.”