The primary agenda item was the resolution to amend the 2026 Housing Trust Fund Project budgets, which included a $380,000 allocation for tenant protections. The discussion was led by representatives from the Department of Safety Inspections (DSI) and the Office of Financial Empowerment. They outlined a plan to implement tenant protections set to launch on May 14, 2026. The initiative, previously stalled, was reignited following the city council’s passage of the ordinance in May 2025.

The tenant protections program comprises three phases: pre-implementation, implementation, and post-implementation. The pre-implementation phase, ongoing until April 2026, focuses on developing content and communication strategies. The implementation phase will begin with the ordinance’s official launch, involving training for customer service staff and community outreach. Post-implementation efforts will include continuous outreach to gather feedback and address emerging concerns.

A detailed hiring plan was presented, highlighting the recruitment of two full-time customer service representatives and one full-time management assistant to support the initiative. The total estimated cost for these positions and related expenses amounts to $380,000. The representatives stressed the importance of a user-friendly tenant protections website, which will be available in multiple languages to accommodate the city’s diverse population.

In terms of the complaint process, the program will build upon the existing rent stabilization complaints framework to ensure efficient handling of tenant issues. Emphasis was placed on communication and outreach strategies to engage the community effectively, even amid potential limitations on in-person interactions.

The meeting also addressed the staffing timeline, with efforts to finalize job postings and ensure legal compliance. Chair Johnson underscored the significance of community engagement, particularly within individual wards, to raise awareness about tenant protections. Discussion centered on the rationale for hiring three full-time employees, drawing on lessons from rent stabilization staffing experiences.

In parallel, the meeting introduced discussions on conduit revenue bonds for Episcopal Homes. Jenny Wolf from the planning department explained that these bonds would allow nonprofit organizations to access tax-exempt interest rates, reducing debt costs. The city acts as a conduit, assuming no financial risk. The bonds, repayable solely from borrower revenues, do not involve the city’s taxing powers.

Episcopal Homes, a nonprofit senior housing provider, seeks up to $18 million in bonds to acquire the Willows of Ramsey Hill, a 58-unit facility specializing in memory care services. The organization faces increasing demand for its services and hopes to expand capacity. A waiver was requested for the minimum bond denomination policy for non-rated bonds, proposing a $25,000 minimum to broaden the pool of investors.

Tom Henry, CEO of Episcopal Homes, addressed the board, emphasizing the need for the facility acquisition to meet significant demand. He noted a waiting list of around 100 individuals, with 40 requiring immediate assistance. The project is expected to add three positions contingent on achieving full occupancy.

The HRA’s credit committee reviewed the bond request, including the waiver, and approved it, citing similar past bond issues. The project’s total estimated cost is nearly $17 million, with $15.4 million expected from the bonds. A public hearing is scheduled for the following week, with city council approval required for bond issuance.