THA Monthly Newsletter October 2023

October 2023

Highlights:

Important News & Updates

Fall Recipe - Easy Apple Fritters!

Table of Contents

Director's Note

THA Operations

Demolition & Revitalization

Boys and Girls Clubs of the Big Bend

Fall Recipe Special

Resident News & Events

Resident Resources

Resident Highlights & Community News

Director's Corner

Welcome to the THA monthly newsletter!

Dear Residents - As we redefine our work and deepen our commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable community residence, we are pleased to share this newsletter to provide you with the latest news, developments, accomplishments and updates from the Tallahassee Housing Authority (THA) properties and staff.

As Executive Director, it is our mission to enhance and expand the quality of life in our community, and to maintain and provide quality affordable housing. THA will facilitate a network of supportive services to enhance the quality of life for our residents. We are committed to quality service and will provide a professional atmosphere to our employees, partners, and the greater Tallahassee constituency.

Please do not hesitate to contact me with any concerns you may have. I am here to serve you.

Brenda Williams, Executive Director
850.385.6126

THA Operations

The Mission of the Tallahassee Housing Authority is to maintain and provide quality, affordable housing and facilitate a network of supportive services to enhance the quality of life for our residents.

Here's What We Do and How We Do It

Tallahassee Housing Authority provides quality affordable housing for low-to moderate-income households, fosters sustainable communities, and cultivates opportunities for residents to improve their lives in collaboration with local supportive services. Much of the public housing stock in Tallahassee is over forty years old and is well- maintained by the housing authority. Over time, we will work toward the redevelopment of our housing stock. A principal plan for redevelopment was completed for our Orange Avenue Apartments.

The Authority is governed by a volunteer seven-person Board of Commissioners; appointed by the City of Tallahassee Commission. Through formal adoption of policy, they ensure that the Authority is fiscally responsible and operates in an efficient manner.

The Authority consists of two (2) distinctive residential Public Housing communities, (aka Asset Management Properties or AMPs), located in the incorporated areas of Tallahassee, Florida. There are a total of 346 residential units consisting of 41 single-family detached homes, and 12 duplex units. The Authority also owns and maintains a 93-unit Low-Income Housing Tax Credit apartment community.

The Tallahassee Housing Authority is working to improve efficiencies so that all of our customers have access to information and services. Explore the various links on our website to find available rentals, services, more about our programs, and information about payments.

Demolition & Revitalization

Exciting Updates on Columbia Gardens at South City Development!

We're thrilled to report that Phase 1 construction of Columbia Gardens at South City is in full swing, with the first building set to become available for leasing by December. The entire Phase 1, comprised of multiple buildings, is on track to be completed by Spring 2024.

In September, THA initiated a waitlist for the project-based voucher (PBV) subsidized units at Columbia Gardens. This waitlist will undergo a random selection process by a third-party provider and subsequently uploaded into THA's software. As units become available, applicants will be promptly contacted.

The implementation of project-based vouchers ensures long-term affordability, guaranteeing it for at least 15 years. To qualify, the household residing in the unit must have an income at or below 50% of the area's median income. THA is actively seeking applications from developers and property owners interested in offering PBV- assisted units through our Request for Proposals.

Furthermore, THA is proud to announce the allocation of 41 project-based vouchers for the forthcoming 795 Ridge Road development, which is currently under construction. This development will consist of 250 units with a variety of layouts, including 1, 2, 3, and 4 bedroom units. The first building, housing 54 units, is anticipated to be ready for occupancy by September 2024. THA will begin accepting pre-applications for subsidized units at this location during the summer of 2024.

These developments reflect our ongoing commitment to providing safe, affordable housing options for our community. Stay tuned for more updates on these exciting projects!

Boys and Girls Clubs of the Big Bend

BGCBB and THA

The mission of the BGCBB is to enable all young people to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. Club membership is free to Tallahassee Housing Authority residents, and enrollment is accepted at any time. The Boys & Girls Club of the Big Bend provides youth development activities, at no cost, to the residents of the Springfield and Pinewood Place communities. The program operates Monday thru Friday from 3:00 PM to 6:30 PM after school. During the summer, the hours extend from 8:00 AM thru 5:30 PM.

At the beginning of each Boys & Girls Club program, the boys and girls are greeted by staff and then served a healthy snack. Afterwards, the boys and girls begin their "Powerhour", during which they complete homework assignments and receive tutoring in any subject that may present them with difficulty. After completing homework, the boys and girls participate in one of the character and citizenship building activities. These programs teach young people how to make positive decisions and develop good character traits. Prior to ending the day, the youth participate in a high yield activity that gets them moving and energized. These activities include football, basketball, and dance. The Boys & Girls Club provides a positive environment in which the youth are encouraged to evolve into responsible, caring, and productive citizens.

For more information, click here to Email Kacy Dennis or call 850.656.8100.
Click here for BGCBB Club Membership

Springfield Updates

In August, Springfield had the privilege of recognizing Emari Reynolds as the Youth of the Month. Emari recently joined the Springfield Club and is a student at Riley Elementary. Her participation in the Boys and Girls Club marks her first experience with an afterschool program, and she's already thriving. Emari loves spending time outdoors with her friends, embracing new opportunities for growth.

Springfield experienced a heartwarming visit from the Maple Street Biscuit Company, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to the community. The restaurant generously closed its doors for the day to give back, showing tremendous support for our youth. Maple Street Biscuit Company employees volunteered at the club, assisting young members with homework, engaging in fun activities, and imparting the importance of community involvement. To cap off this memorable day, they treated all our youth to mouthwatering biscuits, spreading joy and smiles throughout Springfield.

Currently, our members are actively participating in the Street Smarts program and Triple Play sessions. They also receive invaluable daily homework assistance, nurturing their academic growth and success.

Furthermore, some of our young men from Springfield attended a Shriners as Mentors (SAM) Meet and Greet event. This marks the beginning of their involvement in this mentorship program, opening up exciting opportunities for personal development and guidance. The Springfield Club continues to be a place of growth, learning, and community engagement, empowering our youth to reach their full potential. We look forward to more exciting adventures and achievements in the coming months!

Pinewood Place Updates

Pinewood had the privilege of recognizing Dominic Henry as our August Member of the Month. Dominic has been an active member of our club for three years and even had the honor of serving as the Junior Youth of the Year. He continues to be an outstanding role model within the club, positively influencing his peers. In recognition of his achievements, Dominic was celebrated in front of his fellow club members and received a well-deserved goodie bag as a token of our
appreciation.

Pinewood also organized a successful back-to-school drive, providing backpacks and essential school supplies to our registered members. As we welcomed our youth back to the club, we hosted a special celebration to kickstart the new school year. Our members displayed energy and enthusiasm for the upcoming academic journey.

In this quarter, our club is focusing on enhancing social skills, academic skills, and developmental skills, ensuring our youth are well-rounded and prepared for success. Currently, our young members actively participate in the Street Smarts Program and Triple Play Sessions, which offer valuable opportunities for growth and learning. We are also proud to provide daily homework assistance to support their academic endeavors.

At Pinewood, we are dedicated to nurturing the potential of our youth, and we look forward to witnessing their continued growth and success in the months ahead. Together, we create a positive and empowering environment for our club members.

Weekly Activities

Second Harvest delivery dates for Pinewood Place:
1st Tuesday, 3rd Tuesday, every Thursday, 1st Friday
of every month.

Second Harvest delivery dates for Springfield:
2nd Tuesday and Thursday of every month from
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM.

Fall Recipe

Easy Apple Fritters

Prep Time: 10 minutes ' Cook Time: 16-17 minutes ' Total Time: 27 minutes ' Servings: 8

Ingredients:

3 tablespoons Countryside Creamery Unsalted Butter

2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced juice of 1/2 lemon

2 tablespoons Baker's Corner Granulated Sugar

2 tablespoons Baker's Corner Brown Sugar

1 teaspoon Stonemill Ground Cinnamon

48 ounces Carlini Vegetable Oil

1 tube Bake House Creations Cinnamon Rolls with icing

Directions:

In a skillet melt butter over medium heat.

Add apples and drizzle lemon juice. Let apples simmer until most of the butter is absorbed and apples
are tender.

Add sugars to apples, stir, lower heat if needed.

Let apples cook until sugars are completely dissolved and syrupy. Remove from heat and sprinkle apples
with cinnamon. Set aside.

In a large pot, heat oil to 375 degrees.

Place dough on clean surface and press down on dough to flatten a little, reserve icing. Sprinkle apples
on top and shape into loosely shaped rounds.

Drop fritters into oil. Cook for 1 minute, turn and cook for another minute. Continue turning the fritters,
cooking on each side for 5-6 minutes.

Air Fryer directions:

Turn air fryer on to 375 degrees and select "fry option".

Repeat step 6.

Place fritters into air fryer and cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Once fritters are done, remove from fryer and dress with icing.

Resident News & Events

Pinewood Place Decoration Contest: Show Your Harvest &
Halloween Spirit!

Through the Month of October

Unleash your creativity! Let's see who can come up with the most fantastic door decorations for Harvest and/or Halloween! Exciting prizes await the winners, with 1st Place, 2nd Place, and 3rd Place prizes up for grabs. Our THA Staff will have the tough task of judging the entries, so bring your A-game and let the decorating begin!

October Bingo Bash

October 31st | Fregly Community Center

We invite seniors aged 62 and older to join us for the upcoming October Bingo Bash! Keep an eye out for your invitations, which will be arriving soon. It's going to be a fantastic event, and we can't wait to see you there!

Second Harvest of the Big Bend

Locate a food pantry near you by clicking HERE
Second Harvest of the Big Bend provides healthy food to relieve residents in emergency circumstances and distress year-round.

Free Events

Tallahassee Farmers Market | Saturdays | 8AM-12PM
Cornerstone Church, 2904 Kerry Forest Pkwy, Tallahassee, Fl

Fall Festival | Sunday October 29th | 4-6:30PM
Generations Church, 3080 W Tennessee St,Tallahassee,FL

Harvest Festival | Saturday October 14th | 3-6PM
Fellowship Baptist Church, 3705 N Monroe St, Tallahassee, FL

Local Events

Career Expo & Matchmaking Event | Tuesday October 24th | 9:30AM-4PM
Turnbull Center, 555 W Pensacola St, Tallahassee, FL
FREE

FAMU Homecoming Concert | Thursday October 26th | 7-11PM
Alfred Lawson Jr. Multipurpose Center, 1800 Wahnish Way, Tallahassee, FL 32310
CLICK HERE for tickets and more info

Halloween Family Fun Day | Sunday October 29th | 3PM
Goodwood Museum & Gardens, 1600 Miccosukee Rd, Tallahassee, FL
FREE

Resident Highlights & Community News

Employee of the Month
Recognition Program

THA has a new Revamped Employee of the Month recognition program which will now give the winner a day off from work and recognition/presentation at the THA Board of Commissioners meeting!!! Please see a member of the Nomination Committee to nominate a worthy Employee of the Month Committee members are Dana Green, Candice Jefferson, Tawana Thompson and Marco Moo Young.

Congratulations!
Congratulations to the James' family for purchasing their first home! Thank you for being a great resident and we wish you the best in your future endeavors.

Pest Control Schedule

Pinewood Place 2nd Wednesday

Hidden Pines 2nd Thursday

Scattered Sites 4th Wednesday

Attention Residents:

Prioritize Safety and Courtesy
For the safety and well-being of our community, we kindly request that all residents utilize designated parking spaces when parking their vehicles. This practice significantly reduces the risk of unnecessary incidents, especially when other drivers are navigating the complex. Furthermore, it ensures emergency vehicles access, which is critical in life-threatening situations.

Please be aware that failure to comply with this parking policy may result in your vehicle being towed at the owner's expense. We also urge all residents, family members, guests, and visitors to observe the speed limits within the complex and navigate carefully over the speed bumps. Let's collectively contribute to a secure and respectful living environment. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated!

Join us in Celebrating Housing America Month!

For more than a decade, October has been recognized as Housing America Month, a special time when we, at the Tallahassee Housing Authority, unite with the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials, and our dedicated partners to raise awareness about the critical need for safe, decent, and affordable housing in our vibrant communities.

Throughout October, we encourage you to join us in celebrating the achievements of our housing advocates and community builders here in Tallahassee. Additionally, we invite you to use your voice to emphasize the importance of providing everyone, regardless of their circumstances, with a place to call home. Together, we can make a lasting impact and contribute to building a brighter, more inclusive future for all in our community.

Empowering Tallahassee Housing Authority Employees

Recap of Our Recent Training: The Tallahassee Housing Authority (THA) recently conducted a comprehensive training program, led by Timothy E. Wallace, RS, CEHP, an expert in Environmental Health Program Consulting from the Florida Department of Health. This initiative aimed to enhance employee skills and service quality, promoting teamwork and community engagement. It reinforced THA's core values, emphasizing safe, affordable, and quality housing while advocating for residents' well-being.

During the training, THA employees received a two-day, on-site certification in Mold and Mildew detection and handling. This vital aspect of the program equipped maintenance and managers with the necessary knowledge and skills to properly address Mold and Mildew issues. The training also covered forward-looking topics like technology and sustainability. By investing in its workforce, THA ensures better services for residents and strengthens its mission. The program exemplifies THA's commitment to continuous improvement and a brighter future for Tallahassee.

Dot Snell

Interview with a Previous Orange Ave Resident

A former tenant of Orange Ave, who called South City her home for over 11 years, experienced a whirlwind of emotions upon learning about the planned demolition and redevelopment of the area. Ms. Dot Snell initially felt concerned at the prospect of having to relocate. However, as time passed, her experience with the Tallahassee Housing Authority changed her perspective entirely. She found their assistance to be invaluable, making the transition much smoother than she had ever anticipated.

Today, Ms. Snell resides off Appleyard Drive as she eagerly awaits the opportunity to return to Orange Ave, her familiar neighborhood, and hopes to reunite with some of the close-knit neighbors she had grown fond of. Ms. Snell notes the convenience of having various amenities within walking distance on the Southside, and recalls feeling safe while walking to nearby stores. She eagerly anticipates the new building and the promised new features that she has heard about. She sums up her feelings by stating, "Yes, I can't wait to be back; I'm genuinely very excited!"

HOTMA Modernization Act

The Housing Opportunity Through Modernization Act (HOTMA) of 2016 has introduced new regulations by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), scheduled to take effect next year. These regulations encompass several key provisions:

Income Reporting Changes (102): Under the new HUD regulations, individuals receiving assistance through Public Housing and Section 8 programs will only be required to report changes in their income during the annual recertification process. This means that any income adjustments that occur between recertifications may or may not need to be processed, depending on the circumstances.

Income Threshold for Initial Eligibility (103): The regulations establish a 24-month timeframe for individuals whose income exceeds the threshold for initial eligibility in Public Housing. This period provides residents with some flexibility to adjust their financial situation without facing immediate termination of their housing assistance.

Maximum Asset Limits (104): Public Housing and Section 8 participants will now be allowed to self-certify their assets up to a maximum limit of $50,000. This simplifies the asset reporting process for residents.

To ensure compliance with these new regulations, housing authorities are required to update their Administrative Plans and Admission and Continued Occupancy Policies. These policy updates are essential to reflect and implement the changes brought about by HOTMA, facilitating smoother administration of Public Housing and Section 8 programs while maintaining transparency and fairness for program participants.

These HUD regulations aim to streamline the process of income and asset reporting, making it more manageable for both residents and housing authorities. The changes also provide residents with a reasonable period to adjust their income to meet eligibility requirements and help ensure that affordable housing assistance remains accessible to those who need it.

Attention Residents:

Mold Addendum to Lease

MOLD: Mold consists of naturally occurring microscopic organisms which reproduce by spores. Mold breaks down and feeds on organic matter in the environment. The mold spores spread through the air, and the combination of excessive moisture and organic matter allows mold growth. Not all, but certain types and amounts of mold can lead to adverse health effects and/or allergic reactions. Not all mold is readily visible, but when it is, it can often be seen in discoloration, ranging from white to orange and from green to brown and black, and often a musty odor is present. Reducing moisture and proper housekeeping significantly reduces the chance of mold and mold growth.

CLIMATE CONTROL: TENANT(s) agree to use all air-conditioning, if provided, in a reasonable manner and use heating systems in moderation, and keep the premises properly ventilated by periodically opening windows to allow circulation of fresh air during dry weather only. LANDLORD RECOMMENDS THAT AIR CONDITIONING IS USED AT ALL TIMES IF THE UNIT HAS AIR CONDITIONING.

Tenants Agree to:

Keep the premises clean and regularly dust, vacuum and mop

Use hood vents when cooking, cleaning and dishwashing

Keep closet doors ajar

Avoid excessive indoor plants

Use exhaust fans when bathing/showering and leave on for a sufficient amount of time to remove moisture

Use ceiling fans if present

Water all indoor plants outdoors

Wipe down any moisture and/or spillage

Wipe down bathroom walls and fixtures after bathing/showering

Wipe down any vanities/sink tops

Avoid air drying dishes

Not dry clothes by hang drying indoors

Regularly empty dehumidifier if used

Open blinds/curtains to allow light into the premises

Wipe down floors if any water spillage

Securely close shower doors if present

Leave bathroom and shower doors open after use

Wipe down windows and sills if moisture present

Use dryer if present for wet towels

Use household cleaners on any hard surfaces

Remove any moldy or rotting food

Remove garbage regularly

Wipe down any and all visible moisture

Inspect for leaks under sinks

Check all washer hoses is applicable

Tenants Agree to Report in Writing:

Visible or suspected mold

All A/C or heating problems or abnormalities

Leaks, moisture accumulations, major spillage, plant watering overflow, shower/bath/sink/toilet overflows

Leaky faucets, plumbing, pet urine accidents

Any and all moisture and musty odors

Discoloration of walls, baseboards, doors, window frames, ceilings

Moldy clothing, refrigerator, and A/C drip pan overflows

Moisture dripping from or around any vents, A/C condenser lines

Loose, missing or failing grout or caulk around tubes, showers, sinks, faucets, countertops, clothes, dryer vents leaks

Springfield Apartments

Maintenance Work Orders

All residents will be required to contact 850-325-2303 to request a maintenance work order during normal business hours (8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.)

During the call, please make sure you receive a work order number for each work order request; this method will give the ability to check the status of each maintenance service that you have requested.

Please note: Maintenance on-call (after-hour) services will continue to be active (for emergencies only) by calling 850-562-7990.

If you have any questions regarding this notice, please contact the site office at 850-224-0558.

Quote of the Day

Focus on your tasks for today, resist temptations, and don't get lost worrying about the future, which is uncertain and hard to predict. Take care of what needs to be done now, as tomorrow is uncertain. Learn from your past experiences to make today better.

Resident Resources

How to Improve Your Credit Score

Build Your Credit File

Don't Miss Payments

Catch Up On Past-Due Accounts

Pay Down Revolving Account Balances

Limit How Often You Apply for New Accounts

What Affects Your Credit Scores?
Learn how different types of accounts and actions can impact your credit scores.

How to Calculate Credit Card Utilization:
Your credit utilization rate can have a big impact on your scores. The math is easy, but there are common misunderstandings about which numbers to use.

Credit Repair:
How to "Fix" Your Credit Yourself: Find out how you can improve your credit for free.

4 Simple Habits That Build Good Credit:
Follow these simple rules for building and maintaining good credit.

What Is a Bad Credit History and Rating?:
If your credit needs some work, learn more about why you may have a bad credit score and what you can do about it.

Which Debts Should I Pay Off First to Improve My Credit?:
Prioritizing certain bills can be important when you're trying to increase your credit scores.

Credit Myths:
Learn the truth and don't get caught off guard.

Clean Up with "Cash for Trash"

City of Tallahassee's Biannual Event Returns Oct. 21

Get ready for fall cleaning and cash rewards! The City of Tallahassee's "Cash for Trash" event returns on Saturday, October 21, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 2727 Municipal Way. Clear your home of clutter and enjoy a $5 credit on your utility bill as a thank-you. Bring items like furniture, appliances, tires, hazardous waste, and electronics (computers included). Help keep our environment safe by disposing of these items properly. Remember, this event is for residential utility customers, and certain restrictions apply. Let's make Tallahassee cleaner and greener together!

"Cash for Trash" is coordinated by the City's Community Beautification and Waste Management department. For more information, CLICK HERE or call Your Own Utilities at 850-891-4968.

Resident Resource Links

Salvation Army
The Salvation Army offers special one-time assistance to help you pay your rent.

Emergency Assistance

Catholic Charities, NWFLT, Emergency Assistance
Free food and meals, help with electric bills, grocery vouchers, Christmas and Thanksgiving meals, and more.

Domestic Violence Protections (VAWA)