June 5, 2018

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has recognized the Sedro-Woolley Housing Authority (SWHA) as a high performing housing authority for the fiscal year ending Dec. 31, 2017. The Authority scored 93 points out of a possible 100 under the Public Housing Assessment System (PHAS), which evaluates the overall management and operations of a housing authority.

“At a time when the need for affordable housing is at a premium, we are pleased and proud that the Sedro-Woolley Housing Authority continues to maintain our critical public housing assets to the highest standard,” said Sedro-Woolley Mayor Julia Johnson. “Their consistently high scores speak volumes to their commitment to providing high-quality housing and helps keep our city affordable and livable for everyone, including our most vulnerable.”

SWHA has merited the “High Performer” designation from HUD for each assessment since 1992. Of the approximately 3,200 housing authorities in the country, the SWHA is among a select number to consistently achieve this distinction.

Under PHAS, HUD evaluates the performance of every public housing authority (PHA) in the nation annually. The assessment evaluates housing agencies according to four criteria: physical condition of the properties, PHA financial condition, property management (including occupancy levels), and the administration of capital funds, which measures timely obligation and use of these funds to complete public housing repairs. To be designated as a “High Performer” a PHA must achieve an overall score of 90 percent or higher.  SWHA achieved a perfect score in the financial condition and capital fund categories.

“Our staff works diligently throughout the year to ensure that our properties are well-run and well-maintained,” said SWHA Chair Laurie Fellers.  “Preserving the public housing safety net is part of an effective strategy to address local housing needs. Preservation also protects taxpayer dollars already invested in a vital public resource for future public benefit, while ensuring that current residents have a safe, comfortable home.”

The High Performer designation comes with financial rewards including the ability to receive additional funding from HUD for 2019.

The housing authority provides quality affordable rental housing to 80 low-income senior and family households in Sedro-Woolley.