Management Response and Corrective Action: Section 8 Management acknowledges the findings and remains committed to strengthening internal controls to ensure full compliance with HUD requirements for timely, complete, and accurate tenant files.
To address the identified deficiencies and prevent futu...
Management Response and Corrective Action: Section 8 Management acknowledges the findings and remains committed to strengthening internal controls to ensure full compliance with HUD requirements for timely, complete, and accurate tenant files.
To address the identified deficiencies and prevent future occurrences, the Housing Authority has taken the following corrective actions and implemented several operational and structural improvements:
1. Process Improvement and Oversight
In mid-2022, the Housing Authority engaged Guidehouse, Inc., a national consulting firm specializing in public sector housing, to conduct a comprehensive review of Section 8 program operations. The recommendations from Guidehouse have been implemented. As part of HACLA’s transition to a new tenant software system in 2025, the department continues to make additional process improvements to further enhance accuracy, efficiency, and compliance. Key initiatives completed and sustained include:
• Program Tracking and Performance Indicators
Implemented a set of 30 program and performance indicators, a new Quality Control reporting system, and a Program Tracking and Performance Management Plan.
Status: Completed and ongoing.
• Housing Policy and Program Alignment
Conducted benchmarking with peer agencies and academic institutions to identify 13 best practices across six strategic areas. These informed updates to policy and procedure.
Status: Completed.
• Workforce and Workload Optimization
Assessed workload distribution and processing times, leading to the creation of a new generalist job classification. This has improved workload balance and increased staffing flexibility.
Status: Completed; ongoing assessment continues for current classifications as they become vacant. HACLA evaluates and identifies when the new generalist position is appropriate based on program needs.
• Training Program Development
Identified training gaps and implemented a Training Program Implementation Plan that includes a structured training schedule, development of new materials, and outcome evaluations to ensure consistent and effective staff development.
Status: Completed and ongoing.
2. File Corrections and Monitoring
For all file-specific deficiencies noted in the audit sample, HACLA has contacted the families and either corrected the errors or will complete corrections within 30 days. Supervisory staff will verify completion and ensure updates are reflected in the system of record.
3. Enhanced Oversight and Accountability
Section 8 leadership — including the Deputy Director and Assistant Directors — are providing ongoing oversight through managers and supervisors to ensure continued adherence to program requirements. This includes regular monitoring, corrective actions when necessary, and administrative accountability measures.
4. Timeframe and Responsible Parties
These corrective actions are either completed or ongoing as part of our broader operational plan. Oversight for implementation and monitoring is the responsibility of the Deputy Director of Section 8, in coordination with Assistant Directors, managers, and supervisors across the program.
Person Responsible: Director of Section 8