The Omaha Housing Authority Board met at Highland Tower, where residents raised concerns about building security, public access to agency contacts and the potential effects of a federal government shutdown. One resident said she felt unsafe due to relaxed security measures involving tenant badges, while another urged the agency to ensure staff contact information is publicly available.
During the meeting, Chief Executive Officer Joanie Balk presented an audit summary before the board discussed how to respond to possible visits from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at housing sites. Commissioners emphasized the need for a clear policy to protect tenant privacy and prepare staff for potential encounters. Balk said the authority’s properties have strong camera coverage and that the legal department would review applicable procedures.
The board approved a range of resolutions, including contract renewals for snow removal, HVAC services and employee benefits, which are projected to save about $100,000 despite a 7% cost increase. Members also adopted the 2026 annual plan and five-year plan through 2030, extended property and liability coverage and addressed how a prolonged federal shutdown could affect housing vouchers and funding past November. HUD operations remain paused during the shutdown.
Meeting documented by Melanie McLeod
Read full meeting notes here
Omaha Documenters is a program that empowers citizens to actively participate in local governance by documenting public meetings. This initiative enhances transparency and accountability by making critical information accessible to the community, fostering informed public discourse, and promoting civic engagement. Through its network of dedicated Documenters, the program bridges the gap between government entities and the public, ensuring that decisions affecting the community are transparent and inclusive. For more information and to get involved, visit flatwaterfreepress.org/documenters.
Leah Wambui Keinama boasts a robust professional journey, commencing as a systems engineer and integrator within the software industry. In this capacity, she excelled in the conception, design, construction, and deployment of software systems, adeptly managing projects from inception to completion. Transitioning into the nonprofit realm, Leah directed her expertise towards enhancing food systems, with a particular emphasis on soil health, regenerative agriculture, and bolstering food accessibility while fostering resilient communities. Her repertoire includes comprehensive program design skills coupled with a profound commitment to community engagement. Leah's fervor for cultivating networks and forging meaningful connections underscores her dedication to advancing organizational goals.
