Annual Plans

The Public Housing Reform Act requires submission of both a Five-Year and an Annual Plan. The Five-Year Plan describes the agency's mission and the plan for achieving that mission over a five-year period. The Annual Plan provides details about the Housing Authority's current programs and the resident population served, as well as Columbia Housing's strategy for addressing the housing needs of currently assisted families. In addition, the law requires that the plan be consistent with the City of Columbia's Consolidated Plan.

To ensure public participation in the process, the Plan, including attachments and supporting documents are available for inspection by the public during normal business hours at the Columbia Housing's Central Office or the Columbia Housing website.

The PHA Plan serves as a strategic planning tool addressing payment standards, preferences, admission and occupancy procedures, capital improvement needs, the Homeownership Plan, etc. The planning process is an annual opportunity to determine the role of the Housing Authority in our community - now and in the future.

Housing Authorities are required to establish a Resident Advisory Board (RAB) whose membership consists of individuals who reflect and represent residents assisted by the Housing Authority. The RAB makes recommendations regarding the development of the PHA Plan and any significant amendments or modification to the Plan. Residents can ensure their needs are being addressed and become more involved in issues that directly affect them. Columbia Housing benefits by working with the residents who provide important information regarding the physical condition of their units and neighborhoods. In addition, residents will be more aware of the process that our Housing Authority undergoes to prioritize capital fund activities.