For over three decades, the Housing Authority of Fulton County has served as a provider and advocate for the housing needs of low and moderate income citizens in unincorporated Fulton County. As we enter this second half of the first decade of the twenty-first century, we face many challenges. Despite the healthy national economy of the 1990’s and the expanding economy of the new millennium, the gap between the rich and poor is widening and the supply of affordable housing has shrunk.

In the last several years, HAFC transitioned from its primary function as provider/manager of centralized public housing and assumed an entrepreneurial role to address the critical lack of housing for individuals and families of diverse incomes and age groups. We are no longer able to rely primarily on dwindling public funds, but must leverage these with private funds and partner with private and non-profit partners in meeting the variety of housing needs. By weaving together resources, experience, forward-thinking and strong partnerships, we have been able to have a positive impact in addressing the county’s housing crisis.

Yet, while support for affordable housing is growing, NIMBYism (Not in My Backyard) still exists and is in fact growing among many Fulton County residents when an affordable housing development is proposed in their neighborhood or even as residents seek to fulfill their right to Choice of communities in which they live. There continue to be many misconceptions about the persons and families who need and live in affordable housing among those that oppose new developments or the integration of new residents of differing socio-economic, ethnic or cultural backgrounds. Many moderate and middle income households living and working in high-cost housing markets such as metropolitan Atlanta now also struggle to pay their monthly rent – and the dream of homeownership is elusive at best. Recent studies by the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) and National Association of Counties (NACO) show that only one-third of the households in the County could afford to purchase a home at the median selling price. Those now finding it difficult in rent and purchase include many of our family members and many of our public servants providing the bulk of essential services in our community including p olice officers, firefighters, school resource officers, social workers, teachers, nurses, office administrators, and sales clerks.

In 2005, the Authority developed a new Vision Statement as follows: “We envision a community of people who respect and care for each other, reside in “live, work, & play”, mixed socio-economic and multicultural environments that offer affordability, a choice of housing location and type, an increased standard of living, a quality living experience and economic security for all.”

In bringing our vision to fruition, the next few years will present many new challenges and opportunities. With decisive action, creativity and innovation, HAFC will be in the forefront of providing and advocating for affordable housing to strengthen individuals, families and communities for many years to come. However, in order to be successful, we must strengthen existing and seek new partnerships with public and private groups, communities and our residents.

We are up to this challenge. We hope that we can count on your support. Together, We Can Make It Happen!!!

Sincerely,

Jonathan A. Jones

Chief Executive Officer