At their meeting on April 22, 2014, Bristol Virginia City Council adopted a resolution to recognize the Bristol Redevelopment and Housing Authority on the occasion of its 75th anniversary. BRHA Chairman, Scott Otis, and Executive Director/CEO, Dave Baldwin, were present to receive the commendation.
In his remarks Baldwin indicated that, while developing and operating public housing is what BRHA is best-known for in the community, “BRHA has done quite a bit more than that for this community during its tenure.” He noted two Central Business District Urban Renewal Projects that BRHA executed in the 1960s through 1980s in which BRHA removed “blighting conditions,” and created opportunities for new public and private development. “The results are still visible today in the WCYB Building, the TriSummit Bank building, the current City Courthouse and the City Correctional Facilities, downtown public parking areas, and the beautiful public space in Cumberland Square Park.”
“Today, BRHA is the largest provider of affordable rental housing in Bristol. Through our various housing programs BRHA serves more than 600 households – this is approximately 7% of all households in Bristol and 40% of low-income rental households,” Baldwin added.
The BRHA employs 26 staff members and has an annual operating budget of approximately $3.5 million; nearly $2.5 million of which are funds brought into Bristol from outside sources.
Throughout 2014 BRHA will have a number of public events to celebrate its accomplishments and to make announcements about new activities.
See full text of Baldwin’s comments to Council.
