Spring Conference Agenda

2025 Spring Conference Agenda

SUNDAY, MARCH 23

11:30 AM - 5:00 PM CONFERENCE REGISTRATION

12:00 PM - 3:00 PM CHELSEA DUO APARTMENT TOUR

Join this offsite tour of the brand new DUO apartments, the first completed project in the Commonwealth’s Public Housing Innovations Demonstration Program (PHIDP), and the first-of-its-kind redevelopment creating a new, mixed-income community in Chelsea.

There will be a $20 registration fee for bus transportation and light refreshments. - If you would like to attend this tour, please reach out to Jessica at jcoughlin@massnahro.org.

3:30 PM – 4:45 PM CONCURRENT SESSIONS

NAVIGATING MOLD IN AN INDOOR ENVIRONMENT [E,S] Dorothy BC

This course provides an overview of mold prevention and remediation. Curriculum is based on EPA, OSHA, and state specific guidelines and laws.

Moderator: Jennifer Polito, Executive Director, Concord H.A.

Presenter: Eric Eyles, Director of Safety and Training, 24 Restore; Christelle J. Jean-Felix, Esq., Senior Associate Attorney, Casey Lundregan Burns, P.C.

LTO AND TENANT PARTICIPATION GUIDANCE [E, B] Sylvanus Thayer

Join this interactive session to learn more about how your housing authority can collaborate with Local Tenant Organizations (LTOs) for the betterment of the authority as a whole. Residents are the “eyes and ears” of the agency with valuable, lived experience in the buildings. Attend this session for a refresher on EOHLC’s tenant participation regulations, as well as a discussion about best practices for collaborative relationships with LTOs. Bring your success stories, challenges, and questions.

Moderator: Diane Cohen, Executive Director, Somerville H.A.

Panelists: Sarah Byrnes, Executive Director, Mass Union of Public Housing Tenants; Annette Duke, Esq., Senior Housing Staff Attorney, Massachusetts Law Reform Institute; Matthew Frank, Director of Operations, Chelsea H.A.; Denise Lauers, LTO President, Somerville H.A.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR HIRING: A TOP LINE OVERVIEW [E, B] Abigail Adams

Are you considering hiring a new Executive director but are new to the process? This session provides an overview of the executive director hiring process including reviewing EOHLC guidance, an understanding of public meeting laws, tenant participation, and more.

Moderator: Donna Brown-Rego, Executive Director, MassNAHRO

Presenter: Cylas Martell-Crawford J.D., Director of Policy and Program Development, MassNAHRO

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM ROUNDTABLES

MEDIUM/LARGE HOUSING AUTHORITIES Abigail Adams

SMALL HOUSING AUTHORITIES Sylvanus Thayer

6:00 PM - 7:00 PM WELCOME RECEPTION Ballroom Foyer

Sponsored by: MassNAHRO Insurance Group, Inc.

MONDAY, MARCH 24

7:30 AM CONFERENCE REGISTRATION Ballroom Foyer

7:30 AM BREAKFAST BUFFET Ballroom 1-4

8:30 AM - 9:30 AM PLENARY SESSION Ballroom 1-4

WELCOME AND MASSNAHRO UPDATE

Guest Speakers:

James Marathas, Executive Director, Quincy Housing Authority
The Honorable Thomas P. Koch, Mayor, City of Quincy

The Honorable John Keenan, Senate Chair, Joint Committee on Election Laws
The Honorable Tackey Chan, House Chair, Joint Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure

EOHLC UPDATE

Speaker: Ben Stone, Undersecretary of Public Housing and Rental Assistance, EOHLC

9:30 AM - 6:30 PM EXHIBIT HALL OPENS Ballroom 5-8

Please become acquainted with our vendors and the products and services they offer your agency.

9:45 AM – 11:00 AM CONCURRENT SESSIONS

CHAMP AT 6 YEARS: ASG REVIEW AND CHAMP UPDATES [E, S, B] Dorothy BC

This panel will review how far we have come with CHAMP and Centralized Screening and will look to the future as we continue to evaluate and innovate to improve the housing selection process for applicants and LHAs. This presentation builds on those previously given to SMEDA and NSHEDA, and includes data on claims, approvals, and impact of centralized screening on tenant selection. We will also preview upcoming CHAMP developments and enhancements to the Centralized Screening processes.

Moderator: Tom Thibeault, Executive Director, Brockton H.A.

Presenters: Andy Clinton, Public Housing Systems, Data, and Policy Analyst, EOHLC; Karen Walsh, Associate Director of the Contact Center, ASG

COMMON TENANT ISSUES [E, S, B] Abigail Adams

This session addresses the key challenges public housing staff face. This session will discuss leaks, extermination, hoarding, and formulating policies for deceased tenants. This session aims to equip staff with practical insights, fostering a more efficient and supportive housing environment.

Moderator: Peter Proulx, Chief Operations Officer, Worcester H.A.

Panelists: Kevin Braga, Director of Operations, Cambridge H.A.; Karrie Canavan, Deputy Director of Operations, Cambridge H.A.; Caitlin Milone, Esq., Partner, Turk & Milone LLP

BEST PRACTICES OF FAIR HOUSING LAWS [E, S] Sylvanus Thayer

This session will provide a general overview and best practices of the fair housing laws the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) enforces. It will go over the Massachusetts protected categories, disparate treatment, lead paint law, public assistance, exemptions, disability accommodations, fair advertising, protected class harassment, sexual harassment, liability, and an overview of the MCAD’s role enforcing these laws.

Moderator: Gina Govoni, Executive Director, Franklin Cty. Regional H.R.A.

Presenter: Andrew Espinosa, Deputy Chief of Enforcement, Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD)

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM RESOURCE ROOM Dorothy A

*ASG will have a table in the resource room

11:00 AM COFFEE BREAK WITH EXHIBITORS Ballroom 5-8

Co-Sponsored by: Fenton, Ewald & Associates, P.C.; Colantonio, Inc.

Raffle for a free 2025 Annual Conference registration will be held at 11:15 AM. You must be present to win.

11:30 AM – 12:45 PM CONCURRENT SESSIONS

ASK THE ATTORNEYS [E, S, B] Dorothy BC

Join this interactive session, where experienced attorneys will lead a dynamic roundtable discussion on the most pressing legal topics in housing today. With real-life examples, they’ll share practical tips on how to navigate potential legal pitfalls and avoid costly mistakes. This is your chance to ask your burning legal questions and receive expert guidance - all for the cost of your conference admission. Don’t miss this invaluable opportunity to learn from the best!

Moderator: Maggie Cleary, Executive Director, North Andover H.A.

Presenters: Caitlin Milone, Esq. Partner, Turk & Milone LLP; Jonathan Driscoll, Esq., Partner, Driscoll & Driscoll PC

OSD STATEWIDE CONTRACT PURCHASING &

COMMBUYS OVERVIEW [E, S] Abigail Adams

This session will provide a high level discussion about the charter of the Operational Services Division and the value of using OSD Statewide Contracts for Housing Authorities. Popular contracts as well as contracts specifically for facilities repair and maintenance, trades and contracts designed to help emergency situations will be presented along with an overview of the COMMBUYS procurement system for bidding and purchasing. The session will conclude with a question & answer period.

Moderator: Peter Proulx, Chief Operating Officer, Worcester H.A.

Presenters: Patricia Burke, Local Government Enablement Account Manager, OSD; Jackie Needham, Local Government Account Manager, OSD

CREATING CARING COMMUNITIES:

ADDRESSING SOCIAL AGGRESSION IN HOUSING [E, S, B] Sylvanus Thayer

This interactive workshop is designed to assist professionals working with older adults in managing conflict among residents and staff. Social aggression, often called bullying, is one form of conflict that can negatively impact, not only the individuals involved, but the organization responsible for assuring the peaceful enjoyment of the communal property. This session will focus on reducing social aggression by adopting practices and policies that support community and individual interpersonal effectiveness. Through exercises and discussion, participants will learn evidence-based interventions to effect progress in these two goals.

Moderator: Kristen Anderson, Regional Portfolio Manager, Taunton H.A.

Presenter: Mary Curlew, LICSW, LLC

12:45 PM LUNCH Ballroom 1-4

Sponsored by: Driscoll & Driscoll, PC

Guest Speaker: Ed Augustus, Secretary, Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities

Presentations: Annual Meeting and Election; Massachusetts Public Housing Administrator (MPHA) Certification and Board Member Certification Graduates

2:00 PM - 3:30 PM CONCURRENT SESSIONS

ASK THE ATTORNEYS FOR BOARD MEMBERS [B] Abigail Adams

Join this interactive session where experienced attorneys will lead a dynamic roundtable for board members’ discussion on the most pressing legal topics in housing today. With real-life examples, they’ll share practical tips on how to navigate potential legal pitfalls and avoid costly mistakes. This is your chance to ask your burning legal questions and receive expert guidance - all for the cost of your conference admission. Don’t miss this invaluable opportunity to learn from the best!

Moderator: Pamela Rogers, Executive Director, Amherst H.A., Belchertown H.A., Hadley H.A.

Presenters: Jeffrey Driscoll, Esq., Executive Director, Medford H.A.; Jonathan Driscoll, Esq., Partner, Driscoll & Driscoll PC

FINDING OPPORTUNITY: EVALUATING & DISPOSING OF SURPLUS LAND

FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING [E,S,B] Sylvanus Thayer

Many housing authorities have underutilized or vacant land in their portfolio, but may not have the resources or capacity to work towards development. These parcels can still be valuable assets to help increase the supply of affordable housing, with benefits and revenue to the LHA, by disposing of them to qualified housing developers. How do you know if your vacant land might work for development? What is the process for putting together an RFP that will attract competitive responses? This session will present recent examples of affordable housing developments made possible through surplus housing authority land.

Presenters: Carsten Snow-Eikelberg, Senior Real Estate Development Officer, Massachusetts Housing Partnership; Laura Shufelt, Senior Advisor and Real Estate Development Officer, Massachusetts Housing Partnership; Michael Mattos, President and Executive Director, AHSC, Inc.; Rick Brouillard, Director of Modernization, Quincy H.A.; Meegan O'Neil, Executive Director, Essex County Habitat for Humanity; James Marathas, Executive Director, Quincy Housing Authority

THE POWER OF KNOWING YOUR "WHY": RECONNECTING

TO YOUR AUTHENTIC SELF [E, S, B] Dorothy BC

Have you ever asked yourself, “Why am I doing this work?” Have you had moments where you’re feeling burnout from supporting the people you serve? Are you getting stuck in a negative place and responding to people in a way that isn’t you or isn’t helpful? This workshop will help you explore your emotional health by navigating how personal boundaries impact your work. We will discuss the power of finding balance between your personal views of the world and the kind of success you want to have in your day-to-day work; YOUR WHY.

Moderator: Kristen Anderson, Regional Portfolio Manager, Taunton H.A.

Presenters: Cathy Hoog, LMHC, LMFT, Executive Director, Salem H.A. & Marblehead H.A.; Olivia Fields, MSW, LICSW, Director of Resident Services, Watertown H.A.

3:45 PM - 5:00 PM CONCURRENT SESSIONS

CAPITAL PROGRAM, SUSTAINABILITY AND AHA UPDATES [E, S, B] Dorothy BC

EOHLC’s Bureau of Housing Development and Construction will review new capital policies and funding sources and preview new process workflows and systems enhancements. They will also review how the major increase in sustainability funding has been programmed for this year and future years, and, finally, will review policy updates coming out of the AHA.

Moderator: Maggie Cleary, Executive Director, North Andover H.A.

Presenters: Fatima Razzaq, Director of Bureau of Housing Development & Construction, EOHLC; Greg Abbe, Sustainability Program Developer, EOHLC; Avalon McLaren, Director, Project Management Unit, EOHLC

NEW BOARD MEMBER 101 [B] Sylvanus Thayer

This interactive session will provide new and experienced board members an opportunity to discuss the role and responsibility of the LHA board member. The do’s and don’ts of what it takes to be an effective board member will be discussed. How can you maximize your efforts for the benefit of your LHA? Come to this session and find out!! How can you maximize the potential of your housing authority? Come to this session and find out!

Presenter: Jeffrey Driscoll, Esq., Executive Director, Medford H.A.

RESIDENT SERVICE COORDINATOR PANEL [S] Abigail Adams

In this interactive session a panel of Resident Services staff will be sharing best practices, success stories, creative solutions, and resources. Panel members will facilitate discussion around starting a Resident Services program, how your agencies can utilize Resident Services and answer questions participants might have. Panelists come from a variety of housing authorities with different experiences and backgrounds, providing unique firsthand experiences.

Panelists: Olivia Fields, MSW, LICSW, Director of Resident Services, Watertown H.A.; Edlin Ortiz, Chief Resident Programs Officer, Worcester H.A.; Laura Veligor, Resident Services Coordinator, Marblehead H.A.

4:00 PM MASSNAHRO INSURANCE GROUP, INC. ANNUAL MEETING Wollaston

5:00 PM - 6:30 PM RECEPTION WITH EXHIBITORS Ballroom 5-8

Co-Sponsored by: AffordableHousing.com; Joseph J. Corcoran Company

Last chance to meet the vendors and see the products and services they offer your agency. Fill out your exhibitor stamp card to be eligible for the many prize drawings at 6:00 PM.

TUESDAY, MARCH 25

7:30 AM CONFERENCE REGISTRATION Ballroom Foyer

7:30 AM BREAKFAST BUFFET Ballroom 1-4

8:30 AM - 10:00 AM CONCURRENT SESSIONS

HOW TO HANDLE VISITS FROM IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS [ED, Staff] Dorothy BC

The federal government has begun to increase their ICE enforcement actions, with an overall goal of increased detainments and deportations. Come join us as we discuss an overview of how to prepare for ICE enforcement actions and how to be supportive of tenants.

Moderator: Donna Brown-Rego, Executive Director, MassNAHRO

Presenter: Cylas Martell-Crawford, J.D., Director of Policy and Program Development, MassNAHRO

HOTMA UPDATE [ED, Staff] Abigail Adams

NAHRO Policy and Research Advisor Andrew Van Horn will provide an overview of the Housing Opportunity Through Modernization Act of 2016 (HOTMA) Section 102 (income reviews) and 104 (asset limits). This session will highlight key components of HUD’s final rule and provide an overview of major changes. It will also provide an update on the implementation timelines for HOTMA requirements and other program news like the Housing Information Portal (HIP). The session is ideal for staff who need an understanding of HOTMA in a brief and digestible format.

Moderator: Thomas Thibeault, Executive Director, Brockton H.A.

Presenter: Andrew Van Horn, Policy and Research Advisor, NAHRO

COLLECTIVE BARGAINING ROUNDTABLE:

BEST PRACTICES IN NEGOTIATING UNION CONTRACTS [E, S] Sylvanus Thayer

Executive Directors often face the challenge of negotiating union contracts and navigating complex labor relations. In this session, a panel of experienced Executive Directors, alongside a seasoned labor attorney, will share best practices, strategies, and practical insights for negotiating effective union agreements. Attendees will gain valuable guidance on managing negotiations, understanding legal considerations, and building productive relationships with unions.

Panelists: Michele Randazzo, Esq., Attorney, KP Law; Alex Corrales, CEO, Worcester H.A.; Thomas Plouffe, Esq., Senior Counsel, Brockton H.A.; Adam Garvey, Deputy Director, Somerville H.A.

10:00 AM COFFEE BREAK Ballroom Foyer

Co-Sponsored by: SMEDA; MMDT/Federated Hermes

10:15 AM - 11:45 AM PEER ROUNDTABLES

Join your fellow Executive Directors, staff or board members to share best practices, ask questions, and make new acquaintances.