Durham, N.C. — The Durham Housing Authority (DHA) announced Thursday the departure of its Chief Executive Officer and Secretary, Anthony Scott, marking the end of his 8½-year tenure. The Board of Commissioners and Scott described the separation as a mutual decision, signaling a significant leadership change for the agency responsible for managing affordable housing in the city.
A Tenure of Transformation
During his time as CEO, Scott spearheaded several major initiatives aimed at preserving and expanding affordable housing in Durham. Under his leadership, DHA launched an ambitious $800 million redevelopment of downtown properties, part of a broader strategy to modernize public housing and address the city’s housing crisis.
In a joint statement, Scott reflected on his time with the agency.
“With several million dollars being invested in the preservation of our existing public housing communities, I look forward to DHA’s continued progress in enhancing these vital neighborhoods,” Scott said. “I also want to extend my gratitude to Durham’s citizens and civic leaders for their strong support of DHA’s bold approach to preserving and expanding affordable housing.”
The Board of Commissioners echoed this sentiment, acknowledging Scott’s contributions to DHA’s mission.
“This mutual agreement marks the conclusion of Mr. Scott’s 8½-year tenure as Chief Executive Officer of DHA, in which the agency realized tremendous success in the preservation and development of affordable housing within the City of Durham,” said Mayme Webb Bledsoe, Chair of the DHA Board of Commissioners. “I join my fellow Commissioners in extending my gratitude to Mr. Scott for his invaluable contributions to DHA’s success, and I wish him the best in his future endeavors.”
Leadership Transition
Anthony Snell, currently DHA’s Director of Real Estate, will step in as Interim CEO. Snell, who joined DHA in 2020, brings experience from his previous role as Executive Director of the Metropolitan Housing Alliance in Little Rock, Arkansas. The Board expressed confidence in his ability to lead during this transitional period.
“Based on Mr. Snell’s background and experience, the Board is confident that he will provide strong leadership during this transition period as DHA continues to execute its critical strategic vision of becoming the leading provider of affordable housing in Durham,” the statement read.
DHA’s Strategic Vision
Scott’s departure comes at a critical juncture for DHA. With millions of dollars already invested in infrastructure improvements—such as new security systems and the redevelopment of older housing complexes—the agency faces ongoing challenges, including addressing residents’ safety concerns and completing its ambitious downtown redevelopment plans.
One of Scott’s hallmark achievements was his ability to secure funding and foster partnerships with local government and community stakeholders to tackle the housing crisis. However, critics have raised questions about the pace of redevelopment and the adequacy of measures to support residents in existing DHA properties.
Looking Ahead
Snell’s appointment as Interim CEO signals a continued commitment to DHA’s current strategic goals. However, residents and civic leaders will be watching closely to see how the agency addresses ongoing issues, including public safety concerns and the completion of redevelopment projects.
The Board emphasized its commitment to DHA’s core mission:
“During this transition period, we will remain focused on DHA’s core mission and are confident that Anthony Snell’s leadership will position the agency for continued success.”
A Community in Transition
As the leadership shift unfolds, DHA residents and stakeholders will look for assurances that ongoing projects and initiatives will not lose momentum. The Bull City Citizen will continue to monitor this transition and provide in-depth coverage of how DHA’s strategic vision impacts the community.
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Related Articles:
• Durham’s Affordable Housing Crisis: Where Are We Now? (Bull City Citizen, Nov. 2024)
• Public Safety in DHA Communities: Residents Speak Out (Bull City Citizen, Dec. 2024)
