Last week, I went to Anchorage to present to members of the Association of Alaska Housing Authorities on Housing Policy and the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act.
AAHA is hosting a three (3) day training on Housing Policy. Participants will become acquainted with the essential policy requirements under NAHASDA. Management, review and revision of policies will be discussed, and a thorough review of a sample policy developed for Alaska Tribes and TDHEs will be included. Some of the policy topics include: Applicable Alaska Law, Application Process, Eligibility and Ineligibility, Waiting Lists, Verification, Maintenance and Inspections, Hoarding, Collections, and Termination.
The training was originally scheduled for Sept 1, it was right around Labor Day and back to school, so it was reschedule for this week.
I had a great time talking with folks from across Alaska and the Pacific Northwest. We went through all the material and reviewed some sample policies. We had ample opportunity for discussion. And the best part of having an in-person meeting is seeing people learn from each other’s experience and share their challenges to see how other people address similar questions.
There was a lot of snow while I was there. But I also got to see some friends and colleagues. I had meals at some of my favorite spots and went for a hike at Potter Marsh and Russian Jack park.
I am excited to return to Alaska later this year for the National American Indian Housing Council 52nd Annual Convention & Tradeshow on May 3 – 6, 2026 at Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center, Anchorage, AK.