Lexington Housing Authority reports strong HUD score amid voucher leasing concerns

The City of Lexington City Council meeting on April 28, 2025, focused on critical discussions regarding the performance and funding of the Lexington Housing Authority. A key point raised was the way the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) compensates housing authorities, which is based on the number of leased vouchers rather than the actual need for housing.

During the meeting, officials highlighted that the Lexington Housing Authority currently holds several vouchers but lacks sufficient properties to utilize them effectively. This situation raises concerns about the potential loss of these vouchers under the new administration, as the authority relies heavily on leasing to maintain its funding from HUD.

The council reviewed a HUD report card that compared the Lexington Housing Authority's performance with other nearby authorities. The report indicated that the authority scored 101.6 in the September to December period, improved to 119.65 in the following report, and then slightly decreased to 103.93 in the most recent evaluation. These scores reflect the authority's compliance with HUD requirements, which include operational aspects such as communication and appointment management.

The discussions underscored the importance of maintaining high performance to secure funding and support for the community's housing needs. The council's focus on these issues highlights ongoing challenges in providing adequate housing solutions in Lexington. Further actions and strategies will likely be needed to address these concerns and ensure the effective use of available resources.