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NYCHA Now
Transform NYCHA
April 2021 Blueprint for Change 

Changes to Empower NYCHA’s Board & Strengthen Oversight

Michael Corwin

Dear Colleagues, 

We are pleased to announce that at its April 28 meeting, NYCHA’s Board approved changes that strengthen the management of our organization. These improvements are part of NYCHA’s Transformation Plan, which outlines how the Authority will become a stronger organization and better serve residents.  

Specifically, new Board Committees were created so that Board members can help guide the development of policies and provide oversight in the following areas: 

  • Audit & Finance Committee, which will work closely with the Finance Department to help ensure sound financial practices and policies, the integrity of financial reporting and audits, and solid financial performance; 
  • Operating, Compliance & Capital Committee, which will help ensure that NYCHA’s operations are in compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements and the HUD Agreement, track the performance of operations and capital projects, and provide recommendations on long-term portfolio planning; 
  • Resident & Community Affairs Committee, which will help foster ideas for improving our partnership with residents and addressing safety and security issues across the portfolio; and 
  • Governance Committee, which will advise the Board on best practices in corporate governance for public agencies and provide recommendations for Board member training and development. 

In addition, the changes establish the title of Chief Operating Officer (COO). Formerly known as the General Manager, the COO remains responsible for overseeing all units involved with implementing the new Neighborhood Model of operations, including Property Management & Maintenance, Community Engagement & Partnerships, Quality Assurance, and Public Safety. 

As part of our work to streamline executive leadership, we are also creating the position of Chief Asset & Capital Management Officer (CACMO), who will oversee the Real Estate and Capital Projects departments. We intend to post for this position soon. 

These changes will promote a more effective and accountable leadership team, benefitting employees and residents alike. We will be meeting with departments going forward to discuss the changes and work on the steps and timing necessary to move to the new organizational structure. 

We look forward to keeping you updated as we continue to strengthen our organization and our community. As always, you can learn more on our website or reach out to the Transformation Plan team at transform@nycha.nyc.gov with any questions or comments. 

Sincerely,   

Greg Russ, Chair & Chief Executive Officer    

Vito Mustaciuolo, Chief Operating Officer