Q: Why did you want this job at a time when the housing market is in such turmoil?
A: In times of adversity, there’s always opportunity. That’s why I’m eager and interested in serving the president and HUD Secretary (Shaun) Donovan.
It’s clear that HUD has had a strong presence in the real estate economy for some time, but we have a new area, and that’s the urban- development aspect.
Our new directive at the federal level is partnerships with the U.S. Department of Transportation and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. When we put affordable housing dollars into communities, we want to make sure they have access to transit and that the environmental aspects are addressed as well.
My background and experience is in business and economic development.
Q: What do you hope to achieve in your new position?
A: HUD touches the lives of more people than any other federal agency. We need to do a better job of supporting the needs of our communities.
We have a sustainable communities 2010 budget of $150 million during the first year. That will give a lot more impetus to the planning process. We should have good plans to support affordable housing at certain locations.
That’s one of the most exciting elements of the new HUD — establishing collaboration and getting all these communities working together. It forges a very unique future for our region. In the budget next year, there will be money to support those programs.
It’s about job creation and development along the way.
Q: What are the biggest challenges facing the Colorado housing market?
A: The biggest challenge is getting the housing market back to where it’s stable.
We’re seeing gradual increases in home prices and we’ve seen an increase in overall sales. There are indications that the housing economy is starting to recover.
Edited for length and clarity by Margaret Jackson
