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HUD is opening a discussion of housing and community development industry ethics. NAHRO and other industry groups met with the department on February 28 to discuss ways of restoring the public confidence in HUD and public housing.
HUD General Counsel Richard Hauser, who hosted the meeting, said the department wants to get away from the attitude of "playing gotcha" and seeks a cultural change. Quoting recent remarks by HUD Secretary Mel Martinez, Hauser said that corruption is not just a crime, but it also represents funds being diverted from intended beneficiaries.
HUD is seeking information on what is available to promote ethical behavior in the H/CD world. NAHRO Executive Director Saul N. Ramirez, Jr. told Hauser that the association is involved in more than 70 trainings annually for housing agency officials and has a standing committee focused on commissioner issues. In addition, he pointed out that NAHRO regularly holds sessions on ethics at its conferences. Part of the association's mission statement states, "Fostering the highest standards of ethical behavior, service and accountability."
Ramirez said, "Our industry merits the respect of the beneficiaries of programs, elected officials and the general public. The best way to overcome our critics is by action and example."
The department plans to involve the Department of Justice and the Office of the Inspector General in pursuit of its agenda on ethics. Additional meetings are expected, although none are scheduled at this time.
NAHRO General Counsel Bill Maher and Manufacturers and Suppliers Council Chair Stan McCright also represented NAHRO at the meeting.
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