1215.cfm
Press Room
NAHRO's Statement on the Selection of Shaun Donovan as HUD Secretary
Contact: Mary Barron, 202-289-3500
ext. 7223
WASHINGTON, DC, December 15--
The National Association of Housing and Redevelopment
Officials (NAHRO) released the following statement upon the nomination of Shaun
Donovan as Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development:
NAHRO applauds the nomination of Shaun Donovan to be the
Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. At this time of
economic turmoil, with Americans losing homes to foreclosures and lengthy waiting
lists for assisted housing, we believe Mr. Donovan will be an asset at HUD.
Among the challenges Mr. Donovan will face during his tenure are a long-term
disinvestment in public housing, the need to increase the production of new
rental housing, and the toll of years of diminishing CDBG funding. His experience
as New York City's Commissioner of Housing Preservation and Development, his
work with the Millennial Housing Commission, and his past experience at HUD
show that he is equipped and engaged to take on such an important position at
such a challenging time.
Mr. Donovan recently spoke on behalf of the Obama campaign
at NAHRO's National Conference in October, and provided insight on the positions
and interests of the incoming administration. "Mr. Donovan is an outstanding
choice to lead HUD," said NAHRO Executive Director Saul N. Ramirez, Jr.,
who has also been serving on the transition team at HUD. "His abilities
and experience will allow him to bring about responsible change in a difficult
time."
"I am confident that Mr. Donovan can put housing back
on the forefront of the nation's agenda," NAHRO President Renée
Rooker said. "We look forward to working with him to continue our joint
mission of providing safe, decent, affordable housing and quality communities
for all Americans."
NAHRO is a membership organization of 22,000 housing and
community development agencies and professionals throughout the United States
whose mission is to create affordable housing and safe, viable communities that
enhance the quality of life for all Americans, especially those of low- and
moderate-income.
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