Mayor Karen Bass has named Tiena Johnson Hall as the new General Manager of the Los Angeles Housing Department, a move aimed at addressing the city's pressing need for more affordable housing and effective solutions for homelessness. According to the Office of the Mayor, Hall, with over 30 years in the field, is tasked with leading the charge to cut through bureaucratic hurdles and foster innovation in affordable housing development, as well as to work on preserving existing units and preventing displacement of current residents.
Hall's wealth of experience spans nonprofit affordable housing development, private sector financing, and roles within state and local government, which, when employed by the Mayor, should bring a multi-faceted approach to the city's housing strategy. Bringing in Tiena, Mayor Bass hopes to accelerate the production of over 25,000 affordable housing units, alongside preserving the thousands already in existence within the city, as per the Office of the Mayor.
Industry professionals have already heralded the appointment as a savvy move by Mayor Bass. Robin Hughes, President and CEO of the Housing Partnership Network, has recognized Hall's nearly three decades of commitment and innovation in affordable housing as critical assets for the Los Angeles Housing Department. Hughes's praise was echoed by other colleagues across the state who have venerated Hall's input and leadership in previous roles, as detailed by the Office of the Mayor. Notably, Stephen Russell, President & CEO of the San Diego Housing Federation, applauded Hall's depth of technical expertise and her ability to lead with a focus on achieving organizational goals even amidst challenging conditions.
