David A. Northern, Sr. has resigned as president and CEO of the Houston Housing Authority (HHA), as confirmed in a statement from the department. After two years in the position, Northern's departure was officially announced following a Houston Housing Authority board meeting held yesterday. According to FOX 26 Houston, Northern had been on leave for several weeks prior to his resignation.
The board of the Houston Housing Authority accepted Northern's resignation after two hours of a closed session, during which it was decided that Northern would receive a severance payment equivalent to six months’ salary, along with the continuation of insurance benefits for the same period. "The Board of the Houston Housing Authority has been presented a proposal from Mr. David Northern that he resign his employment as president and CEO of the Houston Housing Authority effective immediately in exchange for a severance payment of six months’ salary, costs of the continuation of insurance benefits for six months, or until Mr. Northern makes alternative arrangements. Whichever period is shorter," HHA Board Chairman Joseph Proler stated, as reported by FOX 26 Houston.
Northern's resignation aligns with a period of turmoil for the HHA, which includes a federal investigation concerning a housing complex built on potentially contaminated land. ABC13 reported that before being placed on leave, federal investigators raided the Pointe at Bayou Bend, a vacant, affordable housing property overseen by the HHA. Allegations arose that the HHA and its developer continued construction on a $130 million project despite knowing the land contained toxic ash from an old trash incineration plant.
Amidst these investigations, Houston Mayor John Whitmire has criticized HHA for what he considers inefficient leadership, and money mismanagement. Whitmire expressed his concerns, saying "I've been very concerned about the housing authority, even before I was sworn in." He further commended the board's action on Northern's resignation, stating, "pleased with the actions taken" and "applauds the board's commitment to transparency and holding leadership accountable," as obtained by ABC13.
In the interim, Jennine Hovell-Cox will serve as president and CEO until a permanent successor is found. The HHA aims to maintain its commitment to providing "safe and affordable housing and services for Houstonians in need," ensuring the continuity of their mission despite the leadership changes, ABC13 reported.
