BOISE – The National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials has appointed the Idaho Housing and Finance Association’s Julie Williams to serve a two-year term on its Community Revitalization and Development Committee beginning May 10, 2000, IHFA officials announced today.

The CR&D Committee addresses a broad range of issues related to the economic vitality of cities and the development and conservation of neighborhoods, including legislative, regulatory and funding issues of community development programs and operations. The committee recommends policies and actions to the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Official’s Board of Governors in support of its primary goal—the achievement of well-planned, socially and economically sound communities.

Since 1992, Williams has served as vice president of Community Housing Services for IHFA. In that capacity, she manages IHFA’s statewide administration of the federal HOME program including the State of Idaho’s Five-Year Strategic Plan for Housing and Community Development and HUD Homeless Assistance Grant programs including Emergency Shelter, Continuum of Care and Supportive Housing grants.

Additionally, Williams oversees the HUD Low-Rent Public Housing and Section 8 Rental Assistance programs including Family Self-Sufficiency, Shelter Plus Care and Family Unification programs, as well as the Housing Information and Referral Center, a hotline for housing information for Idaho’s citizens. Williams currently serves as senior vice president of NAHRO’s Idaho Chapter.

"Julie Williams’ knowledge and experience will be invaluable to NAHRO as we strive to gain support for workable housing and community development policies and programs and stress how important these programs are to the low- and moderate-income persons we serve," said NAHRO’s (Incoming) President Karen Thoreson. "Ms. Williams’ role will be critical in helping NAHRO achieve its goals of expanding affordable housing resources and revitalizing neighborhoods and communities."

The National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials is a 66-year-old membership organization of 9,000 housing and community development 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. NAHRO ensures that housing and community development professionals have the leadership skills and education to serve communities; advocates for appropriate laws and policies; and fosters the highest standards for ethical behavior, service and accountability.