Only two resolutions appeared on the agenda Friday afternoon for the monthly meeting of the V.I. Housing Authority’s Board of Commissioners and, at just shy of 30 minutes, the meeting didn’t take long either.
While the second resolution – an easement agreement for a new development on St. Thomas so it could tie into a sewer line – wouldn’t affect any current residents, the first one marked an important milestone for some.
That’s because in passing the measure, VIHA can now close the door on the infamously tedious and sometimes lengthy home closing process and turn some of its clients who’ve been patiently waiting into homeowners.
VIHA Executive Director Robert Graham urged for the resolution’s passing noting the “12 anxious potential homeowners in William’s Delight” and adding that the resolution would provide some comfort level to the title company at the same time.
The news was welcomed by one member of the public who attended and will now be able to purchase her home.
“It’s about time. I’ve waited too long,” said a delighted and thankful Daphne Edwards, one of the 12 VIHA clients affected by the resolution. “Apparently things are working my way now.”
Board Chairwoman Kimberly Wize apologized to Edwards for the delays that required the resolution in the first place, citing “circumstances beyond the authority’s control.” Wize was optimistic, though, the resolution’s passing would be the last hurdle that needed clearing.
“I’m hopeful and I’m looking for assurances,” Wize said, “that there should be no additional obstacles that come up and delay the next step in this process and you realizing your dream of being a homeowner.”
Graham provided that assurance, adding that as far as he knew, the authority had done everything in its power that was necessary.
“I’m going to follow up so we can get a date positive for Miss Edwards’ closing date,” Graham said.
Wize added she wanted to know all 12 closing dates once the appointments were set.
The 12 homes affected by the resolution that allows VIHA to sell and convey 5(H) homeownership single family homes at Williams Delight are plot 418 apartment 12; plot 417 apartment 14; plot 443 apartment 135; plot 385 apartment 136; plot 583 apartment 178; plot 582 apartment 182; plot 552 apartment 202; plot 670 apartment 203; plot 672 apartment 207; plot 599 apartment 243; plot 601 apartment 244; and plot 624 apartment 272.
In the only other matter discussed during the brief session, Graham reported that the authority’s operating budget for Fiscal Year 2014, submitted following December’s meeting, had been approved by the HUD field office in Puerto Rico.
