CEO of ARHA addresses tenant grievances, admits to previous issues
In a recent statement, ARHA CEO Erik C. Johnson addressed concerns raised by tenants about delayed rental payments, service issues, and other problems. Johnson acknowledged these concerns and expressed a commitment to rebuilding trust and creating successful affordable housing communities within the City of Alexandria.
Johnson defended the agency's push for more consistent rent payments from residents, stating it is necessary due to changes in the federal landscape, financial markets, and ARHA's ongoing ability to provide housing and services. He noted that public housing residents at ARHA pay either 30% of their income or a flat rent set at approximately 90% of Small Area Fair Market Rent.
Since becoming CEO in September 2024, ARHA has made significant staffing changes, transitioning over 20% of its workforce since January 2025. These changes are aimed at better responding to resident needs.
In an effort to improve operations, ARHA has resolved the backlog of recertifications, ensured timely payments to landlords, and corrected tenant ledger accounts. These actions are intended to address concerns about delayed payments and service issues.
ARHA's mission is to support the development, preservation, and management of housing for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and individuals and working families who struggle to find affordable and accessible housing. To this end, the agency has launched a capital improvement campaign that will continue through 2026 and is working to redevelop its public housing portfolio.
Operating by appointment on certain days, ARHA ensures residents receive timely, personalized service without long wait times. The agency currently manages 754 affordable housing units, 165 project-based vouchers, and 169 market-rate units at 17 sites citywide, according to its website.
However, not all concerns have been addressed. Tenant activist Loren Depina, representing current and former ARHA tenants, has organised a protest against the authority on August 20, 2025, in Old Town. The protest is in response to poor living conditions, unfair treatment, and delayed repairs at ARHA headquarters. Depina expects dozens of protesters at a 10 a.m. demonstration, targeting ongoing issues such as delayed rental payments to landlords, paperwork backlogs, and caseworker abandonment.
Despite not being formally invited to Resident Council meetings, with one exception when he could not attend due to a family obligation, Johnson expressed openness to meeting with residents to address their concerns and work towards creating successful and affordable housing communities in Alexandria.
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