Source: HUD starts audit of Jacksonville Housing Authority; CEO submits resignation during meeting

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The CEO of the Jacksonville Housing Authority submitted his resignation during Monday’s board meeting. This comes as a source told Action News Jax Ben Becker that the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has begun an audit into JHA. However, there’s no word on the nature of that audit.

Dwayne Alexander gave his 30-day notice, Action News Jax’s Ben Becker has learned.

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We told you in December that the Housing Authority was the subject of two city Office of Inspector General investigations, which called Alexander’s future into question.

The OIG concluded the agency wasted approximately $1.7 million in federal funds. Alexander was offered a six-month contract extension through June and had yet to sign it.

Alexander’s resignation comes on the heels of the resignation of two JHA board members, one of whom was the board chair.

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Board Member Andre Green submitted his resignation to the board Friday, Jan. 19. It was on Jan. 9 that we learned Green was on his way out.

In his resignation email, Green didn’t give a reason, only stating he enjoyed working on the board.

On Wednesday night, Becker obtained the resignation letter from Board Chair Christopher Walker. In the letter, Walker cited his reasoning for a new opportunity that would present a conflict of interest if he remained in his current role on the board.

I am writing to formally submit my resignation from my position as a Commissioner of the Jacksonville Housing Authority, effective immediately.

After deep and prayerful consideration, I have made the decision to step down from my position with the JHA. This decision comes in light of a new opportunity that has presented itself, which, if I were to continue in my current role, would result in a prohibitive conflict of interest. It is with a sense of responsibility and integrity that I make this choice, understanding the importance of maintaining the ethical standards of both the JHA and my future endeavors.

I served the Housing Authority with a commitment to improving the lives of our residents and ensuring safe, affordable housing for all. I believe the housing authority has taken major strides in this effort. My dedication to these principles remains steadfast, and it is my hope that my successor will continue to uphold these values while navigating the new paths and opportunities. Since joining the Housing Authority Board of Commissioners, the work of the agency have generated the potential for hundreds of new units dedicated to affordable housing while revitalizing a once "sleepy" agency from 3 years ago.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked with a team of highly dedicated professionals and to have contributed to the meaningful work of the Housing Authority. As I move forward, I do so with the confidence that the Housing Authority will continue to thrive and serve the community with the utmost integrity and dedication.

Thank you for your understanding and support during this transition period. I am committed to ensuring a smooth handover and am available to assist in any way necessary during this time.

—  Christopher Walker resignation letter

The mayor’s office introduced legislation at City Council on Jan. 10 to appoint Lisa Strange Weatherby to the board. Weatherby, who is a former JEA Board Chair, specializes in investment consulting to nonprofits and other organizations.

She would take the board seat vacated by Green’s departure.

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Weatherby still has to be approved by City Council which is expected to take place Feb. 13.

With only four members remaining on the board, all votes must be unanimous for any agenda item to pass.

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