CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD)- Officials with the Charleston County Housing and Redevelopment Authority said they are working to address concerns raised by several state lawmakers over the potential sale of 30 single-family homes.
Five lawmakers called for an investigation Wednesday after learning that the housing authority was preparing to sell dozens of single-family homes with an Aug. 18 offer deadline and no buyer restrictions. The sale is collectively valued at roughly $7.75 million.
“On multiple levels, it’s concerning that we would be giving up and losing 30 units from our affordable, attainable housing that have actually gone empty as I’m understanding,” Rep. Mark Smith (R-Berkeley) told News 2, adding that it raises concerns about transparency and the long-term impact on the community.
In an Aug. 21 response to the lawmakers, the housing authority’s board described the for-sale home as being in “extremely poor condition.”
“We have had initial conversations with Rep. Mark Smith explaining the extremely poor condition of the properties and housing authority organization that current leadership inherited,” the unsigned letter stated.
“We are excited that through our new CEO, Angela Childers, and board members we can accomplish our mission of providing affordable housing in the Charleston community,” it continued.
South Carolina extends, raises tax credit in hopes of revitalizing abandoned buildings Childers took over as CEO in 2023, the same year the housing authority was designated as “troubled by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
The housing authority has faced criticism over “deplorable” conditions at some of the agency’s facilities, including Joseph Floyd Manor, where reports of bed bugs, roaches, and rodents began surfacing in 2020.
The board stated that the proceeds from the sales would be invested into “new affordable measures” but no specifics were given. A request for clarification was not immediately returned.
“We look forward to working with the legislative body on this new path for the CCHRA,” the letter concluded.
Smith told News 2 he was encouraged by the board’s response and looks forward to having their concerns addressed.
The housing authority is separate from the Charleston County Government. The county council does, however, appoint the authority’s board.
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