Nearly all members of the Fulton County Housing Authority board have resigned following an investigation by Channel 2, leaving only two members who are holding out. This mass resignation comes amidst allegations of money mismanagement and sexual harassment within the authority.
Background of the Investigation
Channel 2 investigative reporter Sophia Choy first revealed the allegations of mismanagement and harassment last week. The Fulton County Housing Authority, which manages approximately $7.8 million in federal tax dollars from HUD and distributes nearly 2,000 vouchers annually to assist families with rent, is now facing significant scrutiny.
Resident Complaints and HUD’s Recommendation
Former tenant Jennifer Gates claims the Housing Authority wrongfully accused her of not paying rent, resulting in her eviction in 2016. Numerous complaints from residents, workers, and former board members about various issues, including sexual harassment and misuse of funds, have reached county commissioners. A HUD letter from June 24 recommended the procurement of a third party to manage the program, citing the current staff’s lack of experience to address the deficiencies.
Resignations and Remaining Board Members
Following these revelations, Fulton County Commission Chair Rob Pitts requested and received the resignations of all but two board members. Antavius Weams, the board chairman since 2018, refuses to resign, asserting that he alerted federal authorities to the issues when he wasn’t getting satisfactory answers.
Allegations of Misconduct and Hostile Work Environment
Former manager Sharica Bellamy alleges that the problems worsened under Weams’ leadership, accusing him of creating a hostile work environment and misusing federal funds. She claims <a href="she was fired for refusing to pay invoices to individuals without contracts and for raising red flags about the mismanagement. Bellamy's attorney has filed an EEOC complaint on behalf of her and several other former employees.
Future Steps
With only two remaining members, the board lacks the quorum needed to meet legally. Chair Rob Pitts plans to hold a special meeting on July 29 to address the situation and discuss further steps to resolve the issues within the Housing Authority.
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