Indianapolis Housing Agency will undergo restructuring

Changes are coming to the agency charged with managing federal housing assistance for low-income residents in Indianapolis.

The Indianapolis Housing Agency, IHA, has struggled for years to meet the needs of those it serves.  Properties have gone without repairs, voucher holders face barriers, waiting lists are long and the agency has significant financial problems.

The city of Indianapolis and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development sent a notice to IHA this week and informed the agency of a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement. The legal agreement will allow the city and HUD to reorganize the IHA and make other changes in an effort to improve services and daily operations. 

The city and HUD have been corresponding since 2022 when property problems were heightened.

In a statement, Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said HUD has been responsive.

“My office first approached HUD late last year requesting permission to play a more active role in the restructure and modernization of the Indianapolis Housing Agency,” Hogsett said.

The next steps will allow for a third party consultant evaluation. The reorganization is expected to come before the end of the year.  No immediate interruption of services for residents is expected.

IHA provides housing to hundreds of residents at its properties and serves about 9,000 voucher holders.

Contact WFYI city government and policy reporter Jill Sheridan at jsheridan@wfyi.org.