Westerly Housing Authority was created by the Town of Westerly, Rhode Island, in 1966 by enabling legislation.
The Board of Commissioners are appointed for 5 year terms by the Westerly Town Council. The Housing Authority is a separate entity, governed by a 5 member Board of Commissioners.
The Commissioners’ regular monthly meetings are held on the 2nd Tuesday of the month starting at 6pm. The meeting location alternates between the Park View and Chestnut Court community centers.
Westerly Housing Authority receives all of its funding through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). These funds provide the resources for construction or purchase of the properties held by the Westerly Housing Authority as well as capital improvement grants for maintenance and facility updating.
Board & Staff
Westerly Housing Authority has 5 full time staff members and an executive director. 2 staff members provide maintenance to all facilities and the remaining three provide administrative/clerical duties for all properties and programs. The Executive Director provides oversight for the entire operation, including personnel management, accounting and compliance with HUD regulations.
Board of Commissioners
- Gary Murano – Chairman
- Brian Lumnah – Commissioner
- Julie Riusi Rofrano
- Amy Cornelius – Commissioner
- Barbara Rofrano – Resident Commissioner Treasurer
Staff
- Lucienne Andrew – Executive Director
- Rachael Perkins – Housing Voucher Program
- Nicole Dickens – Public Housing Specialist
- Lisa Aguirre – Admin Assistant
- Charlene Fry – Resource Services Coordinator
- Kadir Koseogul – Maintenance
- Tom Lanphear – Maintenance
Executive Director
We have continued to provide affordable housing opportunities to seniors, disabled households, families, and veterans. In all, we have been able to meet the goals of our long-range plans and maintain our status as a HUD-designated high performer.
These goals are not met by chance. These goals require determination and continuous assessment. They start with a strong Board of Commissioners who impart the vision of providing housing assistance to those most in need. They require a strong employment team who are dedicated to the mission of the Authority. They require good communication, research into cost savings and grant opportunities, and reviewing the processes for better efficiencies. They require appropriate training and networking in the field. They require foot traffic on the sites and relationship building with residents. They require the fostering of community partnerships and programs.
We don’t know what the future will bring, but Westerly Housing Authority is committed to the preparation and planning necessary to meet our goals; is ready to respond to the changing times, and is ready to continue to pursue its mission…providing affordable housing opportunities and comprehensive programs to enhance the lives of our clients.