The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has recognized the County of Hawaiʻi as a “High Performer” following an annual assessment of its Housing Choice Voucher programs.
The “High Performer” status, granted for Fiscal Year 2024-25, is the highest rating from HUD to a Public Housing Agency for financial management, operations and regulatory compliance of the federal rental subsidy program. The Office of Housing and Community Development’s (OHCD) Existing Housing Division serves as the County’s Public Housing Agency.
"This recognition reflects the hard work of our staff and their commitment to delivering housing stability,” said Mayor Kimo Alameda. “These programs serve as an important lifeline for local families, and the dedication of our team ensures that these federal dollars help as many households as possible.”
To be a “High Performer,” a Public Housing Agency must receive an overall score of 90% or higher. The performance score is determined from 14 indicators and one bonus performance indicator that measure an agency’s effectiveness and ability to assist eligible households. The County achieved a score of 92% by securing 120 points out of a maximum of 130 across the key measures.
“We are incredibly proud to have earned HUD’s ‘High Performer’ designation,” said County Housing Administrator Kehaulani Costa. “This achievement was a key goal outlined in the Hawaiʻi County Housing Agency’s annual plan, and it represents the effort the dedicated Existing Housing team has made to strengthen program delivery and improve outcomes for our residents. We remain focused on maintaining this high standard every day as we continue to expand housing opportunities across Hawaiʻi Island.”
The federally funded Housing Choice Voucher programs, also known as Section 8, provide monthly rental assistance to very low- and low-income families. In Fiscal Year 2024-25, the program provided more than $28 million in rent assistance, helping more than 2,200 households each month meet their housing needs.
OHCD is responsible for the planning, administration, and operation of all County of Hawai’i housing programs. Its mission is to provide for the development of viable communities through decent housing, suitable living environments and expanded economic opportunities.
More information on OHCD and its programs can be found online at www.housing.hawaiicounty.gov.
