Consider it a bit of housekeeping.
The Elizabethton Housing and Development Agency (EHDA) Board of Commissioners met Tuesday morning and went through a variety of topics, including adopting a public records policy.
Executive Director Kelly Geagley told commissioners that the adoption of the policy is required by the state by different departments so that state, county and municipal records can be open for personal inspection.
Commissioners also voted unanimously to enter into an automated clearing house (ACH) direct deposit agreement with Carter County Bank.
Geagley stated the direct deposit will first be used for payroll online, but then transition into the possibility of Section 8 and then the Housing Authority.
In other business, the commissioners voted unanimously to:
• Amend internal control policy for ACH.
• Write off vacated delinquent accounts and dispose of equipment.
• Approve a contract agreement with Trademark of Virginia for a capital fund construction project.
The topic of EHDA becoming smoke free was also brought up during Tuesday’s meeting.
The Housing Authority will change their policy effective January 1, 2019. That means residents will not be able to smoke inside apartments but will be able to smoke at least 25 feet away from the buildings. The policy includes no cigarettes, cigars, pipes, electronic cigarettes or water pipes.
Once the policy goes into effect, residents will be asked to sign an addendum to their lease and the Authority added that the policy will be enforced for residents, household members and guests. Warnings will be provided but repeated offenders will face lease termination.
When asked about the status of meetings to inform the public about the new policy, Geagley added the Housing Authority received the best feedback in the morning hours — the reasoning why Wednesday’s morning was scheduled for 10 a.m.
Geagley added the Housing Authority is offering smoke cessation classes for those interested.
While residents don’t have to quit smoking, the executive director indicated the department will allow opportunities for residents looking to stop using tobacco products.
Residents of the Housing Authority wanting to stop using products can call (423) 543-3571 ext. 308 to sign up for future classes. If residents are looking to stop but do not want to participate in classes locally, they can visit freedomfromsmoking.org or call 1-800-784-8669 to access the 24/7 services offered, including telephone and online support.