Although housing authorities have a strong relationship with local, state, and federal governments, they are actually independent agencies. Charted under state law, a housing authority is an autonomous, not-for-profit public corporation. This organizational structure allows housing authorities to work in conjunction with local governments and agencies to develop long-term housing strategies for communities.
Though independently run, housing authorities are required to follow federal regulations. In addition, housing authorities receive a subsidy from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Housing authorities do not receive any funds from state or local governments. Each year, the Athens Housing Authority provides a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) of approximately $95,000 to Athens-Clarke County. A local Board of Commissioners, appointed by the city’s mayor, governs housing authorities.