HOUSTON HOUSING AUTHORITY UNDER SCRUTINY FOR TAXPAYER DOLLAR MISUSE
Houston, Texas – This week, KPRC 2 Investigates uncovered alarming spending practices by the Houston Housing Authority (HHA). Funds intended for housing renovations were allegedly misused, raising serious concerns about accountability.
Millions Spent, Minimal Results: Questionable Contracts Exposed
Months ago, reporter Amy Davis began investigating HHA’s contractor payments for renovation projects. Tips suggested that the money wasn’t being used for its intended purpose.
The findings revealed millions of dollars were awarded to contractors with little experience, and many projects were left incomplete. Curious about additional spending, KPRC 2 requested HHA employees’ credit card records. The review, spanning January 2023 to September 2024, uncovered extravagant expenses on fine dining, office celebrations, and even workplace massages.
Lavish Spending on Parties and Perks
Some of the most shocking discoveries included:
- Five holiday dinners and parties in two weeks (2023): $22,000
- Monthly celebrations organized by Senior VP Khadija Darr: Thousands of dollars spent on treats and gifts, such as:
- National Hot Dog Day: $488.50
- Wellness Gift Cards: $1,401.52
- Wellness Fair Massages: $2,322
- Candy for Executives: $63.63
CEO David Northern also purchased a $2,333.87 workout bench and weights for the HHA headquarters.
Fine Dining at Taxpayer Expense
Senior Policy Advisor Na’Shon Edwards led the dining expenses, spending $9,439.84 in just nine months at upscale restaurants, including:
- Steak 48: $375.58 (lowest bill)
- The Annie Cafe & Bar: $456.75
- B&B Butchers: $384.24
Edwards also treated interns to lavish outings:
- Dinner at Steak 48: $1,254.29
- Dinner at Vic & Anthony’s: $1,369.64
Leadership Shake-Up and Investigations
Following these revelations:
- Na’Shon Edwards’ position was eliminated (November), with a $27,692.34 settlement, covering three months’ pay and unused leave.
- CEO David Northern and Edwards resigned.
The newly appointed HHA board, under Mayor John Whitmire, has hired a law firm to investigate the contracts and expenses uncovered by KPRC 2. The findings may be handed over to law enforcement.
