PHA board resigns leaving HUD in charge

In an about face, the board of the Philadelphia Housing Authority is resigning and turning power of the agency over to federal officials.

Former Pennsylvania of Public Welfare Secretary Estelle Richman, who now works for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, will take over as a receiver in place of the PHA board. 

After taking action to turn over control to HUD this afternoon, Richman was appointed by HUD officials. 

Interim PHA executive director Michael Kelly will remain in place and Richman will take over the board’s functions. 

Former Mayor John Street has been chairman of the PHA board and as recently as yesterday said he would not leave.  Today he said “its really time for us to go.”

The PHA has been buffeted by controversy since executive Director Carl R. Greene was fired after revelations that he secretly settled sexual harassment complaints. Employees also alleged a widespread pattern of intimidation and retaliation on Greene’s part.