Honoring the Northern Cirlce Indian Authority

HONORING THE NORTHERN CIRCLE INDIAN HOUSING AUTHORITY -- (Extensions of Remarks - February 04, 2004)

SPEECH OF HON. MIKE THOMPSON OF CALIFORNIA
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2004

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Northern Circle Indian Housing Authority (NCIHA) as it celebrates its 25th Anniversary.

The NCIHA is the Tribally Designated Housing Entity (TDHE) for eight federally recognized Indian Tribes in Northern California. Originally created in 1980, the NCIHA is a valuable asset to Butte, Colusa, Lake, Mendocino and Sonoma Counties, providing safe and sanitary housing for low and moderate-income Native American families. The NCIHA is governed by a twenty member Board of Commissioners and staffed by 17 dedicated employees.

Over its 25-year history, the NCIHA has built 324 housing units in nine locations, directing $60 million in construction planning and development programs. The organization manages an additional 232 housing units located in seven reservation communities. The NCIHA also administers a down payment assistance home ownership program, rental subsidy programs, housing rehabilitation and replacement services for member tribes.

In addition to these services, the NCIHA has worked to develop a Community Housing Development Organization to access state funding and increase housing opportunities for Native Americans. The NCIHA is sharing valuable resources and providing technical support with the newly formed United Native Housing Development Corporation to help assure its success.

Mr. Speaker, the accomplishments of the NCIHA are recognized by many, most notably by the Office of Native American Programs, who awarded the NCIHA a Certificate of Excellence in 2000 and declared the organization one of the best of its kind. With the support of both the federal government and private foundations, the NCIHA is committed to the establishment of healthy communities for the Native Americans it serves. In addition to constructing and managing sufficient housing, NCIHA builds infrastructure including roads, water and sanitation facilities, and electric services.

Mr. Speaker, for its commitment to serving the Native American population of Northern California, it is appropriate that we honor the employees and board of the Northern Circle Indian Housing Authority as they recognize their 25th anniversary.

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