Amid the federal government shutdown, we want to reassure you that County Housing remains fully operational, with all programs and services continuing as usual.
County Housing partners with VA on special housing initiative
At County Housing, we believe every veteran deserves a safe, stable place to live, a home that honors their service and provides a foundation for their future. We’re proud to partner with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) on a special outreach effort this August to help more veterans access housing vouchers and secure a place to call home.
Through this “VA Surge” initiative, our team is working closely with VA case managers and service providers to connect eligible veterans with the HUD-VASH program. This collaboration between HUD and the VA combines rental assistance with case management and supportive services.
How it works:
Veterans are referred to County Housing by the VA.
Our team fast-tracks eligible veterans for voucher issuance.
VA case managers provide ongoing support to help veterans find, move into, and maintain stable housing.
This surge effort is designed to ensure that veterans who are currently unhoused or at risk of losing housing can quickly get the help they need. By removing barriers and speeding up the process, we can provide more than just a roof over their heads; we can provide stability, dignity, and hope.
If you are a veteran in need of housing assistance or know a veteran who may qualify, please contact your VA case manager or visit the HUD-VASH program info page.
Together, we can honor their service by helping them find a place to call home.
At County Housing, we believe that the best leadership begins with listening. Every day, we are inspired by the stories, experiences, and ideas of the residents who call our communities home. Your voices help guide the work we do, shape the services we provide, and drive the changes that make our neighborhoods stronger and safer.
Over the past few months, we’ve taken intentional steps to strengthen that connection. We’re listening more closely and working hard to respond with meaningful action. From maintenance improvements to policy updates and new digital tools, these changes reflect your feedback and our shared commitment to progress.
As part of that effort, we are updating how we share information with you. Beginning with this issue, our resident newsletter will be sent by email only, and we will no longer mail printed copies. This change will allow us to share timely updates more efficiently while reducing paper waste and focusing our resources where they matter most.
If you haven’t yet shared your email address with us, we encourage you to do so to stay connected and informed.
As we look ahead, know that your voice continues to matter. Leadership doesn’t happen in an office but in partnership with the people we serve. Thank you for trusting us and for continuing to share what matters most to you. Together, we’re building stronger communities and a brighter future.
Warmly,
Shannon Koenig Executive Director & CEO County Housing
Feature Story
Meet your Property Management Team
Building Relationships. Supporting Residents. At County Housing, our property management team plays a vital role in creating safe, supportive, and well-maintained communities for our residents. From addressing maintenance needs to ensuring clear communication, they’re the people working behind the scenes—and often right on your doorstep—to make sure everything runs smoothly.
Who They Are Our property managers are assigned to specific developments and work closely with residents, maintenance staff, and outside vendors. They oversee day-to-day operations, ensure compliance with housing policies, and serve as a direct resource for your questions or concerns. You’ll often find them walking the properties, attending resident meetings, or checking in after a service request.
What They Do
Respond to resident questions and concerns
Coordinate repairs and maintenance requests
Ensure inspections and safety standards are met
Support lease renewals and move-in/move-out processes
Help connect residents to additional support services
Why It Matters Having a consistent, accessible property manager helps build trust, improve communication, and keep your home safe and comfortable. They’re more than just housing professionals—they’re committed partners in helping you feel proud of where you live.
Let’s Stay Connected We’re proud of the work our property management team does, and we want you to feel confident in reaching out to them whenever needed. If you’re unsure who your property manager is, see below for a list of our fantastic staff members!
As families prepare for a new school year, it’s also a great time to make sure your household is ready for anything. Here are a few simple tips to help keep your home and loved ones safe:
Plan Ahead: Review your family’s emergency plan. Make sure everyone knows how to safely exit your home in case of fire or severe weather.
Keep It Clear: Avoid blocking doors, hallways, and windows. Clear paths help during emergencies and daily routines.
Update Contact Info: Make sure your child’s school has your current contact information in case of emergency.
Walking Safely: Remind kids to use sidewalks, look both ways before crossing, and avoid distractions like phones when walking to the bus or school.
August is a great time to review your household’s emergency plan. With summer storms and extreme heat becoming more common, make sure you and your family are prepared:
Know your nearest shelter location.
Keep flashlights and bottled water on hand.
Check in on neighbors who may need extra support.
If you experience any safety-related maintenance issues, call our Emergency Maintenance line at (314) 492-3811.
🧯 Fire Safety Tip of the Month:
Practice a home fire drill. Knowing how to exit your home quickly and safely can save lives.
Community Connect
Metro Transit’s Secure Platform Plan Enhances Safety at MetroLink Stations
Metro Transit is making significant progress on the Secure Platform Plan, a strategic initiative that is adding new fare gates, fencing and security cameras to all 39 MetroLink stations in Missouri and Illinois. By creating a more secure transit environment, customers can enjoy safe, comfortable and convenient service throughout the region.
The installation of new infrastructure has already been completed at 11 MetroLink stations, with work at the remaining stations scheduled to be completed in early 2026. The new system works closely with Metro’s Real-Time Camera Monitoring Center, the operational heart of Metro’s surveillance network. This facility provides 24/7 coverage of nearly 1,600 real-time cameras located at MetroLink stations, transit centers, vehicles and other facilities.
Learn more about the Secure Platform Plan and how it’s helping grow ridership and deliver a better transit experience at MetroStLouis.org/SPP.
Maintenance Matters
New Inspection Process
We’ve launched a new inspection process as part of HUD’s NSPIRE standards, designed to better reflect real living conditions.
Here’s what to know:
You’ll receive notice before your inspection date.
Inspectors will look at unit conditions as experienced by the resident, not just the structure.
Common issues include broken smoke detectors, tripping hazards, or pest concerns.
Please make sure your unit is accessible and safe to inspect. If you need assistance ahead of time, contact your maintenance team.
Updates & Announcements
Board Meetings – You’re Invited!
All Board of Commissioners meetings are open to the public, and residents are encouraged to attend. These meetings are a great opportunity to hear directly from our commissioners and leadership team about important updates, upcoming projects, and decisions that impact our communities. Your voice matters, and we’d love to see you there!
Hillsdale Board Meeting Schedule County Housing Headquarters 8865 Natural Bridge Rd., St. Louis, MO 63121
November 4, 2025 at 12:30 p.m.
September 23, 2025 at 12:30 p.m.
Pagedale Board Meeting Schedule Pagedale City Hall 1420 Ferguson Ave., St. Louis, MO 63133
August 12, 2025 at 12:00 p.m.
October 14, 2025 at 12:00 p.m.
December 9, 2025 at 12:00 p.m.
Olivette Board Meeting Schedule Olivette City Hall 1140 Dielman Rd., Olivette, MO 63132
August 26, 2025 at 12:00 p.m.
October 28, 2025 at 12:00 p.m.
County Board Meeting Schedule County Housing Headquarters 8865 Natural Bridge Road St. Louis, MO 63121
September 9, 2025 at 12:00 p.m.
November 18, 2025 at 12:00 p.m.
Resident Advisory Board – Get Involved! We’re looking for residents who want to help shape the future of County Housing. If you’re interested in joining the Resident Advisory Board, email us at engagement@countyhousing.org or call your property office.
County Housing 2025 Holiday Office Closures
Please be aware that County Housing will be closed on the following holidays in 2025:
Labor Day – Monday, September 1
Veterans Day – Tuesday, November 11
Thanksgiving Day – Thursday, November 27
Day After Thanksgiving – Friday, November 28
Additionally, County Housing will be closed for the holiday season from Thursday,December 25, 2025, Thursday, January 1, 2026, and will reopen on Friday, January 2, 2026.
Please plan accordingly, and we hope you enjoy your holidays!
At County Housing, we believe that the best leadership begins with listening. Every day, we are inspired by the stories, experiences, and ideas of the residents who call our communities home. Your voices help guide the work we do, shape the services we provide, and drive the changes that make our neighborhoods stronger and safer.
Over the past few months, we’ve taken intentional steps to strengthen that connection. We’re listening more closely and working hard to respond with meaningful action. From maintenance improvements to policy updates and new digital tools, these changes reflect your feedback and our shared commitment to progress.
As part of that effort, we are updating how we share information with you. Beginning with this issue, our resident newsletter will be sent by email only, and we will no longer mail printed copies. This change will allow us to share timely updates more efficiently while reducing paper waste and focusing our resources where they matter most.
If you haven’t yet shared your email address with us, we encourage you to do so to stay connected and informed.
As we look ahead, know that your voice continues to matter. Leadership doesn’t happen in an office but in partnership with the people we serve. Thank you for trusting us and for continuing to share what matters most to you. Together, we’re building stronger communities and a brighter future.
Warmly,
Shannon Koenig Executive Director & CEO County Housing
Feature Story
Empowering Growth Through the Family Self-Sufficiency Program
The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program is designed to help individuals and families build a stronger, more independent future. With personalized support, goal setting, and access to valuable resources, FSS participants can take meaningful steps toward financial stability, personal growth, and long-term success.
While each participant’s journey is unique, many share a common motivation: the desire to create a better future for themselves and their families. Through the program, residents work closely with an FSS case manager to create an action plan that may include improving financial literacy, increasing earned income, pursuing education or training, and building savings.
Along the way, participants often discover more than just financial tools; they find encouragement, structure, and renewed confidence in their ability to succeed.
FSS graduates regularly achieve life-changing goals such as securing stable employment, purchasing a vehicle, paying off debt, or becoming first-time homeowners. Their successes are a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and having the right support system in place.
The FSS waitlist will open on September 2, 2025. If you’re ready to set goals and take steps toward long-term independence, the Family Self-Sufficiency program may be the opportunity you’ve been looking for. A direct link to the application will be emailed to all current HCV participants on September 2, 2025.
As families prepare for a new school year, it’s also a great time to make sure your household is ready for anything. Here are a few simple tips to help keep your home and loved ones safe:
Plan Ahead: Review your family’s emergency plan. Make sure everyone knows how to safely exit your home in case of fire or severe weather.
Keep It Clear: Avoid blocking doors, hallways, and windows. Clear paths help during emergencies and daily routines.
Update Contact Info: Make sure your child’s school has your current contact information in case of emergency.
Walking Safely: Remind kids to use sidewalks, look both ways before crossing, and avoid distractions like phones when walking to the bus or school.
🧯Fire Safety Tip of the Month:
Practice a home fire drill. Knowing how to exit your home quickly and safely can save lives.
Community Connect
Metro Transit’s Secure Platform Plan Enhances Safety at MetroLink Stations
Metro Transit is making significant progress on the Secure Platform Plan, a strategic initiative that is adding new fare gates, fencing and security cameras to all 39 MetroLink stations in Missouri and Illinois. By creating a more secure transit environment, customers can enjoy safe, comfortable and convenient service throughout the region.
The installation of new infrastructure has already been completed at 11 MetroLink stations, with work at the remaining stations scheduled to be completed in early 2026. The new system works closely with Metro’s Real-Time Camera Monitoring Center, the operational heart of Metro’s surveillance network. This facility provides 24/7 coverage of nearly 1,600 real-time cameras located at MetroLink stations, transit centers, vehicles and other facilities.
Learn more about the Secure Platform Plan and how it’s helping grow ridership and deliver a better transit experience at MetroStLouis.org/SPP.
Know Your Rights
Understanding Your Protections as an HCV Participant
At County Housing, we’re committed to making sure every resident understands their rights and feels empowered to speak up when something isn’t right. In this new recurring section, we’ll highlight key protections available to you as a participant in the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program.
This Issue’s Focus: The Right to a Safe, Decent, and Sanitary Home As an HCV participant, you have the right to live in a unit that meets Housing Quality Standards (HQS). This includes:
Safe electrical outlets and wiring
Functional plumbing with hot and cold running water
A secure front door with proper locks
A home that is free from hazards like mold, leaks, or pests
You Are Protected from Retaliation If you report a problem with your unit, your landlord is not allowed to retaliate by raising your rent, trying to evict you, or otherwise punishing you for speaking up.
Need Help or Have Questions? If your home has a health or safety issue, you are encouraged to report it to your landlord. County Housing can work with you and your landlord to address the problem. If a landlord fails to make necessary repairs, we can work with you to make sure the concerns are addressed. You can call us at 314-428-3200 and press 3 to be connected to our inspections department.
Updates & Announcements
County Housing 2025 Holiday Office Closures
Please be aware that County Housing will be closed on the following holidays in 2025:
Labor Day – Monday, September 1
Veterans Day – Tuesday, November 11
Thanksgiving Day – Thursday, November 27
Day After Thanksgiving – Friday, November 28
Additionally, County Housing will be closed for the holiday season from Thursday,December 25, 2025, Thursday, January 1, 2026, and will reopen on Friday, January 2, 2026.
Please plan accordingly, and we hope you enjoy your holidays!
