Architect, affordable housing developer will lead Chicago Housing Authority

An architect and affordable housing developer will take one of the top positions at the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA).

Angela Hurlock will leave her position as executive director at Claretian Associates and chair the board of CHA commissioners. For 28 years Claretian has developed affordable housing in South Chicago for low- and moderate-income families.

Throughout her career in development, Hurlock has worked directly with families as well as helped establish affordable, transit-oriented housing.

“I can think of no one more qualified and committed than Angela to ensure that CHA continues to expand safe, secure, and affordable housing options throughout the city,” said Mayor Lori Lightfoot in a statement after Wednesday’s City Council meeting where Hurlock was officially appointed.

Hurlock explained that it was incredibly important to have housing options that enhance people’s quality of life.

“I’ve spent my life in the service of helping others secure and realize the sense of belonging that comes with a place to call their own,” she said in a statement.

In August, the CHA’s CEO Eugene Jones resigned, which will take effect at the end of September. Many believe it will be a challenge to fill that role with someone as qualified as Jones.

The Lightfoot administration is slowly building itself up with affordable housing advocates and other civic leaders with smart ideas about how to implement equitable city planning. The roster of new hires that could help Lightfoot execute her push for more affordable housing includes: Commissioner of Planning and Development Maurice Cox, Department of Housing Commissioner Marisa Novara, and DOH’s Director of Policy Daniel Kay Hertz.