Frey nominates Tom Hoch as Minneapolis Public Housing Authority board chair

Mayor Jacob Frey has nominated Tom Hoch as the next Minneapolis Public Housing Authority (MPHA) board chair. Hoch is a current restauranteur and entrepreneur and has vast experience in housing and executive leadership within Minneapolis.

"Tom Hoch has a proven track record and years of experience that he will bring to this role," said Frey. "I know Tom will be an exceptional leader for the MPHA board, and I am grateful for his willingness to serve the residents of Minneapolis and ensure that the MPHA mission is fully realized for every person they serve."

"Tom Hoch is a tested and proven leader that will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to leading the MPHA board," said Abdi Warsame, Executive Director/CEO of the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority. "There are many people at the agency who fondly remember working with Tom when he previously served at MPHA, and so we are excited for him to return to the agency in this new role to help guide the board."

"High quality, safe, attractive affordable housing is a priority for both Mayor Frey and for me," said Tom Hoch. "I am excited to have the opportunity to work with the MPHA Board, staff, residents, and the larger community to ensure we deliver on this priority."

Most recently, Hoch served as the Founder and President and CEO of Hennepin Theater Trust. In the 1990s, he served as the Deputy Executive Director of MPHA for seven years where he had oversight of finance, procurement, housing development, capital improvements, as well as Section 8 housing administration. He developed and implemented strategies to coordinate human services for diverse residents, while successfully leading the national charge to change federal legislation to nationally permit housing for seniors.

During his tenure at MPHA, Hoch helped transform the agency from what the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) considered a "troubled" agency to a HUD-designated "High Performer" agency.

The mayor's appointment of Hoch was recommended for approval at today's Business, Inspections, Housing & Zoning (BIHZ) Committee and will be transmitted to the Minneapolis City Council for consideration at its May 12 meeting.

The length of the appointment is three years, beginning on January 1, 2022 and ending on December 31, 2024.