I am writing this letter to show support for Northampton Housing Authority Executive Director Cara Clifford, as well as for the entire NHA Board of Directors.
I am a tenant at MacDonald House, have lived here for 16 years and my living conditions are directly affected by choices made by Clifford, the board and the mayor. We the people matter. Our voices must be heard. We expect to see Cliffords’ contract renewed this July, and for the board to remain seated.
I’m sure I’m right in assuming that no one regards the tenants of the NHA as being ignorant of what goes on politically, or otherwise, when positions with significant salaries are at stake.
For us, it is not about salaries or politics, it is a matter of having a place to live. We are not blind. We are aware that decisions are made behind the scenes, for various reasons, that we have no control over.
As a long-time tenant, I am both relieved and uplifted to witness the dedication and hard work that Cara has shown since she earned her position. In the short time that she’s been here, there are already fewer drug dealers living in the buildings and the maintenance men can finally do their work.
The general atmosphere of my building, as well as the morale of tenants and staff, is starkly better. Clifford once told me that she took this job because, “people deserve safe, clean housing that they are proud to call home.” From what I’ve seen in the last 10 months, I believe her, and I believe that is what she works for everyday.
Catherine Donaghy
Northampton