Chaffee County –  The Chaffee Housing Authority (CHA) Board of Directors met on May 1, 2024, to discuss a transition plan to identify an Interim Executive Director following Ashley Kappel’s resignation. Kappel’s last day will be June 14, 2024. 

In her resignation letter, Kappel noted, “It has been a distinct honor and privilege serving as the Executive Director of the Chaffee Housing Authority for the past year. I am pursuing a new opportunity that’s a better long-term fit for me and my family. Thank you for the chance to serve this amazing community. I wish the organization continued success.”

CHA Board Chair, Jeff Eaton, stated, “Although the CHA Board is sad to see Kappel leave, we are confident that we can orchestrate a smooth transition and keep the organization on track in meeting our strategic goals.  This transition will be closely coordinated with Kappel and staff, and we are working to form a search committee immediately.”  

The CHA Board adopted a strategic plan in 2023 that focuses on affordable housing development, education and advocacy, impactful programming, and fundraising efforts.

As part of those fundraising efforts, CHA is currently pursuing two ballot measures to address the housing crisis in Chaffee County. A .5% county-wide sales tax increase that will generate $3.5 million annually that will go directly to housing and will sunset after 10 years. The measure has widespread community support based on the results of a community survey CHA conducted in February. This would cost $.50 on every $100 spent and the cost would be spread across visitors and locals. CHA has a 10-year plan to partner to build new units and subsidize housing costs for locals.

A separate ballot measure will ask voters if CHA can keep all revenues from state grants and local governments that support the operations of the Authority, without raising taxes. Most jurisdictions in Colorado, including the county, Salida, BV, Poncha Springs and both local school districts have already passed a similar measure. As a young organization, CHA must do this now to remain compliant with state law.  Both of these measures, together, will help create affordable housing solutions for our entire community.

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Dan R

Danny “Dan R” Ridenour has been in radio and television broadcasting for over 40 years, starting as a senior in high school in Rogers, Arkansas. His radio career has had stops in Nashville, Memphis, Oklahoma, and eventually, Colorado. Dan enjoys being involved in the community, having been a member of the Upper Arkansas Service Club and is currently on the board of directors for the Salida Community Center and is a member of the Chaffee County Fair Committee. He and his wife Carrie spend their days doing everything the mountains have to offer: hiking, camping, fishing and skiing. They've raised 3 children and have 2 grandchildren.

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