Charleston Leader

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito, during a recent hearing, raised concerns to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Acting Secretary Adrianne Todman about stalled projects in West Virginia, lack of communication, and return-to-office policies.

Regarding delays in West Virginia projects, Senator Capito expressed frustration with the lack of responsiveness from HUD, stating, “My constituents they have an abundant amount of concerns regarding various issues at HUD...What can we do to work out these issues so that my constituents are not stuck in limbo, waiting for answers from an unresponsive HUD?” In response, Acting Secretary Todman offered to share her cell phone number and assured Senator Capito that the issues would be addressed.

Senator Capito also highlighted a lack of guidance on HUD Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) projects, stating, “Our constituents have reached out for status updates, and other general guidance, but have not received any reply or confirmation of receipt from your department.” Acting Secretary Todman responded, “I'm happy to provide you with an update and you're- at- to you- to you and to your team.”

On the topic of HUD’s post-COVID return to in-office work policy, Senator Capito questioned the effectiveness of the current hybrid work schedule, stating, “I don't think the work is getting done...I think sometimes that has to be with the work environment and possibly- quite possibly the fact that people are not face to face working together as effectively as they can.” Acting Secretary Todman explained that 90% of HUD's workforce is on a hybrid work schedule, with varying in-office days across different offices.

The exchange between Senator Capito and Acting Secretary Todman shed light on critical issues affecting HUD projects and operations, highlighting the importance of communication, responsiveness, and effective work policies.