By Steve Kemme
The Cincinnati Enquirer

HAMILTON - Butler County commissioners on Thursday told County Administrator Derek Conklin to set up a meeting with the embattled Butler Metropolitan Housing Authority Board and those who appointed them.

Commissioners, concerned by a recent federal report that criticized the agency's finances, reporting, tracking and other operations, want to discuss what needs to be done.

"I'll meet at whatever time and day is convenient for them," Commissioner Mike Fox said. "I don't want to set a date and have the board say it's not convenient and not show up."

The Housing Authority provides subsidized housing for low-income people. The city of Hamilton appoints two board members, and the commissioners, Common Pleas Court and Probate Court each appoint one.

Commissioner Courtney Combs said he's worried that if the Housing Authority doesn't get on track, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) will take it over.

"It's time for us to step to the plate and take action," he said.

Commissioners also will ask a HUD representative to attend the meeting.

Mr. Fox repeated his belief that the Housing Authority Board members should resign and let the appointing authorities decide whether to place them back on the board.

"Frankly, we wouldn't lose anything if they resigned," Mr. Fox said, adding that Herman Hill, the commissioners' appointee, is the only board member willing to criticize and question the Housing Authority administrators.

"All they do is rubber stamp whatever the administration wants," he said.

Vincent Sanzone, board president, disputes that. He says the board often questions administrators and occasionally rejects proposals by Leonard M. "Tony" Blaine, the executive director.

Commissioners also want to set up a meeting in which Housing Authority staff can speak candidly to the agency's board about problems.

Mr. Fox and Mr. Combs said staff members are afraid to talk to board members.

"The employees need direction and leadership," Mr. Fox said. "We should have a housing agency that we can be proud of instead of ashamed of."

E-mail skemme@enquirer.com