Press Releases

Monterey, Calif. - March 4, 2005 - Jim Nakashima, Executive Director of the Housing Authority of the County of Monterey, was awarded the Perfecto Villarreal Award of Excellence at the Northern California Nevada Chapter meeting of the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO) on February 8 in Sacramento.  The award is given each year in memory of Perfecto Villarreal to an outstanding individual in one of the Northern California housing authorities who is an outstanding leader and has passion and dedication to the affordable housing effort.
 
Mr. Nakashima was recognized for his leadership and dedication to the mission of the Housing Authority for the past eight years.  The award reads in part, "Jim Nakashima is an outstanding leader who has demonstrated his dedication to the mission of the Housing Authority...Under his leadership, the Authority achieved fiscal and operational stability.  Jim is a visionary leader who is not afraid to embrace the changing environment we work in at the national, state and local levels."
 
 Jim Nakashima assumed management of the Housing Authority during a time of fiscal and operational turmoil, and implemented fiscal responsibility and sound business principles. He has reformed the agency into a HUD recognized "High Performer" in property management, maintenance and financial management.
 
When asked about the key to his success and why his peers singled him out for this prestigious award, Jim was quick to stress the high quality of his staff.  "I am very fortunate to be surrounded by a team of experienced and educated professionals at every level.  The Board of Commissioners provides us great guidance and allows us to be creative in fulfilling our mission statement.  This award truly belongs to the agency."
 
Alan Styles, Chair of the Housing Authority Board, presented the award to Nakashima on February 28 in front of the commission and several distinguished guests. Chairperson Styles commended Jim for his leadership with the staff and his ability to work effectively with the Board on behalf of the residents of Monterey County.
 
                                          

The Housing Authority provides a variety of housing and services to qualifying residents of Monterey County.  Actively involved in a number of collaborative efforts to bring affordable housing within the County, the Housing Authority promotes the goals of economic development, self-sufficiency, family unification and community empowerment. The Housing Authority owns or manages 1,400 units of affordable housing throughout Monterey County.