Portage Metropolitan Housing Authority

Portage Metropolitan Housing Authority: affordable housing in Portage County, Ohio

The Portage Metropolitan Housing Authority (PMHA) is a political subdivision created by the state of Ohio dedicated to meeting the housing needs of low-income families and individuals in Portage County. Its work combines direct housing management with the administration of rental subsidies and self-sufficiency support programs, in cooperation with public and private partners.

Origin and institutional evolution

The entity was founded in 1968 by local business leaders to provide rental assistance to Ravenna residents. In 1977 it expanded its service to all of Portage County. It is governed by a five-member board of commissioners: Thomas Sicuro (chair), Jean Meadows (vice chair), Scott Mikula, John Thomas and Shynice Steward. The board meets on the last Tuesday of each month, except in November and December, at 11:30 a.m. at the PMHA office. The 2026 calendar includes meetings in January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December.

Housing and subsidy programs

PMHA administers the Public Housing Program, created by the U.S. Housing Act of 1937 and funded by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). It also manages the Section 8 program and other subsidies that allow households to rent or purchase affordable, safe and decent permanent housing. Available options include apartments, townhouses, single-family homes, multi-family units and group home residences.

The agency participates in the Moving to Work (MTW) program, which funds locally designed strategies to support employment, self-sufficiency and a greater variety of housing choices for low-income families. It also has a Homeownership Program and a Capital Fund Program.

HUD recognition and financial management

PMHA was recognized by HUD with High Performer status, which qualifies it for additional funding allocations for capital improvements. To earn this distinction, the agency demonstrates exemplary performance in financial stewardship, management operations, facility management and capital funding. In addition, it received the Ohio Auditor of State's award for excellence in financial reporting in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and compliance with applicable laws for the fiscal year ending 2024; only 17% of organizations receive this recognition.

Services for residents and landlords

The agency offers resident services that include a summer camp and support programs. For landlords, it provides a landlord portal, a landlord packet and a Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) direct deposit form. PMHA also publishes bidding opportunities and request for proposal (RFP) documents for painting, construction, electrical, plumbing and other services.

Properties and housing options

The property catalog includes both PMHA-managed housing and non-PMHA managed housing. Examples listed include a two-bedroom, one-bath townhouse at 9538 Community Rd, Windham; a property at 112 Elm St; and another at 9091 Horn Rd. The agency also maintains a waiting list for access to its programs.

Transparency and governance

PMHA publishes record retention and public records policies, as well as newsletters. Its 2026 operating budget projects operating costs and income from resident rents, federal subsidies and other grants. The 2024 audit report is available for review.

Location and contact

2832 State Route 59, Ravenna, OH 44266 · Phone: (330) 297-1489 · Email: info@portagehousing.org