The Credential - March 2026
Since 2023, I have had the privilege of serving on the distinguished HCCP Board of Governors (BOG), and I am truly honored to serve as Chair for 2026 alongside such talented industry experts and colleagues.
First, I would like to thank Gina Metzger for selecting me as Vice Chair in 2025. Working with Gina this past year has been an incredible learning experience. Gina, thank you for everything you have done to help prepare me for the role of Chair. I am also grateful to be working with Mike Ellis as Vice Chair in the coming year, as well as the entire HCCP BOG.
Some of you may be wondering—who is the Chair? I currently serve as the Director of Multifamily Compliance at the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA), the state housing finance allocating agency, where I have worked for the past 24 years. Prior to joining TDHCA, I worked for a private tax credit owner, where I developed my passion for affordable housing and helping others. As stewards of affordable housing, the work we do is critically important in providing safe, decent housing for countless families.
I am very excited to introduce the 2026 HCCP of the Year, Stephanie Naquin. Congratulations, Stephanie—this is a distinguished honor, and you are truly deserving of this award. Be sure to learn more about Stephanie in this edition of the HCCP Spotlight.
This quarter’s issue of The Credential features several outstanding articles, beginning with a four-part series on IRS Form 8609 by Kelly Wakefield, who provides valuable insight into the form and its impact on day-to-day compliance. We are also excited to welcome new contributors Cara Pollie and Austin Pittman. Cara’s article takes a deep dive into student financial assistance income under HOTMA, while Austin shares a developer’s perspective on how Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) elections shape long-term performance. You will also want to read Christine Martin and Robert Oley’s article on property stabilization and what it means in the LIHTC industry.
Additionally, Scott Michael Dunn continues the Back-to-Basics series with a focus on HOTMA Income FAQs, addressing complicated income inclusions and exclusions. Don’t miss Mike Price’s Emerging LIHTC Issues article, which covers the latest LIHTC news, including topics such as “The Road of Housing Act” and HUD’s extended implementation date for HOTMA, among others. Finally, Gina Metzger addresses best practices for LIHTC eligibility, which coincides with this month’s webinar, “From Application to Approval: Navigating the LIHTC Application Process.” Marie Peace with Envolve Client Services Group and Christine Martin with LDG Development will guide us through best practices for documenting household eligibility.
I look forward to working with the HCCP Board of Governors and serving as your Chair over the next 12 months.
Stories in This Edition:
More Than Checking a Box: How LIHTC Elections Shape Long-Term Performance - by Austin Pittman
HOTMA for LIHTC: Student Financial Air Calculations - by Cara Pollei
Understanding IRS Form 8609 - Kelly Wakefield
Back to Basics Part 7: HOTMA Income FAQs - by Scott Michael Dunn
Stephanie Naquin Named HCCP of the Year
Distributer Spotlight: Mandi Lewis