Meet the Leaders Behind LCHA

Executive Team

The Executive Team at the Lancaster City Housing Authority is dedicated to advancing our mission of providing quality, affordable housing and enhancing the well-being of our community. With diverse backgrounds in public service, housing management, and community development, our leadership team works collaboratively to create a strong, sustainable future for LCHA residents. Together, they bring a shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and service to every aspect of the organization.

Barbara Wilson, Executive Director

Barbara has served as the Executive Director of LCHA since 2017. During her tenure, Barbara has driven transformative initiatives, including the creation of Partners with Purpose (PWP), a nonprofit affiliate of LCHA that preserves 95 scattered-site housing units. She is a former Lancaster City Councilor and a higher education professional at Franklin & Marshall College. Barbara currently serves as President of the Pennsylvania Association of Housing & Redevelopment Agencies (PAHRA) where she works to advance housing initiatives across the state.

Beth Detz, Deputy Director

Beth joined the LCHA in 1987 as a Receptionist and has built an impactful career serving as a Housing Aide and Housing Manager, before becoming Deputy Director. She holds an Associate Degree in Business Administration from Penn State University and has earned several professional certifications, including Public Housing Manager and Senior Housing Manager. She also holds a Pennsylvania Real Estate License. Throughout her tenure, Beth has remained steadfast in her appreciation for the people and communities that make LCHA’s mission meaningful.

Amy Kendall, Director of HCV Program

Amy began her tenure at LCHA as an HCV Specialist, steadily advancing her career to become Assistant Program Manager before becoming the Director of the HCV Program. Prior to joining LCHA, Amy gained valuable experience as a Caseworker at the Union County Housing Authority. Amy has remained deeply committed to the communities she serves. Her work administering the Housing Choice Voucher Program has directly impacted the lives of countless families and individuals, helping them secure safe, stable, and affordable housing.

Jay Ortiz, Facilities & Maintenance Director

Jay joined LCHA in 1990 as a Maintenance Mechanic. During this tenure, he has served as Maintenance Supervisor, Facilities & Maintenance Manager, and most recently became Facilities & Maintenance Director. Jay is a Graduate of J.P McCaskey High School and holds an Auto Mechanics Certification from the Lancaster County Career and Technology Center. Jay appreciates the opportunities LCHA has provided to expand his knowledge of maintenance operations and organizational development.  He is committed to advancing LCHA’s mission to provide safe and affordable housing for the Lancaster community.  

Alex Otthofer, Grants & Development Director

Alex joined the LCHA in 2025, bringing five years of experience in Lancaster’s non-profit sector. Most recently, he served as Community Engagement Manager at Lancaster City Alliance, where he developed his background in communications, project management, and community engagement. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish and International Studies from Millersville University. Alex is deeply committed to the Lancaster community where he lives and works, and currently serves on the Board of SoWe, a neighborhood initiative in Lancaster’s Southwest.

2025 Board of Directors

The Lancaster City Housing Authority Board of Directors provides strategic oversight and leadership to support our mission of delivering safe, affordable housing. Appointed by the Mayor, these dedicated volunteers bring expertise and guidance to ensure our programs serve the needs of the community effectively. Meeting monthly, the Board plays a vital role in decision-making, policy development, and long-term planning to enhance housing opportunities for Lancaster residents.

Emily Samuel

Michael Sprunger

Sharon Allen-Spann

Michelle Cain

David Cruz, Jr.

Board Meeting Dates

Board meetings are held the third Monday of each month at 4:30 p.m. and are open to the public. If the third Monday falls on a holiday, the meeting is held on the third Tuesday.

If a member of the public wishes to attend a meeting, please contact LCHA at 717-397-2835, or email housing.info@lchapa.com.

Past Meeting Minutes

Tuesday, January 20Monday, April 20Monday, July 20Monday, October 19
Tuesday, February 17Monday, May 18Monday, August 17Monday, November 16
Monday, March 16Tuesday, June 15Monday September 21Monday, December 21

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