HOUSTON – On Wednesday, KPRC 2 investigates was on the scene on Houston’s East End as federal investigators started their second day of digging into the grounds along Buffalo Bayou.
The investigation focused on an area tied to a new low income housing project with ties to the Houston Housing Authority. This particular project was a big one launched under former mayor Sylvester Turner’s administration.
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The project sits on land that once housed the city’s former incinerator. Many residents in the area believe the land is still contaminated.
Wednesday morning, investigators from the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Office of Inspector General were back out on the grounds of this housing project. Investigators using a massive drill once again to extract samples for testing.
One federal investigator who has worked with the EPA in the past told KPRC 2 Investigates, the EPA has “a lot of toys”. The investigator went on to add the variety of resources for extensive investigations involving the environment is impressive and respected among the federal ranks. The investigator also adding that digs like what are taking place along the East End – in an urban environment – are rare.
Sources who have been speaking with federal investigators say this is all part of massive investigation involving HHA. In 2021, records clearly show the administration of former mayor Sylvester Turner was made aware of severe issues.
Emails obtained by KPRC 2 Investigates show Turner’s then Chief of Staff Marvalette Hunter being sent a questionnaire that an applicant looking to become HHA’s next president and CEO had completed. In the questionnaire which was conducted by a national search firm, the applicant – who at the time was a vice president at HHA – told the national search firm that his desire to be the next president and CEO was based on him “witnessing HHA’s prior and current president and CEO’s inability to effectively manage agency resources”.
It is important to note the Office of Inspector General of HUD focuses on “waste, fraud and abuse” according to a former federal investigator. KPRC 2 investigates has also spoken with multiple individuals who have met with FBI investigators in recent years to answer questions about this low income housing project.
