Time and again, the issue of housing affordability and availability has been raised in discussions by myregion.org participants.

myregion.org chairman Joel Hass had an opportunity recently to hear an update on national housing initiatives.

Mel Martinez, U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, dropped by the Orlando Regional Chamber’s Executive Board meeting this week. The unexpected visit was a pleasant surprise for those in attendance.

The purpose of his visit was nothing more than to get reacquainted with old friends, share information about HUD and check on the “pulse” of the Central Florida region.

Mel Martinez is the nation's 12th Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. He was unanimously confirmed by the United States Senate and took his oath of office on January 24, 2001.

In nominating Martinez, President George W. Bush said: "Since leaving his Cuban homeland as a boy, Mel Martinez has been the embodiment of the American dream and has had great success in helping the people of his community obtain affordable housing and urban services."

Secretary Martinez shared touching stories with the Board Members about his recent trip “home” to Cuba. He also discussed plans HUD has for increasing minority home ownership – a big focus of his.

Even though Secretary Martinez has been in Washington for almost two years, he still remains true to his Central Florida roots. Visits such as this are proof of his dedication to our community and its leaders.

Photo: Mel Martinez, U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, with myregion.org Chairman Joel Hass.