The Louisiana Housing Council (LHC) was formed on June 14, 1962, in Opelousas with the goal of improving the administration and operation of low-rent housing across the state. Early objectives included strengthening collaboration among housing professionals and developing solutions to meet Louisiana’s housing needs. A constitution and by-laws were adopted, dues were set at $10 per agency, and the Council represented 58 active housing authorities statewide.

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, LHC took an active role in housing advocacy. The Council opposed federal bills that threatened housing programs, supported the advancement of urban renewal, and hosted hands-on training such as the 1967 “Shirt Sleeve Maintenance Clinic” for maintenance personnel. By 1972, the Council identified 11 charter members and continued to expand its membership and influence.

Significant milestones include:

• 1975: LHC challenged HUD’s administration of the Section 8 program to ensure equitable access for Louisiana agencies.

• 1976: Clyde T. J. McHenry of New Orleans became LHC’s first African-American president.

• 1981: LHC formally incorporated and supported the passage of Senate Bill 339, establishing Louisiana’s interlocal risk-management program—now the foundation of the Council’s comprehensive insurance program.

• 1989: The first LHC Scholarship Program launched, awarding three scholarships totaling $6,000.

• 1990–1992: Under Jim Firmin’s leadership, LHC strengthened committees, expanded member engagement, and increased participation at regional and national levels. Firmin later received the first Mike Hanratty Extra Mile Award in 1992 for his dedication to scholarship efforts.

These highlights, drawn from the Council’s historical scrapbooks, reflect LHC’s long-standing commitment to advocacy, education, leadership development, and support for housing authorities across Louisiana.