REACH Names Kathleen Mertz as Director of Housing Development

REACH is pleased to announce the appointment of Kathleen Mertz as its new Director of Housing Development. Kathleen comes to REACH with over two decades of experience in affordable real estate development and nonprofit leadership, bringing a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of creating and preserving accessible housing solutions. She is scheduled to begin her new role with REACH in mid January 2024.

Kathleen’s career spans a variety of leadership roles in the housing industry, including serving as a Project Manager, Director, and Vice President for Real Estate Development for a national nonprofit senior housing developer, as well as overseeing real estate, asset management, and community development programs as the Director of Housing and Community Development at a local public housing authority. Her expertise is particularly notable in her work with federal, state, and local funding programs, such as HUD and LIHTC, across multiple states. Her efforts have contributed to the production and preservation of over 1,600 affordable housing units, significantly impacting the landscape of community development.

“Kathleen’s deep commitment to developing affordable housing and her extensive experience in the field make her an invaluable asset to REACH,” said Margaret Salazar, REACH CEO. “REACH is confident that Kathleen’s strategic vision and dedication to fostering communities will continue to drive the organization’s mission forward, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to live in a safe and supportive environment.”

In 2020, Kathleen launched her consulting business, advising on the State of California’s Homekey program to expand housing opportunities for people experiencing homelessness. In total, this work included the purchase of 10 buildings, ranging in size from 25 to 215 units and totaling over $264 M in capital and operating subsidy to house persons experiencing homelessness.

“I’m delighted to be moving home to the Pacific Northwest to support the important regional housing work that REACH’s legacy embodies,” said Kathleen Mertz regarding her new role.

Kathleen holds a BA from Lewis and Clark College, a Professional Certificate in Not-For-Profit Management, and an MS in Historic Preservation from the University of Oregon. As a subject matter expert in affordable housing, she has presented at numerous conferences including Housing California, the Non-Profit Housing Association of Northern California (NPH), LeadingAge California, California Preservation Foundation, and National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO).