March 24, 2026
Michael Nigh to Retire as Executive Director of Area Housing Authority of the County of Ventura
Newbury Park, Ca — After nearly 38 years with the Area Housing Authority of the County of Ventura (AHA), including 11 years as Executive Director, Michael Nigh has announced to the Board of Commissioners that he will retire effective July 1, 2026.
Michael was selected Executive Director in 2015, after serving as Finance Director and Deputy Executive Director at AHA. He has dedicated his entire professional career to the agency and is only the fifth Executive Director in its history. During his tenure, Michael also served on the Ventura County Continuum of Care Board and as an Executive Member of the California Affordable Housing Agency.
Under Michael’s leadership, AHA invested millions of dollars throughout Ventura County to expand and preserve affordable housing opportunities for residents, adding nearly 400 units of affordable housing to Ventura County. Notable initiatives include:
Vista Campanario Apartments, Camarillo, CA – 60 units
Walnut Street Apartments, Moorpark, CA – 24 units
Rancho Sierra Senior Apartments, Ventura County, CA – 50 units
Mountain View Apartments, Fillmore, CA – 77 units
Bradford Apartments, Camarillo, CA – acquisition and substantial rehabilitation, 27 units
Vintage at Sycamore, Simi Valley, CA – 99-units
Casa Velasquez & Casas de Sueño Apartments, Camarillo, CA –acquisition, 23 units
Pepper Tree Court Apartments, Simi Valley, CA –acquisition, 36 units
Among these accomplishments, the acquisition of Pepper Tree Court Apartments in Simi Valley stands out as one of Michael’s most meaningful achievements. This creative and strategic acquisition was made possible through a strong, trust-based relationship with the former property owner, who specifically sought out AHA to preserve the property’s rental affordability while minimizing disruption to existing tenants. The project reflects Michael’s commitment to thoughtful, resident-centered housing solutions and the agency’s reputation as a trusted community partner.
Under his leadership, AHA maintained its High-Performing Public Housing Authority designation from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the 24th consecutive year, establishing the agency as one of the most well-run public housing authorities in the nation.
Michael strengthened the agency’s impact through strategic partnerships, including its longstanding collaboration with local nonprofit developer Many Mansions. “For 47 years Many Mansions and the Area Housing Authority have had a close relationship as we pursued our shared goal of providing affordable housing to the community.
Under Mike’s strong and steady leadership, we expanded this relationship by combining our strengths to co-develop needed housing in Fillmore, Camarillo, and unincorporated Ventura County,” said Rick Schroeder, President of Many Mansions.
Michael’s legacy is best reflected in the lives the agency has impacted. The agency’s motto during his time as Executive Director has been, “When We House One, We Change the World,” and it stands as a true testament to Michael’s leadership, dedication to the mission, and enduring commitment to the communities AHA serves.
“Michael has been a steady and inspiring leader whose passion for serving others has shaped the culture and direction of this organization. His impact will be felt for years to come,” said Mark Lunn, Board Chair. “We are grateful for his service and wish him nothing but the very best in his retirement.”
“I have been honored to dedicate my career to the Area Housing Authority and to work alongside such talented and committed staff,” said Michael Nigh. “The decision to retire was not an easy one, but I feel it is the right time. I have complete confidence in the agency’s leadership team and in the Board of Commissioners. Their dedication, vision, and commitment to the organization give me great assurance that the agency will continue to thrive and serve our communities with excellence long into the future.”