Remembrance: Oregon HUD MF Development Stalwart Sam Lesher.

I was saddened to see an Oregonian obituary today for former HUD Oregon Multifamily Development stalwart Sam Lesher. While I didn't know Sam well, as he left HUD just a couple years after I moved to Portland, I remember him for his wit and spark of energy, his tremendous knowledge, and a desire to get things done even if it stretched bureaucratic rules.

In recent years there has been a considerable focus on preserving MF project based units in Oregon. It's clear that WITHOUT Sam and his staff there would NOT be anywhere near the number of Oregon low income projects and units to BE preserved.  

Sam's tireless focus on low income housing production during the heyday of HUD production programs, especially at the end of the fiscal year, is well remembered by those who worked with him and his work continues to provide safe, decent housing to thousands of Oregonians. 



I encourage others who knew Sam to add comments to this post.