By Shawn Kirkpatrick
Opelika Observer
He’s spent 32 years in the housing industry, with the last fifteen in public housing, and the past couple of weeks as the new executive director of the Opelika Housing Authority.
Matthew McClammey comes from Atlanta to take over the seat Akinola Popoola left after he accepted the executive director position at the housing board in Mobile.
Right now, McClammey is focusing on getting out in the community and meeting people. “Observe, inspect and correct – that is basically what I’ve been doing – seeing where we are and finding the tweaks where I can so we can move forward,” McClammey said. “I think the Opelika Housing Authority is in great shape. Popoola did a great job making sure this authority is stable. I see great things here.” Henrietta Snipes, OAC Board Chair, said the thing that impressed the board about Mr. McClammey is that he’s about being on the ground. “Getting out there walking the area, getting with the residents, seeing the residents, knowing the residents and letting them know him – that is the goal of the board and his goal.”
McClammey was born in San Francisco. His parents retired to Monroe County, Alabama when he was in high school.
“My intent has always been to come back to Alabama. This is part of the path home,” McClammey said. “Beatrice is home. As I shared with the board, when I leave here I want to retire to Monroe County.”
But for now, McClammey will be overseeing 1,200 housing units, including Camp Hill. “I will be working closely with the board to hopefully take the authority in the directions they’ve seen for some time. Opelika is ahead of the curve as far as our assets. I think there are a lot of opportunities here.”