Damon E. Duncan - Interim CEO

Peoria, Illinois – The Peoria Housing Authority (PHA) Board of Commissioners announces that Ms. Armeca Crawford has resigned from her position as Chief Executive Officer, effective February 13, 2026. Ms. Crawford has accepted a position as CEO with another public housing authority.

“We are grateful for Ms. Crawford's service over the past four years and wish her the absolute best in her future endeavors.” said PHA Board Chair, Kadar Heffner.

To ensure continuity of operations and leadership during this transition, the Board of Commissioners has selected Clesia Ventures’ Chief Executive Officer, Damon E. Duncan, to serve in an interim leadership capacity.

Mr. Duncan is a seasoned housing professional and former public housing authority CEO, having led agencies in Elgin, Illinois; Richmond, Virginia; and Montgomery, Alabama. He has also served as interim CEO for several public housing authorities, including the Lucas Metropolitan Housing Authority in Toledo, Ohio; the Gary Housing Authority; and the Flint Housing Commission.

Atlanta-based, Clesia Ventures, LLC is an affordable housing planning, development, training, and supportive services company serving municipalities and public housing authorities in the Midwest and Southern regions. Mr. Duncan and Clesia Ventures will assist the Board of Commissioners in maintaining operational stability while supporting a local and nationwide search for PHA’s next permanent CEO.

Additional information regarding the leadership transition and search process will be shared as it becomes available.