Chester Housing Authority (CHA) has announced Marquise Bailey as its newest addition to the agency’s Board of Commissioners. Bailey began his term on Jan. 14 after being appointed by Mayor Stefan Roots and approved by Chester City Council.
Bailey currently works as a legislative assistant to Pennsylvania House Speaker Rep. Joanna McClinton D-191). According to a press release issued by CHA, Bailey gained most of his housing-related work experience in his job and working with McClinton and Gov. Josh Shapiro to promote the Property Tax Rent Rebate Program, as well as hosting town halls and homeownership events.
Although he has never been a resident of public housing, Bailey said he grew up with the need for it, and it’s a major reason why affordable housing is a priority for him.
“Affordable housing has always [been a topic] near and dear to my heart because I know what it’s like to want a nice or a better home, but simply not be able to attain one,” Bailey said, adding, “My immediate goal is to really try to make a difference,” Bailey said. “I want to hear from the residents of the housing authority, and I want to make sure that we as board members are held accountable to do what we’ve been summoned to do — which is to serve them.”
He was appointed by Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker to serve on Philadelphia’s Youth Commission. Within six months, he was elected to the executive board as secretary and remained in the role for the remainder of his two-year term. Bailey credited this experience as a highlight of his leadership capabilities and unwavering commitment to serving his generation, CHA said.
“On behalf of everyone at CHA, I’m elated to welcome Marquise Bailey as Chester Housing Authority’s newest board member.”
said CEO Cindy Thompson. “He has shown his dedication to the community through his public service, advocacy, and engagement. I know he will be a tireless champion for our residents.”
Born and raised in Delaware County, he has spent most of his life as a community leader. He has been preaching at his local church, Open Door Mission True Light Church, since he was a teenager. He obtained his minister’s license in 2024 and intends to continue pursuing his education.
Bailey lives in Chester and is currently pursuing his bachelor’s in business administration at Lancaster Bible School.
CHA is governed by a five-member Board of Commissioners. Each member is appointed by Chester’s mayor and City Council. Commissioners receive no compensation and serve a five-year staggered term.
CHA was chartered in 1937 to provide quality, safe, and affordable housing for low- and moderate-income households. CHA owns and operates, or co-manages, 12 housing developments that over 2,500 families and senior citizens call home.
CHA assists an additional 1,600 families through the Housing Choice Voucher Program.
Chester Housing Authority names new board member - The Spirit
ADA