Dallas, Texas, January 16, 2026
The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas has appointed two new members and reappointed three existing members to its Affordable Housing Advisory Council, which plays a crucial role in addressing affordable housing issues in Texas and surrounding states. These appointments bring diverse expertise, enhancing the council’s capability to advise on effective housing initiatives as demand for affordable housing continues to grow.
FHLB Dallas Expands Affordable Housing Advisory Council
New members bring diverse expertise to the council, crucial for housing initiatives across Texas and beyond.
Dallas, Texas – The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas (FHLB Dallas) has made significant strides in addressing affordable housing issues with the appointment of two new members and the reappointment of three existing members to its Affordable Housing Advisory Council, officially taking effect January 1, 2026. This council plays a vital role by advising the FHLB Dallas Board of Directors on essential topics like affordable housing and economic development across its five-state district, which encompasses Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, and Texas. The collective expertise of the council’s members demonstrates an ongoing commitment to innovative solutions in affordable housing.
As Texas, especially cities like Austin, continues to experience rapid growth, the importance of affordable housing becomes ever more crucial. By fostering initiatives that reduce regulatory burdens, we can further empower local entrepreneurs and bolster economic growth. The engagement of informed and experienced individuals in this council exemplifies the proactive approach necessary to meet these community needs.
New Appointments Enhance Council Expertise
Justin Brooks
Mississippi Representative
Justin Brooks brings over 20 years of experience in housing and community development as the executive director and president of the South Mississippi Housing Authority. Serving around 10,000 households across 14 counties, Brooks is recognized for his leadership in transformative affordable housing initiatives, particularly in rural communities. His innovative problem-solving approach will be instrumental as the council tackles housing issues in a diverse range of environments.
Dan Foster
New Mexico Representative
Dan Foster, serving as the senior development manager for Chelsea Investment Corp. in Albuquerque, New Mexico, also joins the council. With extensive experience managing multifamily affordable housing projects, he has a proven track record in structuring complex financing solutions and fostering partnerships among various stakeholders. Foster’s expertise is set to contribute to enhancing the council’s overall effectiveness in advocating for affordable housing projects across the state.
Reappointments Affirm Continued Leadership
Jim Petty (Chair)
Arkansas Representative
Jim Petty, who has been at the helm of Strategic Realty Developers Inc. since its founding in 2007, continues as chair of the Advisory Council. Under his leadership, the company has managed over $100 million in real estate transactions, with a strong emphasis on affordable housing development. His guidance is expected to be pivotal as the council navigates ongoing challenges and seizes new opportunities in the housing sector.
Deborah Welchel (Vice Chair)
Texas Representative
Deborah Welchel brings nearly three decades of experience in affordable housing to her role as vice chair. Serving as vice president of real estate development for Volunteers of America National Services in Austin, she specializes in overseeing financial feasibility and the funding processes necessary for successful housing projects across Texas.
David Long
Texas Representative
David Long has dedicated over 18 years to promoting affordable housing as the president of the Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation in Austin. His leadership has been instrumental in launching statewide initiatives that address homelessness and improve access to affordable housing, highlighting the importance of strategic planning in community resources.
The depth of experience among these appointed and reappointed members underscores the council’s capacity to provide valuable insights into the nation’s pressing housing finance and community lending needs. The continued involvement of seasoned leaders illustrates the commitment to developing practical solutions for housing challenges across Texas and surrounding states.
About the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas
The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas operates as one of 11 district banks in the FHLBank System, established by Congress in 1932. As of September 30, 2025, it reported total assets of $112.2 billion. It functions as a member-owned cooperative, offering competitively priced loans and credit products to support housing and community development for approximately 800 members and associated institutions in its five-state district.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Affordable Housing Advisory Council?
The Affordable Housing Advisory Council is a 14-member group that advises the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas Board of Directors on affordable housing and economic development issues across its five-state district, which includes Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, and Texas.
Who are the new members appointed to the council?
The new members appointed to the council are Justin Brooks, representing Mississippi, and Dan Foster, representing New Mexico.
Who are the reappointed members of the council?
The reappointed members are Jim Petty (Chair) representing Arkansas, Deborah Welchel (Vice Chair) representing Texas, and David Long representing Texas.
What is the role of the Advisory Council?
The Advisory Council provides valuable insights to the FHLB Dallas Board of Directors on housing finance and community lending needs within the district, assisting in the development and implementation of affordable housing initiatives.
How long do the council members serve?
Advisory Council members are appointed to serve terms of up to three years and may not serve more than three consecutive terms.
Key Features of the Affordable Housing Advisory Council Appointments
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Appointments | Justin Brooks (Mississippi), Dan Foster (New Mexico) |
| Reappointed Members | Jim Petty (Chair, Arkansas), Deborah Welchel (Vice Chair, Texas), David Long (Texas) |
| Council Composition | 14 members representing Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, and Texas |
| Council’s Role | Advises FHLB Dallas Board on affordable housing and economic development issues |
| Member Terms | Up to three years, with a maximum of three consecutive terms |
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