Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation has received an $11,000 grant from Bank of America in support of energy efficiency upgrades at the Santa Paulan Apartments in Santa Paula.

The grant is part of Bank of America’s commitment to building stronger communities and helping to accelerate the transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy. The bank works with Cabrillo and other nonprofit housing developers to help fund energy efficiency upgrades, retrofits, solar and other green building efforts.

“Thanks in large part to partners like Bank of America we can continue to provide our residents with safe, comfortable living in a quality environment. Bank of America has truly made a difference at this property and in the lives of the residents who live at The Santa Paulan,” said Margarita H. de Escontrias, Cabrillo CEO.

Funding from Bank of America will help Cabrillo replace two heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) units at The Santa Paulan, a 150-unit senior living facility for residents ages 55 and older. The newer units have longer lifespans and use many recyclable parts, reducing the number of materials going into landfills.

“Energy efficiency upgrades, like those scheduled for The Santa Paulan, allow our senior tenants to enjoy better health and comfort levels, reduce operating costs and water waste, and improve our environmental footprint,” said Luz Soto, Director of Property Management and Resident Services at Cabrillo.

Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation announces the addition of Luz Soto as its Director of Property Management and Resident Services. Soto returns to Cabrillo, where she previously served as Director of Property and Asset Management from 2005 to 2013.

Soto oversees Cabrillo’s residential portfolio, which includes 26 affordable communities that serve nearly 1,200 low-income families.

“With more than 20 years of property management experience, Luz’ strong leadership skills ensure the successful operations and management of Cabrillo’s rental portfolio,” said Cabrillo Chief Executive Officer, Margarita H. de Escontrias.

Overall, Soto is responsible for the oversight of property budgets; the timely turnover of vacancies and delinquencies; and all legal matters related to tenant-landlord laws and fair housing issues. She will also manage Cabrillo’s Resident Services program, which provides ongoing resources as well as social and educational programs to provide a ladder of opportunity for residents.

“Luz possesses not only the technical skills to succeed but also the personal attributes to help make our families successful. She understands our mission, purpose, and vision and has an appreciation for our residents. I believe returning to Cabrillo is an affirmation of commitment to the residents we serve and a coming home for her,” de Escontrias said.

Most recently, Soto served as Senior Vice President of Property Management and Resident Services with Abode Communities, where she managed 35 affordable housing developments with 2,319 homes that served 6,300 low-income people.

Prior to 2005, Soto worked as the District Property Manager for the Brackenhoff Management Group, where she managed a 1,300-unit tax-credit portfolio throughout California. She also worked with Goldrich & Kest Management, Inc., where she oversaw a residential portfolio consisting of 8,000 units, including HUD Project-Based Section 8, Tenant-Based Section 8, and Sections 202, 811, and 236.

Soto holds the following certifications:
• Certified Housing Asset Manager from Consortium for Housing and Asset Management
• Non-Profit Affordable Housing Specialist from the NeighborWorks America Training Institute
• Certified Professional of Occupancy from the National Affordable Housing Management Association
• National Assisted Housing Professional from the National Affordable Housing Management Association
• Various Low Income Housing Tax Credit, Fair Housing, and 504 certifications