On March 7, the Broward County Commission accepted the 10-year Affordable Housing Master Plan proposed by the FIU Metropolitan Center, following extensive discussions among commissioners. While the plan was accepted, concerns were raised regarding the implementation of several recommendations, leading to a decision to adopt only the first year of funding, which allocates 90% of the expiring tax increment finance (TIF) funds for the 2025 budget year. The commission will revisit the funding for subsequent years next year.

The Affordable Housing Master Plan comprises three main components: funding, densification, and regulatory incentives. Densification focuses on increasing the number of housing units on existing land, while the regulatory incentives aim to encourage cities to adopt supportive measures for affordable housing.

Importantly, the commission clarified that there are no mandatory funding requirements for cities to support the plan. However, it recommended that municipalities establish trust funds to address local affordable housing needs and review land use zoning to accommodate higher densities.

The meeting also highlighted the proactive steps taken by Oakland Park, which has been recognized for its efforts in affordable housing initiatives. The city is encouraged to establish its own affordable housing trust fund, develop city-owned vacant land for affordable housing, and consider the implementation of an affordable housing ombudsman.

These discussions underscore the county's commitment to addressing the affordable housing crisis while allowing local governments the flexibility to tailor solutions to their specific community needs.