Dunedin commission approves development agreement for 78-unit affordable housing project

The City Commission of Dunedin, Florida, convened on June 6, 2025, to discuss significant developments in affordable housing within the community. The meeting primarily focused on a proposed development agreement aimed at introducing 78 units of affordable housing for individuals and families earning between 30% to 80% of the area median income.

The commission emphasized that this initiative is part of a two-step process, with the current meeting addressing the first step—the development agreement. The second step will involve a full design review by the Local Planning Agency (LPA) before returning to the commission for final approval. The agreement includes a request for a 50% density bonus and a 50% public art exemption, both of which have received recommendations for approval from the LPA and city staff.

City officials highlighted the pressing need for affordable housing in Dunedin, noting that the city has limited vacant properties available for development. The project is seen as a crucial step in addressing the community's housing needs, especially given the city's built-out status. The developer, who has a successful track record with similar projects, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, which has been in the works for several years.

Discussions also touched on the criteria for selecting suitable properties for affordable housing projects. Factors such as acreage size, proximity to major transportation routes, and access to essential services like grocery stores and hospitals were deemed critical for the project's success. The commission noted that smaller lots are often not viable for affordable housing due to funding challenges and economic feasibility.

Commission members reviewed existing affordable housing projects in Dunedin, including Eco Village, Habitat for Humanity developments, and Palm Lake Village, acknowledging the city's ongoing efforts to enhance housing options. The proposed project is expected to be the first significant multi-family development in recent years, expanding the city's affordable housing stock.

Additionally, the Pinellas County Housing Authority is contributing $10 million in rental vouchers over ten years to support qualifying residents, further enhancing the affordability of the new units. The city has allocated $610,000 from federal ARPA funds to assist with the project, reflecting a collaborative effort to address housing challenges in the area.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of moving forward with the development agreement, setting the stage for the next steps in the approval process. The commission's commitment to affordable housing remains a priority, as they seek to provide viable living options for Dunedin's residents.