Pasco County unveils comprehensive action plan for housing and infrastructure improvements

Pasco County is set to enhance its housing and infrastructure initiatives following the approval of a comprehensive action plan during the Board of County Commissioners meeting on June 17, 2025. The plan, which received significant public input, aims to address pressing community needs, particularly in the areas of housing, economic development, and disaster recovery.

Joanna Cheshire, Chief of Staff for County Administration, highlighted the collaborative effort that shaped the action plan, noting that it incorporated feedback from 122 public comments collected over a 30-day period. The updated plan expands housing assistance to include condominiums and cooperative housing, alongside single-family homes, and emphasizes innovative approaches to economic development and workforce training.

The commissioners expressed strong support for the plan, with several praising the team's swift and effective response to community needs. Commissioner Oakley and others acknowledged the importance of careful vetting of potential partners in affordable housing projects, emphasizing the need for quality and community integration as development progresses.

The action plan is expected to be submitted to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) by the end of the week, with hopes for approval in August. This will pave the way for the rollout of various programs, including individual housing assistance, which is anticipated to begin in early 2025. Residents are encouraged to prepare necessary documentation for reimbursement applications, as the program will support repairs and reconstruction for those affected by recent disasters.

As Pasco County moves forward with these initiatives, the focus remains on ensuring that development aligns with community values and needs, setting the stage for a more resilient and inclusive future.