Clearwater approves $610K for Blue Fort Harrison affordable housing project

Under the warm glow of Clearwater's city hall lights, the City Council convened on July 10, 2025, to discuss pivotal developments in affordable housing. The evening's agenda was dominated by a significant funding proposal aimed at bolstering local housing initiatives.

Dylan May, the acting housing manager, presented a request for a local government contribution of $610,000 from the general fund reserve. This funding is crucial for Blue Fort Harrison LLC, which is seeking a basis boost under Florida's low-income housing tax credit program. The proposed project, located at 1219 Fort Harrison, aims to create 82 units of affordable housing, addressing the pressing need for accessible living options in Clearwater.

The council's approval of this funding commitment is a vital step for the developer, allowing them to move forward with their application for state support. May expressed confidence in the project, highlighting its potential to enhance the community's housing landscape.

Public comments followed, with Stacy Banick representing another affordable housing initiative, Bellevue Manor. Banick shared her experience with a previous successful project, Madison Pointe Apartments, which provided 80 affordable units in downtown Clearwater. She emphasized the importance of the Lakeview Neighborhood Revitalization Area, where Bellevue Manor is proposed, noting its designation as a low and moderate-income area in need of redevelopment.

Banick urged the council to consider Bellevue Manor for the same $610,000 local government support, reinforcing the collaborative spirit among developers and city officials in tackling the housing crisis. Her remarks underscored the community's support for such initiatives, as residents from Madison Pointe were present to voice their backing.

As the meeting progressed, the council members engaged in discussions about the implications of these projects, recognizing the critical role affordable housing plays in fostering a vibrant and inclusive community. The evening concluded with a sense of optimism, as Clearwater takes steps toward addressing its housing challenges, paving the way for future developments that promise to enrich the lives of its residents.