The Clearwater Neighborhood & Affordable Housing Advisory Board convened on February 13, 2024, to address critical housing needs within the city. The meeting focused on identifying and prioritizing unmet housing needs based on recent data analysis.

The discussion began with a presentation outlining seven key housing needs identified during the study. These needs include:

1. **Entry-Level For Sale Homes**: The availability of homes priced under $231,000 is notably scarce.
2. **Infill Rental Apartments**: These are essential for integrating affordable housing into existing neighborhoods.
3. **Housing for Lower-Income Renters**: Many renters are being forced to seek more expensive options.
4. **Options for Downsizing and Aging in Place**: This includes accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and mobile homes, which are vital for older residents.
5. **Preservation of Missing Middle Housing**: Smaller rental units, typically with ten or fewer units, are crucial for maintaining neighborhood diversity.
6. **Workforce Housing**: Defined as housing affordable for those earning between 60% to 120% of area wages, this is essential for local economic development.
7. **Strategies to Prevent Mobile Home Resident Displacement**: Addressing the challenges faced by mobile home residents is a pressing concern.

The council was tasked with ranking these needs, and the results indicated a strong consensus on priorities. Workforce housing emerged as the top priority, reflecting the need to support those who work in the community. Following this, infill rental apartments and ADUs were ranked second, while entry-level for sale homes were placed fourth. Options for downsizing and preservation of missing middle housing were ranked fifth and sixth, respectively. Strategies to prevent mobile home displacement received the lowest ranking but still showed significant agreement among council members.

The meeting concluded with a recognition of the importance of addressing these housing needs to ensure a diverse and sustainable community. The council's rankings will guide future housing initiatives and strategies in Clearwater, emphasizing the need for affordable options across the housing spectrum.