The City of Clearwater's Affordable Housing Advisory Committee convened on October 24, 2023, to address critical barriers and incentives affecting affordable housing in the community. The committee reviewed a total of 16 incentive areas mandated by Florida statute, which included both required and initiated areas aimed at improving housing accessibility.

Key discussions highlighted various challenges, such as competition from short-term rentals, rising construction costs, and the impact of interest rates and property taxes on housing affordability. The committee also acknowledged the need for better communication with landlords and proposed the idea of a landlord liaison to facilitate this relationship. Additionally, they discussed the importance of addressing misconceptions about affordable housing and the necessity for public support in workforce housing advocacy.

Among the proposed solutions, the committee emphasized the need for expedited review processes for single-family permits to reduce delays caused by back-and-forth communications between applicants and contractors. Plans for 2024 include creating an affordable housing mentor list and developing a brochure to better inform the public about available resources and initiatives.

The committee's discussions reflect a proactive approach to tackling the pressing issue of affordable housing in Clearwater, with a focus on actionable strategies that aim to enhance community engagement and support for housing initiatives. As these plans move forward, the committee's efforts could significantly impact the availability and accessibility of affordable housing in the city.