The City of Clearwater's Affordable Housing Advisory Committee is taking significant steps to enhance its housing initiatives, as discussed in their recent meeting on October 24, 2023. A key focus was on the recruitment of a new housing specialist, a position approved by the city council to help manage the increased workload associated with affordable housing projects. This new full-time employee is expected to play a crucial role in streamlining operations and supporting ongoing housing efforts.

Committee members also discussed the development of a brochure aimed at promoting affordable housing resources. This brochure is set to be completed within the next year, with templates already available to assist in its creation. The committee emphasized the importance of clear communication in their outreach efforts.

Additionally, the committee made modifications to encourage affordable housing developers to submit building example plans for pre-screening by the building official. This change aims to expedite the review process, making it easier for developers to navigate the requirements and ultimately contribute to the city's housing stock.

These discussions reflect the committee's commitment to addressing the pressing need for affordable housing in Clearwater. As they move forward with these initiatives, the community can expect more streamlined processes and enhanced resources aimed at increasing housing availability.