The City of Clearwater's Affordable Housing Advisory Committee meeting on October 3, 2023, highlighted a significant push towards streamlining the permitting process for affordable housing projects. A key focus was on ensuring that developers receive timely feedback, with discussions centered around the city's commitment to a four-day review turnaround for permits.

Committee members expressed the need for data to confirm that this timeline is consistently met, particularly for the limited number of developers engaged in affordable housing projects. While some members noted that the Clearwater Building Department has been responsive, challenges remain in ensuring that contractors and architectural teams maintain the same level of urgency.

A recommendation was made to enhance coordination between the assistant director of economic development and the permit manager, establishing a "one-stop" process for affordable housing projects. This initiative aims to provide developers with clear guidelines and a checklist of requirements, ultimately reducing delays in the application review process.

Additionally, the committee discussed the importance of mentorship for new developers entering the affordable housing sector. Plans were proposed to create a list of experienced mentors and improve educational resources for potential developers, which could foster a more robust affordable housing market in Clearwater.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to review and update informational materials related to the city's development approval process, ensuring that both developers and the public have access to clear and concise information about affordable housing initiatives. The committee's proactive approach signals a strong dedication to addressing the affordable housing crisis in Clearwater, with hopes of increasing the number of units available through both tax credit programs and nonprofit partnerships.