The City of Clearwater's Affordable Housing Advisory Committee convened on October 3, 2023, to discuss ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing affordable housing options in the area. Key topics included modifications to impact fees, density flexibility for developments, and the implementation of state and federal funding for housing projects.

One significant discussion point was the coordination with Pinellas County to adjust database rate flexibility within the multimodal impact fee structure. This initiative, aimed at supporting affordable housing, has been completed and is now part of the city's ongoing policy framework. The committee confirmed that impact fees for affordable housing have been discounted, making it easier for developers to engage in such projects.

The committee also reviewed the feasibility of further reducing or redefining impact and permitting fees based on unit size. This effort is intended to align Clearwater's fees with those of other municipalities in Pinellas County. While the city has already reduced fees for affordable housing, a comprehensive fee study is planned for the coming year to evaluate Clearwater's standing compared to neighboring areas.

Additionally, the planning and development department reported a significant reduction of 75% in plan review and permitting fees for single-family homes, which is seen as a positive step towards facilitating affordable housing development. The economic development and housing department is also utilizing state and federal funds to assist with these fees, ensuring that developers can achieve a reasonable profit margin on their projects.

The meeting highlighted the city's commitment to providing density flexibility for affordable housing developments. The committee confirmed that policies have been clarified to allow for density bonuses and public amenities incentives, which are crucial for encouraging the construction of affordable housing units.

Looking ahead, the committee is finalizing policies related to the Live Local Act, which will streamline the approval process for various types of affordable housing developments. A dedicated webpage is planned to provide clear information on density entitlements, height determinations, and eligible zoning districts.

Overall, the discussions underscored Clearwater's proactive approach to addressing affordable housing challenges, with ongoing efforts to refine policies and enhance collaboration with county officials. The committee's next steps will include further evaluations of fee structures and the implementation of new housing policies in line with state legislation.