The City of Clearwater Affordable Housing Advisory Committee convened on October 3, 2023, to address ongoing challenges and strategies related to affordable housing in the community. The meeting focused on enhancing public understanding of affordable housing and improving communication with stakeholders.

The committee began by discussing the need for a comprehensive educational campaign aimed at rebranding affordable housing as "workforce housing." This initiative aims to highlight the diverse needs of residents and promote various housing options compatible with Clearwater's neighborhoods. Suggested actions include partnering with local organizations, such as Amplify Clearwater, to promote the benefits of affordable housing development and to update marketing materials that inform the public about available housing programs, including homebuyer education and down payment assistance.

A significant portion of the discussion centered on the importance of effective communication. Committee members emphasized the necessity of keeping residents informed about the city’s efforts and successes in affordable housing. A quarterly newsletter from the sustainability department was highlighted as a positive step in this direction, providing updates on city initiatives and encouraging transparency.

The conversation also touched on the city’s employee rental assistance program, which offers financial incentives to city employees earning below a certain income threshold. This program has seen participation from 55 employees thus far, and while it has been beneficial, members acknowledged the administrative challenges involved in monitoring eligibility and compliance.

Additionally, the committee explored the potential for creating incentives for landlords to support affordable housing initiatives. Suggestions included developing a list of landlords who are favorable towards affordable housing and establishing a liaison to facilitate communication between the city and property owners.

Overall, the meeting underscored the committee's commitment to addressing housing challenges in Clearwater through education, improved communication, and collaboration with various stakeholders. The next steps will involve further discussions on how to implement these strategies effectively and ensure that the needs of both residents and city employees are met.