Resident urges Leesburg to track homeownership outcomes, proposes dedicated down-payment funding

During public comment, Demani Nettles told the commission he was grateful for recent home-beautification programs but criticized the city’s measurable outcomes for homeownership. "According to information I have received, only one family has successfully transitioned from renting to home ownership through the city supported housing efforts over the past three years," Nettles said, and invited staff to correct him if that information was wrong.

Nettles urged the commission to create measurable goals and accountability for homeownership programs, including regular first-time homebuyer seminars, stronger local down-payment assistance, and funding to support transitions from transitional housing to homeownership. He proposed dedicating $150,000–$200,000 annually to help "at least five or more families in home ownership each year." He also asked why the city relies on the Lake County SHIP down-payment pipeline when the local outcome he reported appears limited.

Mayor Barry and commissioners did not commit to immediate funding changes during the public-comment period. Staff said the comment would be referred to appropriate departments for follow-up. Nettles framed his appeal as a call for measurable accountability: "If we can measure beautification, redevelopment, and recreation, we should also be measuring how many new homeowners we create."

The commission did not vote on any housing policy that night; staff agreed to refer the points to housing and CRA staff for follow-up and potential inclusion in upcoming budget discussions.