Miami Dade County Allocates $600,000 for Homeless Trust Property Rehabilitation

In a pivotal meeting held at Miami City Hall, city officials discussed a significant allocation of $600,000 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds aimed at rehabilitating a city-owned property located at 1371 Northwest 61st Street. This initiative, led by the Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust, seeks to transform the building into affordable housing for low-income families experiencing homelessness.

The property, built in 1958, currently consists of six one-bedroom units that require extensive repairs to meet safety and livability standards. The proposed rehabilitation plan includes critical updates such as structural and electrical repairs, roof replacement, and mold remediation, with an estimated total cost of $800,000. The Homeless Trust has committed to covering the remaining costs through additional funding sources, including county food and beverage taxes.

During the meeting, Alberto Cacao, the Housing Development Coordinator for the Homeless Trust, emphasized the organization’s commitment to addressing homelessness in Miami. He noted that the Trust will operate the building as permanent supportive housing, which is crucial for residents who may not have stable income. Each household is expected to contribute only a small portion of their income towards rent, necessitating ongoing financial support from the Trust.

The discussion also highlighted the Trust's proactive approach to property management. As they expand their portfolio, they plan to hire additional staff to oversee operations and ensure that residents receive necessary support services. This initiative comes after the previous operator, Camillus House, withdrew from the project, prompting the Trust to step in and take ownership.

City officials expressed their support for the project, recognizing the importance of collaboration in revitalizing neighborhoods and addressing homelessness. The meeting concluded with assurances that a reverter clause would be included in the property transfer agreement, allowing the city to reclaim the property if the Trust fails to meet its obligations.

As Miami continues to grapple with housing challenges, this project represents a significant step towards providing stable homes for those in need, reinforcing the city’s commitment to combating homelessness and fostering community development.