The Affordable Housing Advisory Committee (AHAC) of Clearwater convened on October 28, 2024, to continue discussions on local housing initiatives. This meeting marked the second of four scheduled sessions aimed at addressing affordable housing challenges in the city.
The meeting began with introductions from committee members, representing various sectors, including emergency services, housing authorities, and residential lending. Chair Robin Field emphasized the importance of the committee's work and the collaborative spirit observed in their previous meeting.
A key focus of the agenda was a presentation by Amanda Warner from Wade Trim, who provided updates on the committee's progress since its inception in August. Warner noted that the committee's meetings, originally set for Tuesdays, had been adjusted due to a hurricane, with the next meeting scheduled for November 12. Following this, a public hearing is planned for December 3, where the committee's recommendations will be presented to the city council for consideration.
Warner highlighted the committee's ongoing efforts to refine the local housing incentive strategy report, which outlines values, principles, and a vision for affordable housing in Clearwater. The committee aims to develop actionable recommendations that will address the pressing need for affordable housing in the community.
The meeting concluded with a call for continued engagement and collaboration among members as they work towards finalizing their recommendations for the city council. The outcomes of these discussions are expected to play a crucial role in shaping Clearwater's approach to affordable housing in the coming months.