The Deerfield Beach City Commission unanimously adopted the Local Housing Assistance Plan (LHAP) for fiscal years 2025–2028 on April 22, authorizing staff to submit the plan to the Florida Housing Finance Corporation.

Jonathan Salas, director of community services, told commissioners the LHAP sets the city's priorities for State Housing Initiative Partnership (SHIP) funds and describes programs to preserve and expand affordable housing. Staff recommended continuing the city’s home rehabilitation program (primarily hurricane hardening — roofs, windows and doors), a purchase‑assistance program for first‑time buyers, and a disaster assistance strategy to allow rapid funding in the event of an emergency.

Salas said program terms in the draft plan include maximum direct assistance levels tied to household income tiers: up to $40,000 for moderate‑income households and up to $70,000 for very low‑/low‑income households (award and affordability period depend on assistance amount). He said administrative costs are limited by program rules and that the city must meet statutory delivery goals for construction/rehab and homeownership percentages when allocating SHIP funds.

Commissioners asked clarifying questions about program delivery targets and staff said the allocation estimate is subject to the Florida Legislature’s final budget and may change; staff noted 10% of the allocation typically pays administrative costs. The plan had already been the subject of an earlier public hearing with the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee; April 22 was the required second public hearing before adoption.

The motion to adopt the LHAP was made by Vice Mayor Preston and seconded by Commissioner Hudak; the roll call vote was 5–0. Staff will forward the adopted LHAP to the Florida Housing Finance Corporation by the state deadline.