David Lambert, chair of the Pasco Housing Authority, presented the findings of a year-long study, which included maps showing the concentration of cost-burdened renters and homeowners. The council was informed about the groundbreaking event for a veterans housing complex, financially supported by $4 million in funding secured by Congressman Bill RS, with half of the units designated for single veterans.

The council also examined employment trends for Pasco and Hernando counties, noting that the fastest-growing job titles were in lower-wage sectors such as retail and lawn service. This trend underscores the urgency for affordable housing, as the majority of these workers are likely to become cost-burdened by 2050.

Marcy Esberg, Director of Community Development, discussed current initiatives to address housing issues, emphasizing the need for a multifaceted approach to retain affordable housing stock and assist residents with down payment and rental assistance.

A question arose regarding the need for 880,000 new housing units, which was clarified to be inclusive of new arrivals, not solely for affordable housing. The option to subsidize housing costs in built-to-rent neighborhoods was also considered.

The council reviewed HUD and state-funded affordable housing initiatives, assessing income qualifications and discussing the potential for purchasing and preserving affordable housing units. The affordability of housing for county employees was a concern, with data showing that many could only afford rents below the average prices across the county.

The council discussed the participation of cities within the county in the use of SHIP and CDBG funds. Newport Richie’s decision to opt out of the program, hoping to secure more state funding directly, was noted as unsuccessful. Strategies to address the affordable housing deficit included reducing fees for such housing, allowing accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and considering gentle density increases by converting single-family homes to duplexes or quadruplexes.

The need for redevelopment on the west side of Pasco County was highlighted, with transect zoning and form-based zoning being potential strategies. The council also considered incentives for public sector employees to live in the county, such as impact fee credits and down payment assistance.

The council expressed a desire to streamline the affordable housing development process by making it less expensive and more flexible. Ideas included allowing ADUs on larger properties and exploring inclusionary zoning and linkage fees.

A unanimous vote approved the establishment of the Magnolia Island Community Development District, ensuring that utilities for the development would include water, wastewater, and reclaimed water.

A resolution related to the Liv Local Act was adopted, allowing the county to opt out of a tax exemption for certain income levels. This decision was based on a report showing a surplus of rental housing in the 80 to 120% AMI range, but with a deficit in the 0 to 80% range.

Commissioner Seth Weightman commented on the county’s healthy supply of apartments, which was supported by recent construction data and other housing types. The potential for opting out of the Land Use Side (LUS) was discussed, with the aim of seeking relief in the next legislative session.

The council also addressed the impact of tax exemptions on county revenue, considered litigation, and approved appointments to the CH development board and the TDC board. A letter of support for Tampa Bay Water’s federal funding request was recommended.