Sarasota Faces Housing Crisis: 15,000 Affordable Units Needed Now!

Sarasota, FL, USA - Sarasota County is standing at a critical juncture in its quest for more affordable housing. In the face of a looming crisis, the Sarasota County Commission is taking steps to address the urgent need for housing, particularly for vulnerable populations such as seniors, teachers, nurses, and service workers. As the Herald Tribune reports, a recent study by the Florida Housing Coalition, commissioned by local foundations, estimates that the county needs around 15,000 new affordable housing units over the next decade. Currently, about 950 units are in the works, thanks in part to a one-time $65 million federal relief influx.

However, the situation is complicated. Some recent developments in East County approved by the commission did not include any affordable units, further exacerbating the demand in a market already known for high prices. While discussions are underway to restore a requirement for including affordable units in new developments, the effectiveness of voluntary density bonuses, used so far, has come under scrutiny.

Local Solutions and Strategies

The Sarasota Housing Action Plan suggests creating a continuous revenue stream for affordable housing from rising property tax income. This proposal is gaining traction, with support from local chambers of commerce, employers, and nonprofits, as well as a majority of the county commission. It appears that local leaders are learning from neighboring Manatee County, which has effectively implemented strategies for affordable housing, such as fast-tracking permits and offering gap funding to developers.

In fact, Manatee County’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund—backed by federal, state, and local property tax revenues—has been a crucial resource. The Housing Trust Group has set up several affordable housing communities in Manatee, with monthly rents ranging between $327 and $1,300. Their One Stop Housing initiative focuses on workforce housing, catering to families earning between 60% and 80% of the Area Median Income.

Resources for the Community

For those facing housing instability in Sarasota, a myriad of resources is accessible. According to Shelter Listings, the county offers a range of services, including homeless shelters, supportive housing, halfway houses, transitional housing, and day shelters. With over 3,000 listings, individuals can find assistance tailored to their needs.

• Project 180 Residential Program: Long-term housing for formerly incarcerated men. Contact: 941-677-2281
• Second Heart Homes: Permanent housing for individuals with mental illness at risk of homelessness. Contact: 941-577-6572
• Salvation Army Shelter – Center Of Hope: A haven for the homeless. Contact: 941-954-4673
• Sarasota Housing Authority: Providing low-income affordable housing. Contact: 941-361-6210

The Office of Homeless Services is particularly focused on engaging and empowering those experiencing homelessness or at risk of it, enabling them to achieve stable housing. They are constantly working on improving services, indicated in their recent report titled „Sarasota: Creating an Effective Homeless Crisis Response System.“ The Community Action Agency Board (CAAB) meets quarterly to further address barriers to self-sufficiency, actively advising the County Commission.

Moreover, outreach initiatives by the Homeless Outreach Team (H.O.T) aim to directly assist those in need. With the potential for new funding sources and community support, there’s a glimmer of hope in addressing the affordable housing crisis in Sarasota County. For more information, residents can reach out to Sharon Marchese, the Homeless and Poverty System Coordinator, at 941-861-2561 or smarchese@scgov.net.

As the community continues to navigate these challenges, one thing stands clear: the collaboration between local authorities, developers, and support organizations is essential to create a sustainable solution that serves every member of Sarasota County.