SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve funding to Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas County, Inc. in the amount of $204,100.00 for the construction of an affordable single-family housing unit; certify said organization as a City of Clearwater Community Housing Development Organization; and authorize city staff to execute documents necessary to effectuate closing. (consent)
Body
SUMMARY:
A Community Housing Development Organization is a private, non-profit, community-based service organization whose primary purpose is to provide and develop and provide decent, affordable housing for the community it serves. To assist in achieving these purposes, the City of Clearwater, under the HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) Program must reserve not less than 15% of its HOME allocations for investment in housing to be developed, sponsored, or owned by Community Housing Development Organizations (CHDOs).
Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas County, Inc., (Habitat) is a Florida not-for-profit corporation established to provide decent housing that is affordable to low-income families and to further the affordable housing mission of Habitat.
On September 3, 2026, Habitat applied for designation as one of the City’s eligible CHDOs and for funding to develop affordable housing. City staff has reviewed Habitat’s application and determined that it meets the requirements for CHDO designation.
In addition to the certification request, the City will make funding available from the FY 2025 and 2026 HOME Program CHDO allocation in the amount of $111,534.92 and the HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME Program) allocation in the amount of $92,565.08 for a total allotment of $204,100.00.
$202,100.00 of the funding will be a loan used for the construction of an affordable single-family home located at 908 Engman Street, Clearwater, Florida 33755. $2,000.00 of the funding will be a grant used for associated property inspections. The site is located in the North Greenwood Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy Area and will serve to increase homeownership opportunities.
Staff requests that the City Council approve the funding, approve Habitat’s request to be designated as a CHDO in the City of Clearwater, and authorize staff to execute documents necessary to effectuate closing on the loan and grant. Proposed closing documents have been attached to this agenda item for reference but may be updated prior to closing.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
N/A
USE OF RESERVE FUNDS:
N/A
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
Objective 2.4 - Supports equitable housing programs that promote household stability and reduces the incidence of homelessness within Clearwater.
