The transformational Live Local Act (SB 102) signed into law

The Housing Finance Authority of Pinellas County is a partner in the Sadowski Coalition, the Sadowski Affiliates, and a proud supporter of the Sadowski Education Effort. These organizations have been instrumental over the years in providing education on affordable housing to legislators and carrying the message of the importance of housing and the need for all Sadowski funds to be used for Sadowski housing programs.

The Live Local Act (SB 102) is the vehicle for a number of housing policies and was a main priority of Senate President Kathleen Passidomo. This legislation provides an array of affordable housing policies and includes a record $811 million of funding for affordable housing programs. Included in the legislation are three new property tax incentives and sales tax exemption for specified affordable housing development; land use tools to facilitate affordable housing in commercial, industrial, and mixed-use areas; encouragement that local governments adopt best practices for publicly-owned land; and state guidance and technical assistance on affordable housing policy.

The State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) Program distribution estimates for FY2023-24 for Pinellas County totals $11,137,539 (Pinellas County $5,783,723; Clearwater $1,364,349, Largo $964,511 and St. Petersburg $3,024,956).

This legislation will have the biggest impact on housing in Florida in more than three decades in helping to address Florida’s backlog of affordable, attainable and workforce housing.