Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez (R-Doral) and Representative Lindsay Cross (D-St. Petersburg) today filed SB 220 and HB 229, for the 2023 Legislative Session.
The bill allows municipalities to reduce Ad Valorem taxes on affordable housing units in certain projects. This legislation would add another tool to the arsenal of cities and counties that have struggled to meet housing demands. Currently, few methods exist for local governments to shift existing housing supply into affordable units. SB220/HB229 will change that, creating incentive for operators of 50+ unit buildings to shift their pricing lower.
“Pinellas County is the most densely populated county in Florida. Every day, I hear from local residents who struggle to afford rent and find housing in a market with too much demand for too little supply. This bill will open up the possibility for buildings in areas like Downtown St. Pete to become more affordable through a public-private partnership. While this bill only addresses one small piece of the housing puzzle, I am hopeful that it will complement other housing solutions brought forward this session,” said Representative Lindsay Cross.
“I am proud to be sponsoring this legislation with Rep. Cross. During a time when housing costs are high, this bill will provide relief to working families through an ad valorem tax exemption for property used to provide affordable housing.” said Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez.
“I applaud Representative Cross looking at every opportunity to increase availability of attainable housing in Pinellas. The more tools in our toolbox can only positively impact that endeavor,” said Commissioner Charlie Justice (Pinellas County).
“I applaud and thank Representative Cross on behalf of the residents of St. Petersburg for making affordable housing one of her top priorities as a new legislator. When this bill was filed last session by Senator Rodriguez, the city was in full support. We are pioneers in utilizing the tools that the legislature gives us to combat our housing crisis and we will do so with this important tool as well! Looking forward to seeing it pass and getting signed into law,” said St. Petersburg Council Chair Brandi Gabbard.
“Representative Cross’s prioritization of affordable housing aligns with one of the City’s pillars for progress—Housing Opportunities for All. We support efforts that allow cities like ours to mitigate the potential challenges that accompany the creation of affordable housing units. We are grateful to Rep. Cross for identifying incentive measures that will make affordable housing a reality for property owners and residents alike. I’m proud to support this important bill and urge its consideration and passage,” said St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch.
