Nassau County Chamber of Commerce Receives $1 Million for Workforce Housing
Governor Ron DeSantis recently announced the allocation of $1 million to the Community Land Trust (CLT) of Nassau County, created and maintained by the Nassau County Chamber of Commerce. The allocation of these funds is a significant step towards addressing the urgent need for available housing for the county’s essential workers such as nurses, teachers, police officers, and hospitality professionals.
For years, Nassau County has faced a pressing and growing demand for housing options tailored to the ‘missing middle’ – those who earn too much to qualify for traditional affordable housing but not enough to afford market-rate housing. As the voice of the business community in Nassau County, the Chamber of Commerce took the initiative to establish and obtain funding for the Community Land Trust of Nassau County.
The primary purpose of the CLT is to hold land in a trust to ensure long-term affordability for the housing units built on it.
The first housing venture, situated on donated land, plans to construct 100 affordable apartments in its first phase, specifically aimed at individuals working within Nassau County. This initiative is designed to stabilize the local workforce and foster economic growth within the county.
“We are currently in the planning phase of this first endeavor,” said Regina Duncan, President of the Nassau County Chamber of Commerce. “The lack of available housing for essential workers has been evident for a while, and it is a problem that is only getting worse, not better. We recognize that this effort must be a public-private partnership and look forward to working closely with various stakeholders, including local government, to solve the housing crisis in Nassau County.”
“The funding for the Community Land Trust is a transformative investment in our community’s future,” said Steve Wylie, Chairman of the Board for the Nassau County Chamber of Commerce. “This support will enable us to make significant strides in providing housing for our hardworking residents, ensuring those who work here can also live here.”
The success of this venture and the future of Workforce Housing in Nassau County will depend on community partners willing to donate land, vacant buildings, services or funds. To learn more and discuss opportunities, please call (904) 261-3248 or email info@NassauCountyFLChamber.com.
The Nassau County Chamber of Commerce extends its gratitude to Governor DeSantis for his support, as well as sponsors Senator Clay Yarborough and Representative Dean Black.