Community & Housing
Housing Affordability
Palm Beach County is confronted with a pressing housing crisis that extends beyond mere affordability—it directly impacts the health and well-being of our residents. Skyrocketing home prices and escalating rent rates not only strain household budgets but also pose significant barriers to accessing essential healthcare services. This crisis not only undermines residents’ quality of life but also hampers the county’s economic growth and prosperity. At the heart of this challenge lies the urgent need for collaborative action. Mayor Sachs understands that by bringing together stakeholders from across sectors, we can collectively develop innovative and sustainable solutions to address our community’s housing needs. Through strategic partnerships and concerted efforts, we aim to foster an environment where every resident has access to safe, affordable, and stable housing.
In response to immediate challenges, Mayor Sachs worked with County administration to offer a range of rental assistance programs and legal aid services to individuals facing eviction or homelessness. These initiatives provide crucial support to vulnerable populations, ensuring that they have access to safe and stable housing options. Sachs’ dedication to affordable housing is exemplified by other recent initiatives, such as the construction of affordable homes in Lake Worth Beach. These homes, made possible through partnerships with the Community Land Trust of Palm Beach County, offer hope and stability to first-time homebuyers like Shameka Foster and her daughter. By providing subsidized homeownership opportunities, we’re empowering families to achieve their dreams of homeownership and build a brighter future for themselves and their communities. Through the Palm Beach County Community Development Services Department, we continue to drive progress in housing sustainability. By supporting various programs and initiatives, such as the Owner Occupied Housing Rehabilitation Program and the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, we’re working to build stronger, more resilient communities for all residents.
Building Safety
In response to the Surfside tragedy, we prioritize the safety and well-being of Palm Beach County residents. Recognizing the importance of ensuring the structural integrity of our buildings, Mayor Sachs has proposed the establishment of a comprehensive certification program. This program aims to inspect all buildings in the county, including commercial, residential, and industrial structures. The proposed task force, comprising structural engineers, architects, insurance representatives, condo attorneys, real estate professionals, and brokers, will spearhead this initiative. Their primary goal will be to conduct thorough assessments and provide recommendations to enhance the safety of our built environment. Furthermore, our efforts extend beyond local boundaries. Our County is compiling a comprehensive report that identifies areas requiring immediate attention and advocating for a statewide review of high rises. This certification program will serve as a blueprint for this statewide endeavor, ensuring consistent standards across the state.
Smart Planning
When it comes to approving new developments, Mayor Sachs prioritizes projects that address the needs of surrounding residents and businesses, are planned with community input in mind, and are designed to preserve our natural environment. A good recent example of this is Canyon District Park. The grand opening of phase I of Canyon District Park and the groundbreaking for the Canyon Branch of the Palm Beach County Library System marked significant milestones for the Canyon District. Phase I of the park project, funded through Impact Fees and Infrastructure Sales Tax proceeds, includes three lighted multipurpose fields, a paved fitness trail, picnic shelters, and more. Phase II, slated for completion sometime this year, will feature additional amenities to serve the growing community. The new Canyon Branch library is strategically located in the Canyon Town Center and will provide vital resources and educational opportunities for residents. Expected to be the fifth busiest library branch in the County, the Canyon Branch underscores Mayor Sachs’ commitment to enhancing access to education and cultural enrichment though intentional planning and smart development.
Addressing Homelessness
In addition to prioritizing housing affordability, structural safety, and smart planning, Mayor Sachs also remains committed to addressing homelessness directly. The Homeless Coalition of Palm Beach County operates a donation center at the Senator Philip D. Lewis Center, providing essential support to individuals in need. This center serves as a beacon of hope, offering resources and assistance to those facing housing insecurity. In our continuous legislative efforts, Mayor Sachs and her Board colleagues are implementing a comprehensive rescue plan for Palm Beach County. This plan encompasses various crucial projects, including Recuperative Homeless Care, which allocates $1 million to provide essential medical respite for individuals experiencing homelessness. This initiative bridges the gap between hospital care and street living, ensuring proper treatment and support for those in need. Additionally, we’re embarking on an exciting new endeavor with the groundbreaking of Homeless Resource Center II. This innovative facility is projected to serve more than 500 families annually, offering a centralized point of entry for individuals experiencing homelessness. Unlike traditional shelters, this center prioritizes empowerment and skill development, equipping families with the tools they need to break the cycle of homelessness and achieve long-term stability.
Moreover, our Department of Housing and Economic Development administers various assistance programs tailored to meet the diverse needs of our residents. From homeownership assistance, to support for veterans and special needs applicants, these initiatives underscore Mayor Sachs’ unwavering dedication to fostering inclusive and accessible housing opportunities for all members of our community. Together, through collaborative efforts and community engagement, we strive to create a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where every resident has access to secure housing and essential resources.