Collier County commissioners recently made a significant decision to address the critical shortage of workforce housing in Urban Estates. With a 4-1 vote, they moved forward with a plan to allow homeowners in this area of North Naples to rent out guesthouses. The new policy will undergo a review after one year and a Code Enforcement report.
To garner feedback from Urban Estates residents, the county sent out 3,558 postcards inviting them to attend meetings or complete online surveys. However, only 135 responses were received. Zoning Director Mike Bosi expressed his belief that greater participation would occur once the code amendment allowing guesthouse rentals becomes a reality.
The state estimates that Collier County has a shortfall of approximately 49,399 affordable housing units. This pilot program, suggested by Commissioner Bill McDaniel Jr. and endorsed by the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee, aims to alleviate the housing crisis.
Under the current land-development code, renting guesthouses for commercial gain is prohibited, except for housing relatives or caregivers without paid rent. Additionally, owners are not allowed to live in the guesthouse while renting out their principal dwelling. The code also establishes specific criteria for properties eligible to have guesthouses. Currently, there are only 393 Urban Estates properties with guesthouses, while 413 are vacant lots. Commissioners have decided to limit rentals to the 1,560 homesteaded properties.
Commissioner McDaniel emphasized that this decision is driven by the principle of supply and demand. By increasing the number of available housing units, there will be a greater opportunity for housing affordability. The market rate for rentals in the area currently ranges from $4,770 for a two-bedroom unit to $6,323 for five bedrooms.
While the majority of commissioners supported the plan, there were some concerns raised. Commissioner Burt Saunders, who resides in Urban Estates, advocated for a review requirement to ensure that the rentals do not negatively impact the infrastructure. Commissioner Rick LoCastro also called for a review process to prevent excessive rental prices.
Overall, the approval of this plan by the Collier County commissioners represents a proactive step towards addressing the workforce housing shortage in Urban Estates. By allowing homeowners to rent out guesthouses, opportunities for more affordable housing will be created, providing relief for residents facing high rental costs in the area.
FAQ Section:
1. What was the recent decision made by Collier County commissioners?
The Collier County commissioners recently voted 4-1 in favor of a plan to allow homeowners in Urban Estates to rent out guesthouses as a way to address the critical shortage of workforce housing in the area.
2. Will the new policy on guesthouse rentals be reviewed?
Yes, the new policy will undergo a review after one year and a Code Enforcement report.
3. How did the county gather feedback from Urban Estates residents?
The county sent out 3,558 postcards inviting residents to attend meetings or complete online surveys, but they only received 135 responses.
4. Why does the county believe greater participation will occur in the future?
The Zoning Director, Mike Bosi, believes that greater participation will occur once the code amendment allowing guesthouse rentals becomes a reality.
5. How many affordable housing units does Collier County estimate it needs?
Collier County estimates a shortfall of approximately 49,399 affordable housing units.
6. What does the current land-development code allow for in regards to renting guesthouses?
Under the current land-development code, renting guesthouses for commercial gain is prohibited, except for housing relatives or caregivers without paid rent. Owners are also not allowed to live in the guesthouse while renting out their principal dwelling.
7. How many Urban Estates properties currently have guesthouses?
There are currently only 393 Urban Estates properties with guesthouses, while 413 are vacant lots.
8. Why did Commissioner McDaniel support this decision?
Commissioner McDaniel supported this decision as it is driven by the principle of supply and demand. By increasing the number of available housing units, there will be a greater opportunity for housing affordability.
9. What are the market rates for rentals in the area?
The market rate for rentals in the area currently ranges from $4,770 for a two-bedroom unit to $6,323 for five bedrooms.
10. What concerns were raised about the plan?
Commissioner Burt Saunders raised concerns about the impact on infrastructure and advocated for a review requirement. Commissioner Rick LoCastro called for a review process to prevent excessive rental prices.
Key Terms:
– Urban Estates: A specific area in North Naples where the shortage of workforce housing is being addressed.
– Guesthouses: Separate dwellings on a property that can be rented out and are subject to specific criteria under the land-development code.
– Affordable Housing: The need for housing that is within the financial means of individuals and families who may have difficulty finding suitable housing at market rates.
Suggested Related Links:
– Collier County Official Website
– Collier County Housing Authority
– Affordable Housing in Collier County