The State of Florida has one of the most proactive state-sponsored programs to encourage the provision of affordable housing at the local level.
This program is called the State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) Program and was created by the William E Sadowski Affordable Housing Act of 1992. The act establishes a dedicated revenue source from documentary stamps for local governments and municipalities to stimulate the production of affordable housing.
Requirements to Receive Funds
As required under the SHIP Program, all eligible local governments and municipalities are required to submit to the Florida Housing Finance Corporation a Local Housing Assistance Plan (LHAP) describing the proposed use of SHIP funds.
Approval of the LHAP is required in order to receive SHIP funds. The Neighborhood Services Department combines both SHIP and HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) funds to run the majority of its Housing Programs.
Funded Activities: 2019 to 2021
For 2019 to 2021, the following activities are funded:
- Housing Emergency Repairs Program
- Housing Rehabilitation Program
- Foreclosure Prevention
20% of grant funds must be used to assist "special needs" clients.
Plan
A copy of the LHAP is available upon requests by calling 321-567-3783.
Annual Report(s)
A copy of the City's SHIP Annual Performance Report for periods 2018/2019, 2019/2020, and 2020/2021 is available for public review and comment. Copies are available at the Harry T. Moore Social Service Center (725 S. DeLeon Av), City Hall, and by email upon request. All comments received by July 30, 2021 will be forwarded to the Florida Housing Finance Corporation.