City To Begin Discussions With CHR Over Affordable Housing Developments

by SC Reporter Emilie Alfino

City Council approved three of four city lots for possible affordable housing. The fourth lot, at 2475 Library Way is needed for City offices for the foreseeable future.

The lots at 2401 and 2431, and at Periwinkle Way (no number) may be considered for future affordable housing projects.

The former Sanibel Captiva Community Bank, 2475 Library Way, purchased by the city in 2019, is currently needed for city offices. SC file photo

The lot at 2431 Periwinkle Way is one of three approved by the city for possible affordable housing development.

“The time for this is appropriate now,” said City Manager Dana Souza.” These parcels could be combined in an appropriate mixed-use development with offices for Community Housing and Resources on the first floor and housing on the second floor.” CHR is preparing to check funding.

Council instructed staff to begin discussions with CHR.

In other property news, Council ruled on a condominium bill.

The Florida State Legislature, in response to the Surfside Condominium building collapse in June 2021 which killed 98 people, adopted a bill that requires milestone inspections for condominium and cooperative buildings three stories and higher that are 30 years old, or 25 years old if located within three miles of the coastline.

That law is designed to avoid catastrophic building collapses; as such, the City of Sanibel will adopt the regulations in compliance with Florida law as in the best interest of the City to promote the health, safety, and welfare of City residents. The only change adopted by the Council was to make the first deadline Dec. 31, 2024, rather than July. Ordinance was adopted unanimously.