The Housing, Land Use & Development (HLUD) Committee has been advancing important work on historic preservation, affordable housing, and permitting reform. The Historic Designation Subcommittee has been meeting with City Council members to discuss updates to the designation process, while a new Affordable Housing Subcommittee is exploring recommendations such as transit-oriented development (TOD) zoning to expand access to affordable housing.
Permitting has been another top focus area. On August 8, the Committee convened a Permitting Round Table, bringing together Chamber members, developers, and city staff. A key outcome was the Chamber’s request for the City to begin publishing data that captures full permit lifecycles, which would improve transparency, accountability, and resource allocation. City staff expressed openness to continued collaboration with the Chamber to identify metrics that balance accuracy with context, ensuring both progress and remaining challenges are communicated effectively. Together, we can create policies and systems that balance growth, affordability, and efficiency—ensuring St. Pete remains a city that is both livable and economically vibrant.
🗓️ Next Committee Meeting Date: Tuesday, October 14
🕒 Time: 8:45 am
📍 Location: St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce