I am excited to share a recap of the successful Annual Housing Forum hosted by the Collier County Community Land Trust (CCCLT) on November 16, 2023. This event brought together community members, leaders, and stakeholders for a morning of insightful discussions, networking, and updates on housing affordability initiatives in Collier County.

Founded in 2020, the Collier County Community Land Trust (CCCLT) in Florida is dedicated to providing permanent, affordable housing. Funded by the Local Housing Trust Fund, it aims to offer affordable rental and homeownership opportunities, enhancing long-term housing stability in the county.

Event Highlights:

  1. The CCCLT Annual Meeting began at 8:00 am, exclusively for paid members of the corporation, setting a productive tone for the day.
  2. Registration and networking commenced at 8:30 am, accompanied by a delicious breakfast, fostering connections among attendees.
  3. At 9:00 am, the forum officially opened with engaging remarks, the Pledge of Allegiance, and insightful input from the sponsor, PNC Bank.
  4. The key segment of the forum, a presentation by CCCLT leadership at 9:15 am, unveiled the new Housing Alliance initiative and provided an overview of current and future development projects to enhance housing affordability in Collier County. Discussed:
  • EKOS Cadenza Apartments – 160 units tenants should begin moving in December 2023
  • Allegro Apartments – 160 units (100% affordable) by February 2024
  • Cadenza at Hacienda Lakes Apartments – 160 units (100% affordable) planned for 2024 completion
  1. The presentation was followed by an interactive Q&A session, where attendees had the opportunity to delve deeper into the discussed topics.
  2. The forum concluded at 10:45 am after a morning filled with meaningful dialogues and shared visions for the future.

Presenters:

  1. Michael Puchalla, Executive Director of CCCLT
  2. Stephen Hruby, Board President of CCCLT
  3. Eileen Connolly-Keesler, President & CEO of the Collier Community Foundation

The forum also featured an important update from the Collier Community Foundation regarding the Collier Housing Impact Investment Fund, highlighting the ongoing efforts and commitment to addressing housing needs in our community.

 

United Way of Collier and the Keys remains committed to supporting initiatives that aim to strengthen our communities through improved housing stability and affordability.

 

Ashley Jones, MSW
Vice President of Community Impact, United Way of Collier and the Keys