Spotlight Tampa Bay Panel Discussion Highlights Housing Crisis in Tampa Bay
The Tampa Bay Times Launches Community Series Spotlighting Housing Crisis
Last week, The Tampa Bay Times kicked off a new community series called Spotlight Tampa Bay, aimed at engaging residents in discussions on pressing issues with journalists, experts, and thought leaders. The debut event on Wednesday focused on the housing crisis in the Tampa Bay region, drawing a crowd of about 250 concerned citizens to The Palladium in downtown St. Petersburg.
The panel of experts included former state Senator Jeff Brandes, former Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn, Hillsborough County City-County Planning Commission Executive Director Melissa Zornitta, and Times real estate reporter Rebecca Liebson. The 90-minute conversation delved into the challenges of rising housing costs, limited supply, and the overall uncertainty in today’s housing market.
One key takeaway from the discussion was the need for increased investment in infrastructure to support the region’s growing population. Zornitta highlighted the projected influx of 450,000 residents in Hillsborough County by 2045 and emphasized the importance of finding revenue sources to fund necessary infrastructure improvements.
Another critical point raised during the panel was the lack of a cohesive state strategy for affordable housing. Brandes pointed out the need for state intervention to incentivize local governments to prioritize affordable housing initiatives and encourage developers to build more affordable units.
Former Mayor Buckhorn shared his perspective on the importance of creating a diverse supply of housing options to accommodate the region’s workforce and prevent the displacement of essential workers due to rising costs.
The next installment of Spotlight Tampa Bay is scheduled for January 30 at the Tampa Theatre, where experts and journalists will delve into the state of education in the region. Proceeds from the event will support the Tampa Bay Journalism Fund, furthering the Times’ commitment to fostering informed discussions on critical issues facing the community.