Debut state of region event highlights (lack of) affordable housing

While policymakers and business leaders gathered recently in a Southwest Florida hotel ballroom to chat about everything from workforce and talent development to land use to transportation, infrastructure and water quality, one topic took center stage: affordable housing. 

That was a big takeaway from the State of the Region, a debut event hosted by SWFL Inc. on Aug. 31 at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa in Bonita Springs. SWFL Inc. is a regional chamber of commerce for Lee, Collier and Charlotte counties. 

“Affordable housing is always a top priority for the state to make sure that we’re not only constructing affordable housing, but (also providing) the ability to buy a home,” said Dane Eagle, the ecretary of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, at the event. “Southwest Florida is growing so rapidly others are investing and buying up properties. If you’re a police (officer), nurse, firefighter (or) school teacher, you may not be able to live in the community you serve.”