I
n a bid to boost affordable housing in Hialeah, the city council has given developers a sweet deal: more density for projects that prioritize low-income residents. Under the new ordinance, builders can pack up to 100 units per acre – a 43% increase over current zoning limits – if they reserve 15% of their apartments for tenants earning up to 60% of Miami-Dade County's median income.

    Alternatively, developers can opt out of setting aside affordable units and instead contribute $30,000 per unit to an affordable housing trust fund. This compromise aims to balance the needs of builders with those of Hialeah's low-income residents.

    The legislation was crafted in consultation with a task force comprising local builders, who helped identify a "sweet spot" for affordable housing that would actually benefit Hialeah's working-class population. Councilman Jesus Tundidor, the bill's sponsor, argued that Florida's Live Local Act has been ineffective in Hialeah due to its one-size-fits-all approach.

    Tundidor's colleagues praised the legislation as a "win-win" for both developers and residents, citing increased affordability as a direct result of more apartments. The ordinance is expected to win final approval, marking a significant step forward in addressing Hialeah's affordable housing crisis.