Deltona seeks input on Housing Equity Plan through public meetings.

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News

The City of Deltona's Housing and Community Development Department is promoting fair housing practices and combating discrimination within the community with a proactive approach. As part of its commitment to Affirmatively Further Fair Housing (AFFH), the city is hosting a series of public meetings to gather input on its newly proposed Housing Equity Plan on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. and on Tuesday, May 23, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at the City Commission Chambers, located at 2345 Providence Boulevard in Deltona. 

Being a grant recipient of federal funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the City of Deltona recognizes the importance of fostering equality and inclusivity in housing. By eliminating housing discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin, and disability, the city aims to ensure residents have equal access to housing opportunities.

In line with the requirements set forth by the federal Fair Housing Act, the Housing Equity Plan will assess existing barriers to fair housing and outline priority areas and goals to address these issues. The Fair Housing Act safeguards individuals against discrimination when involved in activities such as renting or purchasing a home, securing a mortgage, seeking housing assistance, or engaging in other housing-related endeavors.

To ensure a comprehensive and inclusive approach, the City of Deltona will actively seek input from various stakeholders during public meetings. These stakeholders include residents, housing and homeless partners, public service providers, non-profit agencies, neighborhood associations, public and assisted housing residents, Realtors, lenders, educators, housing advocates, and others invested in the issue of fair housing.

The city has also established an online platform to facilitate public participation. 

The Housing Equity Plan project and virtual engagement site, which are accessible at www.fhcconnect.org/deltona-housing equity, offer a range of avenues for providing input. Interested individuals can participate in surveys, quick polls, and discussion forums to voice their opinions and contribute to the plan's development.