I am writing to urge our community to support Community Housing & Resources’ (CHR) proposed affordable workforce housing at the derelict Fish House property.
With 70% of Sanibel’s land held in conservation, limited housing stock has made affordable housing increasingly scarce. The people who sustain this island, those working in restaurants, shops, healthcare, nonprofits, and essential services, do not have viable options to live here. This is not a future problem; it is a current and worsening crisis.
The proposed 39 apartments directly reflect CHR’s existing need, largely made up of single, working individuals. Lee County has conceptually approved $9.75 million dollars of funds for this endeavor. It is a one time commitment to Sanibel but must be approved by City council at their next meeting. If not supported by Council the money will be lost. This would be a significant setback for our community…