"When looking at the crisis that we're now experiencing with affordable housing, let's look at the possibility of declaring a housing state of emergency in the City of Apopka and to pursue a rent stabilization program, " he said.
Smith elaborated on his concerns in a statement to The Apopka Voice after the meeting.
"It's important that we address affordable/workforce housing," he said. "The situation is getting worse, and it does not appear that it's going to get better any time soon. Working-class people find themselves homeless, struggling to make ends meet, and putting stress on their families. Tenants who pay more than 30% of their income on rent are rent-burdened, meaning they have less resources to pay for other basic needs for themselves and their families. Declaring a housing state of emergency in this crisis may be the only relief at this time. Pursuing some rent stabilization program to help those struggling could be a lifeline."
Since Smith's call for action in May, no affordable housing plan has moved forward in the Apopka City Council.
