Insights from FGCU’s Public Policy Forum on Affordable Housing

Florida Gulf Coast University recently hosted a meeting on “Affordable Housing: Exploring Goals and Perspectives.” The session was moderated by Justin Fitzgerald from FGCU’s Office of Public Policy Events. It brought together experts who analyze the housing issue from financial, social, and development perspectives.

The Panelists included:

• Ryan Benson – Chair, Florida Housing Finance Corporation; President, Florida Building Industry Association
• Dr. Thomas Felke – Professor of Social Work, FGCU; Member, Collier County Affordable Housing Advisory Committee
• Michael Puchalla – Executive Director, Collier County Community and Human Services
• Sarah Harrington – Housing Policy & Economic Development Manager, Collier County Economic Development Office
• Jessica Turner – Partnership Manager, Place & Home Coalitions at the Collaboratory
• Dr. Shelton Weeks – Professor of Real Estate, FGCU Department of Economics & Finance

A Problem Bigger Than Any One Community

Dr. Weeks opened with a blunt truth: “The lack of workforce housing is not just a local issue—it’s national.” Southwest Florida’s rapid growth, limited land, and construction costs have squeezed housing supply across the income spectrum. But perhaps the most formidable challenge, Weeks added, is the community’s willingness to accept a full range of housing types.

Ryan Benson noted that even with strong financing programs, “It takes years from conception to completion to fund, permit, and build new homes.” Meanwhile, prices continue to rise faster than wages—leaving local workers behind.

Michael Puchalla highlighted the practical barriers counties face in aligning funding sources with project timelines and ensuring developments remain affordable for the long term. Coordinating land use, permitting, and community support requires persistence and collaboration across agencies.

Social and Economic Ripple Effects

Dr. Felke reminded the audience that a shortage of attainable housing doesn’t just impact entry-level workers, but affects families, young professionals, and older adults who wish to stay close to neighbors and loved ones. Jessica Turner explained that “affordable housing” means homes priced within reach of the people who make a community function efficiently—teachers, nurses, public-safety officers, restaurant staff, and small-business employees.

Sarah Harrington added that Collier County and neighboring communities are already exploring creative zoning and incentives to promote mixed-income neighborhoods.

What Kind of Talent Does Estero Need to Function Better?

This is where the conversation hits home. Every morning, thousands of workers drive into Estero—from Cape Coral, Lehigh Acres, Bonita Springs, and beyond. They fill vital roles in healthcare, higher education, retail, hospitality, and local business operations.

But what if more of these employees could live near where they work?

Consider these questions for our Village:

• What talent does Estero need to function better—and reduce our traffic congestion?
• What housing options would make it possible for Lee Health nurses, FGCU faculty and staff, restaurant servers, hotel workers, construction crews, and retail managers to live locally?
• Could more diverse housing—apartments, townhomes, or small-scale workforce communities—create a healthier balance between where people work and where they live?

When housing and employment are geographically aligned, roads are less congested, commute times drop, and quality of life improves for everyone.

Florida Leads, But Attitudes Matter Most

Florida is a national leader in affordable-housing finance, yet Benson emphasized that local resistance often blocks progress. The “anti-development” mindset can unintentionally prevent the very balance communities need to stay vibrant.

That tension feels familiar here in Estero.
We cherish open spaces, safe streets, and a high quality of life—but sustaining those qualities requires adaptation, not paralysis.
If nurses, teachers, and small-business employees can’t live nearby, traffic worsens, services suffer, and local businesses struggle to retain staff.

Looking Ahead: What Does Future Estero Look Like?

As we envision Estero’s future, we should ask:

• Will our Village include homes for young professionals starting and retirees wishing to downsize?
• Will our neighborhoods be walkable, socially connected, and economically diverse?
• Can we balance growth with the natural beauty that defines Estero?

The equilibrium between employers, investors, and residents is constantly shifting. Communities that embrace smart, balanced growth thrive; those that resist risk decline.

A Call to Open Minds

The future Village of Estero won’t be built by chance—it will be shaped by the residents who participate. Let’s approach discussions about zoning, density, and housing variety with curiosity instead of fear. When we broaden the conversation, we build a community that truly welcomes every generation.

The future Village of Estero will be built by those who engage, not those who resist. Let’s choose to build it together.

Call to Action

Engage Estero invites residents to learn more and share ideas for creating a balanced housing strategy. Visit Esterotoday.com for upcoming forum dates.
Your voice—and your open mind—can help shape the Estero we all envision.

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