Schools Build Housing Near Schools | Orlando News

Florida’s Live Local Act just got a major upgrade, letting school districts build affordable housing on their own land—bypassing local zoning rules if needed. In Orange County, a proposal to turn 8.5 acres near Catalina Elementary into 100 apartments is sparking neighborhood pushback, even as teachers see the benefits: shorter commutes and better retention. The plan includes “attainable” units for those earning too much for traditional affordable housing but still struggling with market rates. While Governor DeSantis signed the new law, most Central Florida districts say they’re not moving forward with similar projects—though Volusia County did launch a tiny staff housing effort last year. For now, Catalina’s proposal may be the first real test of how these expanded powers play out in communities. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/ae6adc94cacf2150