TO: The Honorable Board of County Commissioners
THROUGH: John Titkanich, Jr., County Administrator
Michael C. Zito, Deputy County Administrator
Susan Prado, Deputy County Attorney
Cynthia Emerson, Community Services Director
FROM: Stacey Bush, Housing Services Manager
DATE: September 23, 2025
SUBJECT: Approval of Resolution Establishing Payment Standards (Based on HUD’s Fair Market Rents) for Housing Choice Voucher Program for Fiscal Year 2026
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BACKGROUND
Indian River County Code designates the Deputy County Attorney as the County’s Fair Housing Coordinator. Among the County’s housing programs is the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program, formerly known as Section 8 Housing. Federal regulations require the Board to approve, by resolution, the Housing Choice Voucher Program payment standards each year, which are set in relation to HUD’s published Fair Market Rents (FMRs).
The HCV Program is a federally funded rental assistance program administered locally by the County’s Housing Services Division. While federal regulations establish program rules, local demographics influence administration. Indian River County has a significantly higher elderly/retiree population (approximately 33%) compared to the national average of 18%, which increases demand for affordable housing options for low-income elderly residents. The program also serves veterans, persons with disabilities, and other low-income households.
The County owns no housing under this program. Instead, private landlords make their units available, which must meet HUD’s Housing Quality Standards before being approved for tenancy. In exchange for participating, landlords benefit from reliable rent payments and potential tax advantages, while tenants obtain safe, decent, and affordable housing. Qualified tenants typically contribute between 30% and 40% of their income toward rent and utilities, with the balance paid directly to the ...
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