Leon County Celebrates Three Home Replacements and Welcomes Families Home

Last week, Leon County Government welcomed three families to their new homes during Home Replacement Housewarming Ceremonies. During the ceremonies, each family received keys to their new homes as well as other housewarming gifts. The homes were replaced through the Leon County Housing Services Home Replacement Program with State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) funds.

“Leon County is thrilled to provide these three families with safe, healthy, and accessible new housing,” said Leon County Commission Chair Carolyn Cummings. “Through our ongoing funding partnership with the State Housing Initiatives Partnership program, Leon County is able to continue improving the quality of life and economic security of our residents.”

The three original homes had significant deficiencies, including collapsing floors, leaking roofs and fixtures, ineffective plumbing and electrical systems, and asbestos. In instances where the costs associated with rehabilitation are expected to exceed 50% of the current value of the home, home replacement becomes a viable option. Due to the extent of the damage, Leon County Housing Services staff determined that it would be best to replace the original homes with new site-built, single-family homes. Home replacement is a comprehensive way to maintain the existing supply of affordable housing while allowing families to continue living in the communities they love.

“Through strong partnerships and the dedication of the County Housing team, we continue to bring important projects like these to life,” said Leon County Administrator Vincent S. Long. “Our home replacement program underscores the County’s ongoing efforts to support existing affordable housing to help meet the needs of our community.”

Located in unincorporated Leon County, the homes were built using a portion of the County’s $1.1 million fiscal year 2024 SHIP allocation. In addition to home replacements, the funding supports Leon County Housing Services programs including down payment assistance for first time homebuyers and housing repair, rehabilitation, and replacement.

District Commissioners were elated about the home replacements.

"I am thrilled to see the positive impact the County’s Home Replacement Program has had on our community,” said Leon County District 1 Commissioner Bill Proctor. “Today, we’re not just unveiling a house, we’re celebrating a family’s future and all the memories they will make in their new home."

“Witnessing these citizens receive renovated and livable homes fills me with joy,” said Leon County District 2 Commissioner Christian Caban. “By providing safe, affordable housing and enabling families to stay in the communities they love, we're not only enhancing their quality of life but injecting new energy and vitality into our great County.”

“It's heartwarming to see these families settling into their upgraded, livable homes,” said Leon County District 3 Commissioner Rick Minor. “This program goes beyond just housing; it's about preserving the very essence of our neighborhoods and strengthening the fabric of our community.”

Leon County Housing Services is committed to providing safe, sanitary, and affordable housing to low-income residents in the unincorporated areas of Leon County. Leon County Housing Services reviews applications, verifies applicant eligibility, and ensures compliance with the State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) program, Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), and other programs.

“My family is so grateful to Leon County for replacing our old home with this beautiful new one,” said homeowner Melissa McGriff. “Because of this program, my daughters will now have a safe place to call home.”

For more information, contact Leon County Community and Media Relations, at (850) 606-5300 / CMR@LeonCountyFL.gov.

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