Building Housing Stability and Economic Opportunity in Palm Coast

A strong local economy depends on more than attracting businesses and creating jobs. It also requires a community where residents can find, maintain, and remain in stable housing. Recognizing the connection between housing stability and long-term economic prosperity, the City of Palm Coast is partnering with local community organizations to launch a new Housing Empowerment Workshop Series.

The free educational series is designed to give residents practical knowledge and access to trusted experts on topics that can affect their financial security, property ownership, and housing opportunities. Workshops will cover everything from home maintenance and property taxes to credit readiness, disaster preparedness, tenant rights, and housing assistance programs.

Each workshop will be held at the Southern Recreation Center, 1290 Belle Terre Parkway, with an informational session from 9 to 10 a.m., followed by opportunities for attendees to speak one-on-one with housing professionals from 10:15 a.m. to noon.

A Year of Housing Education

The series begins August 29, 2026, with Basic Home Maintenance, providing homeowners with information on preventative maintenance and ways to protect their property and avoid costly repairs.

Future workshops will address:

• Property Taxes & Exemptions – Understanding property taxes, homestead exemptions, portability, and the tax appeal process.
• Foreclosure Prevention – Exploring early intervention, loss mitigation, loan modifications, and other resources for homeowners experiencing financial challenges.
• City CDBG & Flagler County SHIP Housing Programs – Learning about housing rehabilitation and first-time homebuyer assistance programs.
• Deed Theft & Heirs Property – Understanding property scams, protecting ownership rights, and preserving generational wealth.
• The Benefits of Homeownership – Exploring how homeownership can contribute to financial stability and long-term wealth building.
• Tax Refund Scams & Strategic Housing Goals – Protecting financial assets and using tax refunds strategically to support housing goals.
• Credit Readiness & Budgeting – Building credit, reducing debt, managing household finances, and preparing for mortgage qualification.
• Insurance & Disaster Readiness – Understanding homeowners insurance and preparing for major natural disasters.
• Housing Mobility – Navigating housing searches, vouchers, community resources, and landlord communications.
• Tenant Rights & Responsibilities – Understanding leases, eviction procedures, habitability standards, fair housing protections, and security deposits.

“Housing stability is one of the most important foundations for a thriving community,” said Jacqueline Gonzalez, Site Development Coordinator. “These workshops are designed to give residents practical tools, trusted guidance, and direct access to experts so they can make confident, informed decisions about their homes and their future.”

Supporting a Stronger Community

The series complements the City’s broader housing initiatives, including programs designed to support low- to moderate-income households earning 80% or less of the area median income. By helping residents better understand available resources and make informed housing decisions, the workshops support individual financial stability while contributing to the overall strength and resiliency of the Palm Coast community.

Workshops are free and open to the public, and registration is encouraged. Residents can register through the City’s recreation registration system.

For more information about the Housing Empowerment Workshop Series and other housing resources, visit palmcoast.gov/housing-services or contact the City’s Planning Division at (386) 986-3736.