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Article Courtesy of Channel
5 WPTV
By
Matt Sczesny
Published November 13, 2025
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WATCH VIDEO |
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RIVIERA BEACH — A Riviera Beach homeowner who was left without options to
replace her deteriorating roof has found a solution through Florida's PACE
financing program, offering hope for other homeowners facing similar insurance
challenges.
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Tina Witherspoon spoke briefly on Tuesday
about her upcoming roof replacement — a welcome change from
the series of patched-up shingles and leaks that have
plagued her home.
WPTV first met Witherspoon in September while investigating
insurance issues facing owners of older homes. At that time,
she was struggling with a canceled insurance policy and no
viable options for roof repairs.
"They said they were canceling because they didn't want
these houses because they were too old," Witherspoon said in
September.
With no insurance coverage, no means to pay for a new roof
and ineligibility for a My Safe Florida Home grant,
Witherspoon found herself in a difficult position. However,
she discovered an opportunity through Florida's PACE program
that offered a solution.
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"Yeah, I know I got to pay it back, and he already said
what the total amount was going to be and everything," Witherspoon said.
PACE is a self-described public entity that provides financing options for
energy-efficient and hurricane-resistant home improvements. The payments for
the loans are processed through taxes — a structure that has raised concerns
among about half of Florida's county tax collectors.
Witherspoon said she's aware of the payment structure and is prepared to
meet the financial obligation while maintaining her tax payments.
"You will be able to pay $220 a month?" WPTV reporter Matt Sczesny asked
Witherspoon.
Yeah," she confidently responded.
WPTV is planning to look more into the PACE program on Wednesday, including
a large lawsuit pending in Tallahassee and what it means for homeowners.
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