The meeting’s primary focus was the allocation of $5 million, as proposed by the mayor, to stimulate downtown development. This funding, part of the upcoming budget, aims to revitalize the area through new housing development and street-level retail enhancements. Of the total budget, $3 million is earmarked for housing, with the remaining $2 million dedicated to retail projects. The initiative seeks to create an inviting atmosphere downtown by fostering a symbiotic relationship between residential and retail developments. The Downtown Alliance is proposed to manage these funds. A notable feature of the retail funding is its structure as a forgivable loan, encouraging businesses to remain operational downtown for at least three years. Flexibility in reallocating funds between housing and retail based on demand was also emphasized.

Attention was also directed toward the administration of the Promise Grant Program, managed by an organization affiliated with the University of Minnesota. The program, established by the state, aims to assist low-income entrepreneurs in the Twin Cities. In its first round, over 650 entrepreneurs received grants averaging $14,000 each, with a portion identifying as BIPOC. The competitive application process saw over 6,620 applicants, with around half meeting eligibility criteria. In St. Paul, 652 grants were awarded. The organization faced challenges related to digital literacy and document submission, prompting a need for technical assistance. Efforts to ensure equitable distribution of grants included a randomization process to select recipients.

A representative from the organization addressed concerns about eligibility, particularly regarding business owners on the West Side. Although some areas were eligible, confusion persisted, and a map of eligible regions was suggested to clarify boundaries. The challenges of the digital divide were acknowledged, with initiatives like application labs offering technical support to applicants in need. Fraud prevention measures were also highlighted, with training and technology checks in place to mitigate risks.

The Authority also reviewed requests for extensions of tentative developer status for four affordable housing projects. These projects, located in various districts, aim to provide affordable and supportive housing units in St. Paul. The Hands Redevelopment Project, Lori Bill, Face to Face, and the Community Land Trust project at 10.36 Marshall, each requested extensions due to the lengthy process of securing funding and meeting project milestones. A commissioner raised concerns about the time required to advance housing projects, emphasizing the importance of checkpoints to monitor progress and reduce the need for future extensions. Funding remained the primary barrier to advancement, although the Authority had secured grants from the Metropolitan Council and Ramsey County to support these projects.

The meeting also included a discussion on the upcoming budget review, set for a vote on December 3rd. A deputy director provided an overview of budget proposals, highlighting the need for consistency in reporting and transparency in allocations. Discussions touched on the Housing Trust Fund, program funding, and the implications of transfers within the budget. Emphasis was placed on the importance of community outreach and the effective use of resources to support local neighborhoods.