The board’s approval of the 2025 budget, totaling $10,339,341, and the final special benefit levy was a central focus. The budget, which includes a levy request of approximately $1.97 million, alongside federal grants totaling around $7 million, aims to advance the authority’s mission of fostering stable and inclusive communities through safe and dignified housing. The budget discussions highlighted the authority’s structural organization, with distinct teams focused on housing stability, homeownership pathways, and residential development. These teams manage programs like the Housing Choice Voucher program and oversee loans and funding for development projects.

Adjustmentsttention was also given to a motion approving Resolution 2024, which pertains to the subordination of loans for properties such as Cedar Gate, Cedar Glen, and Metropolitan Towers. This resolution supports the refinancing request initiated due to the impending maturity of existing financing. The refinancing process ensures that the current agreements remain intact, preserving restrictive covenants that maintain affordability until at least 2047. The board sought clarification on the implications of repaying these loans, with assurances provided that the nonprofit managing these properties remains committed to preserving affordable housing.

In a related discussion, the board explored “Missing Middle Housing,” led by a planning supervisor from the City of Bloomington. This type of housing includes a range of dwelling types such as accessory dwelling units and buildings with up to 20 units, which were once common but have become less prevalent due to restrictive zoning codes. The supervisor presented data showing a decline in starter home construction and emphasized the need for smaller, affordable units to address housing shortages, particularly for extremely low-income individuals. The supervisor noted that zoning code changes could encourage diverse housing options, with about 20% of homeowners and 50% of renters in Bloomington facing housing cost burdens.

The board further delved into proposed zoning code amendments aimed at increasing housing diversity and production. These changes seek to lower barriers for two-family dwellings and missing middle housing, focusing on aligning regulations with those for single-family homes. Discussions included proposals to adjust owner-occupancy requirements, reduce setbacks for garages, and revise lot size requirements to facilitate conversions of single-family homes into two-family units. These proposals aim to create pathways for residents to transition from rental to ownership, addressing concerns about a potential overemphasis on rental developments.

The meeting also addressed the potential for multiplex housing, detached townhomes in cottage court configurations, and live-work units. The board discussed the integration of these housing types into existing zoning districts, with considerations for adjusting height limitations and expanding live-work zoning to neighborhood business districts. The concept of repurposing vacant buildings into mixed-use developments was also explored, with one participant highlighting the successful transformation of a local storefront into a community space.

Finally, the board touched on upcoming projects and initiatives. The administrator mentioned forthcoming Requests for Proposals for homelessness prevention services and social services related to Community Development Block Grant funding. Plans for future engagement with the city council were noted, including potential meetings to approve funding and consider larger funding strategies.