The most notable development from the meeting was the committee’s decision to authorize additional funding for the Native American Community Housing Project on Franklin Avenue. The project, which aims to transform a former strip mall into a mixed-use facility, will include a community health clinic and 83 housing units. Importantly, these units are designated for low-income residents, with affordability spanning 30% to 60% of the area median income. Jamie from the Community Planning and Economic Development (CPED) department outlined the approval for up to $22 million in housing revenue bonds, alongside an additional $1 million from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund contingency pool. The total estimated cost for the project stands at approximately $41.3 million, encompassing multiple funding sources, including grants and deferred loans. The project aligns with the city’s strategic goals to boost neighborhood diversity and affordability. Committee members expressed robust support, with Chair Jamal Osman highlighting its community significance and alignment with broader housing objectives. The project also seeks to address homelessness, a priority stressed by Council Member Cashman.

Housing policy was further scrutinized as committee members tackled the city’s inclusionary zoning (IZ) policies. Council Member Rainville raised alarms about the lack of new housing developments, pointing out that the city may face a rental housing crisis if trends persist. She proposed suspending IZ requirements temporarily to stimulate development, though this suggestion was not immediately actionable. Rainville’s concerns were echoed by Council Member Cashman, who noted expert recommendations to sustain current policies, arguing that pausing IZ in other cities hasn’t spurred the anticipated housing supply boost. Cashman proposed expanding IZ to student housing and phasing out small project exemptions. Director Alfred Port from the Housing and Development Department acknowledged a slowdown in construction but attributed it to macroeconomic factors rather than IZ requirements alone.

Council Member Ellison emphasized the necessity for proactive housing policies, advocating assertive measures to ensure dignified housing availability. He cautioned that financial allocations alone don’t guarantee increased housing, urging a collective responsibility among developers, the city, and governmental bodies to tackle the housing crisis. Additionally, Rainville mentioned a developer in her ward hindered by IZ requirements, affecting project financing for 184 units.

The meeting also addressed food vendor regulations, a topic of discussion. A presentation by Amy Lingo from the CPED department and Cindy Weckwerth from the Health Department outlined the regulatory framework governing food safety. They underscored the importance of maintaining uniform standards to prevent foodborne illnesses, with local ordinances conforming to state rules. The presentation recognized Minneapolis as a vibrant culinary hub with diverse food offerings, necessitating comprehensive vendor licensing options.

Outreach efforts targeted at unlicensed vendors, many from immigrant communities, were detailed. The approach prioritized education over enforcement, with inspectors engaging vendors before issuing citations. Efforts included collaboration with community organizations and providing resources in multiple languages. Council members noted the psychological impact on vendors when interacting with city representatives, emphasizing a trauma-informed approach in outreach.

Discussions included potential partnerships to alleviate financial burdens associated with kitchen rentals. The necessity of reducing barriers, particularly for immigrant vendors, was a focal point, with a commitment to community engagement in crafting policies that support these entrepreneurs.