(KNSI) — The Central Minnesota Builders Association says it is supporting a new piece of legislation aimed at improving housing affordability in Minnesota.
It’s called the Starter Home Act. It would modify requirements related to comprehensive plan amendments, limiting the zoning authority of municipalities related to certain residential development. It’s part of the broader bipartisan backed Yes to Homes initiative. The bills will re-legalize a variety of home options — including apartments, starter homes, backyard cottages, townhomes and more — in cities and towns across Minnesota. Taken together, they will allow desperately needed homes to be built, and will help make our communities more affordable.
According to CMBA’s Executive Director, Wanda Schroeder, “The broad, bipartisan nature of this legislation speaks to the challenge and need for the adoption of the ‘Yes to Homes’ agenda. Area residents, employers and policy makers are deeply concerned about increasing housing shortages and the overall affordability of available housing.”
U.S. Census Bureau data shows permits for new homes and apartments across Minnesota are down more than 43% since 2021. Experts say Minnesota is nearly 100,000 homes short of demand, raising housing costs for both buyers and renters. As recently as last summer, St. Cloud took the bold approach of allowing a form of light touch density housing to alleviate the crunch. The ordinance change would let properties in the city convert space into rental properties by allowing them to build a 200- to 800-square-foot addition that is either attached or detached. People can also convert some of their existing space into a unit for rent.
Housing affordability remains an area-wide concern, with Minnesota’s median new home price the highest in the five-state region at $540,000. The CMBA says those earning the median income cannot afford a median priced home.
“While we understand the importance of local control, it is time for the state to step-up and enact uniform policies that can help meet these critical needs,” said Schroeder. “If we want home ownership opportunities for workers and future generations, then we need our legislators’ help,” said Schroeder. “We call on our area lawmakers to support this important package of housing legislation, particularly the Minnesota Starter Home Act.”
The Yes for Homes coalition represents many different perspectives and geographies across Minnesota, united in the goal of making sure all Minnesotans can find a home they can afford in the community of their choosing. Members include housing providers and advocates, environmental organizations, labor and faith groups, business groups, transportation advocates, and others.
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