While it may seem like a quiet summer, local leaders have been busy seeking ways to spur development of more workforce housing.

CMBA and other community stakeholders held a regional Housing Summit earlier this year at St. Cloud State University.  While organizers are still working to get all the Summit presentations posted to the Greater St. Cloud Development Corporation (GSDC) website, housing has taken-on a new urgency among local leaders.

City planners for St. Cloud, Sartell, St. Joseph, Sauk Rapids and Waite Park have met, and realized the number of single family housing permits being requested among their communities has dropped-off significantly. That realization has resulted in them looking for action ideas, and they have held two stakeholder meetings this summer to think outside the box.

"Realizing they have to act together to create change has been good, and there are a few items in the works that might lead to creative solutions," reported CentraCare housing consultant, Kathy Parsons. "They are also looking at how to be more consistent with zoning rules [among local communities]."

Flexibility has helped advance some new home building projects in St. Cloud, and other communities are taking notice. Studies have shown our area is far behind in meeting the current demand for new housing, particularly in the range affordable for our local workforce. Many factors, including costs of materials, labor, fees and regulatory burdens, have driven home building costs higher.

For more information:  Steve Gottwalt, CMBA Government Affairs, steve@cmbaonline.org, 952-923-5265

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