Planning & Technical Assistance

Three Rivers has been invited to investigate a solution to address the Medford housing shortage, reports Annie Harman in the Owatonna People’s Press. Sandwiched in between two large, workforce cities, the City of Medford is for many workers an appealing option in which to settle down. But, despite the quiet neighborhoods and stress-free commute, the… Read more

The Rochester City Council on Monday took action to hire a consultant firm, Grounded Solutions Network, to provide recommendations on an inclusionary housing policy. The firm has provided consultations to more than 50 U.S. cities and organizations, according to a proposal it submitted to the city April 15. Olmsted County housing staff and a representative… Read more

As John Errigo of the Greater Minnesota Housing Fund reviewed findings from a recent study conducted by the former Cornerstone Partnership, he noted discussions with developers indicated support for inclusionary housing policies. Such policies would create more clarity, reduce time for gaining approvals and level the playing field for projects. However, it raised a question… Read more

Creating an inclusionary housing policy could help the city of Rochester and Olmsted County encourage affordable housing development in the region, but both local government bodies are hesitant to move forward before further studying the effects of such a policy. The Rochester City Council, Olmsted County Board of Commissioners, staffs of each agency and outside… Read more