North Star Neighbors seeks modifications for new homes in East Grand Forks

The East Grand Forks City Council has taken a significant step towards enhancing affordable housing in the community by approving modifications to home size requirements for a new development project. During the meeting on March 11, 2025, the council discussed a proposal from North Star Neighbors, which has partnered with Thompson Homes to construct four new homes in the area.

The original agreement stipulated minimum square footage requirements for the homes and garages, mandating that two-story or bi-level homes be at least 1,800 square feet, with garages of at least 575 square feet. However, the proposed homes fall slightly short of these requirements, with sizes of 1,797 and 1,793 square feet, and garage dimensions of 418 and 480 square feet.

Corey, a representative from North Star Neighbors, explained that meeting the original size requirements would incur additional costs, potentially raising the price of the homes and making them less affordable for prospective buyers. He emphasized that the rising costs of construction materials and labor have already strained the project's budget, and any further increases could push the homes out of reach for families earning below the $90,000 income ceiling set for eligibility.

The council members expressed support for the adjustments, recognizing the importance of maintaining affordability in the housing market. They discussed the diversity of the neighborhood and the potential for the new homes to fit well within the existing community fabric. The council is also considering a waiver for the no-step entry requirement mandated by Minnesota housing regulations, which would allow for the construction of bi-level homes that offer more square footage at a lower cost.

In conclusion, the council's decision to amend the home size requirements is a proactive measure aimed at ensuring that new housing remains accessible to families in East Grand Forks. As the project moves forward, the city aims to balance the need for quality housing with the imperative of affordability, ultimately contributing to the community's growth and vitality.