Minnesota Housing Commissioner Jennifer Ho updates on affordable housing bills and infrastructure bonds

Minnesota's commitment to affordable housing took center stage during the March 25, 2025, meeting of the House Capital Investment Committee. The committee heard several bills aimed at enhancing housing infrastructure, with a focus on the Housing Infrastructure Bonds (Hibbs) and their role in addressing the state's pressing housing challenges.

Commissioner Jennifer Ho of Minnesota Housing provided an insightful update on Hibbs authorizations and recent projects funded through these bonds. She emphasized the critical need for affordable housing across the state, noting that housing supply and affordability are significant issues affecting communities statewide. Ho highlighted that only about 5% of housing in Minnesota qualifies for traditional general obligation bonds, as most affordable housing is privately developed and owned.

The meeting underscored the importance of Hibbs as a unique financing tool that has become a vital source of capital for housing development in Minnesota. Ho pointed out that state investments in housing infrastructure bonds leverage additional federal resources, enhancing the impact of state funding. This approach supports a wide range of housing needs, from preserving federally assisted rental housing to developing permanent supportive housing for individuals facing chronic homelessness.

The committee's discussions also touched on the various ways Hibbs can facilitate the construction and rehabilitation of affordable housing, including single-family homes and manufactured home communities. These efforts are crucial for ensuring that low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities have access to safe and affordable living conditions.

As the committee continues to explore these housing bills, the focus remains on implementing effective solutions to combat the housing crisis in Minnesota. The outcomes of these discussions will play a significant role in shaping the future of affordable housing in the state, ensuring that all residents have a place to call home.