The City of Duluth's Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) presented its 2026 tax levy request during a recent City Council meeting, highlighting significant initiatives aimed at addressing housing needs and community support. Executive Director Julia Keppers outlined a comprehensive plan that seeks to maintain and expand affordable housing options while also providing essential services to vulnerable populations.

The proposed levy of approximately $2 million is designed to support various programs, including rent subsidies, housing development, and community policing efforts. Notably, the HRA aims to transition from public housing to a more sustainable Section 8 platform, which has already seen an increase in housing choice vouchers to 2,137, including provisions for non-elderly and disabled households.

Keppers emphasized the importance of the levy, stating that it represents about 5.5% of the HRA's overall budget of nearly $38 million. This funding is crucial as it is unrestricted, allowing the HRA to address immediate community needs without the constraints of specific program funding. The levy will help finance essential services, including the operation of community centers and the support of two full-time police officers, which are vital for maintaining safety in neighborhoods served by HRA programs.

In addition to the levy, Keppers discussed ongoing projects such as the development of mixed-income housing in the Fairmont neighborhood and the Harbor Highlands community, which aims to provide affordable family townhomes. The HRA is also working on a construction training program that supports individuals facing employment barriers, further contributing to community revitalization efforts.

The council members expressed their support for the levy, recognizing its role in sustaining and enhancing housing stability in Duluth. The proposed increase in the levy translates to an additional $1.74 per year for homeowners with properties valued at $275,000, a small price for the significant benefits it brings to the community.

As the meeting concluded, Keppers reiterated the HRA's commitment to addressing housing challenges and fostering community development, emphasizing that the success of these initiatives relies on continued collaboration with the City Council and local stakeholders. The council's approval of the levy will be a crucial step in ensuring that Duluth can meet the growing demand for affordable housing and support services in the coming years.