HRA approves CDBG and ERA2 loan financing for Joseph's Point at Upper Landing

The Housing and Redevelopment Authority of the City of Saint Paul voted 6-0 to authorize Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and American Rescue Plan Act emergency rental assistance (ERA2) loan financing and to execute related loan documents for the Joseph's Point at Upper Landing project at 200 Wilkins Street in Ward 2, District 9.

The item, introduced as “Resolution 20 five-thirteen 50, resolution authorizing and recommending approval of financing of a community development block grant CDBG authorizing and recommending approval of financing of an American Rescue Plan Act emergency rental assistance, ERA 2 loan, and execution of the loan agreements and related documents for the Joseph Point At Upper Landing Project 200 Wilkins Street, District 9 Ward 2,” had been laid over from a prior meeting pending an environmental review. Staff reported the environmental review had been received.

Commissioner Naker moved approval and thanked staff and project representatives. Naker noted follow-up conversations with Katie Anthony of Shaper Richardson about incorporating family and children’s amenities into the site plan and potential partnership to establish and own a playground, saying, “Took time after the meeting last week ... to walk me through some of the thoughts that she has about how that could be accommodated in the existing site plans, as well as to talk about the playground and trying to establish ownership and, maybe figure out a partnership with Kaboom or someone else.”

Chair Johnson said one notable feature of the proposal was “the extension of affordability that it's able to ensure.” With no further discussion the authority voted and the resolution was adopted 6-0.

Why this matters: the resolution enables financing for a multifamily development intended to include long-term affordable housing at 200 Wilkins Street and advances execution of loan documents necessary to close financing.