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Committee approves Mayor Frey's nomination of Erik Hansen to lead CPED, 6-1
Summary
The Business, Housing & Zoning Committee voted to advance Mayor Frey's nomination of Erik Hansen to be director of Community Planning and Economic Development, forwarding the nomination to full Council after a 6-1 committee vote. Some members pressed for detailed plans on housing preservation and Heritage Park.
The committee voted June 16 to approve and forward Mayor Frey's nomination of Erik Hansen to serve as director of the City of Minneapolis Community Planning and Economic Development (CPED) department.
Mayor Frey introduced Hansen as a leader who "has demonstrated steady, effective leadership" across economic recovery and housing initiatives and who would provide continuity at CPED. Multiple business and community leaders testified in support, citing Hansen's role in redevelopment and small-business assistance.
Erik Hansen told the committee he's focused on six strategic priorities, including modernizing permitting, advancing affordable housing production and centering outcomes for residents. He acknowledged persistent problems in some developments and specifically said he was "horrified about the conditions that are at Heritage Park," committing to work with council members on implementation and oversight.
Council Member Warren said she remained concerned and said she could not support the appointment at this time, citing outstanding questions about concentrated poverty and implementation of prior initiatives. Other council members praised Hansen's leadership and staff.
The committee roll call recorded six votes in favor and one no (Warren), and the motion carried, advancing Hansen's nomination to the full City Council for final action.
Next steps: the nomination will proceed to the full Council for confirmation; council members requested follow-up briefings on Heritage Park, affordable housing preservation strategies and CPED's implementation plans.
