Bloomington City Council — Transcript

Tuesday, December 17, 2024

Story

Bloomington HRA extends home repair program for low-income residents

HRA Staff Appointment

Votes (2)

Third Amendment to 'A Brush with Kindness' Agreement

6-0 Approved

Dissent: None

Moved by Commissioner Mueller [15:49] · Seconded by Commissioner Dollinger [15:51]

The Housing and Redevelopment Authority considered a third amendment to its agreement with Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity's 'A Brush with Kindness' program. Assistant Administrator Salvador and Program Manager Mike Robertson provided updates, detailing the program's success in completing 13 projects in Bloomington using ARPA funding. The program targets low-income homeowners (30% of AMI or less) for critical home repairs, aiming to prevent displacement and preserve existing affordable housing stock. The amendment's purpose is to extend the agreement's timeframe to allow for the full expenditure of the previously expanded $75,000 in funds, enhancing the city's home improvement options and partnering with Environmental Health services.

Appointment of Mike Palermo as Second Assistant HRA Administrator

Informational item, no vote taken.

Dissent: None

Moved by null · Seconded by null

Minister Abe announced the appointment of Mike Palermo as the new Second Assistant HRA Administrator, effective the previous Monday. Mike Palermo has a background with the City of Bloomington since 2017, having served in the Planning and Port divisions, and also worked with the City of Duluth. He brings significant experience with the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program and holds a Master's in Urban and Regional Planning and a Leadership in Affordable Housing Certificate. Mr. Palermo expressed his enthusiasm for working on CDBG and affordable homeownership initiatives.

Notable Quotes (5)

Combining those resources preserves housing stock and prevents displacement of vulnerable residents.

Mike Robertson, Program Manager [10:43]
Third Amendment to 'A Brush with Kindness' Agreement

I've come think of it over time as a homelessness prevention and anti displacement policy.

Mike Robertson, Program Manager [12:42]
Third Amendment to 'A Brush with Kindness' Agreement

This amendment ... is just to extend the time period of the agreement to allow for more time to expend those funds.

Salvador, Assistant Administrator [14:47]
Third Amendment to 'A Brush with Kindness' Agreement

I'm excited to announce that we have officially filled the role of our Second Assistant H.R. Administrator as of last Monday.

Minister Abe [17:02]
Appointment of Mike Palermo as Second Assistant HRA Administrator

I'm sure you'll hear more about that and I'm looking forward to our discussion tonight with the Planning Commission and just to learn more about how you guys approach this work.

Mike Palermo [18:04]
Appointment of Mike Palermo as Second Assistant HRA Administrator

Ordinances & Resolutions (6)

Third Amendment to a Brush with Kindness AgreementOther

Agreement between HRA and Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity for critical home repairs.

Minnesota StatutesOther

Legal basis cited for electronic participation in meetings.

ARPA FundingOther

American Rescue Plan Act funding source previously used to start the 'A Brush with Kindness' partnership.

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)Other

Federal program Mike Palermo has experience with, run through the HRA.

Leadership in Affordable Housing CertificateOther

Qualification held by Mike Palermo.

Master's Urban and Regional PlanningOther

Educational qualification held by Mike Palermo.

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Bloomington City Council - Bloomington Recorder