Bloomington HRA Unveils First Two-Year Budget, Anchored by $2.6M Bring It Home Program
Housing and Redevelopment Authority commissioners reviewed the 2027 budget and levy and the 2028 budget covering vouchers, rehab loans and affordable homeownership under the city's new biennial model.
Bloomington Housing and Redevelopment Authority staff presented the agency's 2027 budget and levy and its 2028 budget to commissioners Tuesday, Nov. 10, marking the first time the HRA's finances have been laid out under the city's new two-year budget model.
The presentation, delivered by HRA staff member Sarah, walked the board through the agency's core programs, including the Bring It Home rental assistance program funded at $2.6 million over the two years, more than 700 housing choice vouchers, home rehabilitation loans, and 27 owner-occupied affordable homes maintained by the authority.
The HRA's [mission] is to create a stable and inclusive community through safe and dignified housing choices.
The budget review followed preliminary budget action taken by the board in August 2026, the same month 10 Bring It Home vouchers were awarded to a local property.
Programs under review
Commissioners questioned staff on how rehabilitation funding is allocated and what affordability conditions are attached to assisted properties. Commissioner Hooim, who attended the meeting via WebEx, raised questions about rehab funding and affordability requirements.
Affordable housing gap persists
The budget discussion came against a backdrop of unmet demand for deeply affordable housing in the city. Housing Development Specialist Ryan Soulberg, presenting a separate item on the agenda, outlined the scale of the shortfall.
Other Topics from This Document
Consent business: October 13, 2026 minutes and partial release of regulatory agreement at 8200 Humboldt Avenue South for MnDOT sale
Two consent items: October 13, 2026 minutes and a resolution authorizing partial release of the regulatory agreement and project documents for a portion of 8200 Humboldt Ave S to allow sale to MnDOT. No items pulled; approved 5-0.
New staff introduction: Assistant HRA Administrator
Staff introduced Hillary Benson as new Assistant HRA Administrator for the housing stability and home ownership team overseeing Bring It Home, the voucher program and HRA-owned properties. She worked 9 years for Bloomington and 2 years at Metro HRA.
Bloomington Family Town Homes loan renegotiation request
CommonBond sought forgiveness or extension on a 1991 $46,000 deferred HRA loan now totaling about $832,767 with ~$438,947 accrued interest. Staff recommended extending maturity to Dec. 1, 2038, 0% interest, forgiving accrued interest, deeper AMI restrictions and 50% of positive cash flow to HRA.
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