The Edina Housing and Redevelopment Authority concluded its third work session Thursday focused on establishing direction for affordable housing goals and strategies over the next two years.

The session, held at Edina City Hall, involved commissioners participating in exercises to identify target populations for retention and attraction, as well as preferred housing types. Staff presented the work as part of the authority's 2024-2025 work plan goal to advance progress on affordable housing, including increasing housing options and developing a long-term growth strategy.

Commissioners expressed strong interest in ownership opportunities, particularly single-family homes and townhomes, according to a dot-voting exercise conducted during the meeting. The discussion revealed consensus around serving what Commissioner Carol Jackson termed "the middle" - residents who want to live in Edina but lack financial capacity or interest in maintaining traditional single-family homes with yards.

Key populations identified for retention included seniors looking to downsize, families with children in schools, and adult children of Edina residents. For attraction, commissioners prioritized people working in the community, including hospital and retail employees, teachers, and city staff, as well as young families and seniors wanting to relocate to Edina.

Staff will develop strategies based on the session feedback, with action items including developing an affordable housing strategy by June 30 and exploring innovative funding mechanisms by July 15. The authority acknowledged significant constraints, including limited control over private sales, market forces, and state funding criteria, while identifying areas within city control such as zoning, land use, and development of city-owned properties.