Minneapolis Proposes $2.5 Million for Heritage Park Residents Amid Mold Concerns
Digital Editor Aaliyah Demry reports on a proposal from Mayor Jacob Frey and Ward 5 Council Member Pearll Warren to reallocate $2.5 million from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund to support Heritage Park residents in North Minneapolis. The funding would cover support services and relocation assistance after mold was discovered in several units of the 20-year-old complex, which fell under a court-appointed receiver last year. City officials and the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority are preparing for the possibility that residents may need to relocate, though no final decisions or timeline have been set.
Heritage Park residents continue to feel the impact of harsh and unsafe living conditions on the northside of Minneapolis. Now, Mayor Jacob Frey, City Council Member Pearll Warren of Ward 5 and city staff are proposing that the city council reallocate $2.5 million from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund to address the issues with the property.
The Affordable Housing Trust Fund program helps fund the construction or rehabilitation of affordable housing in Minneapolis through Local Affordable Housing Aid.
According to the City, the complex fell into disrepair last year, resulting in a court-appointed receiver taking ownership.
Last week, third-party contractors hired by the receiver, working with the property manager, Property Solutions & Services, discovered mold in several units. Following the findings, the city will conduct a second mold assessment to confirm the results and better assess the condition of the 20-year-old complex.
“The conditions at Heritage Park are unacceptable, and I want the residents to hear this directly from me: I will not stop fighting for you,” said Warren.
The city says although no decisions have been made on Heritage Park’s future, the city and the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority (MPHA) are preparing for the possibility that residents may need to relocate.
In the request made to the City Council, the funding will provide support services and relocation assistance for impacted residents. Frey says people deserve safe homes and that shouldn’t be negotiable.
“The $2.5 million we’re bringing forward today [July 14] is about making sure support is available and any relocation is minimally disruptive. Residents shouldn’t have to navigate this uncertainty alone, and the City is stepping up to help however we can.”
As next steps, the city plans to work with MPHA, the court-appointed receiver and other partners to determine a relocation plan. The city has not provided a confirmed timeline for relocation or how it plans to address property issues.
If Heritage Park residents experience any health or safety issues in their unit, they are advised to contact Property Solutions & Services immediately.
I would surely like Mayor Frey to take responsibility for the Heritage Park tragedy under his leadership.