Resolution authorizing the Executive Director to enter into a Housing Trust Fund Grant Agreement with the Connections Shelter for summer shelter expansion.

On April 13, 2026, the EDA Board approved a Housing Trust Fund allocation of up to $135,283 to support the expansion of Connections Shelter’s emergency shelter operations from May 1 through September 30, 2026. The Blue Earth County EDA also approved the Housing Trust Fund support for this shelter expansion on April 21, 2026. This action addresses the seasonal gap in shelter services and supports a continuous, low-barrier shelter model during the summer months.

This memorandum seeks formal authorization for the Executive Director to enter into a recipient agreement with Connections Shelter to implement the approved funding allocation. The program will operate a 48-bed overnight shelter daily from 5:00 PM to 8:00 AM and emphasizes low-barrier access, housing-focused case management, and coordinated service delivery.

The total project cost is $145,283, with $10,000 secured through Community Development Block Grant funding and the remaining amount funded through the Housing Trust Fund, not to exceed $135,283.

Staff recommends that the EDA Board authorize the Executive Director to execute the recipient agreement on behalf of the Housing Trust Fund with Connections Shelter for summer shelter expansion.