Resolution authorizing the City Manager to apply to Minnesota Housing for a Lead Safe Homes Grant.

Adoption of the attached resolution.

Minnesota Housing is accepting applications for the Lead Safe Homes grant program. The program offers grants to Local Units of Government, Nonprofit Organizations, Tribal Nations, and Tribally Designated Housing Entities to support making homes safer through lead testing and hazard reduction. Total funding available is $4 million, which is through a one-time state appropriation. There is no funding match required. Grant funds can be used to complete lead-based paint assessments, lead hazard reduction, lead clearance tests, and 10% of the grant can be used for administration, education, and outreach. Grant funds can be used on dwellings constructed prior to 1978 that are occupied by households with incomes not exceeding 80% Area Median Income (AMI).

The City intends to use Lead Safe Homes grant funds to support housing rehabilitation activities in the City's existing targeted neighborhoods, in coordination with Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding. Lead hazards are identified in nearly all housing rehabilitation projects undertaken within the City's targeted neighborhoods. Lead Safe Homes funding would provide an additional resource to address lead-based paint hazards and related health and safety concerns as part of these rehabilitation activities, while allowing CDBG funds to support other eligible rehabilitation needs.

The Lead Safe Homes grant aligns with the City's Strategic Plan housing goal because it would provide an additional resource to assist with preserving the existing affordable housing stock.
If a grant is awarded, the grant agreement will be submitted to the City Council for approval prior to execution. It is anticipated grant awards will be made in December 2026 - January 2027.