Residents of a troubled subsidized housing complex in Minneapolis will soon be able to get stipends to help them relocate.
The Minneapolis City Council unanimously approved a plan Thursday to get the funds to residents of Heritage Park. Eighty-three out of the 211 currently occupied units will be eligible for stipends, after residents and council members raised alarms over mold, rodents and damage.
Council member Pearll Warren, whose ward includes Heritage Park, said she’s working to make sure residents have what they need to move out, if they choose to.
“This has been mentally and emotionally taxing for everyone, and I want you to know that I value you as individuals, and that everyone’s story and everyone’s living situation is very unique and deserves a very person-centered and individualized approach,” Warren said.
The stipends will be available to residents who:
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lived in Heritage Park on or before July 17
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cite health or safety concerns as a reason for moving before Oct. 17
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relocate by Jan. 31, 2027.
The money can go toward moving expenses and potential rent increases. Stipends will range from around $6,500 for one-bedroom units to around $12,500 for five-bedroom units.
That funding will come from $2.5 million that the council approved in July to go toward repairs and relocation.
The city plans to work with SRF Consulting to help residents find new housing. That firm has an existing contract with the city, and Director of Community Planning and Economic Development Erik Hansen said working through that existing contract is the fastest way to get help to the residents.
Warren said she’s in talks with city staff to explore the possibility of working with a North Minneapolis organization as well. Hansen told the council he’s in talks with North Point Health and Wellness Center about bringing the organization in to help.
