| Dear Ward 6 Neighbors,
Today, at the City Council meeting, we took a decisive step to support Agate Housing. Alongside my colleagues, Council Members Jason Chavez (Ward 9) and Council President Elliott Payne (Ward 1), I am proud to announce that the Minneapolis City Council has voted to allocate $1.5 million for the renovation of Agate Housing’s facility.
Agate Housing is one of our city's largest providers of housing, shelter, and food assistance. This funding is crucial to preventing the closure of a facility that has served our community for many years. The decision to invest in the renovation rather than constructing new shelters is both a practical and cost-effective solution. It is our responsibility to ensure that we do not lose such essential housing resources.
As a background, Agate Housing had announced the impending closure of its 42-bed shelter and 95-bed board and lodge program at 510 South 8th Street located in ward 6. The organization faces significant financial pressures and requires over $3 million in repairs to continue operating its 100-year-old building safely. The closure would impact more than 80 residents and 23 employees. Despite efforts, Agate was unable to secure the necessary funds.
This $1,500,000 budget resolution would be contingent upon Agate Housing and Services, Inc. securing at least $1,500,000 in additional funds by December 31, 2025, to rehabilitate Agate's Board and Lodge Transitional Housing and Shelter Facility and an execution of a grant agreement between the City and Agate that includes standard contingencies and requires an operations plan acceptable to the City’s Director of the Department of Community Planning & Economic Development.
This resolution also shows the Minneapolis City Council stepping up with resources to preserve this important housing service and prevent sending more unhoused folks to the streets. Addressing homelessness and preventing the rise of encampments is a priority for me.
This funding helps to tackle the growing need for transitional housing and underscores our commitment to finding sustainable solutions. Losing Agate’s facility would be unacceptable, and we are dedicated to expanding housing services and supporting our community.
CM - Jamal Osman
Visit: minneapolismn.gov/ward6
Email: jamal.osman@minneapolismn.gov
Phone: 612-673-2206
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