On Wednesday, Feb. 23, the House Local Government Division will hear a bill, HF 3256, authored by Rep. Steve Elkins (DFL-Bloomington), that would significantly curtail cities’ local zoning and land use authority. 

Although it contains two provisions that could potentially help cities, most of the bill is problematic. This so-called “Legalize Affordable Housing Act” attempts to address the desperate need for more housing everywhere in the state by slapping handcuffs on local government — rather than focusing on real solutions to the housing crisis.

We need your help to stop this bill!

Act Now!

Contact the members of the Local Government Division and your state representative TODAY and urge them to oppose HF 3256.

Tell them:

  • The so-called “Legalize Affordable Housing Act” HF3256 does nothing to address the housing crisis in Greater Minnesota. Rather, it strips away city zoning and land use authority — essential tools that benefit our communities economically and socially while helping to protect the environment.
  • This legislation takes a top-down, one-size-fits-all approach that (among other provisions):
    • Forbids cities from requiring streets wider than 32 feet yet it also limits off-street parking
    • Forces cities to allow duplexes and accessory dwelling units in single-family zoning areas
    • Prevents cities from requiring a minimum building size
    • Requires cities to allow any housing proposal contemplated by a 15-year comprehensive plan to be accepted now, even if infrastructure development is not caught up
  • City officials in Greater Minnesota want to work with legislators to increase housing availability, but we need to work together on solutions that target the actual barriers we face. This legislation does not do that.
  • Tell your story! Share examples of what would help create more housing in your city and why the restrictions proposed in HF3256 would not help.

Contact Info

  • Email members of the House Local Government Division using this link (if the link does not work in your email, you can find contact info for the division members here)
  • Find your state representative’s contact information here

Questions?

If you have any questions about HF3256 or this Action Alert, please contact CGMC lobbyist Elizabeth Wefel at eawefel@flaherty-hood.com or 651-259-1924.