HRA Business Assistance Fund Guidelines
Summary
New guidelines unlock $5 million for downtown — $3 million to convert empty office space and $2 million to fill vacant storefronts — aimed at rebuilding the downtown tax base, where nearly half of properties are tax-exempt.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 4
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Jul 15, 2026.
Impact analysis
$5 million in HRA investment directed at downtown commercial property.
Downtown property owners, businesses and future tenants; the city's taxable base broadly.
Mentions & discussions (4)
City Council — July 15, 2026
Grant funding was approved for RealBigHuge Brewing Company and a facade restoration at 712 Smith Avenue.
Policy Committee — May 6, 2026
Council Member Yang pushed for EDA dollars to cover direct relief — rent help for businesses struggling after Metro Surge, pedestrian safety fixes on White Bear Avenue, and mitigation funds during street reconstruction — not just technical assistance.
Housing & Redevelopment Authority — March 25, 2026
New guidelines unlock $5 million for downtown — $3 million to convert empty office space and $2 million to fill vacant storefronts — aimed at rebuilding the downtown tax base, where nearly half of properties are tax-exempt.
Housing & Redevelopment Authority — March 11, 2026
Updated guidelines for the HRA Business Assistance Fund were laid over two weeks rather than approved. The fund helps city businesses with financial assistance.
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