Task Force Addresses Affordable Housing Shortage
ST. PAUL , Minn. (AP) -- A Minnesota housing task force is recommending broad changes in funding, technology and regulation to meet a statewide demand for affordable housing.
Minnesota Public Radio News reports that the task force has made 30 recommendations and identified six goals to improve access to housing. Gov. Mark Dayton appointed the task force last year.
The task force suggests building 300,000 new homes by 2030 to address the state's affordable housing shortage. They also call for a dedicated and permanent source of funding for affordable housing programs.
The task force also recommends the creation of a statewide panel to evaluate ways the regulatory burden might be eased.
The National Association of Home Builders says government regulation adds more than 20 percent to the cost of a new home.