Editor’s Note: The following information was collected by Paul Peltier, the executive director of the Range Association of Municipalities and Schools.
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RAMS is designed to bring elected officials and leaders from the region together to coordinate efforts to make our region vibrant for years to come.
Currently, communities are facing a housing crisis. Economic development struggles if we don’t have the people to do the work. From an increasing senior population, to attracting and retaining staff as the economy evolves and changes—a vibrant community has a plan for housing. Have you ever wondered what others are doing?
I have collected “100 words about housing” from communities we serve. The housing conversation is large and has many parts. This is not a definitive list. It is also not the only story happening in each community, but it is one snapshot across northeastern Minnesota.
The Minnesota Legislature allocated $1.3 billion in one-time housing money in 2023, with the intent of making a meaningful impact. Rural communities must be ready and do what they can to make sure they get their fair share. By raising up the critical effort around housing, it is our hope that RAMS can facilitate an informed conversation that leads to good decision-making and effective governance. Let’s see what is happening across the region: