In 2023, the Minnesota Legislature appropriated $4.8 million to a Local Housing Trust Fund (LHTF) State Match Program; with $1 million appropriated in a prior year, available funds for the state match program total $5.8 million. In addition, the new programs of Local Affordable Housing Aid and Metro Area Sales Tax for Housing, both of which are distributed directly to cities and counties, will consider funds “spent” if they are transferred to a LHTF (if not transferred to a LHTF, funds may be reclaimed by the state if unspent by state deadlines). If you have not yet discussed establishing a LHTF for your community, now is the time, with millions of dollars in state matching funds available!

Please contact Minnesota Housing for information on when LHTF State Match Funds are available. To date, Minnesota Housing’s board of directors has approved a program guide for the state match fund, but has not yet release a request for proposals or application procedure.

MHP is offering FREE assistance to rural communities to establish Local Housing Trust Funds. See below for the application.