Development News for Minneapolis, Minnesota
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June 2, 2026 Business, Housing & Zoning Committee
Tuesday, Jun 2, 2026
Minneapolis Homes Program Recommends Funding for 73 New Affordable Ownership Units
Tara Thompson presented recommendations for the sale of city-owned property and financing through the Minneapolis Homes program. The program aims to create affordable ownership units by selling city-owned property and providing financing. The program's evaluation criteria include cost-effectiveness, alignment with housing needs, equitable wealth building, and unique design features. The financing awards can include project gap and/or affordability gap funding. Staff recommended funding 31 proposals supporting the creation of 73 housing units, bringing the cumulative impact of initiatives since 2021 to 318 affordable ownership units.
City Council Approves Amendments to Conduit Revenue Bond Policy
The committee approved an amendment to the city's conduit revenue bond policy. The amendment aims to clarify and clean up the bond fee policy, specifically addressing how administrative fees are applied. Key changes include clarifying that an annual fee cap applies to all large borrowers, not just healthcare organizations, and distinguishing between economic development bonds (for 501c3 borrowers) and housing development bonds. The Minneapolis Community Development Agency (MCDA) Operating Committee considered the item before it went to the MCDA Board of Commissioners (which is the City Council acting in a dual capacity).
Yellowbird Coffee Bar Approved for Sidewalk Cafe License
Amy Lingo, manager for licenses and consumer services, presented an application for a Sidewalk Cafe license for Yellowbird Coffee Bar LLC, DBA Yellowbird Coffee Bar Northeast. The applicant intends to operate 32 seats on the exterior from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. One community comment was in full support, and no significant issues were found in complaint reviews. The Licenses and Consumer Services Division recommends approval.
Blissbury Club Granted New Liquor Licenses for Hotel and Restaurant Expansion
The committee held a public hearing for an on-sale liquor, no entertainment license with Sunday sales and a 2 AM license for Blissbury Club Limited. The club intends to add these licenses to their existing boutique hotel and restaurant, including a small private outdoor patio for 20 patrons. While three community comments supported the application, one opposed it due to concerns about noise, traffic, and parking. The Licenses and Consumer Services Division recommended approval.
Council Denies 'People's Way' Development Partner Recommendation Amidst Community Concerns
The committee discussed the "People's Way" project at George Floyd Square, focusing on the selection of a development partner. While staff recommended Minnesota Agape Movement, council members raised concerns about community input, organizational capacity, feasibility, and timeline. The proposal was ultimately denied by the council, opening the door for a new process and applicant.
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