Fergus Falls HRA presents housing study and requests 2027 levy at 85% of allowable amount

Michael Olsen, presenting for the Fergus Falls Housing and Redevelopment Authority, summarized findings from a recently completed housing study and asked the committee to recommend a 2027 HRA levy request to council. Key study points: market-rate rental vacancy at 2.3%, affordable units 3.4% vacancy, subsidized units 2.8% vacancy, and a projected total 10-year demand of 1,373 housing units across multiple types.

Olsen summarized the demand breakdown—single-family, multifamily, market-rate rental, affordable and subsidized units— and said the report and bound copies are available (PDF on fergusfallshra.com). Regarding funding, Olsen asked the committee to recommend a levy set at 85% of the allowable amount, which he said equates to $285,000; he said 100% of the allowable levy would have been about $315,000. "So this year, I am asking for 85% of what would be available, which is $285,000," Olsen told council.

Council members pressed on the assumptions behind the 10-year demand numbers and compared the forecast to county population growth. Olsen agreed to follow up and report more detailed breakdowns and offered to meet with council members for additional review. The committee recommended the levy request be forwarded to the council by voice vote.

What’s next: The housing study will be presented in more detail at the Aug. 3 council meeting and staff will continue outreach on the Small Cities Development Program survey.