Housing First Minnesota has named State Senator Mark Koran (R-North Branch) as a recipient of their 2021 Housing Leadership Award, the organization announced. Housing First Minnesota, a leading advocate for homebuilders and remodelers, honored Sen. Koran with the award for his commitment to a vibrant housing market.

“When you think about the American Dream, one of the first things to come to mind is owning your own home and the sense of pride it brings,” Senator Koran said.”I am humbled to be recognized for my work promoting homeownership this year, and look forward to helping more Minnesotans achieve their own American dream.”

“With inventory at an all-time low, affordability at its worst in decades, and the widest homeownership gap in the country, Minnesota’s housing market is at a pivot point,” said David Siegel, executive director of Housing First Minnesota. “These leaders recognize the need to legalize starter homes by addressing the way we zone and permit new housing. The Housing Leadership Award recognizes legislators who worked to promote housing affordability and homeownership during the 2021 legislative session and special session.”

Numerous transformative housing policy provisions were discussed and advanced through the Senate housing committee. Unfortunately, nearly all major housing priorities that were included in the Senate’s version of the housing bill, including the removal of exclusionary zoning practices, failed to make it through final negotiations.

“We applaud these leaders for their efforts to advance the cause of homeownership and look forward to substantial policy initiatives being enacted in the coming legislative session,” said Siegel.