The bill proposes an appropriation of $5,000,000 from the general fund for the fiscal year 2025 to support the Somali Community Resettlement Services (SCRS) in Minneapolis. This funding is aimed at addressing the urgent need for affordable housing and commercial space within the Somali community. The grant will facilitate the acquisition and development of a three-acre parcel of land, which is intended to host a mixed-use residential and commercial project featuring at least 60 affordable apartments and ten retail spaces.
The appropriation will cover various costs associated with the project, including land acquisition, site preparation, planning and design, as well as initial construction expenses. This initiative underscores the commitment to enhancing community resources and providing essential housing solutions for the Somali population in Minneapolis.