Brooklyn Center needs more housing choices — not just more of the same.
Nearly 40 percent of Brooklyn Center’s residents rent their homes. Most of our housing stock was built between the 1940s and 1960s and hasn’t changed much since. Our homes are smaller, older, and more affordable than most communities in the metro — and that’s not all bad. But it does mean that residents who want to put down roots here, build equity, and invest in the community often don’t have the options they need to do that.
The path forward isn’t more subsidized housing. Brooklyn Center is already one of the most naturally affordable communities in the Twin Cities metro. What we need is market-rate housing that attracts economically diverse residents, grows our tax base, and gives people real reasons to choose Brooklyn Center — and stay.
Here’s what I’ll focus on:
I’ll advocate for market-rate housing development that gives residents more options — whether they’re first-time buyers, families looking to upsize, or people who want to rent in a well-maintained building without a waiting list. More choices means more people choosing Brooklyn Center.
Homeownership builds wealth, strengthens neighborhoods, and gives residents a lasting stake in the community’s future. I’ll support programs and policies that make it easier for Brooklyn Center renters to become Brooklyn Center homeowners.
Most of our housing stock is more than 40 years old. Helping residents maintain and improve their homes — through access to programs, resources, and city support — protects property values and keeps our neighborhoods stable for everyone.
Renters deserve safe, well-maintained homes. Property owners who maintain their properties and follow the rules deserve a city that treats them as partners, not adversaries. I’ll advocate for consistent enforcement of rental standards that protect residents and support responsible property ownership.
Every housing decision the city makes has budget implications. As a Finance Commission member, I’ve spent years reviewing how city investments perform over time — and how quickly a commitment that looks good on paper can create long-term financial pressure. I’ll make sure housing policy is evaluated through that same honest financial lens before votes are taken.
Brooklyn Center’s housing future should look different from its past — more diverse, more stable, and more connected to the kind of community residents want to live in and invest in for the long term.
This is a community campaign. Your voice matters and your support makes a difference.
Get Involved Contact Gretchen