Housing First Minnesota Honors Legislators of the Year

Sen. Koran and Rep. Mekeland honored as champions for homeowners

ROSEVILLE, MINN — Housing First Minnesota, the state’s leading voice for housing, has recognized Sen. Mark Koran of North Branch and Rep. Shane Mekeland of Clear Lake as recipients of Housing First Minnesota's Legislator of the Year Awards. The honor recognizes legislators for their efforts in promoting housing affordability and homeownership opportunities for everyone, everywhere.

“This year has shown us the importance of home. At a time when Minnesota faces one of the country’s worst housing affordability and availability problems, Sen. Koran and Rep. Mekeland have played key roles in advancing homeownership opportunities for all Minnesotans,” said David Siegel, executive director of Housing First Minnesota.

For the past two years Sen. Koran has served as a member of the Senate Select Committee on Homeownership Affordability and Availability, advocating for legislation that would help more Minnesotans achieve the goal of homeownership. During the 2020 legislative session, Sen. Koran authored multiple bills addressing the barriers facing homebuyers.

As a member of the housing industry himself, Rep. Mekeland understands firsthand the obstacles facing the industry and homeowners. Rep. Mekeland championed countless pieces of pro-housing legislation in his first term at the Capitol, looking to address the dozens of roadblocks that face Minnesota’s broken housing market.

“Homeowners need a voice at the Capitol. Our Legislator of the Year Awards recognize both Sen. Koran and Rep. Mekeland as housing champions who understand that homes are the backbone of strong communities,” said Gary Kraemer, president of Housing First Minnesota.

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