ST. PAUL — State Rep. Bjorn Olson (R-Elmore) has earned a 2021 Housing Leadership Award for his efforts to make homeownership more affordable in Minnesota.
"It’s an honor to receive this award,” Olson said. “Affordable housing is a key component towards attracting new workers to Greater Minnesota, and I’m pleased Housing First recognizes my commitment.”
Housing First Executive Director David Siegel said Minnesota's housing market is on thin ice and reform is needed to increase housing affordability. He credited Olson and other legislators for working to address this issue.
“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,” Siegel said. “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.”