Advocacy in Action: an October 2025 update

SPAAR’s Government Affairs Directors (GADs), Becky Wegscheid and Simon Opatz, actively engaged with numerous elected officials, government staff and housing stakeholders throughout October on behalf of SPAAR members.

Earlier this fall, at SPAAR’s Housing Resource Fair, several elected officials attended to explore the various housing programs and resources available across the Twin Cities. Among them was Lauderdale Councilmember Duane Pulford, who later met with GAD Becky Wegscheid to discuss a wide range of topics, including Lauderdale’s priorities, housing and transportation initiatives, and future development opportunities within the community.

Additionally, both of SPAAR’s GADs, along with Joe McKinley, SPAAR’s Vice President of External Engagement and Professionalism, and Gabe Walsh, SPAAR’s CEO, met with Dr. Stacie L. Stanley, Superintendent of St. Paul Public Schools. Their discussion focused on a St. Paul ballot referendum, which proposes increasing the school district’s operating levy by $1,073 per student per year for 10 years. If approved, the measure would generate approximately $37.2 million annually in additional funds for St. Paul Public Schools. The group also discussed the critical connection between school quality and the strength of the local housing market.

SPAAR’s collaboration with the Counselors of Real Estate (CRE) on the Transforming Neighborhoods Project in St. Paul’s East Side continues to move forward. The final report has been delivered, and Becky is now working with East Side stakeholders and SPAAR’s communications team to share the findings of this comprehensive study and encourage local decision-makers to implement the expert recommendations outlined by the CRE team.

Tomorrow is Election Day! You may have candidates for mayor, city council and/or school board on your ballots this year. These elected leaders can have a great deal of impact on your community and your business so remember to get out and vote tomorrow, Tuesday November 4.