Advocacy in Action: Summer 2026

SPAAR’s Government Affairs Directors (GADs) Becky Wegscheid and Simon Opatz actively engaged with numerous elected officials, government staff and housing stakeholders throughout the Summer of 2026 on behalf of SPAAR members. Here's a look at the advocacy activity:

Testifying on Development Policy
In May, Becky testified against the City of Lakeville's proposed year-long development moratorium. While the ordinance was ultimately approved, SPAAR's presence at the table ensured that the perspective of Realtors® and the broader real estate community was heard on an issue with significant implications for housing supply.

Bringing Realtors® and Local Leaders Together
SPAAR hosted a Realtor® Roundtable event for the West St. Paul and South St. Paul communities, where a strong turnout of Realtors® connected directly with community leaders, including city council members and South St. Paul Mayor Jimmy Francis. The conversation focused on the realities of buying and selling property in these communities and explored ways local government can streamline and support those processes.

Supporting Housing Flexibility in North Branch
In August, SPAAR submitted a letter of support for an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) ordinance in North Branch, which would give residents greater flexibility to build ADUs on their property. The measure passed unanimously, marking a win for housing and private property rights.

White Bear Avenue Study Recognized
SPAAR and CRE's 2025 study of White Bear Avenue continues to make an impact, having been called a "must-read" by St. Paul's Planning and Economic Development Department, a strong endorsement of the research and what it can contribute to the community.

Saint Paul Right To Repair

SPAAR’s Government Affairs Directors have closely monitored the roller coaster that has been the Right to Repair ballot initiative in Saint Paul. The initiative is currently before an appellate court after the Saint Paul City Council voted it down following guidance from the city attorney. Ballot initiative activists subsequently challenged that decision in court and prevailed. The decision was then challenged by Saint Paul Mayor Her’s office, but the Minnesota Supreme Court ultimately declined to overturn the ruling.

SPAAR will continue to monitor the status of the ballot initiative as the appellate court considers the matter ahead of November’s election.

Candidate Endorsement Process Underway
SPAAR is currently conducting its candidate endorsement process, with Realtor® members interviewing more than 25 candidates running for offices such as Mayor, City Council and County Commissioner, helping to ensure Realtor® priorities are represented on the ballot this fall.

Save the Date: Housing Resource Fair
Looking ahead, SPAAR will host its 4th Annual Housing Resource Fair on Thursday, September 24th, from 4-6pm at the International Institute of Minnesota. This free community event connects the public with a wide range of housing resources, including down payment assistance, home improvement loans, homebuyer education, rental assistance, homeless outreach services and more. Bring any clients who may benefit from this informative event.

From testifying at the local level to convening conversations between Realtors® and elected officials, SPAAR remains committed to advocating for policies that support strong, accessible, and thriving communities.

Contact Simon (sopatz@spaar.com) or Becky (bwegscheid@spaar.com) with any questions about SPAAR's advocacy efforts, about participating in meetings with local elected officials or about becoming more engaged with SPAAR's Government Affairs Committee.