Advocacy News
SPAAR advocates for you and your business.
Our Government Affairs team works to make sure both REALTORS® and homeowners are represented in government.
In addition, the Government Affairs Committee works to expand the Association’s sphere of influence in local, regional, state and national public policy areas focusing on issues affecting communities throughout the Association’s jurisdiction.
Advocacy Report – August 2021
Last week, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter unveiled his 2022 budget proposal. Included in his budget proposal was a 6.9% increase in property taxes, which is equivalent to a $127 increase for a median value home in Saint Paul.
SPAAR Creates Housing Affordability Task Force
The Saint Paul Area Association of REALTORS® (SPAAR) has formed a Housing Affordability Task Force to join local efforts in identifying solutions to make housing more affordable and accessible.
SPAAR’s Candidate Endorsement Process
Believe it or not, it is almost that time of year again. Yes, some of you will have another opportunity to get out and vote this year.Advocacy Report – July 2021
SPAAR has decided to create and convene a Housing Affordability Task Force, made up of SPAAR members including both Realtors® and lenders, as well as SPAAR staff.Advocacy Report – June 2021
The property tax is a policy staple in the United States, you’re either a child or you have been living under a rock if you are unfamiliar with the general idea of what a property tax is. That is not true, however, of a tax that economists widely agree is the best, most efficient tax there is, the Land Value Tax.Advocacy Report – May 2021
On April 11, 1968 the Fair Housing Act was signed into law. This was the final major legislative achievement of the Civil Rights Era. SPAAR commemorates this historic achievement each year by celebrating "Fair Housing Month" in April.
S.A.F.E. Tenant Protections Lawsuit Update
A group of landlords recently filed suit against the City of Saint Paul to stop implementation of the S.A.F.E. Tenant Protections ordinance that was passed in July 2020 and became effective March 1, 2021.Advocacy Report – April 2021
There is an effort to implement Rent Control in the City of Saint Paul.