Advocates reignite push for law allowing Minneapolis renters to buy apartment buildings

Minneapolis advocates are renewing their push for the Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act (TOPA), which would allow renters the first chance to buy their apartment buildings when they go up for sale. The Housing Justice League, representing various community organizations, is urging the City Council to pass the law before newly elected members assume their posts in January. Anndrea Young, executive director of the Heritage Park Neighborhood Association, stated that it is essential for renters to have a voice in preserving their homes. Although TOPA has been on the table since 2019, it has struggled to gain sufficient support in the City Council. Opponents, including the Minnesota Multi Housing Association, claim the act is impractical and does not provide real solutions for affordability.

Council Member Jeremiah Ellison introduced the Community Opportunity to Purchase Act in 2024, which similarly failed to pass. Advocates believe that TOPA could help maintain affordable housing options in the market. The Minneapolis City Council has not yet scheduled the measure for future discussions.