Cook County HRA Approves Income Flexibility Policy for Housing Applicants
The Cook County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) has approved a policy granting 10% income flexibility for applicants applying for housing developments, including those in Grand Marais. The HRA is also exploring a community land trust model for future housing…

Duluth Superior, MN, September 22, 2026 — The Cook County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) has enacted a new policy that will provide applicants for housing developments with a degree of income flexibility. The approved measure allows for a 10% adjustment in income consideration for individuals seeking housing through the authority’s programs. This policy change is set to impact housing developments within Cook County, including those located in the Grand Marais area.
The decision aims to broaden access to housing opportunities by offering a more adaptable approach to income verification for eligible applicants. The specifics of how this 10% flexibility will be applied in the application process were not detailed in the announcement.
In addition to the newly approved income flexibility, the HRA is also examining potential future housing development strategies. The authority is reportedly exploring the feasibility of implementing a community land trust model. This model, if adopted, could represent a shift in how future housing projects are structured and managed within the county, potentially offering long-term affordability solutions.
Furthermore, the Cook County Housing and Redevelopment Authority has announced that it is actively seeking candidates to fill two upcoming vacancies on its board. Information regarding the application process and qualifications for these board positions was not immediately available.
Story summarized from the original created by Kalli Hawkins on wtip.org, see more information here.
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