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From Cook County HRA - February 4, 2025

The Cook County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) has hired Jeff Brand as its new Executive Director. Jeff will begin his employment with the HRA on February 24, 2025, and will report to its board. He will plan, direct and supervise the operations of the HRA, continuing the work of its first director, Jason Hale, and the HRA Board of Commissioners.

When Jeff accepted this position, he told Board Chair Bill Gabler and Vice Chair Chris O’Brien, “I’m excited to help write the next chapter of this organization by creating more safe, stable, and attainable housing opportunities for current and future residents.”

 Jeff, who currently lives in the St. Peter, MN area has earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Science from Minnesota State University Mankato.  He has been a successful community leader with housing experience in and out of public service.  This includes seven years as a realtor, eight years as a City Councilor for the City of St. Peter, and four years on their Planning and Zoning Commission.  Most recently he served as State Representative for District 18A in the Minnesota House of Representatives, including serving as Vice Chair of the Workforce Development Committee. 

In addition to continuing the work on projects already in motion, Jeff will be working with the HRA board to update their strategic plan, now that projects are being built and a successful grant program for energy efficiency has been launched for single family homes