Blaine Couple Sues City Over Denied Tiny Home Housing Homeless Families

Alex and Lynda Pepin of Blaine, Minnesota, are suing the city after their proposal to build a 600-square-foot accessory dwelling unit (ADU) in their backyard to house a family experiencing homelessness was denied by the city council. Although Blaine city code permits ADUs, council members and neighbors opposed the plan, citing concerns about safety, property values, and the intent of the ordinance. The Pepins, supported by the Institute for Justice, argue the denial was unlawful and based on misinformation, emphasizing that the families they intend to house have been vetted through homelessness programs. The city council voted 5-2 to deny the permit, claiming the proposal conflicted with the ordinance's unwritten intent. The Pepins are suing for declaratory relief, alleging violations of their constitutional rights under both Minnesota and U.S. law, including equal protection and freedom of association. The case highlights tensions between local regulations, community concerns, and efforts to provide housing solutions for families transitioning out of homelessness.