Who is MACV?

Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans was founded in 1980. The non-profit organization provides services, including housing, employment, and legal aid, that address the reasons for Veterans’ homelessness in order to create sustainable housing opportunities. MACV creates a trusted network of organizations that offers services and resources for Veterans. They support every Veteran, wherever they are on their individual path. Visit www.mac-v.org to learn more about their work.

Who is Lennar?

Lennar was founded in Miami, FL in 1954 and is now one of the largest homebuilders in the country. Lennar has built over one million new homes for families across America. They build in cities across the country and their communities cater to all lifestyles and family dynamics - whether a first-time buyer, move-up buyer, multigenerational family, or an active adult.

How do MACV and Lennar partner?

Lennar has a history of employing veterans and giving back through veteran-focused projects. In partnership with MACV, Lennar provides funding, building materials, and labor to construct homes for veterans experiencing homelessness. Once built, MACV becomes the owner and landlord of the properties, managing them long-term.

Who owns the property now?

Lennar purchased the north property from Mount Calvary and has gifted it to MACV. While MACV will take on a nominal "ghost mortgage" as a good faith measure, they are now the official owner and landlord of the land.

What is the timeline for the building on this property?

Construction began in Spring 2025, with completion anticipated in Fall 2025.

How was Mount Calvary connected with these partners?

In February 2023, Mount Calvary began exploring the use of the north property for community good. April 2023, after an initial idea of a 24/7 shelter was set aside, Pastor Tom met with representatives from Dakota County Veterans’ Services, Jon Lovald (MACV), Joe Jablonski (Lennar), and Rebecca Bowers (Dakota County) to explore veteran housing. In February 2024 and after several months of discussion, presentations, and approvals, the Church Council voted unanimously to move forward with the project. The congregation later voted (May 2024) to approve the sale of the property to Lennar for this purpose.

More details: In February 2023 - after church council approval - Mount Calvary offered Dakota County the opportunity to consider building a 24/7 shelter for those experiencing homelessness. After feedback from the Cedar Grove neighborhood and conversations with Dakota County Social Services, the proposal to build a shelter was tabled indefinitely. In April 2023, Pastor Tom met with representatives of Dakota County Veterans’ Services, Jon Lovald (MACV), Joe Jablonski (Lennar), and Rebecca Bowers (Dakota County) to discuss the possibility of the property being used for permanent housing for veterans. The Church Council gave permission to Pastor Tom to enter into conversations about the feasibility of pursuing this project with MACV and Lennar. In February 2024, MACV and Lennar made a presentation to the Church Council and the Finance Team. Following the presentation, the Church Council voted unanimously to continue these conversations in earnest and gave Lennar/MACV permission to schedule a preliminary meeting with the City of Eagan to discuss the project. During this preliminary meeting with the City of Eagan, city representatives indicated a willingness to begin a process of consideration.

What happened to the Dakota Alano Society?

We’re grateful for the life-changing work that took place at the Alano House. Over 300 people met weekly in the old farmhouse for recovery and support. Dakota Alano has now relocated to a new and improved facility on Duckwood Dr. in Eagan.

Who will live at the new Veteran Village?

The homes will be rented to veterans who have been screened by MACV, and in some cases, the VA. All residents will complete an application and leasing process managed by MACV.

Is this temporary or permanent housing?

This is permanent housing. Unlike earlier proposals for a temporary shelter, Veteran Village will offer annual leases and long-term stability for its residents. MACV will manage the leases and support services.

Will services be provided to the residents?

Yes. A site manager from MACV will be present to help address ongoing or urgent needs. MACV emphasizes community and connection, and residents will have access to a wide range of supportive services.

What was Mount Calvary’s internal process for selling the property?

The Church Council, with guidance from the Finance Team, brought the question to the congregation at the May 2024 annual meeting. Eligible voting members participated in a paper ballot vote. After the congregation approved the sale, a leadership team worked with legal counsel and Lennar to complete the transaction.

What are the financial goals of the sale?

Proceeds from the sale are designated for:

1. Paying off Mount Calvary’s mortgage debt

2. Establishing a new endowment to support future ministry
   The sale was based not only on fair market value but also on alignment with Mount Calvary’s mission to serve.

How will the local neighborhood be involved/informed about the project?

Yes. During the rezoning process, all neighbors within 1,000 feet were notified by the City of Eagan. This project honors feedback from the Cedar Grove neighborhood, where residents had expressed a desire to support veterans. No additional neighborhood meetings are planned unless requested by the City of Eagan.

How many units will be in the Veteran Village?

The site will include 20–30 units, a mix of one-bedroom and three-bedroom homes to accommodate both individuals and families.