Minneapolis' director of planning, Barbara Sporlein, will soon move on to the state's Housing Finance Agency as a deputy commissioner.

Sporlein worked within the Community Planning and Economic Development department, which bankrolls major projects and advises elected officials on planning and zoning issues.

She joined the department in 2004. Previously, she worked as a city planner and deputy executive director for the City of St. Paul's Housing Authority.

The memo from CPED director Mike Christenson, who is also leaving, is below.

Dear CPED Colleagues:

The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency today announced the appointment of Barb Sporlein as Deputy Commissioner, effective November 7, 2011. Her primary responsibilities will include talent management, agency-wide planning, credit risk management, and interagency collaboration. Barb has been a colleague, partner, and supporter of MHFA going back twenty years throughout her various positions. They have a strong public service mission, demonstrated track record of preserving and developing high quality affordable housing throughout the state, and a dedicated and talented team. Of course, CPED and MHFA are partners and Barb's move to the state will build on that partnership.

It has been an honor and privilege to serve with Barb Sporlein as the Director of Planning for the City of Minneapolis for almost eight years. She has developed a team of City builders that have managed regulatory issues around complex projects such as Target Field, hospitals, Midtown Exchange, and many, many others. They have guided transit development, published a vital new comprehensive plan, and strengthened CPED inter-jurisdictional efforts with the Park Board, School District, and Met Council. This is all about the team Barb helped build, the body of work produced, the relationships nurtured, the services delivered, and the professional manner in which that was done. Barb made the most of her time in this position and we are grateful for her service. Her last day will be October 31st.

Please join me in thanking Barb for her nearly eight years of service and accomplishments for the City of Minneapolis.

Sincerely,

Mike