Honoring Board Member George Latimer’s Legacy

On August 18, 2024, former AFL-CIO Housing Investment Trust (HIT) Board Trustee, George Latimer, passed away at his residence in St. Paul, Minnesota at the age of 89.

George is fondly remembered for his good-natured personality and commitment to serve.  We at the HIT were fortunate to have him as a member of our Board of Trustees for 15 years.  He served from 1996 through 2011 when his commitment to housing and community development led him to Washington, D.C. to join President Bill Clinton’s administration as a special consultant to then-U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary, Henry Cisneros.

His experience in housing and overall enthusiasm were invaluable to the HIT.   George was the longest serving mayor in St. Paul history.  He served an astonishing 14 years in City Hall from 1976 until 1990.  During his time there, he transformed downtown St. Paul through development and infrastructure, bringing much-needed vibrancy to the city.  The HIT continues to build on his legacy with a meaningful track record in his home state of Minnesota, having invested $1.9 billion to generate nearly 15,000 housing units, of which 50% are affordable, since inception. This enduring commitment ensures that his vision for equitable and accessible housing remains a driving force in our ongoing efforts.

George Latimer was a servant to the people throughout his career. He transformed communities and impacted so many, smiling the whole time. He will be missed.