New Grants, New Rules, and Big Wins for Area 15 Communities
- Lindsey Newland
- Jan 5
- 14 min read
Newsline | January 2026
Welcome to Our Newly Elected Officials in 2026!
We extend a warm congratulations and welcome to all of Iowa’s newly elected
officials taking office in 2026! Your leadership and service are vital to our
communities, and we look forward to the positive impact you will make!
Required Training Reminder
As part of your new role, all newly elected and appointed officials are required to
complete the Iowa Newly Elected and Appointed Officials Training. This training
ensures that every official is well-prepared to uphold the responsibilities of publi
service.
Deadline: Training must be completed within 90 days of taking the oath of office or
assuming official duties.
Who Must Attend:
Newly elected officials
Individuals appointed to government bodies such as:
Library Boards
Planning and Zoning Commissions
Boards of Adjustment
Other city-level entities
Training Focus
The program covers essential knowledge on the Open Meetings Law and Open
Records Law, ensuring transparency and accountability in government operations.
Training Schedule
For a full schedule of training events, please visit: IPIB Training for
This training is not just a requirement—it’s an opportunity to strengthen your
foundation as a public servant and build trust with the communities you represent.
COG Impact Map
Iowa Association of Councils of Governments (ICOG) has created an interactive online map that illustrates the significant influence of COGs across Iowa. Area 15 RPC has submitted several years of project data to this initiative, showcasing the diverse range of projects in which we actively participate.
Annual Membership Dues and Matching Funds Resolutions Sent to Cities and Counties
In early December, Area 15 Regional Planning Commission (RPC) distributed its Annual RPC Membership Dues, IDOT Matching Funds, and Regional Housing Trust Fund (RHTF) Matching Funds resolutions to all member cities and counties. These annual contributions play a vital role in supporting the planning, development, and service programs that benefit communities across our region.
RPC Membership Dues: Strengthening Regional Planning Capacity
Annual per capita membership dues are essential for Area 15 RPC to leverage federal funding and continue providing high-quality planning and economic development services. The U.S. Department of Commerce funds the RPC through the Economic Development Administration (EDA) Partnership Planning Program, which requires a 50% local match. Membership dues help meet this requirement.
Through this funding, RPC staff are able to support local governments with:
Project development
Grant research and writing
Grant administration
Strategic and long-range planning
City codification
Technical assistance and research
And much more
For FY26, membership dues generated $54,169.88 in local match. Dues for FY27 are $0.55 per capita, with a $100 minimum per city. We are proud to report a very strong participation rate—all six counties and 47 of our 50 cities are current members.
Upcoming Virtual CDBG Informational Meeting
Area 15 RPC will host a brief virtual meeting on January 14, 2026 to share information about upcoming grant opportunities with the Iowa Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. This session is intended for representatives from cities within our region who are interested in learning more about eligibility, project types, funding requirements, and the application process.
Invitations and registration details will be sent by e-mail. We encourage any community considering infrastructure improvements to attend and explore how CDBG funding could support their goals.
For more information or assistance with registration, please reach out to Brandon Dicks at brandon.dicks@area15rpc.comor (641) 814-8404.
Iowa Finance Authority announces 2026 Housing Trust Fund Award
The AHEAD Regional Housing Trust Fund received notice in December from the Iowa Finance Authority of its grant award to the region for affordable housing programs. The grant of $469,254 will be matched with $117,314 of local funds to provide a total project of $586,568 for the 2026-2027 program.
“These grants are an essential and highly effective resource, empowering regions to direct funds where they are needed most to meet local housing needs,” said IFA Director Debi Durham. “The success of this program is reflected in the thousands of Iowans who now have safe, affordable homes, made possible through strong partnerships with Local Housing Trust Funds across the state.”
Area 15 RPC will administer the program and accept applications for owner and rental housing construction and improvement projects. Most common use of the program is by homeowners in the region seeking repairs such as roofs, windows, plumbing, electrical, heating and air conditioning. Other uses of funds include construction of new affordable owner-occupied and rental housing units. AHEAD RHTF serves Davis, Jefferson, Keokuk, Mahaska, Van Buren, and Wapello counties. Applications and guidelines are available at www.area15rpc.com/rhtf.
Area 15 Regional Planning Commission Annual Membership Survey – 2026
The Area 15 Regional Planning Commission is conducting its annual membership survey to gather input from member cities and counties. Your feedback is essential in helping us understand how we can best support your community with project planning and funding.
Surveys will be emailed to each city; you may also scan the QR code to complete the survey.
Please complete the 2026 Area 15 RPC Annual Membership Survey by January 31st, 2026.
If you have any questions, please email hector.hernandez@area15rpc.com or call 641-814-8401.
AHEAD Regional Housing Trust Fund: Leveraging Local Support for Affordable Housing
The AHEAD Regional Housing Trust Fund (RHTF) continues to make significant strides in improving housing conditions for low- to moderate-income households. Since 2010, the trust fund has invested over $4.4 million in affordable housing activities throughout the region.
Every $1 of local contribution leverages $4 from the State Housing Trust Fund, multiplying the impact of local investment. The program fills a vital gap in financing for essential home repairs—support many families would otherwise be unable to access.
Local contributions for the Housing Trust Fund are paid by each participating county along with funds from the housing trust fund. Counties include Davis, Jefferson, Keokuk, Mahaska, Van Buren, and Wapello.
Area 15 RPC appreciates the ongoing partnership of our counties and cities. Your support ensures we can continue delivering meaningful planning, transportation, and housing services that strengthen the entire region.
County contributions directly support
Rehabilitation of owner-occupied homes
Critical repairs such as roofs, furnaces, and water heaters
Improvements that help households maintain safe, livable homes
Funding Opportunities Now Open Through the Iowa DOT
The Iowa DOT’s Sign Replacement Program will open on January 2, 2026, operating on a first-come, first-served basis. Eligible communities can receive funding to replace existing signage—including stop, yield, school zone, and street signs—listed in their application.
Cities may apply for up to $5,000
Counties may apply for up to $10,000
For details or assistance, contact Area 15 RPC at hector.hernandez@area15rpc.com.
Small Town Rural Iowa Development and Enhancement (STRIDE) Plan
The STRIDE Plan process has officially begun, starting with a virtual meeting for communities interested in applying. The meeting covered the project timeline, application process, and program structure. Communities in Jefferson, Keokuk, Mahaska, Van Buren, and Wapello counties were invited to participate.
Applications were due on December 31st at 5:00 p.m. Selections will be made in January 2026.
If you are interested in learning more about the STRIDE Plan, please contact Hector Hernandez at hector.hernandez@area15rpc.com or call 641-684-6551.
Pedestrian and Bike Planning Update
During the IDOT MPO/RPA quarterly meeting, Milly Ortiz, Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Coordinator, provided an update on the Iowa DOT Statewide Trail Plan. IDOT conducts annual updates of its statewide bike routes, available both online and in hard copy. Hector Hernandez, Transportation Planner for Area 15, has collected updated trail information from communities and counties for the regional trail map.
IDOT also shared that in March 2026, three communities Fairfield, Ottumwa, and Oskaloosa will receive trail counters that will remain in place until next year. These counters track trail usage throughout the day, providing valuable data for planning, maintenance, and grant justification. The locations for the trail counter for Ottumwa at Ottumwa Beach, Fairfield on Matkin Bridge Over IA 1, and at Lacey Sport Complex for Oskaloosa.
If you have any questions, please email hector.hernandez@area15rpc.com or call 641-814-8401.
Area 15 RPC Assists Ottumwa and Fairfield with CDBG Water/Sewer Applications
Area 15 Regional Planning Commission is currently assisting the cities of Ottumwa and Fairfield with developing grant applications for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Water/Sewer Fund.
Both projects aim to address critical infrastructure needs through sewer lining and repair work, helping to improve system efficiency and reliability. In addition to sewer improvements, Fairfield’s project will also include targeted water main upgrades to further enhance the city’s water infrastructure.
These important infrastructure projects take time to plan and develop, and Area 15 RPC is here to support these communities in their effort to secure funding.
Take Note:
Important Updates to Iowa’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Programs
The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) has recently announced key updates to its Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) programs, which offer financial support to local communities for a wide range of development and improvement projects. While many details are still being finalized, IEDA wants to ensure that communities are aware of the upcoming opportunities. If your community is interested in pursuing CDBG funding or has questions, please contact Brandon Dicks at Area 15 RPC at 641-814-8404.
New Programs Launching in 2026
Starting in 2026, IEDA will introduce six new CDBG programs designed to support diverse community needs. Applications for these programs will open on March 2, 2026, with a deadline for submissions on May 1, 2026. Below is an overview of the new funding opportunities:
Pocket Parks
This program supports the rehabilitation or construction of small parks and recreation spaces, offering up to $150,000 per project. Community-led and inclusive design is encouraged to ensure these spaces serve everyone.
Streetscapes
Focused on enhancing the appearance and function of public spaces, this program funds streets, sidewalks, benches, and lighting—especially in Main Street areas and communities that have completed Downtown Revitalization projects. The funding cap is $250,000 per project.
Roof Replacement
Aimed at addressing urgent housing needs, this program provides up to $30,000 for roof repairs and lead-based paint remediation for single-family homes, with a project cap of $180,000.
Planning Grants
Small grants (up to $15,000) will be available to fund Historic District Surveys, Asset Management Plans, and Capital Improvement Plans (CIPs), which will help communities position themselves for future CDBG investments.
Public Service –
Homeless Providers and Food Pantries
This program is designed to support the expansion or launch of new services for homeless providers and food pantries. Funding can be used for staffing, operations, and basic needs, but construction or renovation costs are not eligible.
Stormwater Infrastructure
An extension of the Water/Sewer program, this initiative will support improvements to storm sewers, drains, and curb-and-gutter systems. The funding caps and requirements will mirror the main Water/Sewer program.
Updates to Existing Programs
In addition to new programs, several established CDBG programs will see important changes starting in 2026:
Upper Story Housing Conversion
Funding for converting upper story spaces to residential units will now be provided on a per-unit basis—up to $100,000 per unit, with a maximum of four units per city (for a total of up to $400,000). The Build America, Buy America (BABA) provisions will not apply to this program, and the required affordability period will remain five years.
Downtown Revitalization
This program will now focus specifically on commercial facades and requires applicants to include side facades in their scope of work. The IEDA’s Downtown Design Guide must be followed, and applicants may receive bonus points for submitting structural engineering reports. Environmental and historic surveys will be required at the time of application, with more stringent timelines to ensure readiness at the contract stage.
Community Facilities Grants
Starting in 2026, Community Facilities grants will follow a competitive application process, replacing the previous rolling format. Priority will be given to facilities serving seniors, individuals with disabilities, homeless populations, and those offering health or childcare services. While low- and moderate-income (LMI) documentation remains a requirement, exceptions will apply to hospitals, clinics, and senior centers, allowing them to use area-wide data or assume eligibility when applicable.
New Application and Policy Requirements
To improve project tracking and accountability, IEDA is introducing several new application and policy requirements for all CDBG programs:
Detailed project timelines: Applicants must include clear target dates, such as funding release and construction milestones.
Defined project teams: Applicants must outline roles and responsibilities for all individuals involved in the project.
Upfront match funding documentation: CDBG funds are reimbursable, so all match funding must be documented at the time of application.
Required policy submissions: Applicants will need to submit plans for Equal Opportunity, Fair Housing, and Anti-Displacement as part of their applications.
Income Survey Report: For projects requiring LMI eligibility, an Income Survey Report must be submitted at the time of application and meet specific documentation standards.
Next Steps
These updates reflect IEDA’s commitment to making Iowa’s CDBG program more accessible and effective for communities across the state. Communities interested in applying for CDBG funding are encouraged to begin planning as early as possible to ensure that all requirements are met.
To get started or if you have any questions, reach out to Brandon Dicks at 641-814-8403 for guidance through the application process. Stay informed and engaged to make the most of these upcoming funding opportunities to strengthen your community!
Need Funding?
Area 15 RPC Can Help Secure Your Next Grant
Finding the right funding for community projects can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to tackle it alone. Area 15 Regional Planning Commission offers professional grant writing support to help cities, counties, and local organizations pursue essential funding for development and improvement initiatives.
From infrastructure upgrades and park enhancements to housing improvements and long-range planning, our staff works closely with communities to identify suitable programs and craft competitive, well-prepared applications.
We regularly assist with a wide range of opportunities, including:
Community Development Block Grants (CDBG)
REAP (Resource Enhancement and Protection)
State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs
County Foundation programs
And many others
Our mission is to help local communities turn promising project ideas into fully funded realities. Whether you're ready to apply now or simply exploring future possibilities, we’re here to guide you through the process.
To learn more or schedule a consultation, contact Area 15 RPC at (641) 684-6551. Let’s work together to bring your project to life.
Reminder: CDBG Water/Sewer Grant Applications Due Soon –
Don’t Miss the March 1, 2026 Deadline!
Is your community planning water or sewer system improvements? Don’t miss the upcoming deadlines for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Water/Sewer Fund—with applications due March 1, 2026, and June 1, 2026.
This important funding program helps communities across the state tackle critical water and sewer infrastructure projects such as sewer lining, water main replacement, and other system upgrades. These projects often require significant planning and preparation, so now is the time to begin the application process.
Get a Jump Start on Your Application
To ensure your city is ready to submit a competitive application, early coordination is key. The planning and preparation involved in these projects can take time, and getting started early is essential to meeting the upcoming deadlines.
If your city is considering a water or sewer project and is interested in applying for CDBG funding, Area 15 Regional Planning Commission is available to assist with every step of the process. We can help guide you through project scope, eligibility, and the application process itself.
For more information, or to start the application process, reach out to Brandon Dicks at brandon.dicks@area15rpc.com or call (641) 814-8404. We’re here to help your community secure the funding needed to improve vital infrastructure!
Surface Transportation Block Grant / Transportation Alternatives Program
A virtual introductory meeting was held to outline the application process for the Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) and Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP). The meeting covered application requirements, timelines, funding amounts, and eligibility.
The STBG program funds transportation projects such as road improvements, resurfacing, bridges, and transit projects. RPA 15 receives just under $3,000,000 annually for distribution across the region. Additional state funding is also available for projects needing further support, though these funds are more competitive and are due in July.
TAP focuses on alternative transportation modes, including trails, safety programs, and water trail improvements. RPA 15 receives approximately $270,000 annually for these projects.
Applications for RPA 15 are due April 1, 2026, at 5:00 PM. For questions about STBG or TAP, please email hector.hernandez@area15rpc.com
or call 641-814-8401.
IDOT Transportation Planning Match: Supporting Federal Grant Access
Area 15 RPC also collects local matching funds to secure federal transportation planning dollars from the Iowa Department of Transportation. As the designated RPA 15, the RPC provides professional staff to program and manage roughly $2.8 million annually in federal transportation funds.
The IDOT planning grant allows RPC to:
Administer an annual competitive transportation grant process
Coordinate the work of the Policy Board and Technical Advisory Committee
Conduct short- and long-range transportation planning
Support planning for roads, bridges, trails, transit, and economic development
Provide strategic planning for the 10/15 Regional Transit Agency and Ottumwa Transit Authority
Assist communities in identifying and addressing local transportation needs
Each county in RPA 15 and cities over 5,000 population support the annual local match contribution. This includes Jefferson, Keokuk, Mahaska, Van Buren, and Wapello counties and cities of Fairfield, Oskaloosa, and Ottumwa. These cities and counties receive direct financial benefit from nearly $3 million in annual state and federal funding received for transportation projects in the region.
Celebrating Local Success: Community Infrastructure Grants Awarded to Ottumwa, Farmington, Bonaparte, and Stockport
The Area 15 Regional Planning Commission (RPC) is thrilled to announce the successful funding awards for several of our region's communities. These grants and loan forgiveness programs are vital for improving infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life for residents.
Ottumwa: $491,000 for Sewer Infrastructure Improvements
Ottumwa has been awarded a $491,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to support essential sewer system upgrades. This funding will address critical infrastructure needs, ensuring long-term reliability and efficiency for the city's wastewater services. It’s a crucial investment in the community’s future, enhancing both the functionality of the system and the well-being of its residents.
Farmington: $42,784 for Indian Lake Park Trail Restoration
Farmington is receiving a $42,784 REAP (Resource Enhancement and Protection) grant to restore the trail at Indian Lake Park. This project will improve access to the park's natural beauty, enhancing outdoor recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. By preserving and upgrading this cherished community asset, Farmington continues to prioritize sustainable recreation and environmental stewardship.
Bonaparte and Stockport: SRF Loan Forgiveness for Sewer Upgrades
Bonaparte and Stockport are both benefiting from State Revolving Fund (SRF) loan forgiveness, helping ease the financial burden of necessary sewer infrastructure improvements. These loan forgiveness programs ensure that these small communities can make vital upgrades without placing undue strain on local taxpayers. This funding enables both towns to continue their efforts to enhance water quality and public health.
Supporting Growth and Sustainability
Area 15 RPC is proud to have assisted these communities in securing funding for projects that enhance local infrastructure and the overall quality of life in the region. These efforts help strengthen our communities and ensure they remain vibrant, sustainable places to live, work, and visit.
We look forward to continuing our work with local governments to support the growth and development of our region. Stay tuned for more updates on how we are working together to build a stronger, more connected community. For more information contact Brandon Dicks at 641-814-8404.
RPA 15 Regional Trail Plan Update
Work is moving forward on the RPA 15 Regional Trail Plan, which has now entered the outreach phase. This phase focuses on a regional needs assessment and expanded public input to help guide future trail development and connectivity. Meetings with key stakeholders from counties and cities across the region are currently being scheduled.
Throughout this month, RPA 15 will partner with each county trail group to host SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis workshops. These sessions will help identify local and regional priorities, challenges, and opportunities related to trail planning and connections across the region.
As part of this effort, community leaders and stakeholders are encouraged to participate in the Regional Trail Plan Survey. Survey responses will help inform regional priorities and highlight key themes across the Area 15 region.
Following the stakeholder outreach and SWOT workshops, a broader community survey will be released to gather feedback from trail users and residents throughout the region. In addition, local trail representatives will be reviewing existing trail data over the coming weeks to ensure all information included in the plan is accurate and up to date.
For questions about the planning process or for more information about the Regional Trail Plan, please contact Hector Hernandez at hector.hernandez@area15rpc.com or 641-814-8401.
Area 15 RPC Provides Project Planning and Grant Writing
For those new to city/county government in the area, Area 15 Regional Planning Commission is your local government organization formed since 1974 to assist with economic development and planning needs of the 6-county region also known as the Council of Governments (COG). As members of Area 15 RPC, our programs and grant writing and administrative services are available to you. We help partner our communities with local, state, and federal programs to help fund projects.
Thank you for your membership
A BIG THANK YOU to all the cities and counties in our region who committed their annual membership to support Area 15 Regional Planning Commission! Your membership dues help provide the matching funds for our U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development planning grant. This program supports our staff to answer your calls and questions and provide technical assistance such as project development and grantwriting. The following is the list of RPC member cities and counties for FY2026 –
Agency | Barnes City | Batavia | Beacon | Birmingham | Blakesburg | Bloomfield | Bonaparte | Cantril | Chillicothe | Delta | Eddyville | Eldon | Fairfield | Farmington | Fremont | Harper | Hayesville | Hedrick | Keomah Village | Keosauqua | Keota | Keswick | Kinross | Kirkville | Leighton | Libertyville | Lockridge | Maharishi Vedic City | Martinsburg | Milton | New Sharon | Ollie | Oskaloosa | Ottumwa | Packwood | Pleasant Plain | Pulaski | Richland | Rose Hill | South English | Sigourney | Stockport | University Park | Webster | Davis County | Jefferson County | Keokuk County | Mahaska County | Van Buren County | Wapello County
AREA 15 REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION
STAFF
Chris Bowers, Executive Director
Hector Hernandez, Transportation Planner
Brandon Dicks, Regional Planner
Matt Naumann, Housing Director
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Mike Hadley, Chairperson - Keokuk Co.
Dale House, Vice-Chair - Van Buren Co.
Bryan Ziegler, Treasurer - Wapello Co.
Dave Henderson - Davis Co.
Lee Dimmitt - Jefferson Co.
Mark Gronendyk - Mahaska Co.
Ed Conrad - Sigourney
John Helgerson - Private Sector
Emily Starnes - Economic Development
Matt Greiner - Private Sector
641-684-6551
PO Box 1110 | 224 E Second Street, Ottumwa, IA 52501
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