Southeast Iowa Community Development: New Funding, Housing & Infrastructure Projects | Area 15 RPC
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Newsline | October 2026
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.
Area 15 RPC Awarded Three-Year Federal Grant to Advance Regional Community and Economic Development
Area 15 Regional Planning Commission (Area 15 RPC) was recently awarded $210,000 by the U.S. Department of Commerce in 2026 to support implementation of the region’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). The three-year Partnership Planning Grant will strengthen the Commission’s ability to continue working with local elected officials, communities, and regional partners to advance economic growth and improve quality of life throughout Southeast Iowa.
Headquartered in Ottumwa, Area 15 RPC serves Davis, Jefferson, Keokuk, Mahaska, Van Buren, and Wapello Counties, working with 50 cities across the six-county region. The Commission partners with city councils, mayors, county supervisors, and other local stakeholders to identify community needs, establish development priorities, and pursue opportunities that benefit the region.
The CEDS provides a regional framework for identifying economic development challenges, setting priorities, and coordinating strategies that support long-term prosperity. The federal grant will help Area 15 RPC move these priorities from planning to implementation by strengthening regional collaboration, supporting community and economic development initiatives, and helping local governments identify opportunities to advance projects aligned with the strategy.
Local leadership is essential to successful regional development. Cities and counties understand their communities’ needs, assets, and opportunities. By working together through Area 15 RPC, local governments can share information, coordinate priorities, and pursue solutions that strengthen individual communities while benefiting the broader region.
Over the three-year grant period, Area 15 RPC will continue working alongside local officials and regional partners to support implementation of the CEDS and advance projects that contribute to a stronger Southeast Iowa economy. This effort reinforces the value of regional cooperation and the importance of connecting local priorities with a shared vision for the future.
REDI Supports Frog Legs Inc. with $175,000 Loan to Expand Innovative Manufacturing in Bloomfield
Regional Economic Development Investments Inc. recently approved a $175,000 loan to Frog Legs Inc., a Bloomfield-based manufacturer of innovative wheelchair technology, to support product development and expand manufacturing capacity. Founded in 1996 by Mark and Janet Chelgren, Frog Legs specializes in shock-absorbing wheelchair components designed to improve comfort and performance for wheelchair users.
The proposed investment will help bring the company’s patented TERRA-FOIL technology to market. This new technology incorporates shock absorption directly into the wheel, improving upon the existing technology that used shock absorbing forks. The new LEAP tires will provide shock absorption and improve mobility across hard and soft surfaces. This improvement could help expand its use beyond manual wheelchairs into power mobility and other markets, including sporting equipment, and lawn and garden equipment.
The total project is valued at approximately $275,000, combining the requested REDI financing with the company’s own contribution through working capital and raw materials. REDI funds will support machinery and equipment, raw materials, inventory, and product testing and certification. It will help Frog Legs strengthen production to fulfill orders for major customers.
The project is expected to retain seven (7) existing full-time-equivalent jobs in Bloomfield. This investment by REDI Inc. will help local manufacturing advance patented technology, improve production capacity, and pursue new markets. REDI supports business growth to strengthen the region’s manufacturing economy.
Regional Business Loan Program
Regional Economic Development Investments Inc. (REDI) is a non-profit organization available to the Area 15 Region to help local business and industry. REDI is operated by the Area 15 Regional Planning Commission board of directors and was originally formed in 1991 with a grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration.
The REDI program was created with the support of local development groups to start a revolving loan fund to create new jobs or retain existing jobs in the region, particularly for jobs in targeted industries including advanced manufacturing, ag processing, technology, bioprocessing, and automation technology. Since inception REDI has made 100 loans to businesses to help create or retain nearly 2,000 jobs. To date, REDI has made loans totaling over $8 million and leveraged over $50 million in additional company investment. Contact Chris Bowers for more information at 641-814-8403.
REAP application for West End Levee Trail Ottumwa
The City of Ottumwa and Wapello County trail group worked with Area 15 RPC to apply for REAP funding for the West End Levee Trail project.
The project previously received $238,118 in Regional Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) funds for FY27. Phase 1 is estimated at $377,750 and includes approximately 2,475 feet of trail and a pedestrian bridge over the creek. Phase 2 would add approximately 4,870 feet of trail.
Area 15 RPC assisted with aerial photography, grant narrative, and GIS mapping for the application. IDNR is expected to announce REAP awards by October 8.
For more information reach out to Hector Hernandez at hector.hernandez@area15rpc.com or 641-814-8401.
Area 15 RPC Staff Member Accepted into Ottumwa Leadership Academy
Area 15 Regional Planning Commission is pleased to announce that staff member Hector Hernandez has been selected for the Ottumwa Leadership Academy, a 10-month program through the Ottumwa Legacy Foundation.
The program began in August with a retreat at Honey Creek Resort and will continue with monthly sessions focused on leadership development, community awareness, and civic engagement. Participants will explore the region through site visits and opportunities to connect with local leaders and organizations.
Hector’s participation will provide valuable opportunities for professional growth, community connections, and continued leadership development.
Fall County Foundation Grant Deadlines Approaching
Local governments, nonprofit organizations, schools, and community groups planning improvement projects are encouraged to take advantage of upcoming county foundation grant opportunities this fall.
The Keokuk County Foundation application deadline is October 30, while the Davis County Community Foundation application deadline is November 1. These local grant programs provide an opportunity to support projects and activities that strengthen communities and improve quality of life.
Potential applicants should begin preparing early to allow time to develop a project budget, gather estimates, identify matching funds if needed, and obtain any necessary organizational approvals or supporting documentation before the application deadline.
Area 15 Regional Planning Commission can assist communities and eligible organizations with identifying grant opportunities, developing projects, and preparing grant applications. Organizations considering a project are encouraged to contact Area 15 RPC early in the process.
For more information or grant assistance, contact Area 15 RPC at (641) 684-6551.
STBG/TAP Regional Funds Webinar
Area 15 Regional Planning Commission will host a webinar for Technical Advisory Committee and Policy Board members, mayors, city clerks, and city administrators covering STBG/TAP regional funding, including eligibility, applications, and available funding through IDOT.
A calendar invitation will be sent the last week of October. For more information or to receive an invitation, contact Hector Hernandez at hector.hernandez@area15rpc.com or 641-814-8401.
Southeast Iowa State of the Economy Conference
Organized by Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress (GOPIP), this annual conference focused on economic health, opportunities, and challenges facing Southeast Iowa. It featured economic data, expert analysis, and forward‑looking discussions on topics such as workforce development, housing, business growth, infrastructure, and regional competitiveness. RPC Housing Director Matt Naumann and Lindsay Russell of the Iowa Finance Authority gave a presentation focused on housing affordability and how state and local programs are available to housing developers and homebuyers.
Regional Trail Plan 2026 Update
The Area 15 Regional Trail Plan was approved at the August Policy Board meeting and is now available at Area15RPC.com under Transportation Planning Documents.
The plan identifies regional trail connections, current and future projects, and opportunities for communities to work together on trail development. It also incorporates feedback gathered through community workshops.
The plan will help guide future regional trail planning and coordination. For questions, contact Hector Hernandez at hector.hernandez@area15rpc.com or 641-814-8401.
GIS Mapping Services
Area 15 RPC continues to provide GIS mapping services to help communities with transportation routes, zoning, parks, recreational areas, trail planning, and other mapping needs.
GIS mapping can help communities better visualize projects and make informed planning decisions. The example shown is part of the mapping completed for the Regional Trails Plan.
If your community has a mapping need or would like to learn more about GIS services, contact Hector Hernandez at hector.hernandez@area15rpc.com or 641-814-8401.
Regional Housing Trust Fund 2027 Application
The AHEAD Regional Housing Trust Fund (RHTF) board met in September to approve the 2027 application to the State Housing Trust Fund (SHTF). RHTF is applying for $414,751 from the SHTF to be matched with $19,928 from RHTF member counties and $21,548 from the AHEAD RHTF for a total project budget of $456,227.
AHEAD RHTF proposes using the SHTF award and matching funds to finance improvement projects for both owner and rental housing units in the region, and assist in the construction of new rental units. Eligible applicant household income must meet Iowa Finance Authority’s low-to-moderate income limits.
Awards will be announced in December 2026. If funded, the program will be available to qualified applicants, on a first-come, first-served basis, beginning January 1, 2027. On-line applications are available at www.area15rpc.com/rhtf.
AHEAD RHTF has been in operation since 2011 and has provided funding to rehabilitate over 520 homes, create 51 apartments, and prevent over 700 households from becoming homeless. Contact Matt Naumann for more information at 641-814-8400 or matt.naumann@area15rpc,com
Planning for 2027 Infrastructure Funding Starts Now
Communities considering water or wastewater improvements in 2027 should begin planning now. Infrastructure projects often require significant preparation before a funding application can be submitted, and waiting until an application deadline approaches can make it difficult to complete all necessary steps.
Early coordination with engineers, funding agencies, and grant administrators can help communities establish a realistic project scope and schedule. Depending on the project and funding sources being pursued, preparation may include engineering reports, State Revolving Fund (SRF) planning, plans and specifications, construction permits, environmental review, and documentation of eligibility for programs such as the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG).
Iowa's CDBG Water/Sewer program provides competitive funding for projects including sanitary sewer improvements, water system improvements, treatment facilities, and related infrastructure. The most recent 2026 funding round allowed communities to request up to $500,000, and the program is identified as a recurring funding opportunity.
Communities interested in pursuing infrastructure funding in 2027 are encouraged to begin conversations early so there is adequate time to develop the project and meet funding requirements. Area 15 Regional Planning Commission can assist communities with project planning, identifying potential funding sources, grant applications, and grant administration.
For more information, contact Area 15 RPC at (641) 684-6551.
Building Homes, Building Futures
Through the Homes for Iowa program, incarcerated individuals gain hands-on construction experience while building quality, energy-efficient homes that are delivered to communities across the state. The program helps address Iowa's housing shortage while providing participants with valuable construction skills that can support future employment opportunities.
These homes are creating affordable and workforce housing options for Iowa communities, helping families achieve homeownership and supporting local economic growth. The program is a unique example of how workforce development and housing solutions can work together to meet community needs.
By investing in people and communities, Homes for Iowa is helping build brighter futures across the state, one home at a time.
For information about Homes for Iowa, contact:
Matt Naumann at 641-814-8400 or matt.naumann@area15rpc.com
2026 HousingIowa Conference
The 2026 HousingIowa Conference in Des Moines brought together housing leaders from around the state for two days of informative sessions and recognition of projects advancing Iowa’s housing needs. With over 900 participants, the conference was an excellent opportunity to network and share ideas.
Held September 9–10, 2026 at the Iowa Events Center, the conference was hosted by the Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) and the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) and drew housing professionals, community leaders, developers, advocates, policymakers, and service providers from across Iowa. The agenda focused on affordable housing, homelessness, homeownership, development, policy, and community revitalization, offering practical strategies and fostering connections.
RPC Housing Director Matt Naumann participated in several conference sessions, including a tract focused on Artificial Intelligence and how generative AI can be used by housing professionals. The session on the Housing Opportunity Through Modernization Act of 2016 (HOTMA) provided an overview of how this significant piece of federal legislation is designed to streamline, modernize, and the rules governing major Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) programs. The Housing Development Hot Topics Panel session featured public and private housing professionals sharing insights and feilding questions about how to best use housing incentives. A presentation titled “The ROAD to Housing: What the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act Means for Iowa” gave an overview of how this Act represents one of the most comprehensive federal housing reforms in decades, combining supply-side expansion, regulatory modernization and targeted affordability programs.
Bonaparte Sewer Improvements Moving Forward
The City of Bonaparte is moving forward with the first phase of improvements to its sanitary sewer collection system. The project will rehabilitate aging sewer infrastructure throughout the community, including approximately 4,400 feet of sewer lining, spot repairs, and manhole improvements.
The project is being financed through Iowa's Clean Water State Revolving Fund (SRF), which provides financing for wastewater and sewer rehabilitation projects throughout the state. The improvements will help extend the useful life of Bonaparte's existing sewer system, address areas in need of repair, and improve the long-term reliability of the system.
Area 15 Regional Planning Commission has worked with the City throughout the project's development and is providing administrative assistance as the project advances into construction. Projects such as Bonaparte's demonstrate how state and federal funding programs can help smaller communities undertake necessary infrastructure improvements that would otherwise place a significant financial burden on local residents.
Area 15 RPC works with communities throughout Southeast Iowa to identify funding opportunities and assist with the planning and administration of infrastructure projects. For more information, contact Area 15 RPC at (641) 684-6551.
Birmingham Sewer Improvements Move Into Construction
The City of Birmingham is moving forward with construction on its sewer system improvement project. The project is supported by Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and State Revolving Fund (SRF) funding and will address important wastewater infrastructure needs in the community.
Construction activities are now underway following the completion of project planning, environmental review, engineering, bidding, and other pre-construction requirements. The improvements will help strengthen Birmingham’s wastewater system and support reliable service for residents into the future.
Area 15 Regional Planning Commission assisted Birmingham with securing CDBG funding and continues to provide grant administration services as the project moves through construction. Area 15 RPC works with communities throughout Southeast Iowa to identify funding opportunities and help guide infrastructure projects from initial planning through completion.
For more information about infrastructure planning, grant writing, or grant administration assistance, contact Area 15 RPC at (641) 684-6551.
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
WHO IS 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
Dale House, Chairperson - Van Buren Co.
Dave Henderson, Vice-Chair - Davis Co.
Bryan Ziegler, Treasurer - Wapello 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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