Supporting Recovery. Strengthening Communities. Building What’s Next.

Apr 9
12 min read

Newsline | April 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.

Disaster Assistance Available for Wapello County Residents

Following recent severe weather on April 2, 2026, Governor Kim Reynolds has issued a disaster proclamation for Wapello County, activating state assistance programs to support impacted residents and families.

Two key programs are now available. The Disaster Case Advocacy Program assists residents experiencing hardship, injury or adverse conditions resulting from the storm. Advocates help clients develop recovery plans and connect them with available services and resources. This service is available to all applicants, regardless of income.

Eligible households may also apply for the Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program (IIAGP), which offers up to $7,000 in assistance for temporary housing, home repairs, food, and personal property losses. To qualify, household income must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, and original receipts are required for reimbursement claims.

Applications must include basic household information, a description of disaster-related needs, and details about insurance coverage. Residents can apply for IIAGP within 45 days of the Governor’s proclamation, while Disaster Case Advocacy services remain available for 180 days.

Residents are encouraged to apply promptly and contact local emergency management officials for assistance with the application process. For more information go to www.homelandsecurity.iowa.gov.

Improving Safety with Iowa DOT Speed Feedback Signs

Communities across Iowa have an opportunity to enhance roadway safety through the Iowa Department of Transportation’s Speed Feedback Sign Program. These signs are designed to display a driver’s current speed in real time, encouraging motorists to slow down and become more aware of their driving behavior. Studies have shown that speed feedback signs are an effective traffic-calming tool, helping reduce speeds and improve safety for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists alike.

This program is especially beneficial for smaller communities where state highways transition into local streets, often creating concerns with speeding traffic. In many cases, the Iowa DOT provides and installs the signs at no cost, making this a cost-effective solution for cities looking to address safety concerns without a significant financial burden. After installation, the city assumes ownership and is responsible for ongoing maintenance.

Local governments interested in participating are encouraged to coordinate with their regional planning affiliation or the Iowa DOT to determine eligibility and appropriate locations. Speed feedback signs can be a simple yet impactful way to improve safety, increase driver awareness, and support more livable communities across the region.

For details or assistance, contact Area 15 RPC at hector.hernandez@area15rpc.com or call 641-814-8401.

Paint Iowa Grants Awarded

Milton, Fairfield, and Ottumwa have each been awarded 2026 Paint Iowa Beautiful grants—support that will help bring impactful community improvement projects to life.

These grants provide resources for beautification efforts such as painting public facilities, revitalizing shared spaces, and enhancing the overall appearance of each community.

Congratulations to Milton, Fairfield, and Ottumwa on their projects and the positive impact they will bring. These efforts reflect a strong commitment to creating vibrant, welcoming places for residents and visitors alike. This program is offered by Keep Iowa Beautiful annually in partnership with Diamon Vogel Paint of Orange City, Iowa. The Paint Iowa Beautiful program accepts applications around February each year and Area 15 RPC staff can assist to write and submit your application.

Homes for Iowa is Bringing Affordable Housing to Southern Iowa

The Homes for Iowa initiative is a unique collaboration between state agencies, nonprofits, and correctional institutions to address two of Iowa’s most pressing challenges: the shortage of skilled labor and the need for affordable housing. Through this innovative program, quality, affordable homes are constructed by individuals at the Newton Correctional Facility who are gaining hands-on experience in trades such as carpentry, electrical work, and plumbing. Each home built reflects a fresh start—not only for the future homeowner, but also for the individuals developing valuable skills that can support successful reentry into the workforce.

Regional partners like the Area 15 Regional Planning Commission play a vital role in bringing this program to communities. As a Council of Governments (COG), Area 15 RPC serves as a local, on-the-ground resource, working directly with municipalities, developers, and individuals interested in purchasing a Homes for Iowa house. Their team helps guide buyers through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth and informed experience.

This support includes promoting awareness of the program and helping communities understand the benefits of participating, as well as providing hands-on assistance with navigating application requirements, timelines, and compliance standards. Area 15 also helps coordinate site readiness by conducting initial lot assessments and identifying any potential challenges that could affect home delivery and placement.

To date, Homes for Iowa has placed more than 150 homes across the state, helping to ease housing shortages while creating meaningful opportunities for skill-building and second chances. With the support of local partners like Area 15 RPC, the program continues to expand its reach and impact in communities across Iowa.

Local officials, nonprofit organizations, and prospective homeowners interested in learning more about how Homes for Iowa can benefit their community are encouraged to contact Area 15 Regional Planning Commission. For more information, call Matt at 641-814-8400.

Surface Transportation Block Grant / Transportation Alternatives Program

The application deadline for the Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) and Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) was April 1. Communities and counties in RPA 15 (Keokuk, Mahaska, Jefferson, Van Buren, and Wapello) are encouraged to begin preparing now to be ready for the next funding cycle.

The STBG program supports transportation projects including road improvements and resurfacing. RPA 15 allocates approximately $3,000,000 annually for projects across the 5-county region.

The TAP program focuses on alternative transportation projects including trails, safety programs, and water trails. RPA 15 allocates approximately $270,000 annually for these projects. Communities may also apply to the statewide program, which requires a 20% local match and has an application deadline of July 1. It is important that projects be identified in the region’s long-range transportation plan for eligibility.

For questions about STBG or TAP, please contact hector.hernandez@area15rpc.com or call 641-814-8401

IHCC North Campus Project Advances with Lighting Improvements

Indian Hills Community College completed paving of the truck driver training lot at its North Campus in Ottumwa, transforming the previously gravel surface into a more durable and functional space. Due to favorable bids on the paving project, overhead lighting is being added to the training lot to enhance visibility, safety, and overall usability of the training area. Bids have been taken and work will start this Spring to install the new lights. These upgrades support a more effective environment for workforce training and long-term site reliability.

Area 15 Regional Planning Commission is proud to partner with Indian Hills Community College on this project to provide grant administration services for compliance with federal and state requirements throughout the process. This project also helps achieve goals identified in our Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy.

Regional Trail Plan Update

RPA 15 staff have been organizing and conducting SWOT analysis workshops to determine the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of the trail systems in Mahaska, Jefferson, and Keokuk counties for the Regional Trail Plan. Surveys from key stakeholders have been conducted and collected to help RPA 15 identify priorities and guide the development of the regional trail network.

If you have questions about the planning process or would like additional information about the Regional Trail Plan, please contact hector.hernandez@area15rpc.com or call 641-814-8401.

STRIDE Plan Awarded to City of New Sharon

The City of New Sharon has been selected to develop a Small-Town Rural Development and Enhancement (STRIDE) plan, a strategic transportation plan for communities with populations under 5,000.

Area 15 Regional Planning Commission will organize three meetings to discuss funding opportunities, existing infrastructure, future projects, and safety concerns. A workshop will also be held this spring to gather input from key stakeholders and identify community priorities.

Other communities that have participated in the STRIDE planning process include Sigourney and Hedrick.

If you have questions about the planning process or would like additional information about the STRIDE process, please contact hector.hernandez@area15rpc.com or call 641-814-8401.

Funding Opportunities Now Open Through the Iowa DOT

The Iowa DOT’s Sign Replacement Program will open in late December 2026 or early January 2027 and will operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Eligible communities can receive funding to replace existing traffic control signs, including stop, yield, and school zone signs listed in their application.

This is a reimbursement program, which requires communities to purchase and install eligible signage prior to applying. Each community may submit one application per year.

Cities may apply for up to $5,000
Counties may apply for up to $10,000

Please reach out to see if your sign replacement is eligible for this program. For details or assistance, contact Area 15 RPC at hector.hernandez@area15rpc.com or call 641-814-8401.

Congratulations to Farmington on SRF Loan Forgiveness Award

Area 15 Regional Planning Commission is pleased to congratulate the City of Farmington on receiving State Revolving Fund (SRF) loan forgiveness to support critical sewer system improvements. The project is estimated at approximately $1.28 million, with $500,000 funded through a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and the remaining costs supported by SRF financing.

The project will focus on comprehensive upgrades to the city’s wastewater system, including sewer main replacement, point repairs, and extensive manhole rehabilitation. Improvements will also include upgrades to lift stations, such as pump replacements, control and SCADA enhancements, and the addition of standby generators to improve system reliability and resilience.

This funding will help reduce the financial burden associated with necessary upgrades while ensuring continued reliability and efficiency of Farmington’s wastewater infrastructure. Area 15 RPC is proud to support Farmington in advancing these important improvements and investing in the long-term health and resilience of the community.

AHEAD Regional Housing Trust Fund's Owner-Occupied Home Repair Program

he AHEAD Regional Housing Trust Fund offers an Owner-Occupied Home Repair Program to help eligible homeowners make essential repairs that improve the health, safety, and livability of their homes. This program provides financial assistance for a variety of needs, including roofing, plumbing, electrical work, heating and cooling systems, and accessibility modifications. By offering low- or no-interest loans, the program makes it easier for low- and moderate-income homeowners to afford necessary improvements.

Homeowners may qualify if they live in Davis, Jefferson, Keokuk, Mahaska, Van Buren, or Wapello County in Iowa, occupy the home as their primary residence, and meet established income guidelines. The application process begins with reviewing eligibility requirements and income limits on the program’s website. Applicants must then submit a completed application along with documentation such as proof of income and homeownership. Once submitted, the AHEAD team will review the application and may schedule a home visit to assess repair needs. If approved, homeowners will be notified of their loan amount so repairs can move forward.

For more information or to begin the application process, visit https://www.area15rpc.com/rhtf or call 641-814-8400. The AHEAD team is available to answer questions and help guide applicants through each step of the process.

Additional Resources for Homebuyers from Iowa Finance Authority

The Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) offers a range of down-payment assistance programs designed to make homeownership more accessible for a variety of buyers, including first-time homeowners, veterans, and those purchasing in targeted areas. These programs provide valuable financial support and flexible options to help reduce the upfront costs of buying a home.

The FirstHome Program connects first-time homebuyers with affordable mortgage options through participating local lenders. This program offers benefits such as lower interest rates, reduced mortgage insurance, and down-payment assistance. Eligible applicants may receive a $2,500 grant or choose a second loan of up to 5 percent of the home’s purchase price, which is repayable upon sale or refinance.

The Homes for Iowans Program is available to both first-time and repeat homebuyers and also provides a second loan of up to 5 percent of the home’s purchase price. This loan requires no monthly payments, with repayment deferred until the home is sold or refinanced, making it a flexible option for buyers looking to minimize upfront expenses.

For those who have served, the Military Homeownership Assistance Program offers a $5,000 grant to eligible service members and veterans to help cover down payment and closing costs. This grant can be combined with other IFA programs, further increasing affordability for those who qualify.

Homebuyers interested in these programs should begin by contacting a participating IFA lender, who will help determine eligibility and guide them through the application process. A full list of approved lenders and additional program details can be found on the Iowa Finance Authority website. Homeownership | Economic Development & Finance Authority

Keep Your City Code Current with Area 15 RPC

City codes play a vital role in guiding development, ensuring compliance, and supporting the long-term goals of a community. However, many communities are working with outdated ordinances that may no longer reflect current needs, regulations, or best practices.

Area 15 Regional Planning Commission offers assistance with city code updates, helping communities review, revise, and modernize their ordinances. Whether addressing zoning regulations, subdivision ordinances, nuisance codes, or other local policies, our team works with local officials to ensure codes are clear, effective, and aligned with state and federal requirements.

Updating your city code can improve clarity for residents and developers, streamline local processes, and better position your community for future growth. If your city is interested in reviewing or updating its code, Area 15 RPC is here to help guide you through the process. For more information, contact Brandon Dicks at 641-814-8404.

Highway Railroad Crossing Safety Program

For many individuals and families in Davis, Jefferson, Keokuk, Mahaska, Van Buren, and Wapello counties, the dream of homeownership can feel out of reach due to the challenge of saving for a down payment and covering closing costs. The AHEAD Regional Housing Trust Fund (RHTF) Down-Payment Assistance (DPA) Program is designed to help bridge that gap and make homeownership more attainable.

Through this program, eligible homebuyers may receive a loan equal to 10 percent of the home’s purchase price, up to $10,000, to assist with down payment and/or closing costs associated with purchasing a home. This support can make a meaningful difference in helping individuals and families take the next step toward owning a home.

To qualify, applicants must be employed within the six-county region served by AHEAD RHTF and must be purchasing a home located within the city limits of an incorporated community in that same region. In addition, total household income must be at or below $100,000 in adjusted gross income based on the most recent Federal Income Tax return (Form 1040), and applicants must demonstrate the ability to repay the loan.

Interested individuals can apply for assistance at any time. To begin the application process or learn more, contact Matt at 641-814-8400 to schedule an appointment.

Upcoming Infrastructure Projects Set to Begin Across the Region

Several important infrastructure projects are scheduled to begin construction across the Area 15 region this spring and summer. These projects will address critical sewer system needs and support long-term community sustainability.

Three of the projects—located in Ottumwa, Farmington, and Birmingham—are being funded through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program and will focus on sewer system improvements, including repairs and rehabilitation.

In addition, the City of Bonaparte will be moving forward with a sewer infrastructure project funded through the State Revolving Fund (SRF) program.

Together, these projects represent a significant investment in maintaining and improving essential public infrastructure. Area 15 Regional Planning Commission is proud to support these communities as they move into the construction phase, with work anticipated to begin in spring or summer of this year.

Planning Water and Wastewater Improvements? Area 15 RPC Can Help

Planning for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements is essential to maintaining reliable service and supporting future community growth. From aging systems to regulatory requirements, these projects can be complex—but early planning makes all the difference.

Area 15 Regional Planning Commission offers assistance with planning water and wastewater improvement projects, helping communities evaluate needs, identify priorities, and develop a clear path forward. Our team can assist with project scoping, coordination with engineers and funding agencies, and identifying potential funding sources such as CDBG and SRF programs.

Whether your community is addressing immediate concerns or planning for long-term system upgrades, Area 15 RPC is here to provide guidance and support every step of the way.

If your city is considering improvements, now is a great time to start the conversation. For more information, contact Brandon Dicks at 641-814-8404.

Area 15 RPC Provides Project Planning and Grant Writing

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 –