Press Release

Jefferson, Iowa – April 3, 2025 – The City of Jefferson is pleased to announce the successful completion of its Rural Housing Readiness Assessment, conducted in partnership with Iowa State University Extension. This in-depth study builds on the findings of the City’s 2022 Housing Needs Assessment, which revealed that Jefferson must add approximately 15 new housing units per year to support a projected 2% population growth by 2030. The Rural Housing Readiness Assessment was a comprehensive effort to evaluate local housing challenges and opportunities, using current demographic data and extensive community feedback gathered through a public survey. The City sincerely thanks all residents who participated in the survey and shared their perspectives—your input played a vital role in shaping the direction of our housing strategy and future community development.

The Assessment revealed significant needs across all facets of housing in Jefferson, including the demand for rental housing versus owner-occupied homes, as well as the balance between workforce housing, market-based housing, and higher-end homes. As a result, three priority areas have been identified to address these needs:

1. Land Development & Incentives
The committee will focus on identifying available lots and developable land within Jefferson. This group will work closely with landowners and developers to facilitate the development of new housing projects and offer incentives to encourage growth in the housing market.
2. Rehabilitation & Preservation of Existing Homes
To preserve Jefferson’s character and history, the committee will prioritize efforts to rehabilitate older homes and acquire and renovate derelict buildings. Focus will be placed on obtaining grant funding and seed money to support ongoing preservation and rehabilitation efforts.
3. Rentals
Recognizing the growing demand for rental housing, the committee will develop a platform for rental units and availability, helping residents find suitable rental options. In addition, the committee will seek to implement a Rental Inspections Program to ensure rental properties meet safety and quality standards.

To implement these priorities, an inventory system will be created for available properties, including lots, land, and buildings. The committee will develop an editable, validated, and accessible e-document to serve as a comprehensive resource for real estate developers, potential homeowners, and investors.

To further advance these goals, a nonprofit housing entity will be established to facilitate housing projects in Jefferson. This organization will have the capacity to own and sell land, as well as accept tax-deductible contributions, to support housing development and community initiatives.

The City has been awarded a grant from the Iowa Economic Development Authority, providing $20,000 to be utilized by the Assessment team over the next two years to implement the identified priorities and support the growth of housing opportunities in Jefferson.

Committees have been organized to take immediate action on each of these priority areas, and the team is enthusiastic about the progress that will be made in the coming months.

We thank the public once again for their strong participation in the survey and look forward to working together to create a thriving, sustainable housing market that meets the needs of all residents in Jefferson.

For more information, please contact:
Chad Stevens
Building Official
chads@cityofjeffersoniowa.org
(515) 386-3111