Housing Committee
Lots available for residential development
(November 20, 2025) The City of Elkader is launching a new housing incentive program at the Breezy Summit Subdivision, opening 11 residential lots for new single-family homes or duplexes with significant cost-saving incentives for builders and homebuyers.
“This is a unique opportunity for families and builders to invest in Elkader’s future,” said Mayor Josh Pope. “The addition of 11 homes in Breezy Summit will strengthen our schools, our businesses, and our quality of life.”
Incentives Available:
Qualifying new construction in Breezy Summit may receive:
- Three years of free water and sewer base rates
- Three-year rebate on city portion of property taxes (minus the debt service levy)
- Free building permit
- Free water and sewer tap-on fees
Lots start at a minimum price of $2,000, providing an affordable way to build a new home in Elkader. Several lots (4, 5, 10, 11, and 20) are especially suited for Homes for Iowa projects.
Participant Requirements:
- Provide proof of financing
- Submit basic home plan (single-family or duplex)
- Begin construction within 24 months
- Complete construction within three years
Proposals will be reviewed by the Elkader Housing Committee and approved by the Elkader City Council. The City reserves the right to reject proposals that do not meet program requirements.
The first round of proposals are due Tuesday, December 16th with reviews happening on a monthly basis as proposals are submitted.
General information about the sale of the lots
Proposal application for an individual
Proposal application for a development company
Build your next home in Breezy Summit and be part of Elkader’s next chapter!
History
In 2022, a Elkader housing committee was formed to work to ensure that existing and potential residents are able to find safe, secure, and quality housing that meets their needs and fits within their budgets.
Elkader received a matching grant from the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) through the Empower Rural Iowa Initiative to participate in the Rural Housing Readiness Assessment (RHRA) program provided by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach’s Community and Economic Development unit (CED). This partnership assisted our local committee in establishing action steps to preserve and grow the housing stock in Elkader.
Canvassing efforts
In 2023, the team's first action step was canvassing residents to identify current and anticipated housing needs. Volunteers went door-to-door asking residents to complete a brief survey about their housing needs and future needs.
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The final report was presented to the City Council at their August 14, 2023 Council meeting.
Appendix B - Educational Workshop Slides - Part 1
Contact City Hall
Email City Hall
Phone: 563-245-2098
Fax: 563-245-1033
Address:
207 N. Main Street
PO Box 427
Elkader, IA 52043
Hours:
M-F 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
(including the lunch hour)