Clear Lake Earns Thriving Communities Designation, Signaling Readiness for Housing Development

CLEAR LAKE, IA — The City of Clear Lake has been selected as one of just five communities statewide to receive the prestigious Thriving Communities designation from the Iowa Finance Authority and Iowa Economic Development Authority. This designation confirms what many already know, Clear Lake is a thriving, development-ready community with the vision, partnerships, and momentum to grow.

 

A Competitive and Collaborative Win

The designation follows a highly competitive process with 22 total applicants across the state. Only eight communities advanced to final interviews, and five were selected. Clear Lake’s application and in-person presentation were led by a six-person team representing the public, private, and nonprofit sectors:

  • Nelson Crabb, Mayor, City of Clear Lake
  • Chad Schreck, President & CEO, North Iowa Corridor Economic Development Corporation
  • Chris Terry, Owner, Core Real Estate Group
  • Mark Dodd, CEO, One Vision
  • Matt Steding, City Engineer, City of Clear Lake
  • Stacy Doughan, President & CEO, Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

 

“This designation gives Clear Lake a powerful advantage in attracting high-quality housing development,” said Chad Schreck. “We have shovel-ready sites, strong local support, and now bonus points for developers applying for state and federal housing incentives. That makes Clear Lake one of the most competitive communities in Iowa for housing projects.”

 

Why It Matters: Housing for Everyone

The Thriving Communities program doesn’t give tax credits directly to the city, but it gives priority scoring to developers seeking funding for housing projects in designated communities including credits for workforce, market-rate, and affordable housing. That’s crucial for Clear Lake as it looks to attract and retain workers, meet the needs of an aging population, and continue its commitment to inclusion through partnerships like One Vision, which serves individuals with disabilities.

 

“We know housing is economic development,” said City Administrator Steve Diers. “This designation helps us ensure that Clear Lake remains a community where people of all ages, incomes, and abilities can live and thrive.”

 

What’s Next

With strong demand, available sites, and a unified team of city leaders and community partners, Clear Lake is ready to work with developers to bring new housing to life.

 

Clear Lake is a Thriving Community and building a future that works for everyone.

 

To learn more about the Iowa Thriving Communities program, visit: opportunityiowa.gov/housing/iowa-thriving-communities