OTTUMWA — The City of Ottumwa has been designated as a 2026 Iowa Thriving Community by the Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) and Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA). The IFA and IEDA has recognized Ottumwa as a forward-thinking community, demonstrating best practices in planning, financial support, targeted development, leadership, and employer engagement. Ottumwa’s investment in community assets is also part of this designation. We did not achieve this honor alone. The City collaborated with Indian Hills Community College, the Ottumwa Community School District, the Legacy Foundation, Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress, JBS, and others to obtain this designation. Being named a 2026 Iowa Thriving Community provides valuable scoring advantages for the Federal Housing Tax Credit, Workforce Housing Tax Credits, HOME, and Community Catalyst programs while gaining state and national visibility as a model for successful housing strategies. This all means Ottumwa becomes more attractive to developers, creating a better community for everyone. With the state’s help, we can move forward on our goals of meeting the community’s housing needs.