The City of Council Bluffs is proud to announce its designation as one of Iowa’s 2025 Thriving Communities, a prestigious recognition awarded by the Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) and Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA). Council Bluffs is one of six communities in Iowa, alongside Des Moines, Fort Dodge, Mason City, Newton, and Waterloo, to receive this honor for its commitment to creating affordable housing opportunities for residents at all income levels.
“We are honored to be named a 2025 Iowa Thriving Community,” said Council Bluffs Mayor Matt Walsh. “This designation reflects our ongoing efforts to foster an inclusive community where all residents have access to affordable housing. We remain committed to strategic and innovative approaches to housing development.”
The Iowa Thriving Communities initiative recognizes communities that use forward-thinking strategies to address housing needs and attract housing development. The designation not only acknowledges Council Bluffs' dedication to providing housing for all income levels but also brings additional benefits, including valuable scoring points for Federal Housing Tax Credit and Workforce Housing Tax Credit programs.
"This designation highlights the innovative and collaborative efforts we've made to address the housing needs in Council Bluffs," said Courtney Harter, Community Development Director for the City of Council Bluffs. "It brings attention to the strategic partnerships and forward-thinking solutions we’ve implemented and reinforces our commitment to continuing this essential work for the future of Council Bluffs."
The designation is part of a statewide effort to highlight best practices in housing development, with Council Bluffs serving as a model for both state and national housing strategies.
For more information about housing programs offered by the City of Council Bluffs, please visit councilbluffs-ia.gov.
