By Norma Dittman The City of Fulda will receive over $1 million in DEED funding for rehabilitation of owner-occupied homes and streetscape improvement, according to the State of Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.
Over $20 million in grants through the Small Cities Development Program will be used to support economic development in 33 cities and counties in Greater Minnesota, rehabilitating nearly 300 properties.
“Funding through DEED’s Small Cities Development Program enables cities to undertake projects that promote economic vitality and quality of life in their communities,” said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. “These grants ensure all Minnesotans feel the benefits of economic development and have a safe, healthy community and home, regardless of where they live.”
SCDP helps cities, townships and counties with funding for housing, public infrastructure and commercial rehabilitation projects. The program primarily supports communities of low or moderate incomes in eliminating slum and blight conditions or urgent threats to public health or safety. This year, 92% of SCDP grant recipients serve people with low and moderate incomes.
Fulda is receiving $599,524.00 for the owneroccupied home improvements. The funds will benefit 21 low to moderate income homeowners within the city. The rehabilitation funding is a forgivable loan for which $20,000 to $25,000 would be the forgivable portion. The funds can be used for shingles, siding, windows, and other qualifying purchases.
Development Services, Inc., will be sending notification to the city hall in early 2026 to begin the application processes.
The streetscapes improvement portion is $556,119. Fulda City Clerk, Julie Burchill, explained that a committee consisting of city council members Ann Witzel and Randy Dierks, herself, and Joe Grandgeorge and Loren and Ruth Carlson began working on the proposed grant two years ago.
The streetscapes improvements will include replacement of sidewalks on Fulda’s main street, and beautifying the downtown area. Under discussion are LED lighting and new banners. A portion of land just north of Antonios will be purchased and equipped with an expanded seating area.
“We still have to do an environmental review before any of this will start taking place,” Burchill explained.”
Besides the funds for Fulda, other area awards include $600,000 in Russell, Walnut Grove and Lamberton to improve water distribution lines, and $600,000 in Tracy to rehabilitate the water plant.
