Minnesota Housing announced over $60 million is available to provide affordable mortgages to first-time homebuyers through a collaboration with Minnesota cities and counties, including $679,655 for the Bluff Country Minnesota Multi-County HRA which serves Fillmore and Houston counties. Homebuyers can take advantage of these resources through the Minnesota Housing Start Up … [Read more...]
USDA announces funding availability to help low income individuals and families buy or repair homes
AUSTIN, MN – USDA Rural Development has funding available for very low and low income individuals and families seeking to purchase or repair a home in a rural area. “Our housing staff will work one-on-one to ensure quality customer service for all applicants,” said State Director Brad Finstad. “To help prepare would-be buyers for this exciting step, USDA requires applicants … [Read more...]
Space heater safety
Space heaters – whether portable or stationary – accounted for two of every five (40%) home heating fires and 4 of 5 (84%) home heating fire deaths. (National Fire Protection Association, based on 2009-2013 annual averages.) Do not let your space heater’s cozy comfort become a devastating disaster. Heating-related fires most often occur in December, January, and February. … [Read more...]
Assistance, resources available to help customers in need with heating bills
As winter and colder temperatures approach, Minnesota Energy Resources reminds customers to check their eligibility for heating assistance through the state Energy Assistance Program (EAP). The EAP, administered by the Minnesota Department of Commerce, provides assistance to help customers with energy costs such as natural gas bills or emergency repair or replacement of faulty … [Read more...]
Home heating costs expected to be less than $600 this winter
With the winter heating season underway, an average Minnesota Energy Resources residential customer will likely heat their home for less than $600 for the third year in a row, according to the natural gas utility’s most recent forecast. If the heating forecast holds true, Minnesota Energy Resources expects an average residential customer to pay $557 in home heating costs from … [Read more...]
Home weatherization help available
Fall breezes are blowing in holidays, as well as, colder weather and heating bills. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) can give a one-time payment to cover a portion of heating costs. Depending on the county, additional community resources might be available for heating assistance. According to energy.gov, approximately 45% of home energy is used for heating … [Read more...]
LaVerne Paulson retires from recycling center
“Think of your grandchildren. They’re going to appreciate what you do.” That’s one of LaVerne Paulson’s favorite sayings and one he uses frequently. Paulson, a long-time Preston resident and active member of the community, officially retired from his position at the Fillmore County Recycling Center on October 6 after working there for 10 years. Before that, he was a … [Read more...]
Preston woman gains recognition at State Fair
It’s the sweetest thing seeing the fruits of your labor being awarded. Jenny Dornink of Preston, Minn., entered nine jars of homemade and colorful jellies for competition at the 2017 Minnesota State Fair and to her delight, she received six ribbons. Dornink began learning the basics of canning while she was in high school as her grandmother, Lois Ray, had her bed and … [Read more...]
Earth-friendly tips for autumn
Autumn is upon us, and with the change of seasons comes the fall to-do list that must be completed before the arrival of winter weather. Many outdoor jobs are best completed before temperatures drop, while others can be tackled indoors to help save energy and prepare for increased time spent inside the home. Outdoor cleanup Autumn means leaves are falling from trees and … [Read more...]
Three pre-winter lawn care pointers
Winter weather can be harsh, especially on lawns. Homeowners who spend much of spring and summer tending to their lawns may fear the impact that winter will have on their once-lush landscapes, making the fall a great time to fortify lawns against any harsh conditions to come. Homeowners must take grass type into consideration before taking steps to prepare their lawns for the … [Read more...]