Lee County Housing Study Presentations Held Across the County

LEE COUNTY, Iowa (August 2026) – Community members recently attended one of three public presentations highlighting the findings and recommendations from the completed Lee County Housing Study.

The presentations provided an overview of current housing conditions, identified needs throughout the county, and strategies to support future residential development and community growth. Residents, business leaders, developers, elected officials, and other community stakeholders attended to learn more about the study's findings and recommendations.

Presentations were held in Keokuk, Fort Madison, and Donnellson, allowing residents from across Lee County to participate.

Lee County's previous housing study was completed nearly 10 years ago. The updated study provides current data needed to better understand the types, locations, and price points of housing needed throughout the county. The findings will help inform residential development strategies, public and private investment decisions, and funding priorities at both the city and county levels.

Following the presentations, community members were invited to participate in action committees focused on advancing the goals and strategies identified in the study. These committees will help build local ownership of the recommendations and support continued progress toward implementing the study's findings.

The Lee County Economic Development Group partnered with the Southeast Iowa Regional Planning Commission to identify the planning and consulting firm best suited to lead the project. RDG Planning & Design was selected in January 2026, and data collection began in February.

The firm's work was guided by a local steering committee representing communities and organizations throughout Lee County. Steering committee members included Tim Peevler, Rebecca Schau, Jim Ferneau, Laura Liegois, Michael Morhfeld, Jesse Caston, Emily Benjamin, Tim Gobble, Becky Vogel, Joseph Grabowski, and Zach James.
The study was made possible through significant financial support from Koch Fertilizer, which provided the majority of the project funding. Alliant Energy and

MidAmerican Energy also contributed, with additional funding provided through the Lee County Economic Development Group's capital campaign.

About the Lee County Housing Study

The Lee County Housing Study provides an updated assessment of the county's housing supply, market conditions, development opportunities, and future needs. Its findings will support ongoing efforts to attract and retain workers, encourage residential investment, strengthen communities, and promote long-term economic growth throughout Lee County.

Community members attended the presentation that best fit their schedules, and all sessions were open to the public without registration.