Semcac Community Development Department staff provide the administration for the Bluff Country Housing and Redevelopment Authority (BCHRA), which was formed in 1991 to serve Fillmore and Houston counties. Both counties’ commissioners appoint two residents to serve on the governing board of the BCHRA.
Current Board Membership
| Bob Carlson | President, Houston County |
| Sandy Wright | Vice-President, Fillmore County |
| Fillmore County | |
| Eric Johnson | Secretary/Treasurer, Houston County |
Bluff Country HRA is helping to provide first time homebuyer loans.
- To find a participating lender, please see lender list through MN Housing.
- Another great resource is: MN Homeownership Center.
Four Season Acres Housing Development
The Bluff Country HRA partnered with the City of Spring Grove to administer the city’s Tax Increment Financing district for its housing development—Four Season Acres located off of 2nd Avenue S.E. The TIF district has set aside 13 of the development’s 17 lots for income-qualified households.
Small Cities Development Program
Bluff Country HRA and Semcac can partner with local governments to administer Small Cities Development Program projects in Fillmore and Houston counties. This program offers no interest, deferred loans for eligible homeowners to make necessary home repairs. A homeowner could use the loan funds for general improvements including the foundation, siding, gutters, electrical system, plumbing or heating system. Lead assessment and abatement is also a special focus, especially for households with young children. Other state and local funds are leveraged to help with additional improvements.
Previous projects
City of Preston – 15 Owner-Occupied homes were rehabbed
Vesterheim Manor Apartments
Bluff County HRA purchased Vesterheim Manor in 2014 so rental assistance from USDA Rural Development would be preserved. During the acquisition, rehab work was completed to the two buildings with the help from USDA Rural Development, MN Housing and DEED Small Cities.
For rental information, please contact Life Styles Management. Representatives are available Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 4:30 pm. Office: 507.451.8524; TDD: 507.451.0704
Before & After Photos of the Vesterheim Manor Apartment project
Before After