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HFED Urges County to Reconsider Student Loan Program

By Greg Bebermeyer

09/16/2013

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission has been asked to reconsider participation in a rural economic development program that helps new residents repay their student loans.

Representatives of the Hiawatha Foundation for Economic Development met with the commission Monday to encourage them to take part in the program that allows counties designated as a Rural Opportunity Zone to partner with the state to help new residents repay up to $15,000 in college loans over a five-year period.

The commission had previously decided not to participate in the program due to reservations about the county’s role and financial responsibility.

HFED President Gene Hilyer says local employers think it’s an important program and the HFED board has agreed to sponsor two individuals for a maximum of $3,000 per year. However, he says the county has to sign-on to the program for that to happened and for businesses to be involved.

Commissioner’s agreed to reconsider their decision, but said they wanted more information first. Commissioner Steve Roberts said he doesn’t want to stand in the way of allowing local employers to offer the incentive as a way to attract qualified employees.

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