An extra $15,000 is available for community enhancement in Luverne, thanks to an online voting effort in the community.
Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB Des Moines) gave Luverne its Strong Communities Award in the rural category of a recent contest that drew 12,000 votes among four qualifying communities.
FHLB member Exchange State Bank partnered with Luverne Initiatives for Tomorrow (LIFT) to become the first place finisher in the rural category.
Exchange State Bank Luverne Vice President Ryan DeBates presented the check at a reception Monday evening in Sterling’s restaurant.
“I think it says a lot about Luverne and the support we have,” DeBates said. He thanked EDA Director Holly Sammons for helping Exchange State Bank loan officer Tyler Bush compile the application.
He also thanked Chamber Director Jane Wildung Lanphere for mass emailing the daily reminders to vote online. Among the voters were Luverne students who also supported the effort.
“Thanks a lot,” DeBates said. “This is a great deal.”
Mayor Pat Baustian accepted the check on behalf of LIFT.
“Without the partnership of the banks, individuals and businesses, we couldn’t do what we do with LIFT,” he said. “We’ll put the money to good use.”
Exchange State Bank has been a loyal supporter of LIFT and its efforts to improve the community over the past several years.
“The results have been successful and numerous,” DeBates said, “from streetscape enhancements, a marketing strategy designed to unify the community, and the creation of a local business network and training program.”
The Strong Communities Award is designed to honor the projects, the people and the programs that promote small business growth and retention in their communities, according to FHLB.
The award was open to FHLB members and community partners throughout the bank’s district, consisting of 13 states and three U.S. Pacific territories.
The finalists advanced to a five-day public vote as a component of the selection process, with one rural project and one urban project earning a $15,000 grand prize. Overall, more than 12,000 votes were received during the voting period.
The Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines is a member-owned cooperative that provides funding solutions and liquidity to over 1,400 financial institutions to support mortgage lending, economic development and affordable housing in their communities. More information is at www.fhlbdm.com.