Providing a Dignified Life to Seniors, Disabled & Families
Who We Are
The City of Rice Lake Housing Authority has been serving low- and moderate-income families, seniors, and disabled residents of the city since its formation in 1967. It celebrated its 50th anniversary on March 14, 2017.
Rice Lake is located in Barron County, Wisconsin, situated in the northwest section of the state with 8,419 (2010 Census). The city serves as the regional center for commerce, manufacturing, health care provision, and educational services.
We've Earned Our Reputation
The Rice Lake Housing Authority has earned a "High Performing" housing authority rating from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), as well as commendations from the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) and USDA Rural Development for the excellence of operations.
Board of Commissioners – Housing Authority
The Board of Commissioners acts as the Housing Authority's governing body, formulating the Authority's policies and guiding decision-making. The Board consists of the following five members: Robert Mayer (Chairman), Michael Kovacevich (Vice-Chairman), Beverly Buckner (Secretary Treasurer), Mary Ann Wirsbinski (Commissioner), Lynda Sirianni (Commissioner).
Why Support the Rice Lake Housing Authority and Housing Authorities – in General – Throughout the State of Wisconsin and the Nation?
The Rice Lake Housing Authority, as stated above, celebrated its 50th anniversary on March 14 of last year. For approximately 53 years, it has been providing quality, affordable housing to the residents of the city of Rice Lake. The Rice Lake Housing Authority and housing authorities throughout the country maintain a stable, strong, and steady presence within its community.
The housing authority is guided and directed by a five-person board of commissioners appointed by the city's mayor and city council, and a staff of seven employees inclusive of 24-hour, on-call maintenance staff.
It works closely with area stakeholders, such as the City of Rice Lake, Barron County Health and Human Services, the Barron County Aging and Disability Resource Center, the Rice Lake Police and Fire Departments, Inclusa (managed care organization), the Rice Lake Senior Center, Meals on Wheels and many others.
It also "works locally," contracting with Rice Lake vendors for goods and services and employing local electricians, plumbers, carpenters, HVAC providers, and many more.
It houses approximately three percent of the city's population while contributing nearly $70,000 per year to the city in payment in lieu of taxes.
Over the 53 years of its existence, the housing authority has endured through the many private developers and non-profit developers and the developments they have brought to the city. A number of the many developers above have long since left the city.
The housing authority stands apart as a valuable community asset and resource.