NCJDA Adds Three Board Members
Since its formation, the Nelson County Job Development Authority (NCJDA) has been a driving force behind local growth and opportunity, opening the door for entrepreneurship, community development, and investment.
Fueled primarily by a county mill levy, along with loan repayments and grants from partner organizations, the NCJDA puts its resources right where they matter most: supporting local businesses and communities. Projects range from interest buydowns and direct business loans to feasibility studies and matching grants, helping turn great ideas into real results.
Behind every initiative is a dedicated Board of Directors, appointed by the Nelson County Commission. This board guides the organization’s work, reviews funding applications, and ensures investments deliver long-term benefits for the people of Nelson County. Members serve staggered three-year terms, offering a steady mix of experienced leadership and fresh perspectives.
Three new At-Large members have joined the Board of Directors in 2026:
Faye Brosy Nelson of Lakota: Faye is employed with the USDA as a Program Analyst, is a farmer and entrepreneur. She is also a former long-time educator serving as a school counselor and vocational educator with a Master’s in School Counseling. Faye’s experience in agriculture and leadership, alongside her enthusiasm for rural economic vitality will be great assets to the NCJDA.
Taylor Schaley of Niagara: Taylor is a licensed insurance agent and owner of Lakota Farm Services, a local insurance agency. She oversees operations, compliance, payroll and advises clients. Taylor’s experience in human resources, administration and financial management will serve her well as part of the NCJDA.
Andrea (Andi) Wohlers of Lakota: Andi is the owner of Rubin Roots, a local floral growing operation, and is a Registered Nurse serving as school nurse and hospice visit nurse. Her experience in healthcare, education, leadership and entrepreneurship will provide diverse and insightful perspectives to the NCJDA.
Four-Year Project Revitalizes 14 Nelson County Homes
The Nelson County JDA partnered with the Red River Regional Council to rehabilitate 14 homes in Nelson County between 2022 and 2025. Funding for the multi-year project was awarded by USDA Rural Development, and the project is now complete with a total investment of $327,000.
The following is a listing of the locations of the houses by community:
- Aneta – 1
- McVille – 2
- Michigan – 3
- Kloten – 1
- Lakota – 5
- Pekin – 1
- Tolna – 1
USDA-RD provides grants for rehabilitation of homes for low- and moderate-income households, including seniors and individuals with disabilities. The houses are owner-occupied properties with the owners meeting income guidelines—at or below 80% of area median income.
Housing rehabilitation projects address vital elements such as windows, roofs, siding, handicap accessibility and more – aimed at bringing the houses to compliance with Section 8 housing standards. Section 8 standards are defined by the U.S. Office of Housing and Urban Development.
Housing rehabilitation projects aim to preserve safe, affordable homes by repairing and upgrading existing housing units to improve living conditions, extend the life of the housing, and support stable communities.
Shout out to Lori Estad, RRRC Project Manager, and all the area contractors and suppliers that assisted in completing this project over the past four years!
Housing Rehab Projects Helping to Spruce Up Nelson County
The Nelson County JDA partnered with the Red River Regional Council to rehabilitate 14 homes in Nelson County between 2022 and 2025. Funding for the multi-year project was awarded by USDA Rural Development.
The following is a listing of the locations of the houses by community:
- Aneta – 1
- McVille – 2
- Michigan – 3
- Kloten – 1
- Lakota – 5
- Pekin – 1
- Tolna – 1
USDA-RD provides grants for rehabilitation of homes for low- and moderate-income households, including seniors and individuals with disabilities. The houses are owner-occupied properties with the owners meeting income guidelines—at or below 80% of area median income.
Housing rehabilitation projects address vital elements such as windows, roofs, siding, handicap accessibility and more – aimed at bringing the houses to compliance with Section 8 housing standards. Section 8 standards are defined by the U.S. Office of Housing and Urban Development. Housing rehabilitation projects aim to preserve safe, affordable homes by repairing and upgrading existing housing units to improve living conditions, extend the life of the housing, and support stable communities.
Shout out to Lori Estad, RRRC Project Manager, and all the area contractors and suppliers that assisted in completing this project over the past four years!
Two Outgoing Board Members Recognized
At its December meeting, the JDA board recognized two outgoing members whose terms expired Dec. 31, 2025: Nancy Charles, who served the last two and a half years representing McVille as a township officer; and Dennis Fahey, who served a three-year term representing Lakota as a city council member.
Thank you to Nancy and Dennis for your commitment, contributions and service to Nelson County.
Storefront Improvement Grantee Making Progress
The Bins Coffee and Spirits, a recipient of Storefront Improvement Grant funds from the Nelson County JDA and the City of Lakota in 2025, is making progress at the former Elaine’s House of Dreams location along Highway 2 in Lakota.
Co-owner Faye Brosy Nelson says, “The Bins Coffee & Spirits is officially in progress! Things are moving, walls are going up, and our vision is starting to take shape. We are working hard behind the scenes to create a warm, welcoming space for our community and travelers along Highway 2.”
The new business is slated to open in the summer of 2026. Enjoy a sneak peek at the progress photos provided by Brosy Nelson below.
