News Flash

Housing/HRA

Posted on: November 16, 2022

Series on housing addresses ADUs, downsizing and aging in place design

Age-Friendly Northfield, Rice County Habitat for Humanity and the city of Northfield have scheduled a series of workshops that explore the housing domain. While two of the cohosting agencies are based in Northfield, the sessions are open to all.

All sessions (except the Tour de’Age) will be held at Fifty North, 1651 Jefferson Parkway, Northfield.

The ABCs of ADUs

Wednesday, Nov. 30, 10:30 a.m. – noon
What’s an Accessory Dwelling Unit and why might I want one? ADUs can be used for many purposes, from housing aging parents or adult children to providing additional space for a home office or studio. A representative from the city of Northfield will talk about what is and isn’t allowed with Accessory Dwelling Units. Someone from Yard Homes, a nonprofit builder of ADUs throughout Minnesota, will also be in attendance, as will one of its local customers.

Universal Design

Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023, 10:30 a.m. – noon
Learn how you can make minor and major changes so that you can age well at home. A home built or modified with Universal Design features — such as a no-step entry, wide doorways for wheelchair access and easy-grasp lever-style handles in place of doorknobs — is livable for a range of residents, but especially for older adults and people with disabilities. A representative from Johnson-Reiland Builders & Remodelers, which is building homes with universal design, will attend this session. Someone from Rice County Habitat for Humanity and the city of Northfield will talk about their aging in place programs.

Steps to Downsizing

Wednesday, April 19, 2023, 10:30 a.m. – noon
This session is for people thinking about downsizing. How do you prepare for this big transition? How far in advance should you be thinking ahead? Experts in packing/organizing will share tips. Local Realtors who have helped people in this life transition will offer their advice.