Highlighting Community Impact: The UniverCity Partnership Inspires Adams County Homestead Credit
Shane Melby purchased his home in Adams County and received the new Homestead Tax Incentive.
We are excited to share a wonderful community initiative in Central Wisconsin, powered by the collaboration between the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s UniverCity Alliance and Adams County. This partnership led to the creation of a new Homestead Credit Incentive, offering $2,500 to individuals purchasing homes in Adams County.
What You Need to Know About the Homestead Credit Incentive:
Introduced in 2024, this initiative supports new home construction and encourages new residents, particularly workers, to make Adams County their home. It’s an essential step in addressing the area’s housing shortage and providing incentives for newcomers to establish themselves in the community.
- Why It Matters: With a growing number of employees working in Adams County but living in neighboring counties, this incentive serves as a crucial tool to attract and retain workers. It not only provides financial relief but sends a message that Adams County is invested in its community’s growth.
- Real-Life Impact: Local resident Shane Melby was able to benefit from the Homestead Credit when purchasing his new home. For him, the $2,500 credit was a helpful resource to ease the transition and make the homebuying process more affordable.
Collaboration That Drives Progress
This initiative came about thanks to UniverCity Alliance, which connects communities with UW-Madison’s resources. Over the course of the 2019-2022 partnership, Adams County benefited from 38 impactful projects in areas like economic development, education, and health.
- Making Data Accessible: The partnership provided Adams County with critical information that would otherwise have been costly or inaccessible. It also fostered new collaborations that enhanced the county’s ability to serve its residents.
A Real-World Example of the Power of Partnerships
As noted by Gavin Luter, Managing Director of UniverCity Alliance, “When local experts are paired with eager students, the results are truly beneficial for everyone involved.”
One key contributor to the Homestead Credit program’s success was John O’Malley, a student whose report helped shape the initiative. John’s work exemplifies how partnerships like this offer invaluable real-world experience while positively impacting communities.
Looking Ahead
This innovative collaboration is just one example of how partnerships between educational institutions and local governments can drive long-term growth and sustainability. Adams County’s Homestead Credit is more than just a financial incentive; it’s a commitment to the future of the community, welcoming new residents and fostering economic vitality.
For more information about the Homestead Credit Incentive and how it supports homebuyers in Adams County, read the full article from the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s UniverCity Alliance here.