By Maya Betti, KYMN News Intern
Seven months after Rice County officials herald the start of construction at the Twin Oaks subdivision, the
first family is preparing to move into their new home.
Last week, Rice County Habitat for Humanity, which is developing the neighborhood’s first six homes,
dedicated the first of those homes which was built in collaboration with the South Central College
carpentry program.
The northwest Faribault neighborhood is part of an effort by county leaders, including its Housing & Redevelopment Authority, and Three Rivers Community Action, to increase affordable housing stock. The project has been years in the making, with 7 acres of the 109 purchased in 2021 set aside for housing.
With housing, particularly affordable housing for larger and multi-
generational families, beyond scarce in Rice County, deed
restrictions for all 22 lots will ensure the homes remain owner-occupied and affordable. Two grants from Minnesota Housing will provide down payment assistance for buyers of the 14 homes under construction or in the planning stage.
Twin Oaks’ first phase includes six five-bedroom homes. The second phase, expected to begin later this year, will have eight homes. All will have five bedrooms.
During last week’s dedication, an emotional Dave Brokl, the school’s carpentry instructor, explained how building a home is a special feeling, knowing your work will provide safety and security for its occupants.
Speakers included state Rep. Keith Allen, South Central leaders, representatives from Minnesota’s two U.S.
senators and Congressman Brad Finstad, and Rice County Housing Director Joy Watson who thanked the
many partner agencies who have contributed to the project’s success and congratulated Nurto Mudey on
becoming a first-time homebuyer.
“Twin Oaks is a great example of what can happen when a community collaborates to meet a need. This
project is a combination of federal, state and local funds in conjunction with the efforts of Three Rivers Community Action, Rice County Habitat for Humanity, South Central College, the city of Faribault, Rice
County and the Rice County HRA. All the partners have gone above and beyond to create a neighborhood
where families can thrive.”
Soon, Mudey and her family will begin moving in. Though subdued, she was clearly ready for move-in day,
though maybe not as much as one of the smallest family members who ran excitedly toward the front door.
“You have built more than walls and windows,” said George Taylor, South Central College Dean of Business
and Industry as he congratulated to collaborating partners. “You have built a home.”
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