HRA of Austin

06/17/2026

☀️ Solar Project Complete at Chauncey & Courtyard Apartments! ☀️

We’re excited to share that the solar energy systems at Chauncey Apartments and Courtyard Apartments are now installed, operational, and generating clean energy! 🌞⚡

Earlier this year, the Housing and Redevelopment Authority of Austin received funding through the Minnesota Department of Commerce Solar on Public Buildings Program that fully funded the installation of solar energy systems at both properties. Thanks to this investment, along with the federal Solar Investment Tax Credit through the Direct Pay (Elective Pay) program, these projects are now delivering renewable energy right here in our community.

The electricity generated by the systems will help offset costs for common areas, including shared lighting and building spaces. Most importantly, the annual savings will be reinvested into long-term capital improvements at the properties, helping us continue to provide quality housing and make meaningful upgrades that benefit residents.

We’re proud to see this project move from planning to reality and grateful to the Minnesota Department of Commerce and all our partners who helped make it possible. 🌱

📸 Check out the completed installations below!

Minnesota Department of Commerce

06/02/2026

We’ve been hearing reports that Todd the Bear has been making his way around Austin this week.

While we can’t confirm every sighting, we did spot him at Twin Towers lending a paw with the rooftop communications equipment. 🐻📶

If your cell service seems a little better lately, Todd may have been working some overtime.

All jokes aside, we’re glad to see our community having fun with Austin’s unexpected visitor. We hope Todd stays safe as he continues his travels. We encourage everyone to give wildlife plenty of space and admire from a distance.

05/25/2026

05/22/2026

We’re Hiring Seasonal Help!

HRA of Austin is accepting applications for seasonal help.

Hours: 30–40 hours per week
Pay: $14.50–$16.50 per hour
Seasonal position

Duties include mowing, grounds work, moving items, and general upkeep tasks. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a current valid driver’s license.

Physical requirements: Ability to perform outdoor work, operate mowing/grounds equipment, and lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 lbs. occasionally, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Pick up an application at the HRA office, 308 2nd Ave NE, Austin, MN, or apply through our website: https://www.austinhra.org/contact-us/employment-opportunities/

HRA of Austin is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The program is open to low-income individuals whose income does not exceed the income limits listed below. Program participants must find their own rental unit and can rent a house, duplex or an apartment.

05/22/2026

Thanks to the Austin Daily Herald for covering this year’s Riverland/HRA home project. A big shout out to Riverland Community College and its Carpentry and Electrical programs for the outstanding work they do providing students with real world, hands on training in these important trades.

Projects like this help train the future workforce while making a real impact in our communities, and it’s great to see the students’ hard work and skills showcased.

Riverland students and Austin HRA unveil nearly finished four-bedroom home in southwest Austin, set to hit the market in mid-June and valued near $385K–$396K.

05/18/2026

We’re pretty sure MN NAHRO leadership may have missed their calling as social media influencers 😂🎥

Check out this fun MN NAHRO Spring Conference welcome video featuring our Executive Director Taggert Medgaarden and MN NAHRO Vice President and MN NAHRO President and Carver County CDA Executive Director Allison Streich kicking off the conference with a few laughs and lots of energy!

Because yes, housing work is serious… but we can still have a little fun along the way 🙌

05/07/2026

This afternoon we held our Riverland/HRA Open House for the newly constructed home built through the Carpentry and Electrical Programs in collaboration with HRA of Austin.

We had a great turnout with many community members coming out to tour the beautiful home and see the incredible work completed by the students throughout the year. It was especially meaningful to see students bring their families to showcase the skills, dedication, and hard work they have put into this project.

A huge thank you to everyone who attended and supported these programs. Opportunities like this help prepare students for successful futures while strengthening our community partnerships. Great job to all involved!

05/06/2026

Just a reminder!

02/06/2026

Solar Energy Coming to Chauncey & Courtyard Apartments 🌞

We’re excited to share that the Housing and Redevelopment Authority of Austin has been awarded funding through the Minnesota Department of Commerce Solar on Public Buildings Program to install solar energy systems at Chauncey Apartments and Courtyard Apartments.

Each property will receive its own solar installation, with construction expected to begin this spring. The solar energy produced will help offset electricity costs for common areas, such as shared lighting and building spaces.

This project is funded through a combination of state support and the federal Solar Investment Tax Credit, claimed through the Direct Pay (Elective Pay) provision available to local units of government.

Most importantly, the annual cost savings from these systems will be reinvested into long-term capital improvements at the properties — helping support sustainability and future upgrades that benefit residents.

We’re proud to invest in renewable energy and smart, long-term solutions for our community. 🌱⚡ Minnesota Department of Commerce

:

https://www.austindailyherald.com/news/austin-hra-awarded-funding-toinstall-solar-systems-at-chauncey-courtyard-apartments-74d4d7fa