City council approves $12,000 payment to Winneshiek Energy District

The Decorah City Council has approved a third payment of $12,000 to the Winneshiek Energy District.

The money comes from the low and moderate income fund, which is financed through tax incremental financing (TIF) proceeds.

The action was taken Monday night after Winneshiek Energy District representatives summarized the work they did during the third quarter to help low to moderate income home owners make their houses more energy efficient.

City council member Julie Fisher said the WED's work has been "exemplary."  City council member Carolyn Crobin said the energy improvements made to the houses were "nice benefits" to the homeowners.  City council member Rachel Vagts pointed out that those living on fixed incomes appreciate the lower energy costs.

But the city council wasn't unanimous in its praise.  City council member Paul Wanless questioned whether WED would constantly be asking for city tax money and city council member Randy Schissel voted "no" when the motion was made to award the $12,000 to WED.