Nebraska USDA Rural Development State Director Maxine Moul and staff, today presented in Ogallala a plaque to Cathy Wheeler for being named 2015 Multi-Family Housing Family Project Manager of the Year for Cedarwood and Cedarwood South Apartments.
Cathy Wheeler, known as “Jill of all Trades” has managed Cedarwood and Cedarwood South Apartments in Ogallala for 14 years. Cathy manages another 12 units at another property in Ogallala. Not many managers can own, manage and do the maintenance like Cathy does.
Tenants cannot say enough good things about Cathy. She goes above and beyond in providing assistance to her tenants. She is compassionate, available at all times for the tenants no matter what time of day or night. Tenants say she is the best handywoman they have ever seen. She also helps tenants with life repairs like helping a tenant find tires for their vehicle that they can afford. Cathy also helps tenants find resources whether it is for mental health or childcare.
“Cathy takes a lot of pride in the landscaping and the properties. Cathy and her husband do the majority of the repairs and rehabilitation at the project,” said Multi Family Housing Specialist Cynthia Ross, USDA Rural Development. “She has put in new playground equipment for the children and is known as “Grandma”, has worked with Community Action Partnership of Mid-Nebraska in conjunction with the weatherization program to receive funding to install energy windows, digital thermostats, bathroom exhaust fans, compact fluorescent lighting and efficient insulation on attics and pipes.”
For more information on the Multi Family Rural Rental Housing program, contact Cindy Ross at 308-534-2360 ext. 1131 or at Cynthia.ross@ne.usda.gov.
President Obama’s plan for rural America has brought about historic investment and resulted in stronger rural communities. Under the President’s leadership, these investments in housing, community facilities, businesses and infrastructure have empowered rural America to continue leading the way – strengthening America’s economy, small towns and rural communities. USDA’s investments in rural communities support the rural way of life that stands as the backbone of our American values.