The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors celebrated with Vision Atlantic on Thursday with a ribbon cutting for the completion of its new tiny home short-term rental development. Chamber Ambassadors, community members, project partners, and Vision Atlantic representatives gathered to celebrate a milestone that continues to move the community’s housing initiative forward.

Following a housing readiness study completed with Iowa State University Extension, community leaders identified a significant need for additional housing in Atlantic, leading to the creation of Vision Atlantic. As plans for new residential development took shape, the organization also recognized a need for quality short-term lodging for visitors, traveling professionals, and families spending time in the community.

The development includes 10 fully furnished tiny homes available for stays of up to 13 weeks. The rentals are designed to accommodate a variety of guests, including traveling nurses, business professionals, families visiting loved ones, wedding guests, and those attending community events. The mirrored floor plans include both one-bedroom and two-bedroom options, with each home also featuring a roll-out cot to provide additional sleeping space.

Vision Atlantic President Christina Bateman recognized Board Member Jessie Shiels for leading the project from concept to completion. Shiels oversaw the design, color selections, and overall character of the development, with each tiny home receiving the name of a different city to inspire its interior décor, including Durango, Aspen, Austin, Sedona, Jackson, Bozeman, Charleston, Savannah, Fargo, and Madison.

Bateman also expressed appreciation to the many local businesses and partners whose contributions helped make the project a reality. Financing was provided by First Whitney Bank & Trust and Rolling Hills Bank & Trust. Brymons Interiors helped furnish each home, Atlantic Municipal Utilities completed the electrical installation, and NISHNANET installed the custom locking systems, internet infrastructure, and internet service. Matt Leighton and Eric Steinhoff served as project contractors, while Logan Weirich of Weirich Welding donated the custom metal name signs displayed at each home.

The rentals will be listed on Airbnb once the property’s address is officially recognized. Until then, reservations may be made by emailing visionatlanticrentals@gmail.com. Nightly rates range from $175 to $260, with discounted weekly and monthly rates available. Rental rates also include cleaning services.

The tiny homes represent another important step in Vision Atlantic’s long-term vision for Camblin Hills. Once completed, the 49-acre development will feature approximately 140 homes, a 300-child childcare center, a neighborhood park, and two miles of walking trails, helping address Atlantic’s housing needs while creating a welcoming destination for residents and visitors alike.

The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors visited the Nishna Valley Family YMCA on Thursday, July 2nd, 2026, to celebrate Dan Haynes’ 35th anniversary as Executive Director.

Dan began his career with the Nishna Valley Family YMCA in July 1991. At that time, the organization employed just 10 staff members, including only one full-time employee, and served approximately 350 members. Over the past 35 years, the YMCA has experienced tremendous growth under Dan’s leadership and now employs nearly 140 staff members while serving more than 1,500 members throughout the Atlantic area.

Throughout his time, Dan has remained committed to the YMCA’s mission of strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. His leadership has helped expand programs, services, and community partnerships while creating a welcoming place where people of all ages can learn, grow, and connect.

During the visit, Dan and his wife, Leslie, shared stories of raising their young family while growing the YMCA and adapting its programs and facilities to meet the changing needs of the community. YMCA Board President Ruth Sears reflected on Dan’s impact, sharing that he has played a key role in many of the organization’s most significant accomplishments over the past three decades. Whether leading the YMCA or volunteering his time throughout the community, she said Dan has consistently led by example. She also credited him with creating a welcoming environment for thousands of youth and adults while never seeking recognition for his efforts.

The Ambassadors congratulated Dan on this remarkable milestone and thanked him for his 35 years of leadership, dedication, and service to both the Nishna Valley Family YMCA and the Atlantic community.

The Nishna Valley Family YMCA is located at 1100 Maple Street in Atlantic. For more information about membership, programs, or upcoming events, call 712-243-3934, visit www.nishnavalleyymca.com, or follow the Nishna Valley Family YMCA on Facebook.