The Illinois Finance Authority urges developers in Whiteside and 17 other counties affected by 2008 flooding to take advantage of a special tax-exempt financing program, now in its final weeks.

The IFA first offered federal Midwestern Disaster Area Revenue Bonds in 2010 as a way to boost economic development and recovery in areas that suffered storm-related destruction. The deadline to issue the bonds is Dec. 31, the IFA said in a news release.

The MDAB program helps Illinois’ commercial, industrial, manufacturing, retail and public utility industries repair damage and restore jobs to flood-affected regions. Qualified projects can access special reduced-interest financing, with rates typically 1 to 2 percent below conventional loans. All financing comes through local lenders, partnering with the IFA.