USDA Rural Development Nevada has $15 million available to lend to rural communities for emergency response, such as fire trucks, patrol vehicles, building expansion or renovation, communications and surveillance equipment.
USDA’s Community Facility (CF) Program offers low interest, longer term federal loans to provide options for a community to finance essential equipment and facilities.
“Our USDA RD staff is pleased to assist with information about this program,” said Community Programs Director Cheryl Couch. “We have funds that we want to get obligated before Aug. 7. Equipment loans can be turned around fairly quickly, and we want to encourage those who have emergency response needs to contact us.”
Couch can be reached at (775) 887-1222, Ext. 113 or by email at Cheryl.couch@nv.usda.gov
Last year, Storey County used a $2 million CF loan from USDA Rural Development to finance two structural fire engines and three ambulance chassis’ for the Storey County Fire Protection District. The emergency response vehicles are helping the district meet increased need for response. Esmeralda County Sheriff’s Office was able to purchase two patrol vehicles to assist with law enforcement coverage in the area.
Law enforcement, court houses and judicial centers can also purchase communications or audio visual equipment, computers, or build new buildings to replace out-of-date structures using CF funding.