Harkin Announces More Than $1.8 Million for Rural Development Projects Across Iowa
Funds will benefit Linn, Montgomery, O’Brien, Winnebago and Woodbury Counties
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) today announced that a total of $1,816,000 will be coming to Iowa for five projects aimed at creating jobs and providing new economic opportunities in rural communities. The funding comes through the Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Program (REDLG), which is administered by USDA Rural Development. Under REDLG, USDA provides zero-interest loans and grants to local utilities which they, in turn, pass through to local businesses, who are the ultimate recipients. Harkin is a senior member of the Appropriations subcommittee that funds rural development initiatives and as the then-Chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee, included provisions in the 2002 and 2008 farm bills that help to provide funding for this program.
“Rural communities are an important part of Iowa’s economy and way of life, and it is crucial that we do all we can to help them thrive,” said Harkin. “Today’s funding will make small investments across the state that will have big ripple effects, boosting economic growth and improving quality of life in our small towns and rural areas.”
Details of the funding follow:
The Farmers Mutual Telephone Company of Stanton (Montgomery County) – $300,000 grant to help build a multi-purpose community center, which will include a preschool center, library, recreation and fitness facilities and a safe shelter for residents.
Heartland Power Cooperative (Winnebago County) – $740,000 loan to help fund a biodiesel refinery that will be located outside of Forest City.
Linn County Rural Electric Cooperative (Linn County) – $300,000 grant to help finance a library expansion that will offer more educational programming and training opportunities.
Sanborn Electric and Telecommunications Utility (O’Brien County) – $176,000 grant to enlarge the Prairie View Home nursing home facility.
Western Iowa Telephone Association (Woodbury County) – $300,000 grant to capitalize a local revolving loan fund to help develop office space in Moville.
