Published: October 09, 2008 10:20 pm      

Cities, utilities qualify for loan program

From Staff Reports



USDA Rural Development Acting State Director, Scooter Brockette, announced that the USDA is offering direct and guaranteed loans to help finance back-up generators for eligible communities, municipalities and non-profit water and wastewater systems in rural Texas.

“Severe weather can strike Texas unexpectedly, and with serious personal consequences. As Texans know, violent storms, hurricanes, and the unfortunate loss of life underscore the need for basic necessities such as a continued supply of clean drinking water. The installation of back-up generators at a water system can provide rural Texans added safety and comfort,” said Brockette.

Eligibility entities for this program include public bodies and non-profit corporations that provide water and/or waste water disposal services to customers in an eligible rural area or community. The generators can either be permanently affixed or mobile units which will be utilized by the entity in times of inclement weather and mass power outages.

Brockette encourages entities interested in the USDA Rural Development Water and Waste Disposal Loan Program to contact their Area or Sub-Area Office. USDA Rural Development offices that provide service to your area can be located online at http://offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app?state=us&agency=rd. You may also call the USDA Rural Development State Office, Community Programs, at (254) 742-9789 for additional assistance.