Midwest Energy Receives USDA Grant for Grainfield Fire Station

Midwest Energy received a $167,020 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Economic Loan and Grant (REDLG) Program Aug. 6, to construct and equip an addition for the fire station in Grainfield.

The loan, announced by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, was one of 28 loans and grants totaling $13 million announced Tuesday to support job creation efforts, business development and strengthen economic growth in rural communities in 17 states.

“The REDLG grant benefits Grainfield in improving safety by reducing response times for its volunteer fire department, while lowering insurance premiums for businesses and homeowners,” stated Earnie Lehman, President and General Manager at Midwest Energy.  “Fostering growth in our region is part of our mission as a cooperative, and we’re pleased to partner with the City of Grainfield in this effort.”  
     
The project has several sources of funding in addition to the USDA grant.  Estimated at $238,600, the project will be funded by $38,176 from the City’s general funds, and $33,404 from Midwest Energy funds. When paid back, the REDL&G loan and Midwest Energy funds will go into the Midwest Energy Revolving Loan Fund to support further projects of this type.

For more information, contact Mike Morley at (785) 625-1463.