ST. PAUL, Minn., Oct. 14, 2020 – U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development State Director for Minnesota Brad Finstad today announced that USDA is investing $31,400 in essential community maintenance infrastructure and equipment to benefit more than 4,200 rural residents.
“We are proud of our partnerships with Minnesota’s Tribal communities,” Finstad said. “Whether it’s helping to purchase new maintenance equipment or building a Tribal education center, each investment plays a substantial role in furthering economic prosperity for these communities. Under the leadership of Agriculture Secretary Perdue and USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Bette Brand, USDA is dedicated to the partnerships that make projects like these a reality. Because when rural America thrives, all of America thrives.”
Background:
The Fond du Lac Band will use a $31,400 grant to purchase a new utility loader vehicle and related equipment for their public works department. The department operates 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, and 365 days per year. As a result, the need for modern infrastructure and equipment is essential to continuing to provide safe drinking water, to properly collect and transport wastewater, and provide safe transportation options for the 4,250 members within the reservation. This project will allow the Fond du Lac Band Public Works Department the ability to maintain public building lots and roads during and/or after severe weather.
Funding is made available through the Economic Impact Initiative Grant Program. More than 100 types of projects are eligible for Economic Impact funding. Grants may be made in combination with other financial assistance such as a Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant. Eligible applicants include municipalities, public bodies, nonprofit organizations and federally recognized Native American tribes. Projects must be in rural areas with a population of 20,000 or less and have a “Not Employed Rate” greater than 19.5 percent.
Interested parties should contact their local area office for information about additional funding, application procedures and eligibility details.
USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov/mn.
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