When storms hit rural communities, oftentimes fewer resources are available to assist them in cleanup efforts. This is the case for the east-central community of Colman with a population of 600 citizens. The city’s budget is tight, leading to stretched-thin resources.

When Grant Groos, Colman Maintenance Supervisor, started with the city 23 years ago – all he had access to clear the streets with following storms was an old road maintainer. As time went on, the city approved the purchase of a used 1984 Case W24 payloader. The payloader served its purpose for many years, but parts became scarce, and repairs were expensive. In 2021, the city approved the purchase of a new payloader.

During Groos’ research for financing options for a new payloader, he learned that USDA Rural Development could finance maintenance equipment.

The city received a Community Facilities Direct Loan of $185,000 to purchase a new payloader. After the city received financing, Groos contacted the supplier and was able to negotiate a lower cost just below $140,000. “Because we had everything ready to go, I was told if the board would approve the purchase that week, we would be able to save some money,” said Groos. “The board didn’t waste time, and we were able to move forward quickly.”

This loader has been a lifesaver

Now with the 2021 Volvo L60H payloader, the city’s maintenance team can clean up quickly after storms.

“This loader has been a lifesaver,” said Groos. “The technology and power with this machine are so much more advanced than what we had before, and it’s much safer.”

He added that the ability to disconnect attachments from the loader from inside the cab increases efficiency and safety for the operator. “I’m not out in the snow handling heavy chains or disconnecting equipment, I just press a button to connect and disconnect to the different attachments.”

As part of the purchase, the city acquired a grapple fork for moving debris like trees following summer storms and a plow blade for helping with snow removal, extending the payloader’s usefulness throughout the year.

Groos said the Rural Development funding made this purchase possible. “As a small community we operate on such a tight budget. Without the terms of the loan, there’s no way we could have upgraded the equipment, or it would have meant just buying more surplus, which just costs us more in repairs in the long run.”

Over the years, the city’s maintenance team has grown to include three additional employees. With a variety of equipment available, the small crew can quickly clear the streets for city residents following storms in all seasons.

Interested in learning more about Rural Development’s Community Facilities loans? Visit RD.USDA.Gov to see how our programs can impact your community.