The Village of Raymondville received a grant last week to help purchase and install a new storm siren system.
The $14,625 grant from the USDA Rural Development Community Facility (CF) Program will be combined with the village’s contribution of $4,875.
“This new siren will help ensure the citizens of Raymondville have the proper equipment for emergency preparedness,” said Chairman Gene Dewitt. “As we know from past experiences in our state, severe weather can be devastating for any town. We will greatly appreciate having this up-to-date warning siren to ensure advance warning for our residents.”
The CF program offers Direct and Guaranteed Loans and Grants, which can be made to public bodies, not-for-profit entities and Indian tribes to finance essential public use facilities and equipment. Communities with populations below 20,000 are eligible to apply for CF program funds.
“Early warning systems are critical for the protection of citizens,” said Janie Dunning, Missouri director for USDA Rural Development. “Adequate warning protects lives and property. Rural Development is proud to partner with the village in improving public safety.”
Dunning added, “Special thanks are extended to our Congressional representatives for making available federal monies for projects of this type.”
Anyone seeking more information about this or any other USDA Rural Development program may http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/mo/ or contact Mark Dethrow, area specialist, at 417-967-2028 or by emailing mark.dethrow@mo.usda.gov.