Macon, MO, Apr 13, 2010 -- In a mock check ceremony on April 13, 2010, Anita J. (Janie) Dunning, Missouri State Director, USDA Rural Development announced the award of $29,700 to the City of Macon. Funds were used to purchase three new early storm warning siren systems, update the existing sirens and interconnect all units. All sirens were located in Macon, Missouri a community of 5,538 residents. The assistance consists of a Community Facilities Grant of $29,700 from USDA, Rural Development. Additionally, the City of Macon provided $24,300 toward the total cost of $54,000.

“The City of Macon was able to purchase three much needed storm sirens to provide complete coverage of our community in times of adverse weather conditions. This project has a major impact on the community by providing early warning capability to our citizens. The grant obtained from the USDA made this project a reality. Without the USDA’s help and support this project would still be several years away from being a possibility. Assistance like this is more than just the revenue to complete a project it could be the difference between life and death”, stated Macon City Administrator Allan Muncy.

“This is a great partnership effort when everyone works together for a common goal of meeting the needs of a community in providing essential equipment for the city,” said Dunning. “This project mirrors USDA Rural Development’s mission of being committed to the future of rural communities. I want to personally thank everyone that has worked together to make this project a reality. Special thanks are extended to our federal elected officials for making available the federal funds for these kinds of projects.”

Anyone seeking more information about the Community Facility program or any other USDA Rural Development programs may visit the homepage at http://www.rurdev.gov/mo or by contacting the Moberly Office at 2995 County Road 1325, Moberly, MO 65270 or by calling (660) 263-7400 - ext 4.

“USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.” To file a complaint of discrimination write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD).