Topeka, Kansas, March 15, 2002 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture is providing a $160,000 Rural Economic Development Loan to Leavenworth-Jefferson Electric Cooperative, Inc. in McLouth, Kansas, according to Chuck Banks, State Director for USDA Rural Development in Kansas. USDA Rural Development is the agency in charge of implementing the commitment of the Administration and Congress to the development of rural communities through the administration of a number of programs designed to strengthen the economy and infrastructure of rural areas.

"Rural Economic Development loans and grants are made to Rural Development’s electric and telecommunications borrowers, who in turn relend the funds for projects that create new job opportunities and ensure the safety and security of rural citizens. Leavenwoth-Jefferson Electric Cooperative, Inc. will offer a zero-interest $160,000 loan to the Stranger Township Fire Department in Leavenworth County for the purchase of a pumper truck. The new pumper truck will replace an older model and will meet the requirements of the NFPA. The borrower is providing $40,000 toward the purchase. Approximately 2,283 rural residents are served by the fire district," related Randy Snider, Rural Development Specialist in Iola.

For more information on the Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Program or any other USDA Rural Development programs, please contact your local USDA Rural Development office or visit our web site at: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/ks/