TOWN OF SHERMAN BREAKS GROUND FOR NEW TOWN HALL AND FIRE STATION

Stevens Point, April 22, 2008 – Officials from the Town of Sherman joined representatives from the US Department of Agriculture Rural Development for a groundbreaking and check presentation ceremony today.

The groundbreaking marks the commencement of construction for a new town hall and fire station for the Town of Sherman.

USDA Rural Development State Director, Frank Frassetto, presented a large check that representing the fund acquired by the Town from USDA Rural Development.  The Town received a Community Facility Loan totaling $200,000, of the $350,000 project.

“One of the main goals of Rural Development is to enhance the quality of life in our rural communities.  To the extent we were able to assist in the town hall and fire station improvements for the safety and well being of the Town of Sherman we’re proud to have played a role,” said Frassetto.

“Equally important is that Rural Development, the town and fire department were partners in building upon the needs that ultimately will improve the lives of area residents,” Frassetto added.  

Currently, the existing town hall does not meet Americans with Disabilities Act standards and their polling place has been moved to the Fire Hall to comply with state election policies, but it does not provided adequate space for the emergency vehicles. The new Town Hall and Fire Station will meet all health and safety requirements and provide to additional bays for vehicles, a training area for members of the Fire Department and meeting space.  
USDA Rural Development's mission is to deliver programs in a way that will support increasing economic opportunity and improve the quality of life of rural residents. As a venture capital entity, USDA Rural Development administers over $240 million dollars annually to Rural Wisconsin Communities, which is used to finance and foster growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure. Further information on our programs is available through USDA Rural Development can be obtained by visiting any Rural Development office, calling toll free at 1-866-474-3600, or visiting the agency's web site at www.rurdev.usda.gov/wi.