Peterson announces USDA award for Bagley Fire Department

(WASHINGTON, DC)—Congressman Collin C. Peterson today announced that Bagley Fire Department has been selected to receive $299,000 from USDA Rural Development to purchase a new fire truck. The funds come in the form of a $249,000 loan and a $50,000 grant.

The Fire Department will be replacing an aging truck that was originally purchased in 1978. The area surrounding Bagley has recently experienced growth with the construction of a casino only seven miles from town. This growth makes it necessary for the fire department to upgrade its equipment to be able to adequately serve the increased population.

“We need to make sure our rural firefighters are equipped to face new challenges,” Peterson said. “This new truck will help them better respond to the various emergency calls.”

USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit http://www.rd.usda.gov.