The Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC) Division of Rural Services has awarded 22 community grants totaling $277,586.60 and one block grant of $75,000 to counties and communities across the state, including five local areas.
Under the Rural Community Grant Program, applicants from incorporated towns of less than 3,000 in population and unincorporated rural areas are eligible for up to $15,000 in matching funds for community development and fire protection projects. The program requires a 50 percent match for counties and communities to qualify. The 22 communities awarded Rural Community Grants this cycle.
The Cotter-Gassville Rural Fire Protection District received $12,811.75
The City of Briarcliff received $15,000;
The Oakland Promiseland Community received $14,707;
The Pineville Fire Department, $14,861.00; and
The City of Jasper received $15,000.
Additionally, the town of South Lead Hill was awarded a $75,000 Rural Services Block Grant. Through the program grants are available to incorporated towns and rural communities with a population of less than 3,000. Additionally, the community population must be at least 51 percent low to moderate income.
Infrastructure funded through the grant may include such projects as new construction or renovation of community centers, fire stations, or multi-purpose buildings, and the purchase of fire trucks (pumper, tanker, brush, or certain service trucks). The match for this grant is 10 percent and may be comprised of in-kind labor, in-kind materials, or cash.
Other towns awarded include:
Western Greene County Fire District, $15,000.00
Avoca Fire Department, $15,000.00
City Of Bald Knob, $13,343.50
City Of Bono, $15,000.00
City Of Clinton, $15,000.00
Town Of Colt, $15,000.00
Highland Fire Department, $12,175.00
Holland Volunteer Fire Department, $15,000.00
City Of Leachville, $14,325.00
Town Of Lynn, $5,292.10
Ola Fire Department, $15,000.00
Pangburn Volunteer Fire Department, $9,000.00
Philadelphia Volunteer Fire Department, $6,332.55
Town Of Sulphur Rock, $3,238.00
City Of Taylor, $6,500.00
Tillar Fire Department, $15,000.00
Watalula Volunteer Fire Department, $15,000.00
WebReadyTM Powered by WireReady® NSI