WASHINGTON  -  U.S. Representative Jo Ann Emerson (MO-08) and Senators Kit Bond and Jim Talent today announced a $25,548 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development to the Leadwood Fire Protection District.  Community Facility grant funds will be used to purchase building materials to complete the construction on the new fire station.

 

“Public safety is a great concern in America, especially in rural areas such as St. Francois County.  I am pleased Rural Development has identified this opportunity to improve our fire services,” Emerson said.  “This project is a worthwhile investment in the quality of life in the area, and it will pay great dividends to the Leadwood community over the coming years by protecting property, saving lives, and strengthening our fire prevention services.  In addition to a new facility, the area will be getting the jobs that accompany this kind of investment.”

 

"Our first responders put their lives on the line to protect our families and homes and it is critical that we provide them the equipment they need to do their jobs more safely," said Senator Kit Bond. "These Rural Development funds will help the Leadwood Fire Protection District better serve Southern Missouri and meet the growing role our first responders play in homeland security."

 

“This is great news for the residents of Leadwood,” Sen. Talent said. “Providing adequate resources for fire fighters is critical to Missouri communities particularly those in rural areas. I am very pleased to announce this fire station construction grant along with Sen. Bond and Congresswoman Emerson who are leading the effort to bring additional federal dollars back to Missouri.”

 

In addition to housing the fire trucks and training equipment, the facility will also be used for fire protection and safety training.

 

The Rural Development funds are leveraged with a $295,510 Community Development Block Grant.