Randolph EMC Helps Farmer Fire Department Put New Fire Engine Into Service

A new fire engine will soon be rolling out in the Farmer community thanks to a zero-interest loan from Randolph Electric Membership Corporation (REMC). On Monday, July 21, local and state officials joined REMC leaders at the Farmer Fire Department for a special check presentation to celebrate the funding that made the purchase possible.

The ceremony welcomed a host of distinguished guests, including:

•    Mike Causey, North Carolina Insurance Commissioner

•    Daniel Dorociak, Field Director for Congressman Richard Hudson’s Office

•    Ann Fitts, Community Development Specialist, North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives

•    Debra Turbeville, Regional Director, N.C. Department of Insurance

•    David Allen, Randolph County Commissioner

•    Greg Seabolt, Randolph County Sheriff

•    Erik Beard, Randolph County Fire Marshal

Also in attendance were representatives from REMC, Farmer Fire Department, and other public officials and community leaders.

Through a $360,000 zero-interest loan, REMC is helping the Farmer Fire Department purchase a new pumper fire engine, which will enhance the department’s emergency response capabilities. The loan was made possible through the USDA’s Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant (REDLG) program—a federal initiative that enables cooperatives like REMC to fund vital local projects.

“This funding will help us put a new fire engine into service, which means a great deal to our department and the community we serve,” said Tracy Boyles, Fire Chief of Farmer Fire Department.

The REDLG program allows REMC to match USDA grant funds with its own contribution and offer loans to local recipients at zero percent interest. As loans are repaid, the funds are recycled into new community projects through REMC’s Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund.

“There’s no way to fully express our gratitude for the courage, strength, and commitment our firefighters demonstrate each day,” said Dennis Mabe, CEO of Randolph EMC. “But we’re proud to support them by helping provide the equipment they need to protect lives.”

In addition to emergency services, Randolph EMC uses REDLG funds to support small business development, nonprofit organizations, and other community improvements throughout its five-county service territory.

Thanks to this partnership, the Farmer Fire Department is now better equipped to protect its community for years to come.