North Central Electric Cooperative (NCE) and Seneca County have secured nearly $900,000 in federal funding through the USDA’s Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant (REDLG) program for construction of the New Riegel EMS station. The project, located at 6587 S. CR 47, was approved for funding following the joint application submitted by Seneca County and NCE on March 28.
The USDA will provide $897,980, including a $537,980 zero-interest loan and another $300,000 zero-interest loan. In addition, Seneca County will contribute $134,495, and NCE will contribute another $60,000 to the project.
As part of the project, NCE will be able to establish a Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) with $360,000 in initial funding through the USDA Rural Economic Development Grant, consisting of $300,000 from the REDLG program and a $60,000 contribution from NCE. Once the county repays the loan, the funds will be reinvested by the cooperative to provide additional funding for future local projects, creating a sustainable financial resource for long-term economic and community development.
“With this funding, we can invest in critical infrastructure without the heavy financial burden of interest payments,” Seneca County Commissioner Anthony Paradiso said. “This frees up money that would have been spent on interest, allowing us to put it directly into improving services and infrastructure that benefit our community.”
Paradiso highlighted the importance of the project, which is one of four planned EMS stations strategically located across the county to improve the quality and timeliness of prehospital care in rural areas.
“The New Riegel EMS station is a crucial development for our community’s safety and emergency response capabilities. Securing this funding through the USDA program ensures that we can bring this project to life without overburdening our budget. It's a perfect example of what we can achieve through working together,” said Paradiso.
Unlike traditional loans, the zero-interest advance allows the county to pay back the funds over 10 years, spreading out the financial impact while preserving cash flow for other priorities.. Moreover, the advance provides protection against inflation, allowing the county to lock in today’s prices for a long-term investment.
To complete the funding process, Seneca County will finalize several tasks, including approving a resolution for the $134,495 match, completing necessary USDA forms, and working with NCE on documentation for the loan.
“The New Riegel EMS station is a meaningful investment in public safety for Seneca County,” said Commissioner Paradiso. “With support from the USDA and our collaboration with NCE, we’re ensuring that residents will have improved emergency services, while also maintaining long-term financial stability for the county.”
About North Central Electric Cooperative:
North Central Electric Cooperative (NCE) is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric distribution cooperative that serves the rural areas of North Central Ohio. NCE provides reliable, affordable electricity to about 9,600 members across eight counties. As a not-for-profit, NCE is committed to supporting the local community not only through its core services but also through initiatives like the People Fund, which has contributed over $1 million to community projects and those in need. The cooperative’s community-focused approach ensures that it continually invests in improving the quality of life for its members