Moran to Host Rural Development Leader in Kansas

Tour with USDA Under Secretary to Highlight Rural and Community Development

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Jerry Moran today announced he will host the U.S. Department of Agriculture Under Secretary for Rural Development, Thomas C. Dorr, in Kansas August 23-24. Moran and Dorr will visit USDA Rural Development projects throughout the state.

"The First District is one of the most rural districts in the country," Moran said. "Under Secretary Dorr's visit will focus on rural and community development, as well as creating jobs in Kansas. I appreciate his active role and look forward to showing him around our great state."

As Under Secretary, Dorr oversees USDA Rural Development policies and programs. Rural Development consists of three program areas - business, utilities and housing - that provide $14 billion annual funding authority for loans, grants, and technical assistance to rural residents, communities, and businesses and an $87 billion portfolio of existing business, housing, and infrastructure loans to rural America.

"I'm looking forward to visiting sites in Kansas where USDA Rural Development has worked closely with Congressman Moran, financing partners and local residents to make a real difference in the economic climate of rural Kansas," Dorr said. "I'm especially anticipating my visit to Fort Riley to see first hand the economic impact USDA housing funds are having in support of America's active duty soldiers and meeting their needs for affordable housing."

Moran and Dorr will be joined by Chuck Banks, Kansas State USDA Rural Development Director, in making stops at Sunflower Electric Power in Holcomb, the Ellsworth Rural Health Clinic and Gene's Heartland Grocery Store in Ellsworth, the Self-Help Housing Program and Bartell House in Junction City, and USDA's Rural Development office at Fort Riley.

Moran is a senior member of the House Agriculture Committee and member of the Subcommittee on Conservation, Credit, Rural Development and Research.

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