U.S. Rep. Bill Delahunt announced today that he will host an informational forum on Friday June 4 to discuss U.S. Department of Agriculture, Rural Development Administration Programs. 

Hosted by the Dukes County Commission, the forum will be held on Friday June 4 @ 10:00am at the Martha’s Vineyard Transit Authority meeting room, 11A Street, Airport Business Park, Edgartown.  Among the speakers will be Mr. Tom McGarr, Area Director for USDA-RDA. Also, on hand will be representatives from Delahunt’s office. 

The Rural Development Administration helps rural municipalities; small businesses and non-profit organizations obtain the financial and technical assistance needed to address a broad range of community needs. 

In recent years, Delahunt has worked with RDA officials on funding a number of local water and sewer projects.  RDA can also provide funds for housing, health clinics, emergency service facilities and electric and telephone service.

RDA promotes economic development by supporting loans to businesses through banks, credit unions and community-managed lending pools. They also offer technical assistance and information to help agricultural producers and cooperatives get started and improve the effectiveness of their operations. Recently, the Congress has allocated RDA with funds to help small businesses underwrite renewable energy projects. 

The forum is free and open to the public.  Municipal leaders, non-profit groups and agricultural interests are especially encouraged to attend.  Inquiries can be made to 800-870-2626.