USDA Rural Development Invests in McArthur Fire Department

(Columbus, Ohio, March 9, 2026) - U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Ohio State Director Charles Tassell today presented a $345,000 check to the Village of McArthur to purchase a new mini-pumper fire truck. The Village of McArthur's Mayor Steve Hammond and McArthur Fire Department Chief Evan Knox were on hand to accept the check on behalf of the village.

The McArthur Fire Department is a volunteer department that provides fire and emergency services to the Village of McArthur and surrounding areas in Vinton County, Ohio. The new mini-pumper truck will serve as the McArthur Fire Department's first response to structure fires and other emergencies.

"In an emergency, every second matters and the fire department's new truck will boost its response time to critical emergencies," said Tassell. "This investment aligns with the Trump Administration's commitment to supporting first responders. By connecting rural first responders with cutting-edge equipment, Rural Development is helping protect the citizens living in rural Ohio communities."

USDA's Community Facilities Programs offer direct loans, loan guarantees, and grants for public service buildings to improve the quality of life, develop and sustain rural America. USDA's financial support enhances the competitiveness of our rural communities to attract and retain businesses that provide employment and services for residents.

USDA Rural Development has five offices located across Ohio, which include a state office in Columbus along with area offices in Findlay, Hillsboro, Marietta and Massillon. To learn more about investment resources for rural areas in Ohio, call 614-255-2400 or visit www.rd.usda.gov/oh,

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