CHEC Secures Funding for Rescue Squad Renovations

Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative recently helped the Hatteras Island Rescue Squad (HIRS) obtain a zero-interest loan through the USDA’s Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant (REDLG) program. The $201,738 loan was used to renovate the HIRS headquarters building in Buxton.

HIRS provides water rescue, fire and emergency response to the southern villages on Hatteras Island, including Avon, Buxton, Frisco and Hatteras villages. The rescue squad also provides a roving beach patrol from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with rescue swimmers actively patrolling the lower Hatteras beaches regardless of weather, rain or shine.

HIRS’ headquarters building, located on Hwy 12 in Buxton, was constructed in 1996 and has had minimal upgrades since. Renovations made possible through these REDLG funds include repairs to structural support columns, replacing the garage doors and doorframes, replacing exterior sheeting and trim and installing new windows and a new awning. At the time of press, work on the building was underway. These upgrades will help the building to be more resilient, extending its life and enhancing the rescue squad’s ability to serve the community.

The funds came to CHEC from the REDLG program in the form of an 80% grant with a 20% match from the cooperative. The money was then loaned, at zero percent, to HIRS. Once the organization repays CHEC, the funds will remain in the community as part of a revolving loan program where the repaid money can be loaned out again for other economic and community development projects.

CHEC continues to look for community partners to expand our revolving loan program. If your non-profit organization would like more information about the REDLG program, please call (252)995-5616 and ask to speak with Laura Ertle.