Rep. Jones And Mayor Pate Announce An Eight Million Dollar Loan And Grant For Mt. Olive

Mount Olive, NC - Third District Congressman Walter B. Jones (R-NC) along with Mount Olive's Mayor Lewis Pate today announced a Rural Development grant and loan that total more than $8 million. The funding will go towards a wastewater treatment plant for the city of Mount Olive and the surrounding areas. It is one of the largest grants in Eastern North Carolina's history. "I was encouraged to hear the news that Mount Olive is going to receive the funding they've been seeking for so many months," Congressman Jones said today. "This kind of aid from the USDA will not only benefit Mount Olive, but also the nearby communities and industries in Eastern North Carolina." The wastewater treatment plant will be a regional system and will enable the city to serve other communities in addition to Mount Olive. The plant also poises Mount Olive for future economic development as it can benefit local industries looking to expand in and around Eastern NC. "Speaking for the town of Mount Olive, we are certainly delighted that Congressman Jones showed leadership in getting our requests through the proper channels. We are just grateful that he was able to participate in the process," Mayor Pate commented this afternoon. "Mount Olive is now in a position for future growth because this completes the funding and enables us to go forward. We want to thank both Congressman Jones for his involvement and also the U.S. Department of Agriculture." "Improving the quality of life in and around Eastern North Carolina should always be a regional priority," Congressman Jones said today from his office in Greenville. "In a time of economic struggles across our state, I am looking forward to seeing what this treatment facility will do to encourage economic development in Mount Olive and nearby areas." For additional information or to schedule an interview with Congressman Jones contact Lanier Swann at (202) 225-3415