Grant provides funds for Sheldon siren upgrade

The city of Sheldon accepts a grant from the United States Department of Agriculture for $3,500 for the purchase of a storm siren for the town. USDA Rural Development area director Kelly Gregory and Ike Skelton's chief of staff Bob Hackadorn were on hand for the presentation. From left: Kelly Gregory, Bob Hackadorn, Becky Morgan, Larry Delaney, Sheldon Mayor Rob Sewell, Debbie Huggins, Robert Moran, Carol Platt and Stephanie Brzuchowski. Not pictured Ed Emory, 126th district state representative.

By Steve Moyer

Nevada Daily Mail

An improved storm warning system is on the horizon for Sheldon.

The city of Sheldon recently received a $3,500 grant check Wednesday from the United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development program. The grant, along with $6,500 of the city's funds will be used to replace the old siren system with one that can be operated from as far away as the Vernon County Sheriff's Office in Nevada.

USDA Rural Development Area director Kelly Gregory came to Sheldon to present the check to Sheldon Mayor Rob Sewell along with various state and federal officials. Bob Hagadorn, Ike Skelton's chief of staff represented the congressman, who could not attend.

"If Ike were here he would tell you what I'm saying only more elegantly and longer," Hagadorn said.

Skelton did provide a quote for the press release distributed by Carol Platt, the acting Rural Development manager at Butler.

"Disasters can strike at any time, at any place, and with little or no warning," Skelton said. "In Missouri, responding quickly to severe weather is a part of life. I am pleased Sheldon will have the equipment to warn residents when severe weather is headed toward them. Each year, we witness the devastating effects of natural disasters that sweep through Missouri. While we cannot control who is or when we are affected by severe weather, we can equip ourselves with early warning sirens, which are proven to save lives."

U.S. Senator Kit Bond also provided commentary for the occasion. "The efforts of the USDA Rural Development and the local leadership will benefit many in Sheldon. The emergency early warning system will have a lasting impact on the safety of this community. I am proud to have played a small part and appreciate the good work that the USDA Rural Development does for rural Missouri," Bond said.

"I'm glad to see federal funds going to rural Missouri to help improve current infrastructure in our state," U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill said. "This grant will help the city of Sheldon be better prepared to face future challenges and protect its residents in times of emergency."