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Governor Steve Beshear's Communications Office
Gov. Beshear Presents Estill County with Agricultural, Homeland Security Funds
Funds to Support On-farm Investments, Security Enhancement
IRVINE, Ky.– Governor Steve Beshear today presented ceremonial checks for on-farm improvement and state homeland security grants in Estill County.
The Estill County Conservation District was presented a check for $100,000 from the Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund (KADF) to support Estill County’s agriculture and rural economy through the County Agricultural Investment Program (CAIP).
“As Governor, I am proud and honored to serve as chairman of the Agricultural Development Board, because I know the importance of this fund to the future of our farmers,” said Gov. Beshear. “I am committed to giving our farmers the tools and resources they need to remain competitive and continue Kentucky’s strong farming tradition. This Agricultural Development Fund program plays an integral role in achieving that goal for Estill County farm families.”
The County Agricultural Investment Program (CAIP) is designed to provide farmers with incentives to allow them to improve current production practices and assist in diversifying farming operations. CAIP provides producers 11 investment areas from which to choose from a wide variety of agricultural enterprises.
“CAIP investments on our family farms in Estill County and across the Commonwealth continue to be vital to the growth and reshaping of Kentucky agriculture, as well as stimulating local economies,” said GOAP Executive Director Roger Thomas.
Gov. Beshear also presented a KADF logo sign to the Estill County Extension District Public Properties Corporation to recognize the $24,000 KADF investment in their certified kitchen renovation for area farmers interested in value-added processing.
To date, more than $350 million in Kentucky Agricultural Development Funds have been invested in an array of state, regional and county projects throughout the Commonwealth. Over the last decade, Estill County has been allotted more than $865,000 from the KADF.
Additionally, the Estill County Fiscal Court was awarded $37,000 to enhance physical security and overall preparedness through the installation of a surveillance camera system for the county courthouse, excluding courtrooms.
“Homeland Security grants are a vital component in helping keep the Commonwealth safe and secure,” Gov. Beshear said. “They provide funds that enable our first responders to have the latest and best tools needed in their critical missions. The equipment purchased with this grant will benefit all citizens of Estill County.”
The grant will be used to purchase cameras, power supply, monitors and related equipment as part of critical infrastructure protection.
“Surveillance cameras are important in protecting critical infrastructure,” said Gene Kiser, acting executive director of KOHS. “They improve public safety through 24/7 monitoring of designated facilities by Estill County first responders to prevent or mitigate breaches in security.”
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