Buy new appliances with interest free loan

Cairo residents who may be in the market for some new appliances may want to investigate a new program being offered by the city.
The Cairo City Council voted unanimously Monday night to participate in the Main Street Energy Efficiency Financing Program through the Municipal Gas Authority of Georgia (MGAG).
MGAG has been awarded a $700,000 grant from federal funds that are part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
These funds are being made available to improve energy efficiency and through the Main Street Energy Efficiency Financing Program local residents can purchase new ENERGY STAR natural gas appliances for their homes and receive a loan of up to $5,000 interest free for 60 months.
Appliances include furnaces, tankless water heaters and even certain tank water heaters.
In addition to assisting local citizens in obtaining more energy efficient appliances, the city is also interested in expanding its natural gas customer base.
Participating residents must have a good credit history with city utilities and their loan payment will appear on their monthly utility bill.
Energy Services Director Rod Prince gave the city council an overview of the program Monday night.
“It s a win-win for everyone. The city pays the contractor and MGAG refunds us, then the resident pays us the monthly payment,” Prince said.
Prince said the city will soon begin marketing the program to local residents through newspaper and television advertisements.
There is only $700,000 available statewide and, according to City Manager Chris Addleton, loans will be made on a first-come, first-served basis.
If you are interested or would like more information, contact Prince at 229-377-3653, ext. 127.