Comment on FR Doc # 2012-27631

Plumas-Sierra Rural Electric Cooperative (PSREC) is in support of the new rule allowing applicants to define proposed funded service areas through the web based RUS mapping tool. Use of the mapping tool will help to define small, rural communities that often become lumped together in the census tracks. PSREC also supports the Matching Fund Simplification, allowing matching funds to be used for operations of the project. PSREC recommends that the USDA apply higher scores to existing ARRA projects willing to take the "next step" in bringing connectivity to homes and small businesses. This would be fiscally responsible, and the Community Connect funds would help to further leverage the already funded ARRA dollars in rural communities.