(a) The General Assembly recognizes that there are numerous unincorporated rural communities and small incorporated rural cities and towns in this state which do not have adequate fire protection or social, recreational, cultural, or other facilities available for the benefit of their citizens or comparable to the facilities available in larger cities of this state. Many of these rural communities and rural small cities and towns lack the resources to develop and implement programs to enhance their viability.
(b) The General Assembly further recognizes the need to establish a program whereby, through the participation of local citizens and by the use of state incentive funds, unincorporated rural communities and small incorporated rural cities and towns in this state will be provided opportunities for the construction, development, and improvement of fire protection and construction projects benefiting the citizens. The program will provide matching grants to rural communities to alleviate this problem and encourage rural communities to develop programs designed to meet their uniquely rural needs.