(a) The Rural Development State Director in each State will determine the office and staff that will be responsible for delivery of the program (processing office) and designate an approving office. Applications will be accepted by the processing office.

(b) The applicant's governing body should designate one person to act as contact person with the Agency during loan and grant processing. Agency personnel should make every effort to involve the applicant's contact person when meeting with the applicant's professional consultants or agents.