LEWISTOWN — The Lewistown Borough Council on Monday discussed receiving $200,000 in discretionary funds from Rep. Kerry Benninghoff, with another $250,000 expected from Sen. Judy Ward, along with other borough business.

Borough Manager Julie Brooks said both awards are considered discretionary funds. She added that the borough will formally announce the $250,000 award once the money is received and will send letters of appreciation to Benninghoff and Ward.

Councilman Scott Gutshall suggested that much of the funding should go toward reimbursing the borough for the $400,000 land acquisition for the new police building at 70 Chestnut St., Lewistown. He proposed forming a committee to determine how the funds from Benninghoff and Ward should be used.

Council President Matthew Moore reminded members that the money is congressional funding, meaning any projects using it will require bids. He said the council will review the committee’s recommendations at its next meeting and noted that the funds are currently earmarked for land acquisition.

“The borough would really like to extend its thanks to Senator Ward and Representative Benninghoff,” Gutshall said.

In other business, the council approved hiring Chris Hatter to a full‒time position in refuse collection at a rate of $20.19 per hour.

Before entering executive session, council members also approved a request from Scouting America member Brody Basom for materials to complete his Eagle Scout service project. Basom requested white, yellow and possibly blue road paint to repaint parking lines at Heritage Volunteer Fire Co. No. 1.

The Lewistown Borough Council will hold its next meeting at 4:30 p.m. Monday, June 8, in the council chambers at the Lewistown Municipal Building.