Lansford Borough Council gained extra time to review consultants for a financial assessment of the borough, as funding awaits a state budget.

Council on Wednesday set a meeting date of Sept. 22 at 6 p.m. for the review for the consultant that will also draw up a five-year financial plan for Lansford.

The assistance with a financial consultant is offered through the state Department of Community and Economic Development’s Strategic Management Planning Program.

The borough is eligible for a 50/50 matching grant up to $200,000 to hire the consultant under the program. The borough’s match, or share of the cost, could be less based on financial hardship.

Council interviewed the consulting firms last week, and now must do a final review before submitting for a matching grant.

Applications were due Sept. 24, but that date has been pushed back to Dec. 4 due to the state budget impasse, Council President Bruce Markovich said after the meeting.

Property sale

Council also decided to place the old borough garage on Spring Street and adjacent lot up for public sale.

The lot was appraised at $35,000, and council set that as a minimum bid for the tract. The old garage was appraised at $110,000, but council set the minimum bid at $55,000 due to issues with the building.

The buyer will be responsible for the appraisal fee.

Gaming grants

Council is applying for two gaming grants on behalf of nonprofit organizations in the borough.

The American Fire Company is seeking a $54,316.64 grant for an off-road vehicle and emergency equipment.

The Panther Creek Foundation, which operates the No. 9 Mine attraction and museum, is seeking $98,990 for rails, locomotive batteries and a door awning, Markovich said.