Sharon mulls use of stimulus funds

SHARON, Pa. — The city is going to decide how best to use a $67,236 federal grant earmarked for the police department, said police Chief Michael Menster.

The funding will be in the form of a Justice Assistance Grant from the U.S. Department of Justice.

It originates from the federal stimulus package authorized by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act passed this year.

Menster said Thursday the money can be used to hire officers, for drug and gang task forces, crime-prevention, domestic violence programs and supporting other criminal justice activities.

“We’ll definitely think of ways to put it to good use,” he said, adding that he intended to meet today with the mayor and other city officials to develop a proposal for spending the money.

“Our goal is to find the best way to impact crime and safety in the city,” he said.

He said the city has to apply for the grant, even though it’s already earmarked.

JAG funds are allocated based on a formula involving population and violent crime statistics, he said.

Mercer County also is earmarked for $15,881, and Hermitage is eligible for $11,962.