Now that James E. Winner Jr. has decided not to seek Capital Budget money to develop the former Westinghouse plant in Sharon, that theoretically frees up $7 million for someone else.

James DeCapua, executive director of Mercer County Regional Council of Governments, wants Farrell and Sharon to consider trying for a chunk of it, said Farrell Mayor William Morocco.

DeCapua has invited Farrell council and Sharon mayor and council to attend a meeting at 6:30 p.m. March 14 at the COG office in Hermitage to discuss possible uses for the money, Morocco said.

DeCapua picked Farrell and Sharon because they appear to have more deteriorating roads and sewers than the other Shenango Valley communities, Morocco said.

Farrell officials, who have already been pegged for a $500,000 grant from the same fund, were quick to point out that the Capital Budget money does not come free.

"It's a dollar-for-dollar match," said City Manager LaVon Saternow. "You have to put your money up first."

The city is slated to receive its funds for demolition, relocation, street and sewer improvements, property purchase and other work in the northwest section of town to turn it into a light industrial park, and to spruce up Idaho Street.

Farrell had to come up with its match before it could officially apply for the state money, even though the state had already announced that it was earmarked for the city.

Farrell pulled $300,000 from its revolving loan fund, which normally is used for low-interest loans to city businesses, and $200,000 from its 2001 and 2002 Community Development Block Grants.

DeCapua seemed to think there might be a way for Sharon and Farrell to work around the match for infrastructure needs, said Farrell Councilman Robert Burich.

Farrell council members agreed to attend the meeting.

"Nothing to lose," said Councilman Rudolph Hammond.

Sharon Mayor David O. Ryan said he's open to discussing the grant but needs more details to know if it's feasible for the city. With Sharon officials planning a revitalization downtown, Ryan said he wants to know if the Capital Budget money is strictly for economic development or if it can be used for other things.

"If we can do something, let's give it a shot," Ryan said.