A new direct revenue slots sharing program forged by the state Legislature earlier this year couldn't come at a better time for Washington County's most populous municipality, which has found itself seriously over budget because of the severe winter.

At a council meeting Monday night, Peters Manager Michael Silvestri said costs associated with snow and ice removal likely will be about $150,000 over budget by the end of this year.

The township allotted about $417,000 for snow and ice removal for 2010.

Peters, which raised real estate taxes by 2 mills in December, has purchased more road salt this season than before, and snow-related overtime costs for its 14 public works employees -- budgeted at $55,000 for 2010 -- are already have reached $52,000.

"We always budget for an above average snow," said Mr. Silvestri, who said the township used more than 7,000 tons of road salt so far this season. During the 2008-2009 winter season, the township only used about half of the 4,500 tons of salt it ordered.

It has also doubled its fuel and equipment maintenance budget for February.

But there is a silver lining.

According to changes in the same gaming law that now allows table games, 65 of Washington County's 66 municipalities will receive a direct share of slots revenue from The Meadows Racetrack & Casino this year, totaling $25,000, plus $10 for each resident.

The host municipality, North Strabane, receives a separate allotment from the casino, and a much larger amount -- about $10 million this year -- is reserved for countywide economic development and community projects.

In Peters, the direct revenue for its 20,000-plus residents would total at least $200,000 -- enough to cover the probable budget overruns.

Mr. Silvestri said the windfall couldn't come at a better time, especially because it's unclear whether any federal funds will be available for snow removal costs.

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