LEWISTON – Federal assistance was outlined at a meeting Wednesday for local officials seeking funding to repair damages to public buildings and utilities caused by record-setting cold weather.

On May 14, President Bush issued a disaster declaration for Androscoggin and nine other Maine counties that authorizes the Federal Emergency Management Agency to provide assistance.

Damages sustained to public utilities; and equipment and buildings owned by state agencies, local governments, school districts, Native American tribes and some nonprofit agencies may qualify for federal disaster funds under the cost-sharing program to aid recovery from the effects of severe cold weather and frost that occurred since Dec. 17.

Those that qualify within the Lewiston-based Androscoggin County Emergency Management Agency may be eligible to apply for federal funding to cover up to 75 percent of their losses.

Joe Albert, FEMA’s public assistance officer, said the state will not assist towns and public utilities in paying their 25 percent share.

“There just weren’t any funds available in Augusta, so you’re in there for the full 25 percent,” he said.

The Auburn Water and Sewerage District earlier reported about $85,000 was spent repairing broken water mains and services during the first three months of this year.

With ongoing repair work, the city of Lewiston’s losses are expected to exceed $150,000, Chris Branch, the public works director said earlier this month.

Peter Thomas, FEMA’s environmental liaison, said that publicly owned historic buildings, which are more than 50 years old and eligible for the National Historic Register, may also qualify if damages were sustained.

Turner Town Manager James Catlin said the town-owned Leavitt Institute building, which is leased by SAD 52, had damages caused by a frozen fire suppression system.

Municipal officials attending the meeting at the Lewiston Central Fire Station received application forms.

They were advised to itemize labor hours, usage of municipally owned equipment, equipment rental fees and replacement costs of damaged infrastructure.

FEMA has established a disaster field office in Westbrook. Further information may be obtained by calling (207) 541-0600.