Don't miss the big stories. Like us on Facebook. BENNINGTON â With an infusion of federal COVID-19 relief money on the way, the Select Board is considering hiring a consultant to prepare an economic development plan to make use of the funds. The proposal grew from discussion last month following word the town will receive $1.375 million through the American Rescue Plan Act, which is providing aid throughout the country, and that a second round of funding is expected. After a suggestion from the Vermont League of Cities and Towns that communities develop a plan for spending the money, the town later asked the consulting firm, White & Burke Real Estate Advisors, of Burlington, to submit a proposal to prepare a development plan, to be paid for from the federal money.