LYNN – The Lynn City Council did not vote on or approve a $4 million bond authorization for the relocation of Lynnway power lines Tuesday night, contrary to a report in Wednesday’s Daily Item.
The council did vote 10-0 Tuesday to send Mayor Edward J. Clancy Jr.’s request to public hearing Feb. 17, the final step before councilors can vote on the bond.
The hearing will allow residents and voters to voice their opinion on the request, and council members will take those opinions in to consideration before taking a final vote on the bond immediately following the hearing.
Clancy is seeking $4 million from the council to move power lines along the Lynnway further away from the shore line in order make room for a proposed multi-million dollar oceanfront development.
The city received $2.5 million in state funding for the project in December of last year.
One misconception regarding the bond is that the $4 million would immediately come out of the city budget during a severe budget crunch, but city officials say the bond is paid off over time and will not affect local aid in this or next year’s budget.
In addition to the council’s approval, Clancy must also receive approval on a special permit from the Department of Public Utilities before any power lines can be moved. That hearing will take place tonight at 7 p.m. At North Shore Community College.