The Airport Enterprise fund took the spotlight as the council scrutinized the Mayor’s recommended budget of $72,900, which includes an $81,000 increase to fund two major projects at the Lawrence Municipal Airport. One of the projects slated for these funds is the replacement of the airport’s heating system in the maintenance building, estimated to cost $440,000.

Further discussions on the airport focused on the construction of a new administrative office building. Detailed budget breakdowns were presented, and the need for a drainage project was emphasized. This project aims to address water flow issues from the neighboring residential areas into the airport property – a problem exacerbated by bureaucratic delays in obtaining necessary permits and approvals, including those from the Army Corps of Engineers and the North Andover Conservation Commission. Council members requested further clarification on budget specifics, including repairs, maintenance, and site improvements.

Erosion control measures around the airport were also a topic of discussion, prompted by the impact of storms on the area. A proposal was made to construct a higher wall at the airport, designed with a 3 to 1 descent ratio to prevent soil failure during storms. The process of obtaining permits was highlighted as a challenge, with the town of North Andover requesting full-length design involvement, effectively mandating their requirement. The involvement of the Conservation Commission was underscored, pushing for North Andover to take more steps in resolving the problem. It was revealed that approximately $122,000 had been spent on erosion controls, including the installation of cor logs to prevent water from flowing into the airport from adjacent areas.

In addition to the airport-centric discussions, the meeting addressed changes in the city attorney’s office budget. An increase was noted in the court judgment fund, which the attorney explained as a reallocation of funds from other departments rather than a rise in payouts. The introduction of new positions in the city attorney’s office, such as a first assistant city attorney and a confidential secretary, was also mentioned.

The council announced the postponement of a budget hearing for education, affecting Greater Lawrence Tech and Lawrence Public Schools, moving it to June 12th at 7 p.m. This delay was due to the late receipt of the budgets from the institutions in question, affecting the timely discussion and approval of these financial plans.