Politics & Government
City Council Rejects Deal for Lowell Street Billboard
Prior to Monday's court hearing, a proposal was offered to partially shield the towering pole from view by motorists and neighbors.
The Peabody City Council has rejected a proposal from Total Outdoor Corp. for its controversial billboard structure on Lowell Street and is headed to court Monday to try and resolve the dispute.
The Salem News reports that one of the items councilors discussed in executive session last week was a proposed settlement from Total Outdoor to install akin to an addition on the adjacent building to cover the bottom portion of the 92-foot pole, making it less obtrusive to neighbors.
The paper reports the council unanimously rejected the offer and insists on the pole being relocated to the rear of the property, where city officials argue it was supposed to be installed.
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City Council President Tom Gould told the Salem News the city wouldn't settle for anything less. The entertainment company says it will cost about $250,000 to move the pole.
The court hearing is expected to get underway at 11 a.m. Monday in Salem Superior Court with Judge Howard Whitehead.
Find out what's happening in Peabodyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
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