LAWRENCE, Mass. (AP) — Small business owners in a Massachusetts city rocked by natural gas explosions Sept. 13 say they’re frustrated at the response from local officials and the utility company to blame for the disaster.
Grocery, salon and other shop owners complained at a forum in Lawrence on Wednesday that some still haven’t been compensated by Columbia Gas. They also questioned how the city is spending $2 million meant to help local businesses.
Mayor Dan Rivera said later that his administration is still developing a plan for the funds. Columbia Gas said it’ll host community meetings Saturday where claims adjusters can work individually with business owners.
The explosions in Lawrence, Andover and North Andover killed one person, injured about two dozen, damaged over 100 structures and left thousands without gas service for weeks.
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