Springfield approves $16M for 2011 storm expenses

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (AP) -- The Springfield City Council has approved a proposal to borrow nearly $16 million to cover expenses related to two major weather events in 2011.

City budget director Leeann Pasquini says the move is necessary to balance the city's budget before the tax rate is set in December.

The Republican reported the city expects reimbursement from state and federal government for most of the storm-related expenses from the June 1 tornado and the Oct. 29 nor'easter.

But the city will have to cover about $5 million.

The combined city cost for the two storms is $120 million.

City Council President James Ferrera III said short-term borrowing was unavoidable, given the costs for clearing trees and debris, repairing damaged roads and buildings, and maintaining city services.