Methuen’s City Council voted down an attempt to restrict Mayoral contractual authority at last night’s (May 21) City Council meeting. The legislation was defeated on a 6-3 vote. The attempt to lower the authority to $25,000 from $50,000 has been a political football over the years, with the City Council restricting Mayor DiZoglio to an authority of $10,000 after a dispute on some purchasing. City Council then raised the authority back to $50,000 during the Pollard Administration. As a City Councilor I supported the higher amount, and now as Mayor I continue to support the $50,000 limit. As an administrator I appreciate the ability to move on items without having to wait for a City Council meeting for approval, especially in light of the fact that contractual spending is contained within City Council approved budgetary limits. I guess the political season is upon us!