Merrimack Paper Owes Millions in Back Taxes, State Police Investigating 6 Alarm Lawrence Mill Fire

9SOCANALCH7Yesterday’s Updated Fire Story

LAWRENCE – Records from the city of Lawrence show that The Merrimack Paper Company, which burned down in a six alarm fire on Thursday, owes the city more than $5M in back taxes and sewer bills on their property at 9 South Canal Street and more than $231,000 on their property at 7 South Canal Street. The tax debts to the city go back to 2002 on both properties.  

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Lawrence Mayor Dan Rivera issued a press release late Tuesday afternoon that read: 

Statement from Dan Rivera, Mayor & CEO, City of Lawrence regarding Mill Fire on Monday Evening:

Dan Rivera on 980WCAP
Dan Rivera on 980WCAP

 “The Merrimack Paper Co. mill fire is currently in the early stages of investigation. The Lawrence Fire, Police, and Inspectional Services Departments are working closely with State Police assigned to the Office of the State Fire Marshal, as well as State Building Inspectors.”

“They are gathering information and conducting an examination of the scene, with a focus on safety. This fire has impacted the entire community as one of our historical landmarks was lost in the fire. I appreciate the courageous efforts of the Lawrence firefighters, as well as those of the surrounding community fire departments for providing much needed mutual aid. No further information will be released until this investigation is complete. We expect to complete the investigation within the next 48 hours.”