State clears tracks for rail investigation

In the Nashua Telegraph, Kevin Landrigan secures the first interviews with the parties involved in the disputed railroad lease deal now under investigation by the Executive Council:

The council set aside the 10-year lease recommendation of Transportation Commissioner George Campbell until the investigation is complete.

In his first interview, Rep. Peter Leishman, D-Peterborough, and a former Milford legislator, called the claims of Pan Am Railways President David Fink "bizarre."

Fink, who wanted to bid on the railroad business, claimed he could double the revenue Leishman has been sending to the state."The Finks have made quite a stink and made very serious allegations against me and the commissioner," Leishman said. "That whole line of claims is just bizarre and I expect these questions will dispel all those wild charges."

During a telephone interview, Fink said he thought Leishman had the lease contract politically wired and praised the council's action.

"I am astounded. I thought the fix was in. I am delighted," Fink said.

"The only thing I am asking for is that they tell the truth. Let's put it out to bid." (more)