Medford gas pumps unlocked at judge's order

MEDFORD (FOX 25 / MyFoxBoston.com) - Three Medford gas stations shut down by the city last week are back in business, and not everyone is happy about it.

City council members fed up with King Petroleum’s $160,000 in back taxes and thousands in fees, locked the pumps last week .

A judge ruled the council to unlock the pumps, and now the owner is suing the council.

“These three gas stations have been a target for many years to these city councilors. They're doing everything they can to take these properties and take these gas stations,” said owner Jackie Eskanian.

The city says the gas stations have been bad neighbors, denying their permits to operate, and putting the breaks on gas sales. While the council members declined to talk to FOX25 on camera, at public hearings over the last month their feelings were clear.

“That's what tells me the character and the background of these people, and I don't like it, and I don't think they're good for the city of Medford, and I don't even think they belong here,” said one member.

The judge overruled the council, saying locking the pumps only prevents repayment.

The pumps opened back up yesterday at $2.49 a gallon, which is the cheapest near Boston right now. The owners say they're not making a cent on gas, but they are trying to get back some of their lost business.

As part of the judge’s ruling, King Petroleum has been forced to work out a payment with the city of Medford.