MASSENA -- After a discussion in executive session, the Town Council granted an exemption for their requirement that all town employees must live in the Massena Electric Department service area for a town employee with a special needs child.

Town Supervisor Joseph Gray said the child is enrolled in a program only offered at Potsdam Central School. The employee wants to move closer to that district so the child doesn’t have to spend three hours daily on a bus.

“It takes a toll on his body,” Gray said, adding that the child, who suffers from a physical disability, is strapped in a seat and unable to move.

Councilman Albert Nicola noted that the law allows the board to make such an exemption.

“We collectively believe this is a very special circumstance and by all measures of compassion and demonstrating humanity, we grant it,” Gray said.