LIPA?s plan to run a 69-kilovolt power line between Southampton and Bridgehampton is drawing some heat from residents in the area.

The Southampton Town Board recently approved a resolution allowing LIPA to charge taxpayers extra to fund part of the cost of laying the power line. LIPA estimates customers in a designated area would pay an average of $4 extra a month for the next 20 years.

Though town leaders say they received overwhelming support for the plan, some residents feel it's too much to pay. LIPA plans to make a final decision on the surcharge and line burial project Tuesday at its next board meeting.

LIPA is also seeking protection against lawsuits from the town governments in relation to the surcharges. ?I want to be sensitive to the needs of the community out there,? LIPA President and CEO Kevin Law says. ?I want to work with them, but at the same time I owe it to the 1 million other LIPA customers to make sure they are not paying for it.?

While Southampton Councilman Christopher Nuzzi says there is no legal basis for that kind of protection, Law says the issue is a deal breaker.

Residents are also concerned the power line will erode the aesthetic quality of the area with its towering poles.

For previous coverage of the LIPA power line plan, go to channel 612 on your iO digital cable box and select iO Extra.