Barnstable Town Hall.
HYANNIS – For years, Barnstable town officials have tried to figure out a way to use town funds to pay for repairs on private roads. The majority of roads in the town are private, meaning town funds cannot be used except for emergency repairs.
Last night, the Barnstable Town Council learned that a bill making its way through the state legislature would allow for the repairs to happen.
The update to House Bill 4336 last night would allow the town to make repairs to private roads to ensure access and safety.
That bill is now awaiting the Governor’s signature.
In a related matter, the council also voted unanimously last night to clear up language in the town’s Temporary Repair to Private Roads Program.
The language was changed to require at least a 51 percent margin of approval for road repairs by property owners on private roads. Previously the requirement was for 50 percent approval.
