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Committee debates encroachment policy, asks members to propose written revisions
Summary
Members discussed the town’s encroachment policy (last substantially revised in February 2014), enforcement challenges, and outreach; staff asked the committee to review the policy and submit written recommendations if changes are desired.
The Right of Way Committee spent a substantial portion of its April 15 meeting on the town’s encroachment policy and enforcement practices, and asked members to submit written suggestions for any proposed revisions.
Bob Barbossi, the town’s land use specialist, said the policy on the town website has not been substantially updated since February 2014 and that staff and DPW currently handle encroachment complaints through the town’s Click & Fix reporting system. "When I look at the encroachment policy, which hasn't been updated substantially since 02/2014," Barbossi said, "I think it's time to be looked at." He asked the committee to identify specific revisions and to put those recommendations in writing so staff can coordinate with DPW and other enforcement offices.
Committee members described a wide range of recurring issues: private plantings and hedges growing over sidewalks, ad hoc stakes and posts placed to reserve parking, second curb cuts and drive aprons added without consistent standards, and historic structures (e.g., Friendship Steps) that encroach on sidewalks. Members emphasized that enforcement resources and judgment are central to addressing encroachments and that some individual cases require a contextual review rather than a single rigid rule.
The committee discussed outreach and education — signage, a pictorial guide, and Click & Fix outreach — as low‑cost first steps that could reduce violations. Staff also noted that some enforcement actions and license negotiations sit with DPW or the town attorney and that the committee’s role is advisory; any formal policy changes would be routed to the Select Board and relevant offices.
Direction: committee members were asked to review the encroachment policy (February 2014 version) and to bring written recommendations for specific changes or clarifications to a future meeting. Staff said it can assist by compiling examples, enforcement histories and by coordinating with DPW on Click & Fix referrals.
