Coventry adopts revised Road Turnover Policy, sets May 4, 2026 effective date

The Coventry Town Council voted unanimously on May 4 to adopt a revised Road Turnover Policy that changes the policy’s effective date and adds an earlier Town Manager briefing step to the review process.

Councilors debated the policy’s effective date and potential fiscal liabilities during discussion. The policy previously referenced an effective date of Dec. 31, 1980; councilors agreed to change that date to May 4, 2026 so the eligibility window is tied to current zoning and avoids leaving newer associations behind. Jonathan Hand said the change responds to concerns that a newer date would allow more roads to qualify; he noted that the policy still does not guarantee takeover, only a process for consideration.

Councilor Robyn Gallagher raised concerns that private associations might spend significant funds up front for improvements without a guaranteed takeover; Town Manager James Drumm and staff stressed that negotiations and a thorough review—often involving a punch-list of required improvements—would occur before any final council vote. Drumm noted a road turnaround may take “6 months to 10 years,” depending on needed work and state stormwater mandates.

The council also agreed to add the following language to the review process: the Town Manager will include road turnover requests and updates in the Town Manager’s Update so councilors can assess fiscal conditions earlier in the process. Councilor Mark Wheaton recommended a step for earlier Town Council interaction so associations understand risks before outlaying association funds.

The motion to adopt the policy, as amended, passed with recorded votes of Councilors Kyer, Hand, Gallagher, Thomas, Larson, Wheaton and Blanchard. The policy replaces the April 2, 2007 policy and clarifies that even where criteria are met, takeover is discretionary and dependent on funding and completion of required improvements.