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Surry Select Board weighs whether to pursue $2.9 million FEMA award for Newbury Neck Road
Summary
A resident update prompted the Select Board to consider whether to proceed with a $2.9 million FEMA funding opportunity for Newbury Neck Road after voters rejected a bond in April; the board discussed timing, shared costs and permit complications and withdrew a motion to form a new committee.
Allen Kratz, a resident who spoke on the Newbury Neck project, told the Town of Surry Select Board the town may be offered a $2.9 million FEMA grant but reminded members that voters rejected a related bond 60–40 on April 10.
Kratz outlined three dynamics the board must weigh: whether to pursue the project now or later; how the bonded cost would be shared across taxpayers if the town borrows; and whether existing permits or a potentially new route could complicate construction. He said the town will soon receive a formal notice of funding opportunity and must decide whether to withdraw the application or move forward.
During discussion, Chris Stark moved to form a Carrying Place Committee to represent residents beyond the beach and consider next steps; after further discussion the motion was withdrawn without a vote. Board members signaled they want more information before committing, including clarity on funding terms and permitting implications.
No formal vote authorizing staff to accept or decline the FEMA opportunity was recorded. The Select Board noted the cistern for Newbury Neck Road is scheduled for delivery on June 24 and that additional engineering and funding conversations with MEMA and FEMA will inform any future decision.
