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Residents’ association asks to install gates on Beetle Road; Selectmen seek legal review
Summary
The WPOA asked the Tolland Selectmen for permission to install gates on Beetle Road to restrict unauthorized vehicles; Selectmen requested easement proof and town counsel input and raised public‑way and turnaround concerns.
The Woodland Park Owners Association (WPOA) asked the Tolland Board of Selectmen on Feb. 9 to consider allowing gates on Beetle Road, but the Board said it will seek additional documentation and legal advice before taking action.
Charity Barger (Operations Manager, WPOA) and Eric Fisher (WPOA secretary) presented proposed gate locations with measured distances from landmarks along Beetle Road and discussed options including a gated island with separate inbound and outbound gates. Eric proposed classifying the gated portion of the road as a private way while the town retained title; WPOA offered to maintain the portion of road beyond the proposed gate.
Selectmen raised multiple concerns. Patrick Barrett asked how the association would manage short‑term rentals; Charity said WPOA is updating rules and could assign time‑limited access codes to homeowners. Kate Donovan, DPW Superintendent, said the proposed entrance and turnaround would not accommodate current DPW trucks and recommended constructing a cul‑de‑sac and clarifying snow‑removal logistics. Ed Deming noted a 2017 review that found the turnaround area was too small for trucks and emphasized emergency‑vehicle access.
Selectmen also flagged ownership and access questions for a parcel at 4 Meadow Drive; they asked WPOA to continue discussions with that property owner and to provide documentation such as easements assuring access. Steven DellaGiustina said prior legal advice (2017) indicated gates could not be installed on a public way and directed staff to contact town counsel for an updated opinion before considering any approval.
Why it matters: installing a gate on a public way could set a policy precedent and affects emergency access, maintenance responsibilities and rights of non‑association property owners.
Next steps: WPOA will continue conversations with the owner of 4 Meadow Drive and provide any easement or access documentation; town counsel will be asked for an opinion on whether gates can be authorized in the proposed locations.
