Selectboard begins broad road reclassification review, weighing downgrades and discontinuances

The Town Selectboard opened an extensive discussion on reclassifying town roads, focusing on several categories: dead-end roads that the town does not maintain, class 4 and private roads the town currently plows out of convenience, class 3 roads the town is expected to maintain, and short plowed roads that serve only one house. Committee member (S2) introduced the packet and asked the board whether they preferred to "upgrade or downgrade roads to reflect what we're actually maintaining" or to select individual roads for change.

Members agreed to begin with the easiest items—dead-end roads that clearly function as private driveways. Committee member (S2) proposed discontinuing such dead-end segments, using Small Road (0.03 miles of class 3 in West Brookfield) as an example where the mapped segment is effectively a private driveway. Chair (S4) cautioned that discontinuing segments that would create landlocked parcels is not permissible; the Chair recommended downgrading to class 4 or trail status where right-of-way retention is desired. Board members requested staff (road foreman Tim and town counsel Mike) verify parcel lines, land-right issues and any existing written agreements before any formal vote. Public hearings and notifications were flagged as required next steps before implementation.

The discussion included practical trade-offs: while dropping maintenance on short one-house roads could save time and fuel, the board noted a potential long-term cost if road surfaces deteriorate and lose federal/state-aid eligibility. Chair (S4) warned that class 4 roads generally are not eligible for federal disaster aid, which could leave the town bearing large repair costs if a bridge or culvert fails. The board asked staff to rework the list and return with parcel maps and legal guidance prior to public hearings and final action.