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Resident says state won’t take responsibility for unsafe sidewalk; board to clarify ownership
Summary
A resident told the board the state said it would not accept responsibility for a deteriorated sidewalk in front of their house and asked the town to issue a written statement; staff offered to draft a letter and check permits.
A Stamford resident told the Select Board the state has declined to take responsibility for a hazardous sidewalk outside their home and asked the town to document that refusal in writing.
The resident (speaker 5) described contacting the state and said, “The state pretty much said, I can do whatever I want. They're not gonna take responsibility for it,” and reported being told they would have to hire a police detail if any work required traffic control. Board members and staff discussed permitting requirements and whether the town could prepare a letter clarifying jurisdiction so the resident could take next steps.
Staff (speaker 3) offered to help draft language and sign a letter if the resident specifies what they want the town to say; board members noted that taking on repairs could require permits and could create precedent. The board agreed to follow up with state contacts and provide written clarification where possible.
