Selectmen ask for easements, standards before approving Penn Rhodeen culvert crossing

Property owner Penn Rhodeen raised a question about running an OBD discharge pipe through a town culvert beneath Indian Point Road. The town manager and several Selectmen said permitting such a crossing raises town liability concerns unless the owner installs an independent sleeve or gets proper easements from adjoining property owners.

Rhodeen said DEP has signaled no objection in concept, but Selectmen emphasized that a town-owned culvert subject to town maintenance and plowing should not be used without a formal easement and clear specifications. Selectmen explained that if a privately maintained sleeve within the town culvert fails, the town could become involved in repairs or be responsible for emergency responses; they advised Rhodeen to pursue a separate culvert or sleeve arrangement with written easements and to present any required legal documents.

Selectmen approved a motion to add an easement for a road crossing to the 2021 Annual Town Meeting warrant, contingent on having all necessary abutter easements and adherence to road-cut standards and specifications. The motion included language that the town would not be responsible for costs or liabilities associated with the private installation.

Next steps: Rhodeen to secure abutter easements and any DEP clearances; the town will include the proposed easement article on the town meeting warrant if the legal paperwork is provided.