Article 35, a citizen petition brought by Dave Carrier, sought to increase the frequency of town grading for unpaved private ways from twice a year to four times a year. Carrier argued that residents on these roads pay significant taxes and fees but deal with craters that damage vehicles and delay emergency services. While the article did not include a specific funding appropriation, it acted as a mandate for the DPW to prioritize these repairs in future budgets.

The floor was dominated by emotional testimony from residents of the Bluefish Cove area. Katherine Toby of Water Street described the roads as often unpassable, noting that it takes seven minutes to reach a bus stop when the road is degraded. If you are in a situation where you are having a heart attack... you’re not going to make it, she warned. DPW Superintendent Sean Patterson expressed support for the intent but noted the need for a funding mechanism in the spring. Despite concerns from the Advisory Board that the petition was technically flawed, voters overwhelmingly supported the measure to signal that private road maintenance must be improved.

Motion: Dave Carrier moves article 35 is set forth in the october 20th, 2025 special town meeting warrants.

Vote: Passed by Majority