Research

Notices to state regarding cutting of brush along highways on state land


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Overview of the Records

Repository:

New York State Archives
New York State Education Department
Cultural Education Center
Albany, NY 12230

Summary:
The Commissioner of Highways could assess the cost against the owner for removing weeds and brush growing on privately owned land abutting highways. This series consists of notices of assessment, bills, and other documentation charging the cost of cutting brush along state roads within town boundaries. Also included are letters protesting the assessment, typically disputing ownership of the land involved.
Creator:
Title:
Notices to state regarding cutting of brush along highways on state land
Quantity:

0.5 cubic feet

Inclusive Dates:
1909-1912, 1922-1924
Series Number:
A1386

Scope and Content Note

These are notices of assessment and related letters, bills, and other documentation charging the cost of cutting brush along state roads within town boundaries. Such assessments were authorized by section 55 of the Highway Law. Chapter 648 of the Laws of 1907 (section 53A) provided that owners "cut and remove noxious weeds and brush" growing within the bounds of the highway fronting privately owned or occupied lands. Unless cut and removed, the Commissioner of Highways would do the work and assess the cost against the owner.

Records include letters to the comptroller and/or the Conservation Commission from town officials (superintendents or commissioners of highways) notifying that they will assess the cost of cutting brush along public highways or lots belonging to the state; bills for labor performed in cutting and removing brush, weeds, and grass in a work area; and letters protesting the assessment, typically disputing ownership of the land involved.

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There are no restrictions regarding access to or use of the material.

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