Massachusetts General Laws Part I. Administration of the Government (Ch. 1-182) Ch. 88, § 6

If the commissioners determine that it is necessary to establish a ferry, and no person appears to keep it for the profits thereof, the town in which such ferry is required shall provide a person to keep it at such place and seasons as the commissioners order. Such person shall be licensed as aforesaid, and the expense of maintaining such ferry, in excess of the amount received for tolls, shall be paid by the town.