Maine Revised Statutes Title 23. Transportation § 2701. Powers and duties

The road commissioner, under the direction of a majority of the members of the select board, has charge of the repairs of all highways and bridges within the towns and has authority to employ the necessary personnel and equipment and purchase material for the repair of highways and bridges. The road commissioner shall give bond to the satisfaction of the select board and is responsible to the select board for the expenditure of money and discharge of the road commissioner's duties generally. In the absence of a statute, charter provision or ordinance to the contrary, any decision involving the duties and responsibilities of the road commissioner must be made by a majority of the members of the select board, whose decision is final. The road commissioner's compensation must be such sum as the legislative body votes annually. The road commissioner shall render to the select board monthly statements of the road commissioner's expenditures and may not receive any money from the treasury, except on the order of the select board.

If a majority of the members of the select board determines that a condition exists in any town way that creates a hazard and renders the way unsafe for travelers with motor vehicles, the select board shall give written notice to the road commissioner of this condition and order the road commissioner to eliminate it or take interim measures to protect the public within 24 hours. If the road commissioner fails to act as directed by the select board, a majority of the members of the select board may enter contracts or take any other steps necessary to eliminate the safety hazard.