The Wrentham Selectmen decided to refer a proposed utility bylaw — which would allow the town to require better line maintenance from utility companies — to the town bylaw committee.

The bylaw proposal has been put forward by State Rep. Dan Winslow (R-Norfolk) in the wake of the extended power outages caused by Tropical Storm Irene and the Snowtober snowstorm.

Town Administrator William Ketcham said the selectmen had previously considered the matter, and had asked for feedback from him and Department of Public Works Superintendent Irving Priest.

"Mr. Priest and I were asked to comment on this, which we did," he said. "What wasn't clear was whether the board wanted to include the bylaw in the warrant for the town meeting or simply refer it to the bylaw committee for review."

Board Chairman Joseph Botaish said the bylaw was in need of review.

"If we're looking at a bylaw change, I think it should go before the bylaw committee," he said. "This could possibly be brought up in the November Town Meeting."

Selectman Stephen Langley agreed.

"While I'd like to get this done as quickly as possible, this needs to go through the process," he said.