BRADENTON -- The Bradenton City Council this week will hear the first readings of two ordinances designating responsibility for the maintenance of private roads and enabling the clean up of public health hazards.

While neither issue is new, the city hopes to clarify concerns or further protect citizens.

"How do we deal with private roads? Who maintains them?," are some of the questions that led to the drafting of the private road ordinance, said Tim W. McCann, city spokesman.

Over the years there has been speculation and differing opinions from residents on who should maintain private roads.

"Private roads are maintained by the private property owners who own and use the road," according to the proposed ordinance.

The proposed ordinance also includes requires emergency vehicles have safe and quick access to all property at all times.

"Unobstructed, safe, continuous access to lots and parcels of real estate is necessary to promote and protect the health, safety and welfare of the public through emergency, police and fire services," the ordinance says.

The second ordinance that will be read allows the city to clean-up the site of any "clandestine drug labs" or "chemical dump sites" it deems to be a "public health nuisance."

"We are just trying to make sure we have language that protects the people of Bradenton," Mayor Wayne Poston said.

The city in the past has never had issues getting the job done, yet wants to clarify the issue.

"Staff looks at these things all the time, and found a way to strengthen the law," McCann said.

Bradenton City Council will meet 8:30 a.m. Wednesday in City Hall Council Chambers at 101 Old Main St.