A Halifax homeowner who was recently granted vehicular access to her home at a cost of $230,000 may be allowed to pay the city back over 20 years.

Susan Sutherland's home became landlocked decades ago. The only access is a footpath along the North West Arm. Sutherland used a public trail from the Dingle Tower parking lot to reach her property, lugging in groceries and fuel.

After years of fighting with the city, the property was granted vehicular access this spring under the Private Ways Act.

She owes $168,000 to her neighbours for the land used for the right-of-way, plus the loss of value to their property. The bill for the arbitration process itself is $61,583.52.

It's due in full this October.

"You know I am a single mom. It would have been very difficult, if not impossible for me to be able to do that," she said.

A friend created a crowdfunding site, but the family was still concerned about coming up with the full amount. If it wasn't paid, a lien would be put on the property and interest would start accumulating.

HRM finance staff have a proposed a new bylaw that will allow annual installments of $11,500 until 2034. The proposal will mean interest fees of between $60,000 and $100,000 depending on what rate is applied.

Sutherland says she appreciates the proposal.

"We're very grateful that the city has proposed some options. It makes it possible for me to continue to stay in my home," she said.

Regional council gets its first look at the bylaw on Tuesday. The final vote is expected in a couple of weeks.

Sutherland hopes to send in a written submission before that happens.