Public Meetings - Hooksett, New Hampshire

The Hooksett Town Council met on October 28, 2026, at 6:00 PM to discuss a variety of topics including the acceptance of public roadways, warrant articles for the upcoming ballot, a major infrastructure project cost increase, and several other administrative and policy matters. All council members were present: Smith, LeCass, Sullivan, Lapier, Walzik, Duhaim, and Chair La Liberty. Public Comments & Testimony - A resident proposed using an 8-inch pipe to address a driveway flooding issue on University Circle, based on a similar fix on Heritage Drive. - The same resident questioned why fire equipment capital reserve funds were requested again (clarified as recurring annual funding), suggested using battery-operated candles for Light Up the Village to reduce fire risk, and expressed concern about state inspection of salons. - Councilor Duhaim raised concerns about Brady & Sullivan's request for a waiver of impact fees, fearing the Planning Board may grant it without sufficient information, especially given the town's new planner. He noted the lack of an updated master plan for College Park Drive. Discussion Items - Public Hearing: Acceptance of University Circle, Alumni Drive, and Crawford Lane as Town Roads – Engineer Ben and town staff presented that all deeds and easements were recorded and punch list items corrected. A resident's driveway ponding issue was debated: staff argued it was a driveway construction problem (builder error), while some councilors felt the road pitch contributed. After extensive discussion, the council voted 4-3 to accept the roads. - DOT Hackett Hill/Main Street Project Update – The project cost increased from $4 million to $12.2 million, raising the town's 10% share from $700,000 to $1.8 million. Funding decisions postponed to November 18 meeting. - Warrant Article Review – The council debated and voted on numerous warrant articles for the 2027 town ballot, including several capital reserve funds. Many were reduced from original proposals (see Key Outcomes for details). - HeNe Property Acquisition – Councilor Lapier proposed purchasing 26.5 acres adjacent to the school for approximately $78,000 ($3,000/acre). The council agreed to proceed with due diligence, including legal review and survey, under RSA 41:14-A (requires public hearings). - Town Charter Amendment Committee – Delayed due to scheduling conflicts; agreed to reconvene in February 2027. - Underwood Engineering Contract Amendment – Approved $48,000 for final engineering and bidding assistance for the Merrimack River sewer project (vote 5-2). - Light Up the Village – Approved placement of two fire pits at Veterans Park and use of old town hall for storage, with a hold harmless agreement to be signed. - Fire Rules Review – Councilor Duhaim requested a review of Hooksett-specific fire regulations (e.g., fireworks, hydrant placement, enunciators). Fire chief agreed to provide information on specific policies at a future meeting. - Budget Process Clarification – Discussion regarding the council's 3-2 vote to forward a $22.6 million budget to the Budget Committee. Some councilors felt misrepresented; Town Administrator clarified that the budget becomes the Budget Committee's once forwarded. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda (Items 11.1 & 11.2) – Approved unanimously via roll call. - ZBA Appointment – Matthew Foley appointed as alternate to the Zoning Board of Adjustment (term expiring June 30, 2029). - Warrant Articles (all approved for ballot): - DPW: New CDL plow truck ($264,000) – Unanimous. - Electronic Poll Pads ($14,200) – Unanimous. - Town Building Maintenance Capital Reserve – Amended from $200,000 to $150,000 (vote 4-2 on amendment, then approved). - Parks & Rec / Conservation Capital Reserve – Amended to $60,000 total ($40k parks, $20k conservation) – Unanimous. - DPW Drainage Upgrades ($30,000) – Unanimous. - Automated Collection Equipment ($30,000) – Unanimous (5-1). - New Dumpsters and Curbside Barrels (amended to $26,500 total) – Unanimous. - Information Technology Capital Reserve ($40,000) – Unanimous. - Fire Apparatus Capital Reserve – Amended from $250,000 to $225,000 (vote 3-3 on amendment, chair broke tie for passage; final vote 7-0). - Fire Radio Capital Reserve – Amended from $162,500 to $150,000 (unanimous on amendment; final vote 7-0). - Fire Air Packs & Rescue Tools Capital Reserve ($80,000 total: $40k each) – Unanimous. - Road Acceptance – University Circle, Alumni Drive, and Crawford Lane accepted as town roads (4-3). - Underwood Engineering Contract – Approved $48,000 for sewer project assistance (5-2). - Light Up the Village – Approved use of fire pits and storage, with hold harmless agreement. - Minutes – Approved public and non-public minutes from October 14, 2026 (as amended).

The Hooksett Budget Committee met on October 22, 2026, to review and discuss the proposed budgets for the Fire Department, Department of Public Works (DPW), Parks and Recreation, and Recycling/Transfer operations. The meeting also included public comment on impact fee reductions at the Planning Board and a discussion on committee decorum. The minutes from the previous meeting (October 15, 2026) were approved with an amendment. Public Comments & Testimony - David G. Smith (26 Martins Ray Road, Hooksett) detailed a Planning Board proposal to reduce impact fees by approximately 76%, from $880,600.32 to $193,701, a reduction of $614,899.32. He noted that the school impact fee alone would drop from $327,113 to $16,264, based on an estimated eight school-aged children from the proposed 161-unit residential project. He expressed strong opposition, calling the reduction "absurd" given the town's budget constraints and school facility needs. - Fortune (65 Hooksett, Union 393) commented that some impact fees not spent must be refunded to developers, and a proposed mechanism to gift fees to the town could be beneficial. He noted the reduction is partly due to a set-off regulation and that the Planning Board and town legal counsel will review the proposal. He expressed support for the outcome. - Unidentified speaker (in response) disputed Fortune's characterization, stating the builder was willing to donate only $200,000 of the $600,000 reduction, and that the original commercial building conversion should not have allowed such a large fee reduction. - Sarah Mackey (39 Joanne Drive) raised concerns about the tone and decorum of committee members, including snaping and condescending behavior toward presenters (especially female presenters). She urged members to review video recordings and improve conduct. Discussion Items - Approval of Minutes (October 15, 2026): A lengthy debate occurred over the accuracy of the minutes regarding building permits and canine expenses. The committee clarified that canine expenses are 100% covered by donations, excluding overtime paid by the town. A motion to amend the minutes to change a fuel cost figure from $350 to $360 per gallon was approved. The minutes were then approved as amended. - Fire Department Budget (2028): Presented by Town Administrator Andre Garrin, Fire Chief David Nato, and Assistant Chief Seth Miller. The recommended operating budget is $5,234,712, a 1.99% increase ($102,061) over 2027. Key points: - Staffing: 33 full-time and 5 part-time positions; no new positions requested. One full-time position is frozen, funded via overtime. Two new firefighters start November 2. - Overtime: $420,000, maintained by covering minimum staffing levels; not expected to decrease. - Health insurance: 12% increase assumed, but actual costs came in 2% lower; revised figures expected November 4. - Capital Area Mutual Fire Compact dispatching: $102,729 (half funded from ambulance revenue). Members highlighted benefits such as upgraded radio system, hazmat team, and grants. - Vehicle maintenance: $100,000 to keep aging apparatus (2006 engine, 2007 ladder truck) operational. - Hydrant leasing: Costs vary by precinct; water departments charge for hydrant use and maintenance. - Emergency Management division: $10,800 for training, EOC exercises, door security upgrade at safety center. - DPW Budget (2028): Presented by Andre Garrin and DPW Director Ben Berthium. Recommended budget $5,372,437, a 5% reduction ($283,293) from 2027 due to removal of paving program. The paving program (previously $900,000/year) is proposed as a separate warrant article. Key points: - Highway division: $2,864,635 total. Includes road maintenance, fleet maintenance (two mechanics), town buildings, and streetlights (converted to LED, saving from $60,000 to $34,000). - Staffing: 4 unfilled truck driver/laborer positions (one frozen, three unfilled) due to competition with private sector; snow removal will rely on pulling crews from other departments. - Beavers: $2,500 for a professional trapper; beaver activity causing drainage issues. - Salt and sand: $252,000; salt at $3,200/ton, sand at $200/ton. - Town buildings: $145,250 for maintenance, pest control, utilities, etc. - Solar revenue: Discussion about new solar array at transfer station; revenue projections to be provided. - Parks and Recreation Budget (2028): Recommended $819,426, a 10.31% increase ($76,556). Increases attributed to cemetery grounds repaving ($36,500 for road behind Head Cemetery), new equipment ($18,500), and health insurance. Discussion on whether to charge fees for field use by outside groups (e.g., tournaments) vs. rec leagues for town children. No decision reached. - Recycling/Transfer Budget (2028): Recommended $1,688,376, a 1.19% increase ($67,311). Main driver: tipping fees up $26,000 (5% annual increase at incinerator). Single-stream recycling ended due to higher cost; all material now sorted on-site. Solid waste disposal fund has $810,826. - Cemeteries: Cemetery Commission recommended $39,500 for repaving road and fertilizer/weed control. - Old Town Hall: Discussed as sitting unused; preservation costs estimated at several million dollars; limited community support for restoration. - Committee Rules: Member noted the Budget Committee lacks formal rules; a draft will be circulated for review at a future meeting. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: The minutes of October 15, 2026, were approved with an amendment changing the fuel cost from $350 to $360 per gallon. The vote was unanimous. - No Votes on Budgets: Budgets were presented and discussed but not voted on at this meeting; further review and potential revisions will occur, especially health insurance figures expected November 4. - Jurisdiction Clarified: The Budget Committee does not have authority over impact fee assessments; such decisions lie with the Planning Board and Town Council. - Public Input on Decorum: Chair acknowledged the need to improve meeting conduct and will enforce rules to maintain order. - Future Agenda: Solar revenue details to be re-sent to committee members; rules discussion planned for a subsequent meeting.

The Hooksett Economic Development Committee convened on October 21, 2026, to plan its second TIF informational night, review and update the TIF district presentation, discuss business outreach for the Exit 10 area, receive updates on regional traffic projects, and hear reports on local development activities including the Brady Sullivan project and the Vicor chip manufacturing facility. Consent Calendar - The committee unanimously voted to approve the meeting minutes from September 16, 2026. Discussion Items - TIF Informational Night: The committee finalized details for the second TIF informational night, scheduled for Monday, November 9th, at 5:30 PM at the Hooksett Library. Members reported strong public engagement on social media, representing a mix of support and skepticism, and the event is intended to provide comprehensive information to address questions. - TIF Presentation Update: The committee conducted a detailed slide-by-slide review of an updated PowerPoint presentation for the informational night. - Goals and History: Member Anthony praised the previous Exit 10/11 TIF as highly successful, calling it "one of the best TIF districts you're ever going to see." He noted a 15-year bond was paid off in 10 or 11 years, with the infrastructure built and the district dissolved as planned. - Statistical Impact: The committee discussed emphasizing specific figures. The tax base in the original district went from approximately $2.9 million to $57 million, an increase of roughly $54 million. A confusing reference equating this to a tax dollar figure was removed from the slide to keep the message clear. Members agreed to highlight the frozen base value (approximately $600,000 annually) that continues to go to the town general fund to demonstrate that the TIF captures only the new increment. - Maps and Infrastructure: The committee requested an updated map to reflect completed infrastructure (such as the Martins Ferry pump station currently under construction) rather than showing everything as proposed. They decided to crop the map to focus on the West Side for better projection clarity and to add photographs of the new pump station. - Public-Private Partnership Model: The Granite Woods / Botash development at Exit 11 was discussed as a successful model where the developer financed the infrastructure ($11 million) and is reimbursed via TIF revenue, acting as the "bank" for the project. The committee agreed this model could be a strong template for Exit 10 outreach. - Business Outreach for Exit 10: A member proposed convening a formal group meeting (via Teams/Zoom) with major landowners at Exit 10, including Bass Pro, Walmart, and Market Basket. The goal is to gauge their appetite for a public-private partnership to fund remaining TIF infrastructure rather than relying solely on a municipal bond. Cost apportionments based on acreage (prepared by Ken Canadi) have already been shared individually with these businesses. The committee agreed to proceed with scheduling this collaborative meeting including Dana, Andre, and Ken. - Traffic and Transportation Update: Members reported on a follow-up meeting with Executive Councilor John Stevens. - Vicor Development: The chip manufacturer Vicor (expected to have 650-800 employees across three shifts) at Exit 11 will trigger an automatic state-mandated traffic study. The committee discussed how this development could influence or accelerate scheduled improvements at the Exit 11 toll plaza intersection, Hackett Hill Road, and Main Street. - Regional Issues: Councilor Stevens discussed improvements planned for the I-93/89 interchange in Concord (Exit 12), which may trickle down to impact Hooksett traffic. The committee also discussed the potential relocation of the toll booth and the long-term aspiration for a new exit between 11 and 12. Members were encouraged to attend Central New Hampshire Planning Commission meetings to advocate for regional traffic solutions. - Town Council Approval of River Crossing: The committee celebrated the Town Council's recent vote to approve $1 million for the pipeline under the Merrimack River. Members praised the presentations by Andre, Mike Summers, and Ken Canadi, calling the approval a "huge win" and a "catalyzing event" for the TIF project. - Investment Breakdown: The committee clarified that of the approximately $2.5 million spent so far on engineering and private partner funding, the Sewer Commission is absorbing the costs for the Martins Ferry and double barrel force main sections, leaving the double barrel force main and Kimball pump station as the remaining items for the TIF bond. - Development Activity Update: - Brady Sullivan Project: The project is moving forward. The Planning Board granted a waiver allowing certificates of occupancy for 40 of the residential units before the required 8,000 square foot commercial "vanilla box" is fully built. Concrete work is currently underway at the site. - Thompson Avenue Sewerline: Resident concerns regarding the quality of construction and restoration work on the Thompson Avenue sewer upgrade were discussed. The committee noted the project is under the jurisdiction of the Sewer Commission and contractor Park Construction, but that the town administrator is actively addressing the complaints. - Skyline Cafe: A new location for Skyline Cafe, which currently operates in Atkinson, is opening in Hooksett. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: The committee approved the minutes from the September 16, 2026 meeting. - TIF Presentation Finalized: The PowerPoint for the November 9th informational night was reviewed and approved with specific updates requested, including updated infrastructure maps, statistical inserts (baseline vs. current valuation), and new photos. - Business Meeting Confirmed: The committee formalized its plan to schedule a collaborative meeting with anchor tenants at Exit 10 (Bass Pro, Walmart, Market Basket) to discuss private financing of infrastructure based on the Granite Woods model. - Traffic Advocacy Strategy: The committee will explore attending Central NH Planning Commission meetings and continue coordinating with Executive Councilor Stevens to link the Vicor project's traffic mitigation to known infrastructure needs at Exit 11. - Project Milestone Acknowledged: Committee members recognized the Town Council's authorization of $1 million for the Merrimack River crossing, marking a significant step forward for the TIF district's infrastructure master plan.

The Hooksett Parks and Recreation Commission met on October 20, 2026, at 6:10 PM. Members present included Andy, Cindy, Judy, and later Scott (representing Friends of Hooksett Athletics). New member Cindy Gagney was welcomed. The meeting covered a variety of park and recreation issues, including park signage, bench projects, field use policies, and land acquisition opportunities. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the previous month's meeting. Discussion Items - Macy Sign: Andy reported a delay in getting a metal sign from Nick Macy, who offered to make it but then sent a sticker template instead. The town's Ben offered to cover any costs over $200, but communication stalled. The commission discussed whether to pursue the sign more actively or let it proceed as is. - Scout Bench Project: Andy coordinated with Jeff Scott of the scouts about building A-frame benches and additional benches for parks. Benches cost approximately $270 each. Commission discussed locations: Riverside Park, Fraser Park (where two benches need repair), and near the basketball court. They also noted benches are often moved by users. - Gym Rental: A proposal to rent town gym space (possibly to a church) was tabled as Rob, the staff member handling it, was absent. - Field Use by Travel Teams: Scott reported a rumor that Hooksett would charge for-profit travel teams for field use. He clarified no such policy has been discussed at the town council or commission level. Currently, leagues permit each other's use via insurance binders and in-kind trades (e.g., indoor facility access). The commission emphasized requiring insurance binders before use. - Wood Chips for Riverside Park: Scott explored chip sources. Collins Yard charges $700/truckload. An alternative is Chipdrop.com, which can deliver for free (with donation). Scott provided this info to Rob. - Pat's Peak Ski Program: Scott reported declining participation – last year only 6 kids, this year fewer. The program requires 10 kids minimum. He distributed flyers but faces competition from other winter sports. The program costs $160 for five weeks of lessons and all-day lift tickets. Scott expressed frustration that other nearby towns have 80–100 participants. - Town Budget and Park Funding: Randall noted health insurance costs decreased by 3%, freeing up funds. He hopes to restore some cut park projects. He also mentioned a citizen inquiry about resurfacing the basketball court and hoops; a cost estimate is needed for potential fundraising. - Tennis/Pickleball Court Repairs: Recent crack filling at Fraser Park was ineffective; cracks reopened. The field also has lifting. The tennis court repairs may go to a warrant article. - Brick Fundraiser: A previous brick donation program failed after 5 years due to software compatibility issues. The commission decided not to revive it. - Riverside Park Walkway: The stone walkway is overgrown with weeds. Commission discussed possible alternatives but no decision. - Farmer Road Property: Andy researched an 8-acre parcel (formerly Hanley donation) with water runoff easements. It may be difficult to develop as a park due to wetland restrictions. Commission debated whether to pursue further. - 80-Acre Parcel near Collie School: A property owner is offering 80 acres for $75,000. The school district declined. The land is landlocked by development and may sell to neighbors instead. Commission noted it could be a valuable town acquisition but no action taken. - State Park Inspection: A state conservation officer inspected Fraser Park for annual compliance. She noted cracks and broken equipment, and mentioned federal grant money was used previously. Commission hopes to explore further federal funding. Key Outcomes - Macy Sign: Andy will follow up with Nick Macy or consider alternative sign options. - Bench Project: Andy will contact Jeff Scott for a formal quote and determine specific bench numbers. - Gym Rental: Tabled to next meeting pending Rob's input. - Field Use: Commission advised strict enforcement of insurance binder requirements for travel teams. - Wood Chips: Rob to be informed of Chipdrop.com option. - Pat's Peak: Scott will continue promotion efforts. - Basketball Court: Andy to request cost estimate from Rob for resurfacing and hoop repairs. - Land Acquisition: No formal votes; discussion only. - Meeting was adjourned at 6:52 PM.

The Hooksett Planning Board met on Monday, October 19, 2026, to consider a site plan amendment for the College Park Drive project by Brady Sullivan Properties, discuss a proposed impact fee payment, approve two voluntary lot mergers, and review regional planning and zoning matters. The board approved the amended site plan condition by unanimous roll call, heard concerns from Thompson Avenue abutters about unresolved construction damage, and deferred the impact fee proposal for further staff and legal review. Consent Calendar - The board approved the minutes of the September 21st regular meeting and the September 28th workshop. A date header discrepancy in the draft September minutes was noted, the first motion was withdrawn and re-seconded, and the minutes were then approved. Public Comments & Testimony - In the site plan public hearing, Hooksett Town Councilor David Smith said the applicant's proposed 10-unit holdback was not enough and urged a 50 percent compromise; he also said he would speak on impact fees later. - Thompson Avenue abutters Brenda Crovo, Kim Ratnoff, and David Ratnoff testified about damaged driveways, a gash cut into a driveway that damaged a 2017 Camaro, over $7,000 in claimed vehicle damage, safety hazards, and lack of response from contractors and town departments. They asked the board not to approve additional requests until their property issues were resolved. - Town Councilor Roger Duhain said he had not previously heard of the Thompson Avenue complaints, noted that the town has no town engineer, and recommended not deciding the site plan amendment until the concerns were investigated. - Attorney John Cronin and staff responded that the Thompson Avenue sewer work was a separate sewer commission project, that disputed facts should be handled through insurance and legal processes, and that the board's decision should be based on the application before it. Town councilors present said they would follow up, and a board member who also serves as a sewer commissioner said the sewer commission would discuss the matter the next day. Site Plan Amendment - Discussion and Vote - The applicant requested amendment of Condition 6 of the prior approval, which had withheld all certificates of occupancy (COs) for the 81 residential units in the converted former Cigna building until the 8,000-square-foot commercial strip building was completed to vanilla-box standard. The applicant originally proposed releasing COs for all but 10 units, with 3 released after the foundation, 3 after framing, and the final 4 when the vanilla-box standard was met, plus a $100,000 performance bond. - Attorney Cronin said work on the strip building had started: the pad was prepared, steel was set, foundation work was underway, a $165,000 glass contract was signed, and trusses were in transit. He argued the original condition was meant as security, not a penalty, and that withholding 10 units at roughly $2,500 per month per unit created a $25,000 per month incentive. - Board members discussed a 50 percent holdback. Paul Scarpetti recommended issuing COs for half the units and allowing monthly reviews of progress; Mike Summers favored flexible language. The board ultimately approved a motion to allow COs for 41 residential units immediately, with any additional COs issued only after planning board approval based on progress on the commercial strip building. - The board also accepted jurisdiction and made a regional-impact finding. The public hearing was closed, and the roll-call vote to approve the amended condition was unanimous. Impact Fee Discussion - Attorney Cronin presented a written October 9th proposal to pay $209,960 in impact fees. He argued Hooksett's impact fee ordinance is outdated, especially school fees based on older apartment occupancy assumptions. Citing Mark Fougier's analysis, he said the 161 units are projected to generate 16 school-age children, and using $2,033 per child gives about $32,500 for schools. - Cronin also claimed a $260,000 set-off credit for the existing 100,000-square-foot Cigna commercial building's prior contributions, and offered to waive or assign any six-year rebate or refund rights back to the town if the fees were not spent. - Board members questioned the set-off concept, the administrative mechanics of a gift or waiver, and the long-term impact of waiving fees. James Valeo of the Southern New Hampshire Planning Commission said the planning board lacks clear authority to accept a gift and that a separate town council process is needed. Staff advised keeping the impact fee process separate. - A board member cited Fougier's report showing the property should be assessed at at least $19,013,029 and generate $289,949 annually in property taxes plus $34,560 in vehicle registration fees. - No vote was taken. The next step is for the applicant, town legal staff, and administration to draft a formal proposal and determine whether it goes to the planning board or town council. Because the item was a discussion rather than a public hearing, public comment was not opened, but the board noted there would be a public hearing when it returns. Lot Mergers - The board approved the voluntary merger of GR Hooksett Land LLC's two lots at 1317 and 1319 Hooksett Road (Map 25, Lots 20 and 57), the car wash property, under RSA 674:39-a, with the applicant responsible for recording the merger with the Merrimack County Register of Deeds. - The board also approved the administrative voluntary merger of 14 Highland LLC's two Highland Street lots (14 and 16 Highland Street), with the applicant responsible for recording. Other Business - James Valeo discussed the town's membership on the Southern New Hampshire Planning Commission, encouraged full and active appointments, and warned that NH DOT's highway trust fund is essentially insolvent, limiting new 10-year plan projects. Hooksett's priorities remain Hackett Hill Road and Main Street. - Valeo and staff are drafting zoning amendments for the March town ballot, packaged into three votes: state-law alignment, residential and commercial district provisions, and elderly housing. Drafts were expected for the land use subcommittee meeting later in the week. - A board and staff update noted that town council had authorized $1 million for the TIF district force-main sewer crossing under the river from Martin's Ferry to the end of Quality Drive. - Board members praised the redevelopment of the Hooksett Road car wash property as an example of successful negotiated improvements. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of the site plan amendment with revised CO release: 41 COs initially, with remaining COs subject to planning board approval based on commercial strip progress. - Approval of the two voluntary lot mergers. - Impact fee proposal left as a discussion item; administrative and legal follow-up and a future formal proposal or public hearing are pending. - Thompson Avenue abutters' complaints were referred to town councilors and the sewer commission for follow-up, outside the planning board's site plan scope.

The Hooksett Budget Committee met on the evening of October 15, 2026, to continue its review of the proposed FY2028 municipal budget. Members present included President Jerm Martin, John Chempa, Elizabeth Spitzer, Alyssa L., George Harrington, David Smith, and Abigail Shane. No representative from the Village Water Precinct appeared. The committee approved prior meeting minutes, reviewed the library and police department budgets, and heard public comment. Minutes Approval - The committee approved the minutes of the October 8, 2026 meeting by voice vote. Elizabeth Spitzer noted a typo in the workman's compensation and unemployment wording, and the committee agreed to correct it to "higher." Library Budget Presentation - Library Board Chair Sandra Mack and Library Director Heather Rainier presented the library's proposed FY2028 budget, joined by Assistant Director Mark Lisen and trustees Mary Farwell and Barbara Davis. - The library proposes restoring hours from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. to 9:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m., adding one hour per day to help evening meetings and programs. The director said the current 7 p.m. closing has forced groups to start earlier or shorten meetings. - The proposed library total was cited as about $1.233 million, compared with $1.139 million in the prior amended budget. Staffing would restore some cut hours and add back a 10-hour-per-week replacement part-time position, not a new permanent position. - Reported FY2026 usage: 360 youth programs with 10,761 children/families attending, and 173 adult programs with 4,758 attendees. Museum passes cost $4,735 and generated $52,885 in savings for residents. - The library provided comparison data for 10 comparable New Hampshire towns, selected by sorting the full state library data and taking five towns above and five below Hooksett by per-capita library budget. Staff expenditure per capita was about $57.11, placing Hooksett in the middle, while FTE staffing was near the low end. Members disagreed about whether the comparison showed Hooksett low or middle. - Committee member David Smith praised library programming but questioned adding hours during the third year of default budget, noting the transfer station lost a Saturday in default. Library officials and trustee Mary Farwell argued the library already runs lean and further staff cuts would harm services and risk losing staff. - David Smith also calculated the library's combined wages and benefit lines at $988,861 and called that significant; library supporters noted the health insurance line is a large share and town insurance rates decreased this year. Police Budget Presentation - Town Administrator Andre Guerin and Police Chief Justin Sargent presented the proposed FY2028 police budget. The town council recommended budget is $6,391,047, an increase of $172,725, or 2.78%, over FY2027, and about $80,000 over the default budget. - Police health insurance was budgeted with a 12% escalation factor, adding $137,200 and bringing the line to $1,280,536. Actual town health insurance rates came in at -2%, with dental up 1.9%, so the police budget is expected to be adjusted downward after the November 4 town council meeting. - Staffing remains 41 full-time and 4 part-time. There are four open patrol officer positions, one of which is frozen. No new police positions are proposed. - Overtime was overspent by $19,000 last year because of vacancies, additional court days, and two officers on pregnancy leave. The recommended budget uses a five-year average instead of the one-year anomaly. - Vehicle replacement is a major issue: five of ten patrol vehicles have over 100,000 miles, and one older vehicle has an estimated 500,000 miles including idle time. The capital improvement plan calls for two replacements per year, but only three were replaced in three years. A warrant article for vehicles was approved by the Town Council the previous night, and another warrant would allow using about $350,000 in the police detail fund to buy patrol vehicles if the default budget takes effect. - The police are working with the state to co-locate on a state-owned tower, which would save about $15,000 per year. A state hearing is expected in November, with possible construction in summer or fall 2027. - The police phone-recording system is too old to qualify for a service contract; replacement would cost $10,000-$15,000 and was not included this year. One AED replacement was included at $2,500 to match fire department equipment. - Chief Sargent said recruiting is very difficult, citing a roughly 90% failure rate on the physical fitness test. Each sworn officer must maintain about 26 hours of training per year. - Hybrid patrol vehicles save about $3,000 per car per year, but repairs can be difficult; one vehicle spent about nine months at a Ford dealer. The chief said town mechanics are not trained on hybrid repairs because the vehicle mechanic belongs to the Highway Department. - A committee member raised the state Group II Tier B retirement issue; Chief Sargent said it has not been fixed and affects police recruitment and retention. Public Comments & Testimony - Resident Sarah Mackey of 39 Joanne Drive supported the library's proposed evening extension, saying her family attends a popular Monday-evening library program that fills to capacity, and extra evening time would allow families to eat dinner and attend without rushing. She also asked about training town mechanics on hybrid vehicles; Chief Sargent replied that the mechanic is employed by the Highway Department and that training decisions would rest there. Key Outcomes - Approved the October 8, 2026 meeting minutes with the corrected typo. - Continued the FY2028 budget review with library and police presentations; no line-item votes were taken. - Police and town administration will return with revised health insurance figures and other adjustments before the budget is finalized. - The committee discussed starting meetings at 6 p.m. instead of 6:30 p.m. but took no action; several members noted scheduling conflicts.

The Hooksett Town Council met on October 14, 2026, to address a range of items including appointments, strategic goal acceptance, town administrator recruitment options, warrant articles for the upcoming ballot, a reorganization proposal, and other business. Multiple roll call votes were conducted, reflecting a mix of unanimous decisions and split votes on key issues. Consent Calendar - Appointed Cindy Gagney to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board with a term ending June 30, 2029 (unanimous voice vote). - Accepted the Primex goal setting summary as part of the strategic plan (unanimous voice vote). Public Comments & Testimony - No direct public testimony was recorded, but councilors referenced public input regarding the town administrator search, suggesting an in-house approach with help from the current TA and HR coordinator. A single public attendee expressed that the assistant town administrator reorganization should be a warrant article. Discussion Items - Town Administrator Recruitment: Debate on whether to contract MRI for the search ($15,000) or use alternative firms. Some councilors favored waiting to assess interest and allow time for job description updates. After discussion, a motion to table the decision to the November 18, 2026 meeting passed unanimously via voice vote. - Warrant Articles – Revaluation: Motion to place $220,000 from fund balance into the capital reserve for a 2028 statistical revaluation passed 5-0 (roll call 7). - Warrant Articles – Fire Department: - A motion to combine three fire capital reserve articles (apparatus, radios, air packs/tools) into one warrant article was supported by consensus, with a plan to bring a combined article to the November 18 meeting. - Fire Prevention Vehicle ($90,000) passed 4-1 (roll call 8; Councilor Duhaim opposed). - Warrant Articles – Police Department: - Two fully equipped police cruisers from fund balance ($150,000) passed unanimously (roll call 9). - Police capital reserve ($150,000) passed unanimously (roll call 10). - Police detail fund amendment (allow purchase of patrol vehicles from detail fund) passed unanimously (roll call 11). - Town Administrator Reorganization Proposal: The council debated reclassifying the current project coordinator to assistant town administrator, with a salary increase to $96,387 (a 38% increase). Some councilors argued this should go through the budget process. The motion passed 3-2 (roll call 12; Councilors Lapier and Duham opposed). - Light Up the Village Use of Town Property: Approved request to use town facilities (courthouse, dog park, Riverside, Prescott Library, parking lots, fire pits) for the event. Councilor LeCass abstained due to involvement in organizing. - Minutes and Unsealing: Unsealed non-public minutes of May 28, 2025 (unanimous voice vote). Approved September 16, 2026 public and non-public minutes (unanimous). Approved September 23, 2026 public and non-public minutes (unanimous). - Non-Public Session: Motion to enter non-public session under RSA 91-A:3 II(d) passed 5-0 (roll call 13). Key Outcomes - Appointment: Cindy Gagney appointed to Parks and Recreation Board. - Strategic Goals: Primex goal setting summary accepted. - Recruitment Decision: Tabled to November 18, 2026. - Warrant Articles: Revaluation (passed), fire prevention vehicle (passed), police cruisers (passed), police capital reserve (passed), police detail fund (passed). Fire capital reserves to be combined and re-presented. - Reorganization: Assistant town administrator position approved (3-2), effective January 1, 2027. - Event Approval: Light Up the Village use of town property approved. - Minutes: Unsealed and approved as noted. - Non-Public Session: Entered at 9:46 p.m.

Meeting called to order at 6:02 PM with all councilors present. A moment of silence was observed for Cynthia Sullivan, a former resident and nurse. The council then opened a public hearing for a donation from the Hooksett Youth Athletic Association (now Friends of Hooksett Youth Athletics). Consent Calendar - Donation for Lighting Repairs: Accepted a donation valued at $6,010 from the Friends of Hooksett Youth Athletics to cover lighting repairs at the Donati Softball and Flag Football Fields. The public hearing was opened and closed with no testimony; the council unanimously approved the donation on a roll call vote (6 ayes, 0 nays). Public Comments & Testimony - Jody Pinard (11 Morningside Drive): Expressed concerns about the town administrator search contract with MRI (cost $16,500) and the proposed assistant town administrator position. Argued the town should first utilize internal resources and that the new position adds $37,645 in unbudgeted costs during a third year of default budget. Also urged the council to reinstate the assistant finance director position, noting the current finance director's institutional knowledge and the risk of vacancy. Discussion Items - Town Administrator Report: - New Hires: Alyssa Salman (police officer, start Nov 1, 2026), Jackson Crosby and Todd Fasano (firefighters, start Nov 2, 2026). - Dental/Health Insurance Rates for 2027: Health insurance rates decreased by 2% (after four years of increases up to 14.5%), while dental rates increased by 1.9%. Full presentation scheduled for November 4. - Hackett Hill Road/Main Street Project: Cost estimate rose from $4.4 million to $11.8 million for two roundabouts at the Route 3A intersections. Project moved from 2027 to 2028. The town’s share is covered by impact fees. A revised agreement is expected October 28. - 10-Year Plan: SNHPC is soliciting projects; councilors urged to submit priorities (e.g., Route 3 widening, sewer projects). - Halloween: October 31, 2026, 6–8 PM. - Hazard Mitigation: Fire department held first meeting on October 7; further meetings planned. - Employee Longevity Recognition: Recognized employees ranging from 5 to 41 years of service, including 41-year veteran Gary Blanchette (police) and 39-year veteran Brian Toll (wastewater). - TIF District Sewer Pipe River Crossing: Presentation by Town Administrator Andre and TIF Committee Chair Mike Summers. Proposed expenditure of $1 million from TIF funds to install double-barrel sewer lines under the Merrimack River from Martin Ferry pump station to the west side (Exit 10 area). Supporters argued this is critical for future development, that $2.4 million is currently in TIF funds, and that businesses (e.g., Market Basket) have expressed interest in contributing. Opponents (Councilors Duhaim and Smith) cited traffic congestion, lack of firm business commitments, and the burden on residents. A motion to approve passed on a roll call vote: 4 ayes (Lacasse, Lapierre, Sullivan, La Liberty) and 2 nays (Duhaim, Smith). Councilor Walzik’s vote is not recorded in the transcript. Key Outcomes - Donation Accepted: Unanimously approved (6-0) contribution of $6,010 for field lighting. - Sewer Pipe Project Approved: $1 million from TIF funds for river crossing (4-2). - Non-Public Session: Council voted 4-2 to enter non-public session under RSA 91-A:2, II(a) for discussions on negotiations. The meeting then went into non-public session.