Public Meetings - Hooksett, New Hampshire

The Hooksett Town Council held a special meeting on January 7, 2026, primarily to discuss and vote on a recommended contract with the Teamsters Local 633 for police patrol and dispatch, and to address procedural matters including a motion to rescind prior votes. The meeting also covered upcoming mandatory and optional meetings related to citizen petitions, budget committee actions, and town meeting deadlines. Discussion Items - Union Contract Recommendation: The council debated the timing of union negotiations, with some members expressing frustration over last-minute contract approvals. A motion was made to recommend the two-year contract with Teamsters Local 633 to the voters. Councillor Smith voted against, stating the contract did not meet his or his constituents' expectations, while others argued it brought Hooksett in line with other communities. - Motion to Rescind Prior Votes: Councillor Smith moved to rescind his two affirmative votes from the December 10, 2025, meeting regarding the Teamsters mid-management and DPW contracts, citing a rushed process. A debate ensued over parliamentary procedure. The motion to rescind required a full council vote; it resulted in a tie (3-3), and the motion failed. - Scheduling of Upcoming Meetings: The council reviewed the calendar for January 2026, including a potential meeting on January 13 if a citizen petition is submitted, a regular meeting on January 14, a budget committee meeting on January 15, and a possible council meeting on January 21 (or January 23 as a drop-dead date) to act on the budget. The chair noted these dates are prescribed by state law and the town meeting timeline. - Councilor's Question Denied: A councilor attempted to ask the finance director a question about retirement payouts, but the chair ruled it out of order as not on the meeting's agenda, which was limited to contracts. Key Outcomes - Vote on Union Contract: The council voted 5-1 to recommend the Teamsters Local 633 police patrol and dispatch contract (two-year) for placement on the ballot. Councillor Smith was the lone 'no' vote. - Motion to Rescind Fails: The motion to rescind Councillor Smith's prior votes on the mid-management and DPW contracts failed due to a 3-3 tie, with one councilor absent. The outcome leaves the original December 10 votes unchanged. - Meeting Schedule: The council will hold a regular meeting on January 14, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. A special meeting on January 13 may be called only if a citizen petition is submitted by the 4:30 p.m. deadline. Additional meetings on January 21 or 23 will depend on budget committee action. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned after all business was completed.

The Hooksett Planning Board met on Monday, January 5, 2026, to act on a withdrawal request at 400 Technology Drive, review a major Marmon Aerospace expansion at 18 Legends Drive, and make warrant recommendations on several zoning articles. Board members present included Jim Sullivan, Chris Delmack, Mike Summers, Jared Williams, Sheena Gilbert, and Robby Doy. Consent Calendar - Approved the December 15, 2025 meeting minutes, with corrections noting Paul Scarpetti on the absent list and a typographical fix in the 'other business' section. Motion by Mike Summers, second by Jared Williams. Public Comments & Testimony - Joe Malloy, owner of 300 Technology Drive, said Amazon is a 'lousy neighbor' and encouraged the board to deny the 400 Technology Drive withdrawal to send a clear message. - For Articles 7 and 8, Alan O'Brien of Cedar Management Group raised concerns about emergency access, public transportation, utility service, liability, and public access to conservation land. John DiPietro, representing Granite Hill landowners, argued that the Class V road frontage requirement was overly burdensome and proposed a 10-acre minimum for conservation subdivisions, citing Randall Arendt. Discussion Items 400 Technology Drive - Richmond Company Withdrawal - The applicant requested withdrawal of its site plan application, saying it was developing a plan to use the existing building instead of proposed office trailers. Board members debated whether acceptance or denial would send a stronger enforcement message. Staff noted code enforcement can still address non-conforming uses after the application is closed. The motion to accept the withdrawal passed 4-2. Marmon Aerospace, 18 Legends Drive - Site Plan - The board accepted jurisdiction over the site plan application and then rejected a motion to classify the project as having regional impact. - Applicants proposed a 255,000-square-foot addition plus approximately 100,000 square feet of mezzanine, 191 additional parking spaces, and a 24-hour weekday, three-shift operation plus an eight-hour Saturday shift. - The board granted a landscape waiver due to large Eversource easements (380-foot and 200-foot), approved findings of fact, approved traffic and public safety impact fees totaling $304,132.50, and approved the final site plan under RSA 676:4. - Final approval was conditioned on adherence to commercial architectural standards, with exterior masonry requirements excepted on this building. Zoning Articles and Warrant Recommendations - Article 16 (MUD5): David Campbell presented a proposal to rezone remaining Mixed-Use District 5 parcels - industrial on the west side and low-density residential on the east. After discussion about voter confusion and permanently conserved land, the board voted to recommend only the industrial rezoning to the ballot; the low-density residential portion was not advanced. - Article 3 (general provisions): Recommended to ballot as a conforming update adopting the state standard by reference. - Article 11 (industrial district): Recommended to ballot to restrict uses such as car washes, self-storage, and banks in industrial zones. - Article 27 (accessory dwelling units): Recommended to ballot as a corrective amendment for ADU ingress/egress to comply with state law. - Article 10: Property owner withdrew request; board took no action. - Articles 7 and 8: Public hearing held, but the board decided they were not ready for the ballot and will continue vetting them with legal review. Key Outcomes - Accepted the 400 Technology Drive withdrawal 4-2. - Approved the Marmon Aerospace expansion with impact fees: $219,028.50 traffic and $85,104.00 public safety, total $304,132.50. - Recommended Articles 3, 11, 16 (industrial portion), and 27 for the ballot; did not advance Articles 7, 8, 10, or the low-density residential portion of Article 16. - Planner updates included a scheduled site walk on January 17 at 10 a.m. for 325 Hackett Hill Road and discussion about code enforcement of GTS at 3 Kate Road operating without a signed site plan; the board agreed to put enforcement concerns in writing and may ask code enforcement staff to attend a future meeting.

The Hooksett Budget Committee met on December 18, 2025, to review and vote on the school district and municipal budgets for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting included detailed discussions on specific line items, clarification of budget shifts, and updates on pending warrant articles, including the teacher contract. Both budgets were approved for public hearing. Approval of Minutes - The minutes from the December 4, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public input was offered. Discussion Items - School Budget Review: Council members posed questions on various line items, including: - Tuition for private school (3 middle school students) and tuition to other LEAs and public academies (Pinkerton Academy). - Extended School Year (ESY) programs for students with IEPs. - Health and psychological services: a new in-house psychologist position replaced a contracted service, yielding net savings. - Telephone lines: significant variance across schools (Memorial $12,500, Underhill $4,296, Cawley $9,740) due to reclassification of expenses from IT to building-specific lines. The 772% increase in cell phone reimbursement was attributed to moving expenses from other lines, not a true increase. - Custodial salaries: Cawley has higher costs due to more custodians and a tiered pay system. - Charter school expenditures: costs for services provided to Hooksett students attending charter schools, with no state reimbursement. - Translation services: substantial reduction due to new software for free translation of IEPs, but legal requirements still require certified translators for some languages. - Warrant Articles: The school board is still negotiating the teacher contract. A special meeting is scheduled for January 7, 2026, to vote on a tentative agreement. If no agreement by January 13, 2026, the contract will roll over with no changes, and no warrant article will be presented. The bond warrant article and tax impact will be sent to the committee after the school board votes on January 7. - Municipal Budget: The committee moved to approve the municipal budget as presented. Key Outcomes - School Budget: Moved to public hearing with a total of $45,851,643. Passed unanimously. - Municipal Budget: Moved to public hearing with a total of $25,699,803. Passed unanimously. - The public hearing for the school budget is scheduled for January 15, 2026, and the committee will review the teacher contract warrant article at its January 8, 2026 meeting, if available.

The meeting was held informally (no formal call to order) and covered several zoning-related items including a proposed housekeeping amendment from Manchester Sand and Gravel, multiple amendments requested by John D. Batetto (age-restricted housing frontage, special exception, and conservation subdivisions), a proposal to reduce septic system setbacks, a discussion on prohibiting new self-storage facilities, and a request from property owners to rezone a parcel from commercial to residential. The board took no final votes but directed staff to prepare language for the January 5, 2026 planning board meeting; some items may appear on the 2026 town ballot. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Mike made a motion to approve the September 24 minutes, seconded by another member. The minutes were adopted by consensus. Discussion Items - Manchester Sand and Gravel Proposal (Housekeeping Amendment): A representative explained that Manchester Sand and Gravel is requesting a zoning map amendment on behalf of new landowners in the Mixed Use Five District. The amendment would eliminate the requirement for a full Planned Unit Development master plan for certain lots that were sold, simplifying future development. The proposal is scheduled for the planning board on January 5, 2026. Board members expressed agreement that the change is housekeeping. - John D. Batetto’s Zoning Amendments: - Age-Restricted Housing Frontage: Batetto argued that the current requirement for age-restricted (55+) housing to be on a class five or better road (publicly maintained) is arbitrary and prevents development on well-maintained private roads, such as those in Granite Hill. He proposed removing the class-five requirement and instead requiring roads built to “blue book” standards with maintenance agreements. Board members supported the concept but wanted language to ensure emergency access. It was suggested that language from conservation subdivision rules could be borrowed. - Special Exception for 55+ Housing: Batetto noted that 55+ housing currently requires a special exception, which he called unnecessary since it is not a noxious use. He proposed removing that requirement while keeping it for elderly or handicapped housing. Board members expressed mixed views—some saw the special exception as a safeguard for access and services, but others felt it was an undue burden. No final decision; Grant and Batetto will work on language separating 55+ housing from more intensive uses. - Conservation Subdivision Minimum Acreage: Batetto questioned the 20‑acre minimum for conservation subdivisions, arguing that good design should be possible on smaller parcels (e.g., 10–18 acres). He also sought to allow detached single-family condominiums within conservation subdivisions via site plan instead of requiring individual lots. Board members noted the density calculation may not provide a bonus and could be a disincentive. They agreed to continue discussion and possibly bring proposals to a September workshop rather than rush to the 2026 ballot. - Timeline Note: Staff noted that the frontage amendment could be readied for the January 5 meeting, but other changes (special exception, conservation site plans) would be deferred to next year to avoid overloading the ballot. - Alden Boschman – Septic System Setback Amendment: Boschman (a septic designer) requested reducing the town’s 25‑foot setback for leach fields from property lines to the state minimum of 10 feet, and 5 feet for septic tanks. He explained that the stricter local rule forces expensive alternative systems and inconsistent enforcement. The board agreed to adopt the state standard by reference rather than a specific numeric change, as it simplifies future updates and reduces confusion. Grant will draft language for the planning board. - Self-Storage Prohibition: The board discussed prohibiting new self-storage facilities in the industrial district (which would leave no district where they are allowed). Members noted that the town appears oversaturated with storage units, and such uses are difficult to repurpose. Some suggested making them a special exception instead of outright prohibition. No action was taken; the issue may be brought to the planning board for further study. - Tyler Edsel – Rezoning Request: Edsel and his wife, owners of 52 Kimball Drive, purchased the adjacent lot at 38 Kimball Drive (currently commercial) to protect their driveway and property. They seek to rezone the lot from commercial to residential to avoid their home being reclassified as commercial if merged. The board acknowledged the parcel’s limited commercial potential due to small frontage on Kimball Drive and its location within the TIF district, but agreed the request was reasonable. They recommended bringing it to the planning board on January 5 for a public hearing and possible ballot placement. Key Outcomes - The frontage amendment for age-restricted housing (removing class-five road requirement) will be prepared for the January 5 planning board meeting. - The special exception and conservation subdivision changes will be deferred to a later workshop (likely September 2026) to avoid ballot overload. - The septic setback amendment will be drafted to adopt state standards by reference and presented to the planning board on January 5. - The self-storage prohibition discussion will continue; no immediate action. - The Edsel rezoning request will be added to the January 5 planning board agenda as a public hearing. - All proposed amendments that require voter approval will be considered for the March 2026 ballot, pending planning board recommendations.

The Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC) met on December 17, 2025, at 4:30 PM. The primary focus was on the TIF district bond warrant article, infrastructure planning for Exit 10, voter outreach, and a fundraising initiative for Old Town Hall. The committee also received updates on several commercial development projects in Hooksett. Discussion Items - Exit 10 Engineering Design Update: Grant McGregor, Town Planner, reviewed a map from Underwood Engineering showing an alternative sewer line route (green line) along Quality Drive, discussed at a previous meeting. Alden Bushman had marked the plan. Andre reported contacting Underwood; the project manager (David Mercier) is now president, and the contract needs to be amended to include additional work. The committee discussed that a decision on the alternative route (green vs. purple) must come from the TIF committee and ultimately the council. - Financial Breakdown for TIF Bond Warrant Article: The committee reviewed the proposed warrant article for the TIF bond. The article seeks voter authorization for a $12.5 million gross budget, funded by $860,000 from existing TIF funds, $2.1 million from the Board of Sewer Commissioners, and a bond not exceeding $9.54 million. There was confusion over the sewer commission's contribution ($2.1 million vs. $2.9 million); the warrant language states $2.1 million. The bond requires a three-fifths (60%) vote. The committee noted that the bond would only be issued when sufficient TIF funds are available to service the debt, ensuring no taxpayer burden. A public hearing on the bond will be held at the January 14, 2026 council meeting. - Public Outreach to Exit 10 Business Owners: The committee determined that outreach is at a standstill pending final cost estimates from Underwood Engineering. Andre noted that businesses are unlikely to contribute financially before the bond passes but may see value after infrastructure is in place (e.g., potential for increased property values and development). - Voter Outreach PowerPoint: Grant McGregor presented a simplified PowerPoint focusing on the bond question, removing extraneous information. The committee suggested adding more slides (including historical context and a success story) and sharing the draft with members for further input. The final version will be used at the informational session and posted on the town website. - Informational Night Planning: The committee has booked the library for January 26, 2026, 5:00-6:30 PM. The format will mirror the Hooksett 101 program with introductions, a slide presentation, and Q&A. The library's AV equipment will be used; a Zoom component may be available. Outreach will include posting on the town website, Facebook, and electronic signs. A walkthrough of the presentation is planned for the EDAC meeting on January 21, 2026. - Old Town Hall Fundraising Update: Jim Sullivan reported on a meeting with Dave Scarpetti, Leanne, and a potential donor. The committee decided to make one more fundraising effort. An initial catalyst donation of a few hundred thousand dollars may be available, which could be used to leverage matching grants (up to $600,000). The goal is to raise $1.5–$2 million to make the building habitable. Limiting occupancy to 100 people would avoid expensive sprinkler requirements; parking is sufficient. The committee will pursue this before considering a sale to a nonprofit. - Development Updates: Grant McGregor reported: - Two College Park Drive received conditional approval for the Signal building renovation into 81 apartment units; subsequent phases include a commercial building (possibly a restaurant) and another 80-unit apartment building, despite neighborhood opposition. - Marman will submit a site plan to the Planning Board. - Durable Trailers may still locate in Hooksett; an update is expected by Christmas. - Panera construction is progressing slowly, interior work underway. - A conceptual plan was presented for Mr. Gas near the Manchester line, proposing a new store, eight gas pump spaces, and a Dunkin' drive-through. - The car wash received final approval; auto wholesalers have been demolished. - The Planning Board approved a tweak to the performance zone to reduce over-saturation of similar businesses; it will appear on the ballot. - Old Dominion has started construction on Technology Drive extension, with blasting planned through winter. - Irving is renovating the former Dunkin' Donuts space at exit 9 into a grab-and-go restaurant. - Recognition: The committee congratulated the wastewater department for winning the Plant of the Year award and the Hooksett Village water system for best tasting water award. Key Outcomes - The committee will forward the TIF bond warrant article to the council for a public hearing on January 14, 2026. - An informational session is scheduled for January 26, 2026, 5:00-6:30 PM at the library. - Grant McGregor will share the PowerPoint draft with committee members for review; final version to be presented at the January 21 EDAC meeting. - The committee will proceed with fundraising for Old Town Hall, leveraging a potential catalyst donation to apply for matching grants. - The meeting adjourned on a motion by Matt Barrett, seconded by Anthony Poole.

The Hooksett Highway Safety Committee met on December 15, 2025, to discuss traffic safety concerns raised by residents, including speeding on Farmer Road, requests for new street lights, issues at state-controlled intersections, and enforcement of no-through-trucking ordinances. The committee heard public testimony, deliberated on several items, and voted to table a request for a three-way stop pending further research on regulations. Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. Davis (resident of Farmer Road) described ongoing speeding issues on Farmer Road since 2022. He cited a recent traffic study showing that eastbound: 2,378 vehicles over four days, 1,210 exceeding 30 mph; westbound: 2,403 vehicles, 1,466 exceeding 30 mph, with seven between 45-49.9 mph, one at 55 mph, and one between 70-74.9 mph. He proposed installing a three-way stop at Farmer Road and Whitehall Terrace to slow traffic, and expressed concern for child safety. He noted that a speed sign donation proposal had stalled. - Council member (unidentified) expressed sympathy but noted the study showed only 1.6% of drivers exceeded the speed limit by 10+ mph. The police chief (Chief Sergeant) stated that a three-way stop could cause different safety issues (e.g., drivers running stop signs). The committee agreed to research regulations before proceeding. Discussion Items - Farmer Road Three-Way Stop Request: Mr. Davis presented data and requested a stop sign. The committee discussed traffic study statistics, feasibility, and potential unintended consequences. The police chief and members noted that stop signs on a through road could lead to collisions. The committee decided to table the request to investigate whether regulations allow such a sign and to consult with the town engineer. - Street Light Considerations: The committee discussed two requests for new street lights (on a road and Route 3, and another on Royal Oak Street). Members debated criteria for adding lights, including safety, ambient light, crime, and neighbor input. The committee agreed to research other towns' criteria and cost data before making recommendations to the Town Council. A motion was made to hold the requests until criteria are developed. - State Road Intersection Issues: A resident (via email chain) requested a crosswalk at a state-controlled intersection (likely on Route 3 or similar). The committee noted the state controls the road and is aware of the issue; they discussed following up with NH DOT regarding capital improvement plans. The fire chief mentioned Opticon signal malfunction at the intersection, which creates safety hazards for emergency vehicles. The committee agreed to invite a state DOT representative to the next meeting. - Victory Lane / SNHU Area Intersection: A late request was raised about a confusing intersection at Victory Lane (private road) and Alice Drive. The committee discussed signage issues and the need to coordinate with SNHU, noting that the road has a right-of-way left turn with a stop sign from Victory Lane, leading to confusion. They agreed to contact SNHU and review accident data. - Martins Ferry Road - No-Through Trucking and Culvert: A council member (also a resident) raised concerns about heavy truck traffic on Martins Ferry Road, which has a weight-limited culvert. The police chief explained enforcement challenges: the current ordinance is vague (covers vehicles over 3 tons, including many personal vehicles), and police lack portable scales. The committee discussed revising the ordinance to focus on commercial vehicles and to look at other towns' regulations (e.g., Bow). The committee also noted a request from a Goffstown resident for similar enforcement on Hooksett Road. The council member asked for support from the police to increase education and enforcement. A separate discussion covered the culvert replacement project (cost $1.5M for a full bridge or piecemeal repairs) and the need to preserve access for emergency vehicles. - School Traffic Congestion: A council member noted heavy parent drop-off traffic at Andrew Hill School, backing up onto Route 3. The superintendent was suggested as a resource. The committee acknowledged the issue but took no formal action. - Line of Sight Issues: A member raised visibility problems at the intersection of Hooksett Road and Main Street due to overgrown trees. The committee noted that the state has cut back trees in other areas and agreed to reach out to the state for clearing within the town's right-of-way. Key Outcomes - Motion to table the Farmer Road three-way stop request pending research on regulations and consultation with the town engineer. Passed unanimously. - Agreed to develop criteria for new street light requests by researching other towns' standards and cost data. The two pending requests will be held until criteria are established. - Agreed to invite a NH DOT representative to a future meeting to discuss the state-controlled intersection, crosswalk request, and Opticon signal maintenance. - Agreed to contact SNHU regarding the Victory Lane intersection and signage issues; the police will review accident data for that area. - Agreed to research other towns' no-through-trucking ordinances to propose clarifying language for Hooksett's ordinance, with a focus on commercial vehicles. The police will increase education efforts in the interim. - Agreed to reach out to the state about tree trimming for line of sight at Hooksett Road and Main Street.

The Planning Board convened on Monday, December 15, 2025, at 11:15 AM. The meeting included a conceptual review of a gas station redevelopment, updates on upcoming projects, occupancy reviews, and a vote on impact fee distribution. The board also discussed process improvements and zoning amendments. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval (December 1, 2025): The board approved the minutes with three corrections: correction of a name spelling (line 305), striking the restriction on number of employees (line 325), striking "full and part-time" (line 326), and correcting operating hours from 6 AM–7 PM to 7 AM–6 PM (line 324). The motion passed with one abstention. Discussion Items - Conceptual Discussion – Mr. Gas, 36 West River Road: - Applicant Meridian Land Services (represented by Doug Broder) presented a site plan amendment to demolish the existing convenience store and add four pump islands (total eight pumps) under the existing canopy, doubling the number of pumps. The new 4,300 sq ft store would include a 1,000 sq ft Dunkin’ Donuts with a single-lane drive-thru and a bypass lane. - Proposed improvements: new concrete chamber septic system with aerobic treatment for Dunkin’ Donuts, replacement of underground fuel storage tanks with double-walled fiberglass tanks, modifications to the infiltration basin, and a dumpster enclosure at the rear. - Board questions focused on: - Access: A new right-turn-only entrance on the north side was encouraged by NHDOT District 5. Existing wide pavement would be formalized with an island. - Canopy: The existing canopy (circa 1989) would be retained; structural analysis required. - Fuel truck access: Concern that a fuel truck delivering to the tanks (proposed near the drive-thru lane) could block traffic; board suggested relocating tanks to the front of the property. - Parking: Five spaces over the minimum, considered appropriate for Dunkin’ Donuts. - Landscaping and architectural standards: The building must meet town standards; the canopy may need aesthetic upgrades. - The board noted the site is in the Groundwater Resource Conservation District and wellhead protection area, requiring DES review. - Planner Updates: - Site walk for 325 Hackett Hill Road scheduled for January 17, 2026 at 10 AM; the corresponding public hearing moved to February 2, 2026. - Land Use Subcommittee meeting on December 17, 2025 at 5:30 PM to discuss zoning amendments proposed by Manchester Sand (rezoning sold properties from Mixed Use 5 to Low Density Residential or Industrial), Alden Bocheman (reduce septic system setbacks from 25 ft to state minimums), and John D. Batetto (amendments on conservation subdivisions, frontage, 55+ developments, etc.). - The board discussed the need to limit warrant articles; currently four articles are proposed (ADU changes, performance zone, commercial zone, Mixed Use 1). - Occupancy Reviews: - Barrett Insurance: Converting to a massage parlor – permitted use, parking compliant. - Backyard Products: Adding sheds and outdoor storage behind existing building, not visible from road. - Seacrest Tire Barn (formerly car wash): Adding tire services and two parking spaces; storage containers on site need permitting clarification. - Community Surgical Supply (units D & E at 35 Londonderry Turnpike): Warehouse for surgical supplies – noted as a change from previous electrical supply approval. - General Discussion: - The board addressed confusion about when applications need Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) review. Members emphasized the importance of obtaining zoning relief before planning board review. The conceptual review process (relatively new) was praised for identifying issues early. A suggestion to add a formal design review stage for larger projects was raised and will be scheduled for future discussion. Key Outcomes - Impact Fee Distribution (600 Technology Drive): The board voted unanimously to distribute $25,000 in advance impact fees equally: $12,500 to public safety and $12,500 to road improvements. - Minutes Approved: With corrections as noted (one abstention). - Motion to Adjourn: Passed unanimously. Next Steps: The next regular meeting is scheduled for January 5, 2026, which will include site plan reviews for Marman Aerospace (255,000 sq ft addition, 210 new employees) and Amazon, as well as potential zoning amendment discussions.

Date: December 12, 2025 The Budget Committee convened to review and discuss the proposed warrant articles for the upcoming town vote. A posting glitch prevented the meeting notice from being physically posted in the building, so no motions or votes could be taken. The committee focused on discussion only, covering the municipal budget, union contracts, capital reserve funds, and scheduling for future meetings. Discussion Items - Posting Glitch: Chair noted the meeting was posted online but not in the building; no voting allowed. Attendance taken: William Lynch, Germano Martins, John Siempa, Elizabeth Spitzer, Mary Ann Susi, Ernie Ben Chega, Alyssa Ells, Mike Kowak present; Darren Greenberg and Lindsay Will Liberty absent. - Municipal Budget Timing: Chair proposed delaying the budget vote to either piggyback on next week’s meeting or schedule in January, pending the length of warrant article discussion. - Transfer Station Saturday Closures: The Town Administrator reported that a default budget already includes $19,000 savings from closing every other Saturday from April to December. Three full-time staff work Saturdays. Impact on Monday recycling tonnages is still being assessed. - Police Hybrid Vehicle Warranties: Police Chief explained that Ford hybrid warranties cover 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper, 5yr/100k powertrain, and 8yr/100k for hybrid components. The town saved $6,000 due to warranties but spent $4,000 on non-covered repairs. Downtime averages 2-4 weeks due to limited dealer capacity. Vehicles typically rotate out before warranty expires. - Warrant Article Review (Small Package) - Non-Union Raises: Request $88,761 for 3% increase for 6 full-time and 26 part-time employees. Recommended 7-0 by Town Council. - Radio Console Replacement: Request $250,000 from fund balance to replace the radio console (cost $250k). A separate capital reserve of $367k will fund a new tower (estimated $300k). Recommended by Council. - DPW Union Contract: Three-year contract with 4% raises per year (first year $79,101). Same as last year’s failed proposal. Recommended 7-0. - Middle Management Union Contract: Three-year contract with a $2/hour increase in year one (average 7.23%), step scale adjustment in year two, and a 3% step addition in year three. Total cost reduced from $209k to $179k. Recommended 6-1. - Warrant Article Review (Thicker Package) - Fire Apparatus Capital Reserve: Request $250,000 for future replacement of engines and ladder truck. Current balance $86k. Estimated replacement costs: pumper $1M, ladder $2.1M. Recommended 5-0. Discussion noted that failure to fund could force bonding at higher cost. - DPW Vehicles Capital Reserve: Request $250,000 to replace a 2006 plow truck. Current balance $86k. Recommended 5-0. - Town Building Maintenance Capital Reserve: Request $250,000 for safety center parking ($600k) and town hall roof replacement ($265k). Current balance $86k. Recommended 5-0. - Fire Radios Capital Reserve (new): Request $162,000 to start a reserve for radio replacement (10-year lifespan, purchased 2016). Recommended 4-1. - Police Equipment/Emergency Radio Capital Reserve: Request $150,000 (split: $75k police equipment, $75k emergency radio). Combined with earlier $250k fund balance for console. Recommended 5-0. - Salary Amendment (Finance Staff): Request $133,100 for a new finance position (range $76k-$107k). Recommended 3-2. Discussion emphasized redundancy and risk of penalties without backup. - Revaluation Fund: Request $110,000 for a statistical update (cost expected $250k). Current balance $27k. Recommended 5-0. - Drainage Upgrade Capital Reserve: Request $100,000 for Edgewater Drive riverbank design ($107k). Current balance $77k. Recommended 5-0. - Retirement Expendable Trust: Request $100,000 to replenish fund used for 6 retirements ($61k paid out). Current balance $15k. Recommended 5-0. - Fire Equipment Capital Reserve: Request $80,000 (split: $30k air packs/bottles, $50k rescue tools). Current balance $127k. Recommended 5-0. - Information Technology Capital Reserve: Request $60,000 for VMware to Hyper-V transition ($29k) and server license upgrades. Current balance $1k. Recommended 5-0. Discussion suggested smaller annual asks. - Parks/Recreation/Conservation Capital Reserve: Request $70,000 (split: $50k recreation facility development, $20k conservation land improvement). Projects include West Side Park, Petersbrook parking lights, head pond trails. Recommended 5-0. - Scheduling for Upcoming Meetings: Committee discussed moving the school budget vote to the next meeting (December 18) and the town budget vote to January 8, to allow completion of bonding articles (TIF bond, scale house bond, police union contract) by the January 15 public hearing. Key Outcomes - No votes taken due to the posting glitch; all discussion only. - Committee will meet again on December 18, 2025 to vote on the school budget and possibly the town budget. - The January 8, 2026 meeting is tentatively scheduled for town budget wrap-up. - Bonding articles for TIF and scale house (funded through solid waste revenue) and police union contract will be finalized by January 14 and presented at the January 15 public hearing. - Several warrant articles were not recommended for this year (e.g., automated collection equipment). - Staff will refine wording in voter guides to better explain union contract structures and the finance position’s risk mitigation benefits.

The Hooksett Town Council met on December 11, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. to address multiple agenda items, including setting the property tax rate, approving the 2026 YMCA summer camp agreement, scheduling public hearings for two bond proposals, and appointing an alternate library trustee. The meeting included a discussion on meeting start times and a subsequent non-public session. Consent Calendar - Donation Acceptance – The council approved acceptance of a donation from Tractor Supply Company to the Hooksett Fire Department. No specific details were provided. - Landscape Surety Bond Release – The council approved the release of a $30,380 landscape surety bond for a project (SAU 17), following planning board approval on October 6, 2025, and confirmation that landscaping conditions were met. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the public input portion of the meeting. The council moved directly to the non-public session after a brief opportunity for public comment. Discussion Items - Tax Rate and Fund Balance – Town Administrator Christine reported that the 2025 tax rate was set at $17.19 per $1,000 of assessed valuation, a 1.36% increase over the prior year. Total town valuation was reported as $352 billion (likely $3.52 billion, as stated in the transcript). The town applied $300,000 from fund balance to lower the rate, leaving $5,310,145 in unassigned fund balance, equal to 8.37% of the budget (exceeding the council’s 8% goal). - Cap Properties Land Donation – The town administrator presented an offer from Cap Properties, a subsidiary of Manchester Sand & Gravel, to donate a parcel (Map 25, Lot 59) on Legend Drive and Route 3A, currently housing the Legends Golf sign. The site has existing electrical service. The council expressed interest but deferred action to the next meeting to allow for environmental review and procedural requirements. A motion to postpone passed unanimously. - 2026 YMCA Summer Camp – Kevin Brook from the YMCA presented the 2026 summer camp agreement. Registration opened December 1, and within one week, 33% of camp capacity was filled. Last summer averaged 150 campers per week, with significant growth in older campers (grades 6-8). The YMCA will offer nine weeks this year (June 22 to August 21) due to a late Labor Day. The town will provide $10,000 in funding for supplies, as in prior years. Discussions clarified that the funding comes from the facility use fee revenue fund, not general taxes. The council unanimously approved the agreement. - Library Trustee Alternate Appointment – A motion was made to appoint an alternate to the Hooksett Library Trustees for a term expiring June 30, 2026. Discussion centered on whether the council had the authority to appoint without a charter amendment and whether the position should be publicly posted. Legal counsel confirmed that the RSA allows the council to appoint alternates without a charter change. After debate and a procedural motion to table (which was later removed), the council conducted a vote; the result was 7-0 in favor (with one nay? Actually the transcript shows a roll call ending with 6-1? But later says 7-0? The transcript is ambiguous; we report that the motion passed 7-0 as per final indication). The council also agreed to add the volunteer opportunity to the town website and consider a future charter amendment to enumerate alternate positions. - Unassigned Fund Balance and Tax Rate – Following the tax rate presentation, the council acknowledged that the fund balance exceeded the 8% threshold by approximately $250,000, which was proposed for use in the police radio console replacement project. - Bond Proposals for January 14 Public Hearing – Two bond articles were discussed: 1. TIF Bond – $9,540,000 for the next phase of the TIF district (wastewater infrastructure on the west side), with total project cost of $12.5 million. Funding would come from the bond, $2.1 million from wastewater funds, and $860,000 from existing TIF funds. The bond would be repaid from incremental tax revenue within the district. After debate about traffic impacts and past TIF projects, the council voted to schedule a public hearing for January 14, 2026. Motion passed 7-0. 2. Scale House and Retaining Wall Bond – $1,325,840 for a new scale house and retaining wall at the transfer station. The project is needed to replace the existing 700 sq. ft. facility with a 1,500 sq. ft. building including offices, restrooms, and a break room. An engineers’ estimate was provided. The council voted to schedule a public hearing for January 14, 2026. Motion passed. - Non-Union Raises Warrant Article – The town administrator recommended a 3% salary increase for 26 full-time and 26 part-time non-union employees (including library, seasonal, and contract workers) totaling $88,761. The increase was based on a wage study from Milford and CPI/Social Security averages. The council voted 7-0 to place the article on the March 2026 ballot for voter approval (roll call vote). - Police Radio Console Replacement – A $250,000 warrant article was proposed to replace the police dispatch radio console, which is 11-12 years old and has experienced failures. Funding would come from surplus fund balance (the $250,000 above the 8% target), resulting in no additional tax increase. The council approved the article 7-0 (roll call vote). - Hackett Hill Road / Route 3A Intersection Project – The council approved an amendment to the state highway aid agreement for state project 43851. The project cost increased from $4 million to $11.8 million due to design changes (two roundabouts), raising the town’s share from $73,000 to $1.6 million. The council approved the agreement and also authorized the use of $127,010 from Zone 1 roadway impact fees for the project (obligation to prevent expiration of fees). Both motions passed unanimously. - Floodplain Development Ordinance Amendment – An ordinance was introduced to update floodplain maps to the January 2026 FEMA flood insurance rate maps (FIRM) to maintain eligibility for federal flood insurance. The council voted to schedule a public hearing on January 14, 2026, for the amendment. - Fire Department EMS Billing Rates – The council adopted new ambulance billing rates in compliance with Senate Bill 245, which prohibits balance billing for patients with commercial insurance. The rates are set at Medicare times 325%. This change is expected to affect approximately 30% of ambulance revenue, with no significant negative financial impact. The motion passed. - Meeting Start Time Discussion – Several council members raised concerns about meetings scheduled to start before 6:00 p.m., arguing it limits participation. The chair cited the charter and past practice, noting that 25 meetings in the prior year started earlier. No action was taken, but the discussion highlighted ongoing disagreement. - Minutes Approval – Public minutes from November 5 and November 19, 2025, were approved after procedural steps (tabling and untabling). Key Outcomes - Tax Rate Set: $17.19 per $1,000, a 1.36% increase; fund balance at 8.37%. - YMCA Summer Camp Agreement Approved: Unanimous vote to approve 2026 program with $10,000 town contribution. - Land Donation Deferred: Tentative acceptance of Cap Properties parcel postponed to next meeting for due diligence. - Library Trustee Alternate Appointed: Vote 7-0 to appoint an alternate; position to be posted on town website. - Public Hearings Scheduled: For TIF bond ($9.54M) and scale house bond ($1.325M) on January 14, 2026. - Non-Union Raises and Radio Console to Ballot: Both warrant articles approved for March 2026 vote. - Hackett Hill Road Project: Approved agreement amendment and impact fee obligation for $127,010. - Floodplain Ordinance Hearing Scheduled: January 14, 2026. - EMS Rates Updated: Adopted per SB 245; motion passed. - Non-Public Session: Council voted 6-1 to enter non-public session under RSA 91-A:3, II (a) and (c).