Public Meetings - Hooksett, New Hampshire

The Hooksett EDAC met on July 15, 2026, to discuss a business tax exemption application, a proposed senior living and mixed-use development, and ongoing traffic and infrastructure planning for the Route 3 corridor. The committee voted to recommend a seven-year, 30% tax exemption for Marman Wire and Cable's new facility, and approved writing a letter of support for Catholic Charities' Green's Landing project. Substantial discussion focused on creating a parallel road network and a potential downtown vision on underutilized parcels including Eversource land. Appointments - Jim Petri was welcomed as a new EDAC member. He shared his background in economic development on Long Island and post-9/11 recovery work in New York City. Discussion Items - Marman Wire and Cable Business Tax Exemption: The committee reviewed an application from Marman Wire and Cable to construct a 354,000-square-foot facility at 18 Legends Drive (including a 99,000-square-foot mezzanine). The project is projected to add 80 employees by 2027 and 210 by 2029. The company is seeking a seven-year, 30% exemption on the increased assessed value, estimated to reduce the assessed value of the new building (approximately $40 million) by 30% for seven years. The property is within the TIF district. Discussion included impacts on traffic, timing of shifts, and competition with other communities. The committee voted unanimously to support the exemption. - TIF Informational Night: The committee planned a TIF info night at the library on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, from 5:30 to 7:00 PM. The presentation will be updated to include recent TIF committee discussions on sewer contributions. The Chamber of Commerce will help promote the event. - Catholic Charities - Green's Landing Project: Jeff Lefkovich, Executive Director for Real Estate and Housing Development at Catholic Charities, presented a preliminary concept for the former Green's Marine property on Route 3 (10.5 acres). The project proposes a mixed-use development including: - A 120-unit senior living community (independent and assisted living), with 100 one-bedroom and 20 two-bedroom units, serving middle-income older adults. - A repurposed "Commons" building with a market, restaurant, and possibly primary/urgent care, with an enclosed connection to the senior living. - A separate pad site for primary care. - Preservation of the historic Green family home. - Traffic improvements including turning lanes on Route 3. Access to the Commons would be from Route 3 only; senior residents could exit via Pleasant Street. The committee discussed traffic patterns, the dangerous Pleasant Street intersection, utility availability, and concerns about another 55+ community. A motion to write a letter of support to the Planning Board was approved unanimously. - Traffic Discussion and Corridor Visioning: The committee provided an update on efforts to engage Executive Councilor John Stephen regarding Route 3 traffic issues; a Zoom meeting was attempted but not yet scheduled. Broader discussion centered on creating a parallel road to Route 3 from the GE area through underutilized parcels (Eversource, Manchester Sand and Gravel, Shaw's Plaza) to a controlled light. Ideas included a potential downtown commercial corridor on Eversource land, engaging Southern New Hampshire University, and pursuing a Plan New Hampshire charrette to develop a vision. It was decided to continue refining the vision at the next meeting and begin stakeholder outreach (Eversource, SNHU) after developing a clear concept. Key Outcomes - Marman Wire and Cable: EDAC voted unanimously to recommend a 30% tax exemption for seven years for the new facility. This will be forwarded to the Town Council for final approval. - Catholic Charities Green's Landing: EDAC voted unanimously to write a letter of support to the Planning Board for the preliminary concept, with noted concerns about traffic at the Pleasant Street intersection and landscaping. - Traffic Visioning: The committee agreed to refine the vision for a parallel road and potential downtown corridor, with members to bring ideas to the next meeting. No formal vote was taken. The committee will also attempt to contact stakeholders after developing a written concept. - TIF Info Night: Scheduled for September 8, 2026, at the library.

The Hooksett Zoning Board of Adjustment met on July 14, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. (presumed) to elect officers, approve minutes, and conduct a public hearing on a wetland buffer variance application. The board unanimously approved the variance for Stagecoach at 17 LLC to impact 3,377 square feet of the 40-foot wetland buffer at 17 Londonderry Turnpike. Other business included discussion of future training with town planner Matt and recruitment of alternate members. Elections & Minutes - Officer elections: Steve Stelnak was nominated and elected as Chair, Richard Barum as Vice Chair, and Matt St. Gear as Clerk/Secretary. Votes were unanimous except for abstentions by the nominees. - Approval of minutes: The minutes from June 9, 2026, were approved by a motion and second, with the Chair abstaining. All other members voted in favor. Public Hearing – Stagecoach at 17 LLC (2026-15) - Application: Variance from Article 18, Section G2A to permit 3,377 square feet of impacts within the 40-foot wetland buffer on Map 49, Lot 42 (17 Londonderry Turnpike). The project involves converting the existing 1964 building into 10 one-bedroom rental apartments and constructing a three-bay contractor storage building, with new stormwater management and septic system improvements. - Applicant’s testimony (Brent Cole, Granite Engineering): Total buffer disturbance is 6,141 square feet, of which 2,700 square feet is existing; only 612 square feet of new impervious surface (parking) falls within the buffer. No wetlands are impacted. The project removes a non-compliant septic system and provides stormwater treatment where none exists, improving wetland protection. The hardship arises from the lot’s long, narrow shape and the wetland that encroaches into the property more than onto neighboring lots; strict enforcement would leave no viable development envelope. - Public comment (Randy Owen, 20 Londonderry Turnpike, across the street): Mr. Owen expressed concern about placing residential units in a high-impact industrial/commercial corridor, noting that the town previously required him to demolish a rental house and told him residential was no longer permitted. He acknowledged the site improvements but questioned the compatibility of the use. He also noted he had been unable to reach the engineer before the meeting. - Board discussion: Members noted the minimal impervious increase, the benefit of removing the old septic system, and the unique “pinch point” shape of the lot compared to neighbors. Manchester Waterworks (which owns the adjacent wetland) was not opposed. The board voted unanimously (4–0) that there was no regional impact requiring notification to Manchester. Key Outcomes - Approval of variance: The board made a motion to approve the variance based on four criteria: (1) not contrary to public interest / spirit of ordinance – replacing non-conforming conditions with modern systems; (2) substantial justice – condition existed at acquisition, created before current laws; (3) no diminution of surrounding property values – stormwater improvement benefits neighbors; (4) unnecessary hardship – long, narrow lot with building close to road leaves minimal space for septic. The motion carried 4–0 with the chair abstaining. - Next steps: The applicant will finalize state septic permitting and proceed with construction, subject to conditions in the variance. Other Business - Training session: The board discussed scheduling an informational training with town planner Matt, likely for early fall on a night different from the regular meeting. - August meeting: A new application (variances and special exceptions) for a property previously withdrawn is expected. The board will plan to discuss it soon. - Rule review: Members were reminded to review the board’s rules, as it has been four to five years since the last update. Changes can be proposed at future meetings. - Recruitment of alternates: The board noted that there are currently no alternate members (Alex resigned, Colin reappointed but absent due to health). Members were asked to recruit neighbors or acquaintances to contact administrative assistant Leanne. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at approximately 7:45 p.m. by a motion and second, all in favor.

The Hooksett Town Council held its first meeting of the fiscal year on July 8, 2026, at 6:00 PM (approx.) at Town Hall. The meeting began with the election of officers for the new term, followed by council representative assignments to various boards and committees. The main agenda item was a public hearing on a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application by Elm Grove Companies for renovations at 512 West River Road, which drew significant public opposition. After extensive discussion, the council voted down the grant application. The meeting also included approval of the dog licensing civil forfeiture process, updates from the town administrator, land use board reports, and appointments. Consent Calendar - Town Council Rules of Procedure: A motion was made and seconded to approve sections 3 through 12 of the rules (section 2 having been completed via officer elections). The motion passed unanimously. - Dog Licensing Civil Forfeiture: A motion to authorize the civil forfeiture process for unlicensed dogs for the 2026 year, as presented by the town clerk, was approved 4-1 (Councillor LaLiberty opposed). Approximately 200 dogs remained unregistered after notices were sent. - Minutes: The minutes from June 24, 2026, were approved, with two councillors abstaining (they were not present at that meeting). Public Comments & Testimony - Alyssa Ehl (Barberry Street): Requested a no vote or tabling of the CDBG grant, arguing a private company was borrowing the town's name and that up to 10% of current residents could be displaced to Manchester, affecting school children. - Pam McMahon (Dale Road): Opposed the grant, stating that a landlord should pay for improvements (new siding, windows, paver patio, solar, dog park) out of their own pocket, not federal funds. - Bob Barker: Delivered a lengthy address, calling the application a "transaction" where the town lends its name. He questioned the lack of direct tenant notification, the unfinished anti-displacement plan, and the town's liability. He urged the council to vote no or table until proper plans were in place. - Linda Helm (Strawberry Lane): Asked the council to table the matter, noting the deadline (July 27) belonged to the developer, not the town. - Deborah McLaughlin (Zachary Drive): Raised concerns about existing tenants earning above income limits who could be displaced; the anti-displacement plan was an unfinished template. She asked for a written answer for tenants before the town co-signs. - Speaker (West River Road): Opposed the grant, citing federal strings such as Davis-Bacon prevailing wages, environmental review, and "affirmatively furthering fair housing" obligations that could outlast the grant. - Speaker: Referenced a similar project in Newport, NH, where the same developer received $500,000 via a town-sponsored CDBG. Warned that approving this would set a precedent for other landlords. - David Ross (56 Sherwood Drive): Stated the CDBG is meant for community development, not private development. He suggested using the funds for town projects like finishing 16 Main Street or expanding transportation. He also questioned using a third-party grant administrator to act on behalf of the town. - Chow Kelly: Concerned about insufficient notice to tenants and abutters; argued the developer is already rich and should not use taxpayer money. - Ernie Benjavanga (244 Whitehall Road): Questioned whether the grant funds are disbursed in one payment or draws; asked about rent caps and the company's gain. He also asked why tenants couldn't be contacted now to gauge displacement risk. Discussion Items - Election of Officers: Town Administrator Andre Garrin presided. Councillor LaLiberty was nominated for chair (seconded) and Councillor Duhaim was also nominated. A hand vote showed 2 for LaLiberty and 2 for Duhaim; LaLiberty was declared chair. She then presided. Councillor Sullivan was nominated and elected vice chair (no opposition). Councillor Lapierre was nominated and elected secretary (unanimous). - Council Representative Assignments: The council assigned members to numerous boards and committees for the upcoming year, including Budget Committee, Conservation Commission, Highway Safety Advisory Board, Planning Board, Zoning Board of Adjustment, and others. Several alternates were also designated. Councillor Walzick was absent but preferences were noted via text. - CDBG Public Hearing - Elm Grove Companies: - Applicant Presentation: Matt Rose (LRPC) and Brian Webster (Elm Grove) outlined the grant. The town would apply for $750,000 (maximum) for acquisition of the property at 512 West River Road. Elm Grove would be the sub-recipient. The project would convert all 70 existing units and add 6 new basement studios (total 76) to income-restricted workforce housing (20%-80% AMI). Exterior upgrades, solar, dog park, and landscaping were included. No financial match required from the town; $30,000 of grant goes to grant administration by LRPC. - Council Questions: Councillors asked about tenant displacement, notification, tax impact, length of ownership (15 years through NH Housing), Davis-Bacon requirements, and why the project didn't seek full affordable housing earlier. Town Administrator Garrin noted the project met master plan goals and the planning board had supported it. He stated that all costs and liabilities were covered by the developer. - Public Opposition (summarized above): Numerous residents spoke against the grant, citing concerns about private benefit, insufficient tenant notification, displacement, federal strings, and the precedent it would set. - Council Deliberation: Councillor LaLiberty proposed tabling to July 22 to get more information, but the motion lacked a second. Councillor Sullivan then moved to vote on approval. The motion was seconded. Councillor Duhaim spoke against it, citing lack of benefit to the town and inadequate tenant notification. Councillor LaLiberty stated she would abstain due to insufficient information. Councillor Sullivan abstained. Roll call: Duhaim (No), Smith (No), Lapierre (No – earlier in transcript he seemed to support but the roll call indicates No), Walzick (absent), Sullivan (Abstain), Lacas (No), LaLiberty (No). Motion failed 0-4-1 (four No, one Abstain). The remaining related motions were deemed unnecessary. - Town Administrator’s Report: - Resignation of Town Planner Grant McGregor; interim circuit rider hired. - Promotion of Lt. James Bradley to Captain in Police Department. - Upcoming “Travel Back to 1776” event at the library (July 11, 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM). - NH DOT light pole project at Exit 9; removal of 41 towers. - Beaver trapping at Heritage Pond to protect drainage; town hired a licensed trapper. - Goal-setting meeting scheduled for August 12 at 6:00 PM at the library. - Finding of Occasion approved for Route 3 project (Alice Ave to Whitehall Rd); right-of-way discussions can begin. - Employee appreciation event (ice cream mobile) success. - New fire department tanker truck to be in service next month. - Land Use Board Reports: - Zoning Board of Adjustment (Ann Stomac): Reported on activities: 16 variances, ADUs slowed, special exceptions with numerous criteria, need for excavation site monitoring, and loss of alternate members. Requested volunteers. - Planning Board (Chair): Reported 21 meetings, 28 approvals, 2 pending applications (Highland St & Farrier Rd), 4 subdivisions, 3 lot line adjustments, 13 commercial site plans (333,000 sq ft approved), developer regs passed at March ballot. Noted challenges with alternates. - Nominations and Appointments: - David Russell and Sheena Gilbert were nominated and appointed to the Planning Board for terms ending June 30, 2029. Motion passed unanimously. - A resident inquired about an application for the Heritage Commission; town staff will follow up. - Future Agenda Items: - Charter amendments discussion (timeframe for September submittal). - Detailed report on cell tower opportunities requested. - Councillor LaLiberty suggested regular updates from council representatives on committees. Key Outcomes - Officers Elected: Chair – Lindsay LaLiberty; Vice Chair – Jim Sullivan; Secretary – Randall Lapierre. - CDBG Grant Application: Motion to approve failed (0-4-1). The town will not pursue the grant for Elm Grove. - Dog Licensing Civil Forfeiture: Approved (4-1). - Appointments: David Russell and Sheena Gilbert appointed to Planning Board. - Next Steps: Town Administrator will schedule a non-public meeting for July 22; goal-setting meeting set for August 12; council will work on charter amendment proposals; cell tower report forthcoming.

The Hooksett Town Council met Wednesday, June 24, 2026, calling the meeting to order at approximately 6:02 p.m.; the transcript also contains an earlier reference to a planned 7:00 p.m. start. The council heard the town administrator's report, received presentations on a CDBG housing grant and a secondhand dealer license application, approved routine items, and recognized outgoing Chair Timothy Santulas for 10 years of service. Town Administrator's Report - Administrator Andre reported two resignations: Town Planner Grant McGregor, effective June 30, 2026, and Police Captain Jake Roby, retiring effective July 5, 2026. - POW/MIA flag ceremonies are scheduled for June 26 from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., with 13 stops in and around town ending at Town Hall; Mr. Caruso said final preparations are complete and the event will proceed rain or shine. - The Petersburg Pavilion at Petersburg Park was unveiled at a ribbon cutting on June 11. Home Depot and Friends of Athletics (formerly HYAA) were contributors; staff Ben Berthium and Tommy Bartula were recognized, and Bob Wiley and Mike Horn shepherded the project. - An employee appreciation ice cream social is set for June 25, with a vendor visiting departments in place of the former appreciation luncheon due to time and budget constraints. - The administrator requested postponing the non-public performance evaluation to July 8 and added a new business item recognizing the Chair. Public Comments & Testimony - No public input was offered in either of the two public input sessions. Scheduled Appointment: Elm Grove CDBG Grant Presentation - Shauna Saunders of the Lakes Region Planning Commission (LRPC) said LRPC was representing the Southern New Hampshire Planning Commission on the town's and developer's behalf. Brian Webster, Elm Grove project manager; Matt Menning, Elm Grove director of operations; and Matthew Rose, LRPC environmental planner and grant writer, were present. - Webster described the Residences at River Hill, 512 West River Road, a four-story, 70-unit multifamily building currently serving workforce and market-rate housing needs. It has two studios, 14 one-bedrooms, and 54 two-bedroom units; amenities include off-street parking, on-site laundry, a gym, and a playground. - Proposed work includes exterior facade upgrades (Hardie board siding, window replacements, brick painting), a paver patio, a dog park, rooftop solar, common-area interior improvements, and conversion of underutilized basement storage into six new studio units. The building would become fully workforce housing. - Rose explained that CDBG is a federal HUD-funded program administered by New Hampshire CDFA; eligible applicants are towns, cities, and counties outside entitlement communities (Dover, Nashua, Portsmouth, Manchester, and Rochester). Grant categories include housing, public facilities, economic development, emergency needs, and transformative planning, with a maximum request of $750,000. - The roles would be: town as grant applicant, Elm Grove as sub-recipient, and LRPC as grant writer and administrator. In response to Councilor Lapierre, the team said $30,000 of the grant would be used to contract a third-party administrator, not hire a town employee. Required plans include a three-year Housing and Community Development Plan and a Residential Anti-Displacement and Relocation Assistance (RARA) plan. - The administrator noted Elm Grove approached the town in May and the Planning Board gave a positive recommendation for converting existing units and adding six units. - The project team said 90% or more of existing tenants are expected to be retained through income averaging from 20% to 80% of area median income (AMI). Menning stated that the property currently has 40% affordability restricted to 60% AMI, with income limits around $60,000; the new structure would allow incomes ranging from about $20,000 to $90,000, move the property to 100% affordability, and allow more portable Section 8 voucher holders. The town welfare director asked about subsidized units and received this explanation. - Councilor Smith asked about storage; Webster said current storage is underutilized and some storage would remain. Another question addressed town staff level of effort; the team said it would be extremely limited, with Elm Grove handling Davis-Bacon wage paperwork and the compliance period. Administrator Andre said the town's financial exposure is very low, with costs largely borne by the applicant and only limited audit exposure. - The team asked the council to schedule a public hearing for July 8, 2026 because the grant application is due at the end of July. Scheduled Appointment: Bass Pro Shop Secondhand Dealer License - Town Clerk Karina Town and Police Chief Justin Sargent presented Bass Pro Shop's application for a secondhand dealer's license under ordinance 2014-1. - Chief Sargent said the town has three gun stores - Bass Pro Shop, Shooters, and Wicked Weaponry - and none of the other two holds this license; the ordinance has not been enforced during his tenure. He expressed concern that the license is unnecessary for firearm dealers because the ATF already regulates firearm sales and checks for stolen firearms, but he would enforce the ordinance if directed. Town Clerk Town clarified that Bass Pro Shop submitted the application on its own initiative for compliance. - Council discussion included the view that the existing ordinance covers firearms and should be enforced unless amended, and a pro-business view that Bass Pro Shop should not be delayed; a later ordinance review could address the broader question. A motion to grant the application and approve the $250 fee passed on a voice vote with one councilor opposed. A follow-up review of the ordinance was discussed. Routine Approvals & Consent Items - The council accepted a $100 donation for the Head School program, to be used for historical toys in the 1840 one-room schoolhouse program. - Budget Transfer 2027-01: the council voted 6-1 to reallocate the voters' approved default budget of $24,643,338 for FY 2026-27 to the amended budget approved by the Town Council on June 10, 2026. The amendment included a $3,500 addition to support the Hooksettites program; Councilor Lapierre voted no. During discussion, one councilor raised concern about budget reductions for field and park lawn and pest-control maintenance, saying delaying treatment could cost more in the future. - Encumbrances: the council approved encumbering items 1 through 14 on the encumbrance list, not to exceed $261,062.52 from the FY 2025-26 budget, in accordance with RSA 32:7. - The council approved the public and non-public minutes of June 10, 2026, as presented, with no changes. Key Outcomes - The council voted to hold a public hearing on July 8, 2026, for the CDBG project plan and grant adoption (voice vote, all in favor). - The Bass Pro Shop secondhand dealer license application was approved with the $250 fee (voice vote; one councilor opposed). - A $100 donation for the Head School program was accepted. - Budget Transfer 2027-01 was approved by a 6-1 roll-call vote, with Councilor Lapierre opposed. - Encumbrances totaling up to $261,062.52 were approved for items 1-14. - The June 10, 2026 public and non-public minutes were approved. - The administrator requested that the non-public performance evaluation be postponed to July 8, 2026. - The council recognized Chair Timothy Santulas for 10 years of service since being sworn in on July 8, 2015; he was presented with an eternal key to the city and gave closing remarks. The meeting then adjourned by motion.

No meeting content was provided. The agenda, minutes, and raw transcription were all empty, so no summary can be generated.

No agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided. Therefore, no summary of the meeting can be generated.

The Hooksett Planning Board met on June 15, 2026, to discuss several agenda items including a wetland special exception for a Casey Drive subdivision, the FY2028-2033 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), a presentation from the Fire Department, and site plan applications for Elm Grove and Highland Street. The board approved minutes, granted approvals, and continued several items. The meeting began at approximately 6:00 PM and adjourned after 9:36 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board unanimously approved the June 1, 2026 meeting minutes and the June 11, 2026 site walk minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - Highland Street Application (1416 Highland Street): Two members of the public spoke in opposition. Bob Barker, owner of lot 117, argued that the site distance standard cannot be met, density is bootstrapped on waivers, and setbacks and buffers fail Article 7 requirements. He also questioned the applicant's legal authority. Tony LeCast, a resident of 30 Dundee Avenue, raised concerns about density, traffic, a blind corner, and potential buried vehicles from a former junkyard on the property. Both urged the board to deny or continue the application. - Elm Grove Application: No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Granite Engineering / Casey Drive Wetland Special Exception: Brent Cole of Granite Engineering presented a plan for a 16-foot driveway requiring 3,877 sq ft of prime wetland buffer disturbance, 206 sq ft of non-prime wetland impact, and other impacts. The board discussed the need for a variance from the prime wetland buffer, the history of the original subdivision, and the town's responsibility for inaccessible lots. After deliberation, the board voted to send a recommendation to the Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA) requesting a site walk and legal review of the special exception criteria and hardship. The motion passed 5-0. - Fiscal Year 2028-2033 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP): Finance Director Christine Tooksberry presented the CIP, noting that tax-funded projects would increase from $2.6 million in FY2027-28 to $3.9 million in FY2032-33, largely due to two school bonds. Key projects included a statistical revaluation ($250,000), fire apparatus replacement ($250,000/year), and school phase 2 ($5.9 million) and phase 3 ($6.1 million). Non-tax projects included the TIF Route 3A ($12.5 million) and Martin's Ferry intersection ($3.5 million, with $2 million federal grant). Discussion focused on 20-year bonds, with board member Rob expressing concern about long-term debt. The board will vote on the CIP at the next meeting. - Fire Department Presentation: Fire Chief Dave Nato and Captain Ian Tooksberry presented on two topics: (1) the value of requiring public safety fiscal impact analyses for large developments (e.g., Heads Pond), and (2) the technical review process for fire safety, including life safety, sprinklers, fire alarms, hydrants, fire lanes, and vegetation. The board expressed interest in requiring such studies for developments over 10-15 units. Captain Tooksberry also discussed the need for proper tree placement near buildings and the importance of fire lane access. The board agreed to place the topic on a future workshop agenda. - Elm Grove Site Plan (512 Russe River Road): Brian Webster and Aaron Ravenel of Elm Grove Companies presented a plan to convert basement storage into six studio apartments (three per building), add roof-mounted solar, replace windows, install Hardy board siding, and add a dog park and paver patio. The board discussed egress window wells, parking adequacy (109 spaces, with 70 registered vehicles), and landscaping. The board approved the plan with conditions: (1) fire department approval of egress wells, and (2) 500 sq ft of landscaping or cleanup along the front driveway. The motion passed 5-0. - Highland Street Application (1416 Highland Street): Ian McGregor of North Point Engineering presented a continued public hearing for a 23-unit over-55 condominium development on a 10-acre parcel. Discussion included site distance (applicant's study showed 140-160 ft vs. required 445-385 ft at 40 mph), stormwater management (65% reduction in impervious area), building setbacks (units 1, 15, and 23 at 15 ft vs. required 20-50 ft), and density (reduced from 25 to 23 units). The board also noted concerns about snow storage, surety requirements, and Article 7 compliance. The board voted to continue the public hearing to July 20, 2026, to allow for further review of site distance, density, setbacks, and other issues. The motion passed 4-0. Key Outcomes - Approved: Elm Grove amended site plan with conditions (fire department approval of egress wells and 500 sq ft landscaping). - Continued: Highland Street application to July 20, 2026, for further review of site distance, density, setbacks, and public comments. - Continued: Farmer Road site plan (Lori Apequet trust) to July 20, 2026, after accepting jurisdiction. - No Decision: The board did not vote on the CIP or the Casey Drive special exception; comments were sent to the ZBA. The board will vote on the CIP at the next meeting. - Direction: The board agreed to place a discussion on requiring public safety fiscal impact analyses for large developments on a future workshop agenda.

No agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided for this meeting. Therefore, no discussion items, public comments, or decisions can be documented.

The Hooksett Town Council met on June 10, 2026, at 7:00 PM (approximate start) with all seven councilors present, forming a quorum. The meeting covered a public hearing, town administrator's report, public input, multiple agenda items including donations, budget adjustments, personnel changes, and approvals of upcoming events. Consent Calendar - Approved consent agenda items 11-1, 11-2, and 11-4 (including acceptance of a town safe donation from the Hardy family and other routine actions). - Unanimously accepted a donation of labor and materials valued at $20,000 from the Hooks at Quarnes (Kiwanis) for the Heads Pond Trail Access for All project. The total project cost is $50,390. Vote was a roll call: 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Mark Lacass (new owner of 34 Quimby Mountain Road) spoke against the Conservation Commission's draft stewardship plan for Quimby Mountain, stating the proposed trail to the summit violates the conservation easement deed. He argued the commission approved the plan without surveying boundaries or addressing abutter concerns, and requested reconsideration before the July 22 council meeting. - Jesse Tringelli (30 Quimby Mountain Road) echoed Lacass's concerns, citing trespass risks, fire hazards, and lack of meaningful public engagement. He also noted a deed restriction on Lacass's property prevents fencing. - Sarah Rogers (candidate for Merrimack County Attorney) introduced herself, emphasizing her experience in county attorney offices and advocacy for victims, bail reform, and data transparency. Discussion Items - Town Administrator's Report (Andre Garrin): - New hires: Peter Dembitsky (Public Works, starts June 29) and Brian Gormbly (Community Development, starts June 22). - Capital Improvements Program (CIP) will be presented to the Planning Board next, then to the Council for FY 2027-2028 budget. - Addressed miscommunication regarding the Ancant land donation sign removal: the council intended to keep the pole, but only a 15-inch stub remains. Future sign options discussed. - DOT Route 3 widening project (from three to five lanes between Alice Sav and Whitehall Road) is moving forward with two lighted intersections and sidewalks. A workshop reaffirmed the plan. - Tax bills mailed June 5, due July 6, with a newsletter included. - Police participated in Special Olympics torch run. - Approved $2 million CPF grant for Martins Ferry Road realignment and bridge. - Complaint form launched on town website. - Workers' comp rebate of $33,240 and unemployment rebate of $610 from Primex. - Non-meeting (council rules) postponed to July to include new councilor. - Property cleanup on the donated parcel (Route 3/Legends Drive) will start with first four feet from road, added to maintenance rotation. - Administrator to post clarification on Facebook about the assessing measures and list process. - Dog Licensing Civil Forfeitures: Town Clerk Karina Town reported 362 unregistered dogs (down from previous year), with 1,640 licensed. She requested additional time to send one more reminder before proceeding with forfeitures. Council approved her request by voice vote. - TIF Advisory Committee Update: Chair Mike Summers and Planner Grant McGregor presented the TIF district status. The $12 million bond for Phase 1-2 (Exit 10) failed by 1.3% at election; administration will include in next CIP. Phase 3 (Exit 11) is complete. Future phases 4 and 5 pending funds. Other projects: Martins Ferry Road intersection ($2.8 million, $2 million from federal grants) and Route 3 intersection (state-funded, town share 33.3%). Discussion included traffic concerns and need for better public messaging. - Kiwanis 5K Race: Sue Wiley requested approval for the annual 5K race on September 19, using Heads Pond Trail, town roads, and port-a-potties. Council approved with support from administration. - POW/MIA Flag Donation: The Crusoe family donated 13 POW/MIA flags to be raised at various town locations. A formal flag-raising event is planned for June 26. Council accepted the donation with a voice vote. - Appointments: Approved a slate of term renewals for Conservation Commission, Zoning Board, Planning Board, Economic Development, and other boards as presented. - Budget – Over 80s Dinner: Council passed a motion (roll call 7-0) to add $3,500 from the default budget to fund the annual Over 80s dinner. The default budget was then approved (6-1, with Councilor Walzik opposed) including that addition. - Personnel Plan Amendments: Approved three amendments: (1) replacing replacement pages with annual sign-off, (2) updating exit interview procedures (HR conducts, invites others at employee's request), and (3) removing death benefits section per legal advice; final wages will be paid to estate/spouse. - Insurance Benefits: Authorized the town administrator to execute a three-year agreement with Hartford for life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance totaling approximately $88,000 per year. Passed roll call 6-1 (Councilor Walzik opposed). - Encumbrance Preview: Finance presented two lists of encumbrances (operating and non-budgetary) for FY 2026-2027. No motion required; will return for approval at next meeting. - Approval of Minutes: Approved minutes of May 13 and May 27, 2026, with one abstention. Key Outcomes - Accepted $20,000 donation from Kiwanis for Heads Pond Trail. - Approved dog licensing reminder process before civil forfeitures. - Approved 5K race for September 19. - Accepted 13 POW/MIA flags and approved June 26 flag-raising event. - Approved $3,500 addition for Over 80s dinner and default budget. - Approved three personnel plan amendments. - Approved three-year insurance contract with Hartford. - Moved into non-public session (RSA 91-A:3, II, a) for two items: ambulance hardship request and town administrator performance evaluation.