Public Meetings - Hooksett, New Hampshire

The committee met on April 24, 2026, at 2:30 PM. Members present included representatives from Public Works and the town engineer seat (vacant), with Councillor Smith absent and the school representative arriving late. The meeting covered appointment of a new chair, approval of prior minutes, updates to request forms, tabling of school traffic items, and planning for an annual town council update. Consent Calendar - Minutes of March 13th: Motion to approve, seconded, passed unanimously. - Updated Request Forms: Motion to approve revised forms incorporating criteria for stop signs and street lighting, passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Appointment of New Chair: Following the retirement of the town engineer, Captain Wolinsky was nominated and seconded as chair. All members voted in favor, with no opposition. He will assume the role; the former chair remains as vice chair. - School Traffic and Drop-off/Pickup Plan (Item 7A): Discussion deferred to the next meeting (June 12th) pending availability of the school superintendent and Councillor Smith. Additionally, Anthony completed traffic counts at Martins Ferry in early April and expects to provide data by end of week for review at the next meeting. - Update to Town Council: The committee decided to provide its annual update at a town council evening meeting. A member volunteered to prepare a report and coordinate dates with the council clerk. - Withdrawn Street Light Request: A request for a street light on Royal Oaks Drive was withdrawn by the resident after the committee sought additional location details. The neighborhood was inspected and no urgent safety concerns were noted. Key Outcomes - Chair Election: Captain Wolinsky elected as new chair (vote: 5 yes, 0 no). - Minutes Approved: Unanimous. - Request Forms Approved: Unanimous. - School Traffic Item Tabled: Motion passed to table to June 12, 2026 meeting (unanimous). - Next Meeting: Scheduled for June 12, 2026.

The Hooksett Board of Trustees met on April 22, 2026, at 9:15 AM to approve minutes, discuss cemetery plot issues, review trust and capital reserve accounts, and set a date for the next meeting. The board also prepared for an upcoming presentation to the Town Council on May 13. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The board approved the minutes of the January 14, 2026, meeting with a motion and second, passed unanimously. The signed minutes are to be returned to Christine. Public Comments & Testimony - No public input was offered. Discussion Items - Cemetery Plots: The board discussed ongoing issues with unidentified cemetery plots that prevent the use of associated funds. Christine is working on resolving the matter, and the board acknowledged that some funds are negligible. They will continue to push for resolution, noting that state-level changes would simplify the process but are unlikely. - Town Council Presentation: The board will meet with the Town Council on May 13, 2026, at 6:00 PM. John Giotis will present the annual report on behalf of the board. Members agreed to attend if possible, with one member noting potential conflicts with baseball commitments. - Election and Swearing-In: John Giotis and another member were re-elected (landslide). They must be sworn in before July 1, 2026. The board will coordinate with Christine for the swearing-in process. - Account Review: As of March 31, 2026: - Trust funds: $208,508.86 - Capital reserve funds: $11,062,134.78 The figures were read and confirmed; no discrepancies were noted. - Next Meeting Date: The next meeting is scheduled for July 22, 2026, at 9:00 AM. Notices will be sent to the Department of Labor and courts to reserve the time. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: January 14, 2026, minutes adopted. - Account Figures Recorded: Trust and capital reserve fund totals as of March 31, 2026, were accepted without further action. - Meeting Date Set: July 22, 2026, at 9:00 AM. - Adjournment: Motion to adjourn carried at 9:27 AM.

The Hooksett Town Council held its regularly scheduled meeting on April 22, 2026, at 6:01 PM. The meeting included two public hearings, a bid award for trail improvements, annual updates from the Cemetery Commission and Budget Committee, a capstone project presentation, and administrative approvals. Public Hearings - No-Through Trucking Ordinance (Ordinance 0026/2601): The first public hearing addressed amendments to sign regulations and adoption of a new ordinance clarifying no-through trucking on town roads. Leanne noted that Goffstown Road was missing from the list of sign locations and that the Planning Board requested review. Councilor Duhaim raised concerns about enforcement and the definition of "destination on that roadway." The public hearing was closed with no public comment. The matter will return for a second hearing after Planning Board input. - Sale of Tax-Deeded Property (Ordinance 2602): The second public hearing considered adoption of RSA 80:83 to allow sale of tax-deeded properties "as justice may require" without public auction. Town Administrator Andre Garant explained the mechanism would enable the town to approach abutters directly. Councilor Duhaim expressed concern about language allowing sales for affordable housing development without planning/zoning input. The public hearing was closed; further refinement is expected before the second hearing. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously: Two consent agenda items (specifics not detailed in transcript). Public Comments & Testimony - Tom Theosoplas (resident at 7 Coker Avenue) complained about an ongoing junk/vehicle collection issue at a neighboring property. He stated that despite previous complaints, the situation has worsened, and the code enforcement officer has not responded. He offered to start a petition. The Council referred him to the Town Administrator for follow-up. - Elizabeth Spitzer (Budget Committee member) asked whether the proposed subcommittee between the Town Council and Budget Committee to discuss structural budget changes could be addressed at the upcoming legal counsel meeting. The Council indicated the Town Administrator would first obtain legal guidance on feasibility. Discussion Items - Town Administrator's Report: Andre Garant reported on several items: Macy Industries received the SBA Family Business of the Year award; police training will occur at Town Hall on Fridays June 5 and June 12 after hours; World Trade Center artifacts were relocated outside the safety center with help from Manchester School of Technology and donations; three new firefighters (Abigail Heuston, Brian Coyle, Roy Doris) were sworn in; and a meeting with legal counsel on meeting procedures is proposed for April 29 or May 6, 2026. - Heads Pond Access for All Project: Joe Carroll Woodburn presented the bid for improved trail accessibility at the 483-acre Heads Pond Conservation Area. The trail sees approximately 229 users per day (6,421 in one month). The project includes an 8-foot-wide crushed gravel switchback trail and two paved handicap parking spaces. Seven bids were received; the low bidder was Advanced Excavating and Paving at $50,390 (trail $39,150, parking $11,240). Funding would come from the Conservation Fund, with a $20,000 donation from the Hooksett Kiwanis. Councilor Duhaim abstained due to working with the contractor. - Cemetery Commission Annual Update: Kathy McLean presented a detailed report. Highlights: 24 new lot sales and 12 burials since April 2025, generating $11,700 in trust funds. Records have been transitioned from the Cemetery Fine database (saving $500/year) to sortable spreadsheets, correcting decades of errors. The Commission plans to install signs at four cemeteries to enforce rules against unauthorized decorations. 33 headstones were straightened using a $10,000 warrant article; $3,600 remains for repairs. Eight Revolutionary War soldiers' headstones will be cleaned for the semiquincentennial. The historic Stuart Ironworks fence at Martin Cemetery needs painting and repair. The Commission seeks a paid sexton to maintain records and handle issues. - Budget Committee Annual Update: Abigail Angler spoke about the difficulty of balancing taxpayer concerns with town needs, especially under a default budget for the third year. Councilor Lapierre suggested a structural review of the budget, noting that 80% of spending is tied to salaries, benefits, and buildings. Councilor Duhaim expressed frustration that the Budget Committee had not made more cuts. The update included a discussion about forming a joint subcommittee to explore long-term budget efficiency. - Capstone Project – Stride Together: Samara Delalu presented a student-led project to improve safety, accessibility, and wellness at the town's running track. The project includes fencing, ADA pathways, benches, and fitness equipment (total budget $40,769). So far, $4,300 has been raised from local businesses and a GoFundMe. She requested town approval to apply for two grants ($10,000–$30,000 each) on behalf of the town, as she cannot apply as an individual. The Council voted to authorize her to apply for grants in coordination with town staff. - Town Council Goals Update: Andre Garant reported progress on three goals: trail connectivity with Pembroke plans (discussed with Conservation Commission and potential trail committee), land conservation via cluster development (meeting with Planning Board), and wellhead protection program reactivation (with water precincts). Key Outcomes - Bid Award: Motion to award the Heads Pond Access for All project to Advanced Excavating and Paving for $50,390 from conservation funds passed (4-0-1, Councilor Duhaim abstained). - Grant Authorization: Motion to approve Samara Delalu to apply for grants on behalf of the town for the Stride Together project passed unanimously. - Council Schedule: Motion to approve the FY 2026-2027 meeting schedule passed unanimously. - Minutes: Minutes of April 8, 2026, approved unanimously. - Nomination: Mike Summers was nominated and appointed to the Southern New Hampshire Planning Commission (term expiring June 30, 2030). - Legal Counsel Meeting: The Town Administrator will schedule a meeting with legal counsel on April 29 (preferred) to discuss meeting procedures and feasibility of a joint budget subcommittee. - Public Input Follow-Up: The code enforcement officer will follow up on Tom Theosoplas' property complaint; the Town Administrator will consult legal counsel on the proposed budget subcommittee and report back on May 13.

The Hooksett Parks and Recreation Commission met on April 21, 2026, to discuss park maintenance, field usage, pickleball net installation, tennis court repairs, and other updates. The meeting included a staff report, youth sports updates, and a motion to enter non-public session. Discussion Items - Staff Report (Rob): Reported on plow damage repair, field marking (excluding football field, to be painted next week), installation of four new big-kid swings at Denati Park with new hardware, 80 yards of kids cushion, mulching, tilling community gardens with manure, ordering porta-potties for Fraser and Alfred J. Lambert Riverside Park, turning on water (expansion tank replaced at football field), fertilizing (except Collie School until water was turned on), knotweed treatment at Lambert Park (cut, buried with wood chips and plastic), tennis court strap repair, concession stand painting, quotes for tree removal at Head Cemetery and poison ivy treatment, three upcoming burials, rebuilding paint machine compressor, and installing no-bicycle/e-bike/motorized vehicle signs at Petersbrook (Denati and Veterans Park to follow). - Pickleball Nets for Fraser Park: Rob reported purchasing a removable net (not yet installed) at a cost of approximately $700 each. Discussion centered on making room for a second net and ensuring budget funds are allocated; Rob noted other priorities like tennis court cracks. - Tennis Court Cracks: Severe cracks on the tennis courts were discussed. A layer has been overlaid before but cracks reoccurred. Members emphasized sealing cracks to prevent water damage and considered hiring a road crack-sealing company; the pickleball group at Rock Rimmon does their own maintenance with town-supplied materials. Rob agreed to inspect and report. - Hackett Hill Property: Rob contacted Mr. Duhain about walking the property to assess usability (construction background). Duhain agreed; Rob will set a date and invited other members to join. - Riverside Park Storyboards: The project was tabled until Randall can attend a future meeting. - Youth Sports (HYA) Updates: Softball opening day May 3, baseball May 2, flag football May 4 (Saturday, Sunday, Monday). Discussion on field damage from flag football practicing on weak grass areas; flag football has 450 kids. Members expressed concern over spring play damaging fields and suggested fall-only play would allow rest. Baseball now runs Monday through Friday with few weekend games; most older kids play travel sports. - Turf Field Consideration: Members discussed the benefits of a turf field (cost $1.5 million for one field, 10-year warranty, need to save $150k/year). A member noted ARPA funds could have been used but were allocated to other deferred projects. The idea remains aspirational. - Desert Storm Memorial Ceremony: Kathy and Rob attended the ceremony at Veterans Park; WMUR’s Sean McDonald and the Hoods school band were present. The memorial was requested by Mr. Danforth, a Desert Storm veteran. - Boy Scout Benches: Jeff Scott quoted $260 per bench for materials. Proposals to place benches at Fraser and Lambert Parks; Rob will coordinate with Ben on purchasing supplies. - Sign Donation: Mr. Mercier (Mercier family) will fabricate a metal sign for the bridge; a plaque will be included. The sign will be a donation, pending council approval. - Town Council Update: The town is on its third default budget; department budgets will be cut. Home Day may have no fireworks or stage; town administrator Andre Garrin is meeting with department heads to find savings. - Motion to Enter Non-Public Session: A motion was made under RSA 91A:1(b) (reputation protection) to discuss the Riverside Park storyboards, as the matter could adversely affect the reputation of a non-member. The motion was seconded and approved by roll call vote: Andy (yes), Kathy (yes), Judy (yes), and one additional member (yes). Rob (non-voting) remained for the discussion. No public session items remained. Key Outcomes - The commission voted unanimously (4-0) to enter non-public session under RSA 91A:1(b) to discuss the Riverside Park storyboards. - No other formal votes were taken; directions were given to proceed with quotes for tennis court sealing, explore budget for pickleball nets, schedule a walk-through of Hackett Hill, and coordinate with Ben on bench supplies and pickleball storage.

The Hooksett Planning Board convened on Monday, April 20, 2026, at approximately 7:00 PM. Members present: Chris Stelmack, Mike Summers, Jared Williams, and Paul Scarpetti (via phone). The board addressed a continued parking waiver for a commercial redevelopment, an amended phasing plan for a storage facility, and a proposed two-lot subdivision. Public comments were heard on the subdivision, which was continued to May 4, 2026. Consent Calendar - Minutes from April 6, 2026: Approved unanimously after minor corrections (line 168 and 171). Roll call vote: all members voted yes (Jim, Mike, Jared, Paul, Chris). Public Comments & Testimony - For the parking waiver (Banca LLC / Jersey Mike's): No public comments were offered. - For the two-lot subdivision (48 Zippora Drive): - Cindy Tebow (19 Springwood Drive) raised concerns about safety due to a curve on Zippora Drive, an adverse possession claim over a strip of land along the sewer easement, loss of wildlife habitat, and neighborhood character. She requested the town address the adverse possession claim. - Laura Caffajalis (23 Springwood Drive) expressed concerns about loss of privacy and wildlife, noting the buildable area could be close to her backyard. - Jacob Staples (17 Springwood Drive) cited concerns about increased runoff into Messer Brook, traffic safety on the bend, and loss of the wooded buffer. He requested assurances of a no-cut boundary. - Christopher Tebow (19 Springwood Drive) questioned driveway location and sight distance, noting a previous subdivision application was turned down. He opposed the subdivision as presented. - Adam Tebow (383 Concord Street, Manchester) reiterated safety, privacy, and environmental concerns. - Corey Beauvert (8 Forest Hills Road, representing his father at 40 Zippora Drive) highlighted noise from the nearby Space Center and potential loss of property value. Discussion Items - Continued Public Hearing – Parking Waiver (1090 Hooks at Road, Banca LLC): The applicant provided an update from the Jersey Mike's owner stating peak parking demand would only require 12-13 spaces vs. the required 23-24. A verbal agreement was reached to lease 7 parking spaces from the adjacent shopping center (Second Brook) for employees. Discussion included a monitoring period of six months after occupancy of the third tenant (including summer season) with a threshold of 80% occupancy to release the off-site parking requirement. A plan to install rubber delineators and signage to prevent cut-through at the drive-through was noted as a minor field change. The waiver was granted for 42 spaces instead of the required 59, with conditions. - Amended Phasing Plan (63 Londonderry Turnpike, 63 LTLLC): The applicant requested approval to allow certificates of occupancy for each of four storage buildings individually. Buildings 1-3 are nearly complete; building 4 is not started. No changes to the approved site plan. The board approved the amended site plan unanimously, with conditions unchanged from the original February 5, 2024 approval. - Two-Lot Subdivision (48 Zippora Drive, Patrick Morrison): The applicant sought to split a 2.2-acre lot. Issues raised: need for certified sight distance (town standard requires 390 feet at 35 mph, but only 327 feet of frontage exists), NHDOT controlled access right-of-way on a portion of Zippora Drive requiring a commissioner's break, and location of future driveway and house. The board requested additional information: certified sight distance, a concept plan showing a 7,500-square-foot building envelope within the 12,000-square-foot buildable area, and clarification from NHDOT. The public hearing was continued to May 4, 2026. - Planner Updates: Grant provided updates on compliance issues (camper in wetlands at 28 Zippora Drive, backhoe and storage containers at another location), status of previously approved projects (Granite Woods, Thames project, Domino's, etc.), and progress on sewer improvements (Martins Ferry Force Main approved by sewer commissioners, reducing future TIF bonding by $2.9 million). The planning board's report to the town council is scheduled for June 24, 2026. Key Outcomes - Parking Waiver (Banca LLC): Motion to grant waiver from Zoning Ordinance Article 10AG2E for reduction in off-street parking (42 spaces instead of 59) passed unanimously. Conditions include: all review fees paid, delivery coordination among tenants, monthly parking occupancy reporting (starting after third tenant occupancy, for six months including summer, with 80% threshold to release the seven off-site parking spaces), and signed lease for seven off-site spaces. - Amended Phasing Plan (63 LTLLC): Approved unanimously with conditions from the original approval maintained. - Subdivision (48 Zippora Drive): Continued to May 4, 2026, with requests for certified sight distance, concept plan showing building envelope, and clarification from NHDOT on controlled access right-of-way. - Minutes: Approved as amended. - Adjournment: Motion carried unanimously.

The Hooksett Capital Improvements Program (CIP) Committee met on April 15, 2026, to review general government, police, and wastewater capital requests. The nine-member committee had five members present, a quorum for official action. Grant McGregor was nominated, seconded, and selected as chair, abstaining from the vote on his own selection. No funding decisions were made during the meeting. Discussion Items Organization and quorum - The committee confirmed that five members constitute a quorum of the nine-member board and that the session was an official meeting. - Grant McGregor was selected as chair. General government requests - Assessing revaluation: Christine Tooks Barry reported that Hooksett currently has no assessor and the request carries forward from last year. The 2023 revaluation cost $140,000, and former assessor John Deohamel estimated the next one at $250,000. Town Administrator Andre Garant wants the 2028 revaluation done statistically. The revaluation is legally required, and planning for it would avoid a future budget/default spike. - GIS digital parcel compilation: The community development request would hire a consultant to upgrade the spatial accuracy of the town's online GIS. The capital reserve has roughly $140,000; the professional-estimate option, excluding deed research and a flyover, is estimated at $190,000. Discussion centered on adding about $60,000 over three years ($20,000 per year) to reach roughly $200,000. Jared Williams expressed support for the project as money well spent, citing inaccurate maps affecting abutter notices, planning work, law enforcement, and potential legal exposure. - Solar farm administration: The item was skipped. Police requests (presented by the police chief) - Cruiser replacement: $153,830.50 for two cruisers in FY 2027-28, including vehicles and upfitting. - South Bow Tower replacement: $179,000 for the tower itself; a comparable Henneker project totaled about $350,000. The state of New Hampshire is involved after the previous lease negotiation failed. - Bailey Tower replacement: $179,000 placeholder. The tower is more than 20 years old but not failing; consultant guidance puts tower life at 30–50 years. - Radio simulcast system: $307,600.75 requested. The fire department is purchasing a system that may satisfy the police need; if it works as described, police spending could be $0. The chief will check by June whether impact fees can fund the police portion. - Body cameras: $197,362 to continue the program after two years. - Taser replacement: Planned for FY 2028-29 at the end of the five-year support period; compatibility with current and future body cameras was discussed. - Firearm replacement: $52,387 for pistols, holsters, and lights. The chief hopes to use roughly $140,000 in drug forfeiture funds to cover the full cost and may accelerate the purchase if that is approved. - Portable radio replacement: $160,755 in FY 2031-32 after the 10-year useful life. Wastewater requests (presented by Superintendent Ken Carney) - Carney noted that it was Clean Water Week and that Hooksett's plant won the New Hampshire Treatment Plant of the Year award. - Treatment plant roof replacement: About $200,000; engineers will evaluate next week. Most of the roof is over 30 years old. - Aeration blower upgrade: Reduced from last year's $1,000,000 request to $650,000. A 60 hp blower would be efficient in winter, and removed 200 hp blowers would be kept as spare parts to extend the life of the remaining 100 hp units. - Hooksett Road pump station upgrade (former Kmart station): About $1.3 million to relocate and rebuild the station with submersible pumps, moving it from the middle of the parking lot to the south end. - Aeration media replacement: $750,000 estimate; the media will be 20 years old in 2029 and the project was moved up two years from FY 2031-32. - Collection system repairs: $100,000 new request in anticipation of repairs identified by camera inspections beginning this year. - Equipment garage: About $800,000 for a simple heated garage for trucks and equipment. - Vehicle replacements: A 2020 truck with 63,000 miles and a transmission failure at 60,000 miles is planned for 2030 replacement. A one-ton dump truck with 83,000 miles is planned for replacement at 15 years, priced at about $95,000 through state bid versus roughly $120,000 retail. Key Outcomes - Grant McGregor was selected as chair. - No formal votes or funding approvals were taken on capital requests. - The police chief agreed to confirm by June whether radio simulcast costs can be paid with impact fees instead of capital reserves. - The police chief will pursue drug forfeiture funding for the firearm replacement and report whether the timing can be accelerated. - Ken Carney explained that wastewater is an enterprise fund supported by sewer users, and he plans to use budget savings and connection fees to build reserves for the moved-up aeration media project. - Jared Williams left at approximately 5:44, after which the committee no longer had a quorum and took no further official action.

The Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC) met on April 15, 2026, to discuss transportation challenges, zoning amendments, the failed TIF district vote, and future economic development strategies. Guest James from Southern New Hampshire Planning Commission provided insights on regional transportation planning and potential solutions. Transportation and Traffic Issues - James from the Southern New Hampshire Planning Commission described Hooksett as a pass-through town burdened by traffic from northern towns, with a large gap between Hooksett and Concord where there are no highway exits. He noted ongoing roundabout projects on Route 3A and a congestion management process updated every three to five years. - Discussion of widening Route 3 vs. alternative strategies. James suggested that articulating the problem clearly to DOT and prioritizing projects is key. He provided a list of short- and long-term projects, including EV charging infrastructure and intersection improvements at Exit 11, but noted that none of those projects include a new bridge or highway exit. - A proposal to remove the toll at Exit 11 was debated. Some members supported removal, citing accidents and hindrance to development, while noting the state's recent announcement to increase tolls complicates the effort. James recommended studying how other towns like Merrimack achieved toll removal. - Network connectivity: James proposed creating a road network in the Legends Drive area to relieve congestion on Route 3A and open land for development. He suggested a charrette with Plan NH, a nonprofit organization, for visioning, costing about $5,000. EDAC members expressed interest. Zoning and TIF District - All zoning amendments recommended by EDAC passed at town meeting. However, the conversion of the mixed-use district to commercial in 2025 inadvertently made industrial uses require a variance instead of a special exception. Members discussed allowing industrial uses at Exits 10 and 11 to attract businesses, noting that opening up zoning would help economic development. - The TIF district proposal failed to achieve the required two-thirds majority at town meeting. Survey feedback indicated traffic concerns and lack of understanding as main reasons. Members considered amending the TIF to include roadway improvements, but noted complications because roads are state-owned. It was suggested that having DOT representatives present could help. Inter-committee Communication and Public Input - EDAC voted to add a public input segment to future meetings, starting next month. The motion passed unanimously. - Grant reported discussions with Planning Board member Jared Williams about coordinating efforts. The idea of regular joint meetings between EDAC, Planning Board, Zoning Board, and Town Council was raised to align on development projects. Trail System and Economic Development - Discussion of the Granite State Trail, a statewide project from Lebanon to Salem. Hooksett is the most missing piece in terms of right-of-way acquisition. Members saw an opportunity to connect existing trails (Pinnacle Pond, Heads Pond, Riverwalk) and create a recreational system that could stimulate business, such as bike shops and coffee shops. Sewer and Development Updates - Sewer: The force main project from Martins Ferry pump station to the plant had successful bids and will be completed by August. The gravity section took three weeks through a sandpit. This saves about $3 million that was previously in the TIF plan. Remaining funds may allow new pumps without a bond. - Development: Washville and Marman pre-construction meetings held; Old Dominion underway. Catholic Charities site fell through but other interest exists. Panera is moving slowly. Key Outcomes - EDAC voted to add public input to future meetings. - Interest in pursuing a Plan NH charrette for network connectivity; staff will help prepare an application. - Continued work on zoning amendments to allow industrial uses at exits; potential for a town vote in 2027. - Plan to reach out to state representatives and DOT regarding toll removal and traffic issues; a letter from EDAC was suggested. - Sewer project savings will reduce TIF bond needs for next year.

The Hooksett Zoning Board of Adjustment held a meeting on April 14, 2026, at approximately 6:45 PM with three voting members present (Matt St. Pierre, Richard Barum, Ann Stelmack) and one non-voting Town Council representative (Roger Duhain). The board addressed several variance applications, including one continuation, one grant, and one withdrawal. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of March 24, 2026, as written (unanimous vote of 3-0). - Tabled approval of December 2025 and January 2026 minutes due to absent board members. Public Comments & Testimony - Ray Lamy (12 Briar Court) expressed opposition to the proposed ADU at 369 Hackett Hill Road (Case Z26-01), citing concerns about property value diminution, visibility of a two-story structure, and precedent for exceeding the state-recommended ADU size. He urged the board to adhere to the state law maximum of 750 square feet. Discussion Items Case Z26-01: 369 Hackett Hill Road – Ali Zhan and Adia Leakat (ADU Size Variance) - Attorney Daniel Muller represented the applicants, who sought a variance to build a 1,350-square-foot accessory dwelling unit (ADU) for family members on a 7+ acre lot. The current town ordinance limits detached ADUs to 750 square feet; state law allows up to 950 unless otherwise authorized. The proposal exceeded both limits, but the applicants argued that the lot's depth, wooded setting, and adjacency to state land (New Hampshire Department of Transportation property) make the larger ADU unobtrusive. - Board members questioned the legal interpretation of the maximum allowable size and requested a legal opinion on whether the variance could exceed 950 square feet. They also discussed a potential no-cut tree buffer to address visibility concerns raised by an abutter. - The applicant agreed to provide site photographs (pre-leaf) and consider a no-cut zone along the southeast side. The public hearing was continued to the April 28, 2026 special meeting. Case Z26-03: 348 Whitehall Road – Robert Cochran - No applicant appeared. The board voted unanimously to continue the case to the May 12, 2026 regular meeting. Case Z26-04: 512 West River Road – River Hill LLC (Density Variance) - Brian Webster and Aaron Ravenel of EGCon/Elm Grove presented a request for a variance from Article 6, Section D2 (unit density) to add six studio units in the basement of an existing 70-unit multifamily building, bringing the total to 76 units. The building is pre-existing non-conforming; no exterior changes were proposed. The project includes capital improvements: new windows, siding, painting, rooftop solar, and parking resurfacing. - The board found all five variance criteria satisfied: not contrary to public interest, spirit of ordinance observed, substantial justice done, no diminution of property values, and unnecessary hardship due to lot constraints and underutilized interior space. A unanimous motion to grant relief passed (3-0). Cases Z26-06 and Z26-07: Chelmsford Hooksett Properties (Notice of Two Applications) - Attorney Chris Tresher requested continuation to the April 28 special meeting due to scheduling conflicts. The board granted both continuances unanimously. Case Z26-05: 0 KC Drive – Doris Labby Revocable Trust (Frontage Variance and Wetland Issues) - Attorney Chris Tresher and engineer Joe Picarello sought a variance to allow 25 feet of frontage per lot on a class five right-of-way for two lots from a 17.7-acre triangular parcel. The plan included a shared driveway with wetland and buffer impacts. - Board members noted that the plan required additional wetland-related special exceptions and variances not included in the application (including a potential 100-foot prime wetland buffer). The applicant requested withdrawal to prepare a complete application. The board accepted the withdrawal unanimously, noting that a site walk would be necessary for any future application and that relief for prime wetland crossings cannot be granted. Key Outcomes - Case Z26-01 (369 Hackett Hill Road): Continued to April 28, 2026; applicant to provide site photos and consider no-cut tree buffer; board to seek legal opinion on ADU size cap (950 sq ft). - Case Z26-03 (348 Whitehall Road): Continued to May 12, 2026. - Case Z26-04 (512 West River Road): Variance granted (3-0). - Cases Z26-06 and Z26-07 (Chelmsford): Continued to April 28, 2026. - Case Z26-05 (0 KC Drive): Withdrawn by applicant; to be resubmitted with complete wetland-related applications. - Board scheduled a special meeting on April 28, 2026, to continue the deferred cases.

The Hooksett Conservation Commission met on April 13, 2026, to approve prior meeting minutes, discuss enforcement actions at 325 Hackett Hill Road, consider a wetland crossing request, support a floating dock project, approve trail construction bids, and deliberate on the Quimby Mountain stewardship plan. Key decisions included motions to send a letter to the Zoning Board regarding the wetland crossing, approve funding for a trail ramp, and adopt the Quimby Mountain stewardship plan as presented. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The commission approved the minutes from the February 9 meeting after a discussion clarifying that the owner of 325 Hackett Hill Road and the code enforcement officer were expected at a future meeting. The March 9 minutes were approved with two amendments: line 44 changed to “monitored for up to two years” and line 114–115 amended to state that LCIP funded the Riverwalk and does not allow bikes on any of its conservation properties. The March 12 special meeting minutes were approved, with two members abstaining (Alex Walzik, Philip Fitonitas) because they were not present. - Invoice Approval: The commission approved an invoice from Stantec for $6,065.75 for engineering services related to the Heads Pond trail access design. Public Comments & Testimony - Abutters at 325 Hackett Hill Road: Earlier meetings included abutters who spoke about flooding, tree death, and property damage caused by unauthorized land alterations. Their concerns were acknowledged but considered private civil matters. - Public Meeting on Quimby Mountain: A public meeting was held with Moosewood Ecological; abutters attended and voiced objections to any trail development. Their concerns were noted and will be addressed through direct conversations facilitated by the town administrator. Discussion Items - 325 Hackett Hill Road – Wetland Violation Update: Code Enforcement Officer Dana Pendergast and Damon Burt (Fraggle Rock Environmental) presented the history of the violation. The owner constructed large berms, filled wetlands, and blocked a stream without permits, causing flooding and damage. DES approved a restoration plan (June 12, 2025) requiring removal of fill and installation of a wetland crossing with three 24-inch culverts. The culverts need to be lowered by approximately six inches. A drainage study is pending as requested by the Zoning Board. The commission discussed the lack of a local fine ordinance and the need for regular monitoring. A motion to send a letter to the Zoning Board stating the commission reviewed the crossing plan and concurs with DES was passed 5–2. - Floating Dock for Manchester Rowing Alliance: Alden Bochman (Keeland Enterprises) requested commission support for a seasonal floating dock on the Merrimack River at Egos Drive. The dock (60' x 4' with a 24' gangway) would be accessed via a paved railroad crossing. The commission voted unanimously to support the application, which would expedite the state permit from 25 days to 10 days. - Access for All Trail Project: The commission approved a bid from Advanced Excavating and Paving LLC for $50,390 to construct a trail ramp, paved parking spaces, and signage. Funding will come from a $20,000 Kiwanis grant and the conservation commission reserve fund. The project will go to the Town Council on April 22. - Quimby Mountain Property Survey: The commission approved a contract with McClure Engineering for $6,650 to survey and blaze the northern property boundary (abutting Quimby Mountain Development). The survey includes monument installation and both axe and paint blazes. - Quimby Mountain Stewardship Plan: After a public meeting with Moosewood Ecological, the commission debated whether to remove references to a trail to the summit from the plan because of abutter property line disputes. An amendment to remove those details was not seconded. The plan was approved as presented (5 in favor, 0 opposed, 2 abstentions). The commission will seek direct discussions with abutters. - Other Business: The commission discussed the Student Conservation Commission’s potential work on Quimby Mountain trails (August timeframe), planned brush cutting along the Riverwalk trail, and the upcoming Beautify Hooksett Day on April 16. Members were encouraged to volunteer for projects to distribute workload. Key Outcomes - Prior meeting minutes approved with amendments. - Consent agenda approved (Stantec invoice). - Motion to send letter to Zoning Board regarding wetland crossing at 325 Hackett Hill Road passed 5–2. - Motion to support Manchester Rowing Alliance floating dock passed unanimously. - Motion to award trail construction bid to Advanced Excavating and Paving ($50,390) passed. - Motion to award survey contract to McClure Engineering ($6,650) passed. - Motion to approve Quimby Mountain stewardship plan as presented passed 5–0–2. - Next steps: Continue monitoring 325 Hackett Hill Road; engage with abutters on Quimby Mountain; submit the Quimby stewardship plan to Town Council; and finalize Beautify Hooksett Day participation.