Public Meetings - Hooksett, New Hampshire

The Hooksett Planning Board met on Monday, April 6, 2026, at 7:00 PM (presumed) to discuss a town council goals update, two public hearings, a flood insurance rate map amendment, and other business. The meeting included extensive deliberation on a parking waiver for a Jersey Mike's at 1090 Hooksett Road and a multi-phase mixed-use development at 2 College Park Drive. Key decisions included continuation of the parking waiver, conditional approval of the College Park site plan, and adoption of the flood map update. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The board unanimously approved the minutes from the March 16, 2026 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered testimony during the public hearing segments. Discussion Items - Town Council Goals Update: Town Administrator Andre Guerin presented two long-term goals: wellhead protection and conservation easement requests for large-scale developments. Discussion involved identifying subcommittees, coordinating with water precincts (Mike Hydorn, Hooksett Village Water Precinct), and integrating efforts with the master plan. The board agreed to form a subcommittee to address immediate wellhead protection (2- to 5-year concern) and future water sources. - Code Enforcement and Tracking: Guerin encouraged board members to report specific site plan deficiencies to the code enforcement officer. Discussion focused on tracking approved projects, particularly 400 Technology Drive (temporary structures) and Hackett Hill Road (unauthorized land alteration). The board noted the existing tracking spreadsheet and agreed to improve follow-up procedures. - 1090 Hooksett Road – Parking Waiver (Bonka LLC): The applicant requested a waiver to reduce required parking from 59 to 42 spaces to accommodate a Jersey Mike's restaurant. The applicant argued that Dunkin' Donuts (operated by the same owner) and Jersey Mike's have minimal overlapping peak hours. Board members raised concerns about parking enforcement, pedestrian safety (curb jumping by drivers), delivery scheduling, and the potential for future tenants to require further waivers. The board voted to continue the hearing to April 20, 2026, for additional information: a solution to the curb-jumping issue, consideration of off-site employee parking, and delivery time coordination. - 2 College Park Drive – Phases 2 & 3 (Chelmsford Hooksett Properties LLC): The applicant presented revised plans addressing earlier comments on fire access, landscaping, and waivers. Key discussion points included the height and massing of the 80-unit residential building (367 feet long, 56 feet high), fire lane requirements (20-foot width, 3-sided access vs. 2-sided requested by some board members), sidewalk connectivity to College Park Drive, and landscaping tie-ins with the existing Cigna building. The board approved the plan with conditions (see Key Outcomes). - Flood Insurance Rate Map Update: A brief public hearing was held to amend Part 1, Section 13 of the development regulations to update the reference date of the Merrimack County flood insurance rate maps from 2010 to January 23, 2026. The motion passed with one opposed (Robert Duhaim). Key Outcomes - 1090 Hooksett Road Waiver: Continued to April 20, 2026, with specific requests for addressing curb jumping, off-site parking options, and delivery scheduling. - College Park Drive Approval: The board approved the mixed-use site plan (Chelmsford Hooksett Properties LLC) with the following conditions: - Waiver from Development Regulations Part 3, Section 7.3 (timing of approvals) – approved 4-3. - Waiver from Part 3, Section 3.19 (multifamily amenities and architectural criteria) – approved 4-3. - Findings of Fact (conditions 1-7) – approved 5-2 (Scarpetti abstained). - Impact fees of $423,850.32 (traffic, public safety, parks, recreation, schools) – approved (majority vote). - Additional conditions: (1) Sidewalks along existing driveways to College Park Drive; (2) Foundation plantings on new commercial buildings; (3) Landscaping enhancements: five focal points with 20-foot berms, evergreen trees (minimum 6 feet starting height), and 3-5 shrubs per location (replacing some maples with evergreens, adding evergreens elsewhere). All conditions must be satisfied before certificate of occupancy. - Flood Map Update: Adopted by vote (one opposed). - Other: Mike Summers nominated as the board's representative to the Southern New Hampshire Planning Commission (approved). The board also discussed comments on a Manchester subdivision (48 homes) – staff to send letter referencing prior traffic concerns.

The Hooksett Recycling and Transfer Advisory Committee met on March 31, 2026, at approximately 11:45 AM. Chair Turk called the meeting to order with attendance from members Victor Barum, Jeff Nyon, Alex Walzik, Sean Dumont, and Ray Barney. John Geotas was absent. The committee approved the minutes from November 25, 2025, and received a comprehensive update from Sean Dumont on operations, finances, recycling markets, equipment, staffing, and facilities. Discussion Items - Material & Financial Summary (November-December 2025): Sean Dumont presented a comparison to the prior year, noting that Saturday operations brought in less revenue over the same seven-month period. Monthly revenue fluctuated from $15,000 down to $4,000 depending on weather. - Tipping Fees and Surcharges: Current tipping fee is $98.10 per ton, rising to $103 per ton on July 1, 2026. An environmental surcharge of $3.50 per ton is applied but reimbursed quarterly. The committee discussed the administrative burden of submitting reimbursement paperwork and expressed a preference for an exempt key for municipalities. - Disposal Rates: Furniture disposal is $100.94 per ton plus the $3.50 surcharge; demolition materials are $119 per ton. North Coast Electronics charges per pound: flat screens $0.20, computers/laptops $0.18, printers/copiers $0.14, fluorescent bulbs $0.07 per foot. - Battery and Vape Disposal: Lithium batteries pose a fire hazard; staff manually separate seven types and use a special smothering material. One incident occurred where a bucket of batteries was smoking on a Monday morning. Vape pens with tobacco are not accepted due to lack of state guidance; weed pens are accepted if the tobacco cartridge is removed. - Recycling Market Updates: Cardboard prices decreased from $45-50/ton to $40/ton. Metal recycling switched to a new contractor (Windfield of Lawrence) at $140/ton with no freight fee, which is more profitable than the previous arrangement. Glass remains steady at $50/ton. Plastic (mixed 1-7) brings only $0.002 per pound; a tractor-trailer load of 38 bales earned $80 but cost $200 in baling wire. Separating only 1 plastic (milk jugs) could yield $1 per pound, but storage space is insufficient. - Equipment Sales: The old international trash truck sold for $23,000, and the 1990 bailer sold for $4,800 (scrap value was $600). Proceeds go to the special revenue fund. - New Bailer: A new bailer was received and is working well after a learning curve. It allows one-person operation and automatically ejects finished bales. A $5,000 grant from New Hampshire Recycles was received. - Building Project: The proposed new building did not pass in a vote, which Sean Dumont attributed to insufficient information dissemination and misinformation from some town councilors. The engineered estimate was $1.3 million, but the committee hoped for around $600,000. Alternatives such as modular construction are being considered. The building would have provided a staff lunchroom and better oversight of the facility. - Totes (Trash Barrels): The committee ordered 150 new barrels at $72 each including shipping ($7,800 for barrels, $3,000 shipping). Residents are charged $85 if barrels are damaged. Barrels carry a 12-year warranty, and staff will now use that warranty for replacements. - Staffing: The facility is fully staffed for the first time in a long while. New hires include heavy equipment operator Bob Fratis and trash truck driver Nick Danati. - Solar Project: After financing issues that increased connection fees from $30,000 to $600,000, the solar project is back on track. All permits have been approved; construction is expected to begin in early spring (within the next month) pending fire department permitting. - Mowing Equipment: A remote-controlled hybrid mower costing $40,000 was demonstrated. It can handle steep slopes and areas under solar panels. The committee is considering sharing the cost with other towns like Allenstown or Pembroke. - Committee Membership: The committee needs one more full member and two alternates to meet its composition of five full members and two alternates. The issue will be raised at the next town council meeting. Key Outcomes - Approved the minutes of November 25, 2025. - No motions were made on action items; the meeting was primarily informational and discussion-based. - The committee will pursue outreach for new members and consider modular building options. - The meeting adjourned at 7:18 PM.

The Hooksett Town Council held its regularly scheduled meeting on March 25, 2026, at 6:03 PM. The agenda included a special recognition, a legal discussion regarding meeting procedures, updates from the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee and Old Home Day Committee, the Town Administrator's report, consent agenda items, goal review, and several bid acceptances. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter non-public session to discuss the police chief contract. Special Recognition - The Council recognized Kathy Lawrence, a longtime town employee retiring after ten years of service (2016–2026). Council members praised her dedication and presented her with a key to the town. Legal Discussion with Town Counsel Matt Surge - Councilor Smith raised allegations regarding illegal meetings held before the regular 6:00 PM start time, referencing 12 specific meeting dates and 17 additional unlisted meetings. He argued these constituted improper "council mandaring" (loading the deck on attendance). - Town Attorney Matt Surge clarified that non-meetings (e.g., with legal counsel) and non-public sessions under RSA 91-A are permissible before 6:00 PM. He emphasized that special meetings require 24-hour written notice per charter rules, but he lacked data on whether notice was given for the listed meetings. He noted that the charter does not specify a start time for regular meetings (only the rules of procedure do) and that there is no legal consequence for violating the council's own procedural rules. - Councilor Smith demanded reconciliation of all dates, stating he had invested 20 hours into the issue and wanted a determination of legality or illegality, with potential consequences including a public apology or legal action in Superior Court. - Councilor Lapierre and Vice Chair Sullivan suggested scheduling a separate training session with the attorney to address all procedural questions, which Surge offered free of charge. The Council agreed to set up that session. - Councilor Duhame questioned whether the council could lawfully have non-meetings with a future councilor present; Surge replied that only sworn council members are clients, so a future member could not attend but notes could be shared. Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee Update (Andy Janice) - Reported on various park improvements: basketball backboard repairs at Fraser Park, new volleyball nets, a memorial at Veterans Park to be installed April 11, a pavilion project at Peterbrook, and correction of errors on the Alfred J. Lambert storyboard sign. - Requested permission to add a plaque at Denati Park Bridge thanking the Macy/Mercier family for donations; the Council asked for confirmation from the family and a formal proposal. Old Home Day Update (Carrie Hyde, Chairperson) - Old Home Day set for Saturday, September 19, 2026, with the theme "250 Years of Hometown Strength, 250 Years of American Spirit" in honor of the nation's 250th anniversary. - Expanded to include Lambert's Park, with two school bus shuttles and the Heritage Trolley. Vendors will receive placement maps three days in advance to streamline check-in. Over 50 vendors already registered. - Councilor LaLiberty thanked Hyde for her 15 years of leadership and noted the free nature of activities (bounce houses, entertainment, no entrance fee). - Councilor Duhame asked about budget: Hyde estimated the event costs $15,000–$20,000 (excluding town-provided porta-potties, tents, staff), funded by vendor fees ($5,000), sponsors, and town support. The town provided no funding in 2025. Town Administrator's Report (Andre Garron) - New hire: Brian Coyle as firefighter/EMT, start date April 13. - Route 3A projects: Hackett Hill/Main Street project moved to 2028; White Hall Road project moved to 2029–2033. Both remain in the 10-year plan. - Health Trust: Discussed Senate Bill 661 and House Bill 1491; Council voted to support HB 1491 to preserve the non-assessed risk pool. - Cell tower: Exploration for a tower to address a dead zone on Londonderry Turnpike; Garron contacted Vertex Towers and identified a potential property owner willing to discuss. - Assessor and Town Engineer positions: Only one application received for assessor, but candidate lacked required licenses. Hiring challenges persist. - Capital Improvements Program: Seeking a council volunteer for the CIP committee (term April–June). Consent Calendar - Grant acceptance: $5,000 from NH the Beautiful Recycles Program for DPW recycling. Approved unanimously. - Donation acceptance: $2,000 from Teamsters Local 633 to the Police Department RAD program. Approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Communication goals: Town forums increased voter turnout. A parcel at Legends Drive and Route 3 donated by Anki (subsidiary of Manchester Sand and Gravel) for potential message board; deed review will come to next meeting. - Cygna building development: Phase 1 (conversion to 81 apartments) approved; phases 2 and 3 (commercial out parcels) under review by Planning Board. Councilors expressed concerns about facade aesthetics and pedestrian connectivity; Town Administrator agreed to have Planning Director Grant McGregor provide clarification. - Water/wastewater: Garron met with DES regarding PFOS in the Farm Road/Auburn Road area; a well testing program and reimbursement up to $5,000 for treatment systems are available. - Trail system: Conservation Commission interested in connecting to Bow and Pembroke trails, and the Granite State Rail Trail. Key Outcomes - Road striping bid: Awarded to Pro Finish Lines Co. for $33,328.99; funded from FY25–26 budget. Roll call vote passed 6-1 (Councilor Duhame opposed). - HVAC/plumbing support bid: Awarded to Northern Peabody LLC for a two-year contract. Unanimous. - Electrical support bid: Awarded to Denisco Electric, with Ian Cody as backup, with option to terminate if work unsatisfactory. Unanimous. - MS-232 report: Approved appropriations totaling $26,241,740, reflecting default budget and approved warrant articles. Estimated tax impact: 57-cent increase (13.3% above current rate). Unanimous roll call. - Minutes of March 11, 2026: Approved with a minor correction (removal of exclamation point). Unanimous. - Non-public session: Council voted 7-0 to enter non-public session under RSA 91-A:3 II (a) and (b) to discuss the police chief contract.

The Hooksett Zoning Board of Adjustment met on March 24, 2026, to continue a public hearing on a special exception request (Z25-23) for a wetland crossing at 325 Hackett Hill Road, owned by Martin Bernard. The board also handled administrative items and heard extensive public testimony from abutters about property damage from previous unpermitted activity. After discussion, the board voted to order an independent drainage study and continued both the special exception and a related variance application (Z25-24) to May 12, 2026. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were addressed; the board opted to postpone approval of previous meeting minutes to the next session. Public Comments & Testimony - Anne Maurice Scott (323 Hackett Hill) – Direct abutter. Expressed concerns about trust due to a prior 2007 disturbance; worried about ongoing mitigation after DES's two-year period, encroachment of berms on her land, dead trees, and inability to use her property for hunting and recreation. Asked for recourse to have brush/debris cleared. - Roger Bellisle (274 Hackett Hill, also owns 319 Hackett Hill) – Stated he did not create new roads; the area was historically quarried and used for timber staging. Reported dead trees on his property (about an acre) and water ponding in quarry holes, but said water does not run off his property. Noted prior flooding from the subject property caused tree damage. - Harold Murray (311 Hackett Hill) – Lived there 93 years. Reported severe water runoff from the subject property that washed gravel into his driveway, created ice, and required town intervention. Opposed any plan that does not address where water will ultimately go. - Doris Manning (317 Hackett Hill) – Submitted photos of unprecedented flooding in her front yard, which created ice dams and forced town to remove a culvert cover. Water entered her basement. Noted that a neighbor (Roger) spent his own money to dig a trench to mitigate flooding. Said the property owner built without permits and caused neighborhood harm. - Claire Blyle (274 Hackett Hill) – Former zoning board employee. Stressed that laws are made to be obeyed; the owner's actions were wrong and abused neighbors. - Michael Manning (317 Hackett Hill) – Added that the owner's representatives claimed they spent money fixing a problem they created; sought information on potential punitive damages or town cost recovery for road repairs. Expressed no sympathy for the applicant. Discussion Items - Special Exception Z25-23 (Wetland Crossing) – Attorney Luke Krauss and wetland scientist Damon Burt presented. They detailed the history: an NH DES wetland restoration plan approved June 2025, a DES wetland permit (file 2025-02098) issued February 20, 2026 for a 3,240 sq. ft. crossing with three 24-inch HDPE culverts. The crossing is needed to access the rear four acres of the seven-acre parcel. They argued the crossing is the least impacting option and DES concurred. - Board Questions & Concerns – Members probed the timeline (restoration started without town approval), the adequacy of the culvert design, impact on neighboring properties, and the condition of remaining berms. Roger Duhain and Ann Stelmack raised concerns about water management, impervious surfaces (existing building and gravel areas), lack of drainage calculations, and the need for the special exception to meet eight additional criteria under Article 18E. The board noted that while DES has jurisdiction over wetlands, the town must ensure no adverse effect on neighbors. - Letters from Planning Board and Conservation Commission – A planning board memo dated February 4, 2026, stated the mitigation plan is sufficient for granting a special exception. A conservation commission letter dated February 10, 2026 expressed concerns about ecological impacts and requested involvement; the board interpreted this as not constituting the written approval required by ordinance. - Order for Independent Drainage Study – After extensive debate, the board voted unanimously (5-0) to request a drainage study for 325 Hackett Hill to understand water dispersion from the property, including the effect of existing berms. The study will be conducted by an independent engineer and reviewed by the town's engineer. - Continuation of Both Applications – The board continued Z25-23 (special exception) and Z25-24 (variance from Article 18E for wetland buffer) to May 12, 2026, to allow time for the drainage study and for the applicant to obtain written approval from the Conservation Commission. Key Outcomes - Motion to Order Drainage Study – Passed unanimously (5-0). The study will analyze water flow on the parcel, including berm impacts. - Continuation of Z25-23 – Continued to May 12, 2026. - Continuation of Z25-24 – Continued to May 12, 2026 (not yet opened for public hearing). - Administrative Note – Board discussed upcoming reappointments (several members' terms end in June) and agreed to follow up with the town administrator. - Adjournment – Meeting adjourned after approximately 9:00 PM.

This meeting brought together members of the Heritage Commission and Parks and Recreation advisory board to review and finalize historical storyboards and QR codes for Hooksett parks. The discussion focused on corrections to the Alfred J. Lambert Riverside Park board, the Mill Era storyboard, and the pre-European civilization board, as well as procedural disagreements over research responsibilities and review timelines. Discussion Items - Alfred J. Lambert Riverside Park storyboard: The heritage commission agreed to corrections to the first panel, including removing the word "history" from the title and changing "AJ Lambert" to "Alpha J Lambert." A member noted that the phrase "History of Alpha J. Lambert Riverside Park" would be preferred, but accepted that the other two signs would remain unchanged. A proof of the corrected board is to be sent to Parks and Rec for verification. - Mill Era storyboard and QR code: Nine corrections were identified for the QR code, including updating the name of the falls from "Anna Hooks and Falls" to "Hooks at Falls" to match the sign, and clarifying that the current dam is referred to as "Patriot Power" rather than "Hooksett Hydro Dam." The heritage commission agreed to these corrections and will send the proof. - Pre-European civilization board: The heritage commission had not yet reviewed this board. A member raised concerns about the phrase "called it home" in reference to Native Americans, arguing that archaeological surveys and historical records indicate only seasonal encampments, not permanent settlement. Another member countered that the New Hampshire Department of Historical Resources' report suggests Native Americans likely resided in the area, and that the definition of "home" in the 18th century may have been fluid. The commission acknowledged the disagreement but did not resolve it. - Review process: The Parks and Rec advisory board had not reviewed the pre-European civilization board as agreed at the previous meeting. The Heritage Commission stated that research is their responsibility, not Parks and Rec's. Parks and Rec will review the corrections at their April 21st meeting, and the Heritage Commission will meet again on April 27th to finalize. Key Outcomes - The Heritage Commission will send proofs of the corrected Lambert Park and Mill Era storyboards to Parks and Rec for review. - Parks and Rec advisory board will discuss the corrections at their April 21st meeting and provide feedback. - The next joint meeting is scheduled for April 27, 2026, at 4:30 PM to finalize all storyboards and QR codes. - The pre-European civilization board remains under review; the Heritage Commission will research the Native American terminology further.

The Hooksett Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC) met on March 18, 2026, to review the recent TIF bond vote (which failed by 1%), analyze community feedback, and develop a strategy for the next ballot. Members discussed traffic concerns, zoning changes, and potential development projects, including plans to engage property owners and improve inter-board communication. Discussion Items - TIF Bond Vote Recap: The TIF bond failed to achieve the required three-fifths majority, losing by approximately 1% (59% voted in favor). Chair Anthony Poole noted the improvement from a 4% deficit in the prior year. A poll by Poole (30 respondents) found 18 people opposed growth at Exit 10 and 12 did not understand TIF. A separate open-ended survey by Jesse Tringelli received 21 responses, with common themes: traffic on Route 3A, enough development already, and concerns about big corporations paying their own sewer costs. - Traffic Concerns: Multiple members emphasized that traffic is the primary community objection. The town has a 10-year plan for Hackett Hill Road/Route 3A intersection improvements (design in 2028, cost rose from $4.4M to $11.8M). The state is contributing 80-90% for that project. For Route 3A, the DOT is fully funding the Alice Avenue to Whitehall Road project. Members discussed whether to ask the state to add Route 3A to the 10-year plan. There was debate about whether a traffic study is needed; some argued the existing data is sufficient. - Zoning and Development Type: Members suggested modifying the zoning in the TIF district (MS-3) to limit warehouses and car dealerships, responding to voter concerns. The recent ballot included zoning changes that passed by simple majority. The committee wants to emphasize that TIF enables sewer, which could attract restaurants and mixed-use development rather than just industrial. - Current TIF Fund Balance: Approximately $2.4 million remains in the TIF district. There was discussion about using some funds to extend sewer from the west side of the river to the east side, even if the full bond did not pass, to demonstrate progress. - Planning Board Updates (from Alden Boschman): - The Signature (formerly Cigna) project: first phase underway; second and third phases expected for April planning board approval; overall 400+ units. - Hedge Pond project: 50-55 homes vested. - Over-55 development off Thames: still pending. - GE investing $12 million in its facility (inside work only), which supports 700 jobs with average payroll of $1,753/week. - Marman considering a 255,000 sq ft expansion, potentially adding 200 jobs and $400,000 in taxes. - The Tebow site (old Ridgeside Plaza) has a large developer circling; the site is already approved for 500,000 sq ft distribution (potential $1M+ tax revenue). - Catholic Charities is back in town for a multi-use development near the library. - Jersey Mike's proposed at a corner may face parking shortages; code enforcement is involved. - Inter-Board Communication: Jesse Tringelli reported that Planning Board member Jared Williams is supportive of TIF and wants better communication between boards. The committee agreed to meet with planning, ZBA, conservation, and council to align on development goals. Council members have requested quarterly meetings with EDAC. - Toll at Exit 11: Several members argued that removing the toll at Exit 11 would stimulate development and reduce traffic on Route 3A. They suggested engaging state legislators and studying how Merrimack and Bedford eliminated tolls. Key Outcomes - Strategy for Next TIF Vote: The committee will start messaging immediately, not wait until election season. Plans include: creating a simple whiteboard video explaining TIF, holding multiple informational meetings (fall and spring), and framing the message as “a plan to lower taxes” rather than just a TIF explanation. - Zoning Review: The committee will examine the MS-3 zoning at Exit 10 to see if restrictions on warehouses, auto dealers, and storage can be tightened, building on the recent ballot measures. - Property Owner Engagement: Invite major landowners (Target/Cole’s plaza owner, GE, Shooters, Bass Pro, etc.) to discuss development plans and demonstrate TIF’s potential. - Traffic Communication: Use the existing 10-year plan and DOT projects to show traffic improvements are coming. Consider inviting DOT representatives to explain plans. - Immediate TIF Action: Explore using the $2.4 million TIF balance to begin sewer work across the river, even without the bond, to show tangible progress. - Inter-Board Cooperation: Chair Anthony Poole will meet with Planning Board member Jared Williams to improve communication; EDAC will also schedule joint meetings with other boards. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned by motion and second.

This meeting of the Hooksett Planning Board covered several agenda items, including a routine approval of minutes, a one-year extension for a condominium subdivision, a public hearing for a major mixed-use development (continued to April 6), and approval of an amended phasing plan for a commercial redevelopment. The board also received updates on other projects and discussed broader planning initiatives. Consent Calendar - Minutes from March 2, 2026: Unanimously approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Granite Woods Extension: Kevin Clark, resident of 87 Hackett Hill Road, expressed concern about a previously discussed back entrance near his property. He noted that two years ago the board had assured him that access would never be used. The board confirmed that the back entrance remained off the table. Discussion Items - Granite Woods – One-Year Extension of Conditional Approval: The applicant, represented by Attorney Cronin, requested a one-year extension (from March 17, 2025) for a land condominium subdivision plan (Map 17, Lot 7, off Hackett Hill Road). The applicant cited extenuating circumstances: changing capital markets and difficulty securing a user. Discussion clarified that this extension was for the residential condo plan only, separate from another industrial project. The board found the extension reasonable and not caused by applicant delay. The public hearing was opened and closed. The board voted on findings of fact and then approved the extension to March 17, 2027, with conditions unchanged. (Vote: 4-1, with one recusal noted? Actually the vote seemed unanimous but there was one 'no' initially? The transcript shows a roll call with 4 ayes and 1 nay? Actually it says "Aye. Aye. Opposed. Okay." then later they read time limits. So it passed.) - College Park Drive – Site Plan for Phases 2 & 3 (Mixed-Use Development): This was a public hearing for a site plan proposing two commercial buildings (8,000 sq ft multi-tenant and 3,000 sq ft pad) and an 80-unit multifamily building. The applicant (Brady Sullivan, represented by Attorney Cronin, engineers, and architects) presented the plan. Extensive discussion covered architecture, landscaping, traffic impact, and two waiver requests. The board raised concerns about the commercial building's visibility, need for better tie-in to existing buildings, and pedestrian connectivity. The traffic consultant presented a phased approach to signal retiming. The board decided to continue the hearing to April 6, 2026, to allow the applicant to address waiver specifics, landscaping, and architectural refinements. (Vote to continue: unanimous). - Distribution Oasis LLC – Amended Phasing Plan (Savoy Road): The applicant requested modification of an approved phasing plan for a commercial redevelopment to split Phase 1 into Phase 1A (Buildings B & C) and Phase 1B (Building A), allowing occupancy of completed buildings while finishing Building A. No design changes. The board also approved extending time limits for all phases by one year and added a condition that all automotive repair must be done inside. (Vote: unanimous). - Planner Updates: Grant provided updates on other projects: Jersey Mike's at 1090 Hooksett Road seeking a parking waiver (short by a few spaces, board expressed concerns about impact), 325 Hackett Hill Road pending ZBA, and other occupancy reviews. The board also discussed the fiscal impact analysis for Heads Pond and potential trail connectivity, with a desire to link conservation areas. Key Outcomes - Granite Woods Extension: Approved (4-1? Vote recorded as 4 ayes, 1 nay? But later roll call showed 4 ayes and 1 no? Actually the transcript says "All those in favor? Aye. Aye. Opposed? No." So it passed with one opposition.) - College Park Drive: Public hearing continued to April 6, 2026, with direction to address waivers, landscaping, and architecture. - Distribution Oasis: Approved, including amended phasing plan, one-year time extensions for all phases, and condition prohibiting outdoor auto repair. - Conservation/Trails Discussion: The board acknowledged efforts to connect trails but noted challenges with easements and existing restrictions.

The Hooksett Highway Safety Committee met on March 13, 2026, at 14:30 UTC. No agenda or minutes were available with the source materials, so this summary relies on the recorded discussion. The committee heard from New Hampshire DOT staff, reviewed traffic-control and trucking enforcement proposals, and set next steps. Consent Calendar - The committee approved the minutes of the December 12, 2025 meeting by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Vincent Limbo of 56 Main Street requested a four-way stop at Main Street, Grant Drive, and the Donati parking lot. He said it would slow Main Street traffic, help pedestrians cross to the park, encourage use of College Park Drive, assist vehicles and school buses exiting Grant Drive, and discourage trucks; he said he could not think of any drawbacks. - Limbo also said trucks continue to use Main Street despite the no-through-trucking ordinance, that GPS services direct drivers there, and that he fears for mail delivery and pedestrian safety. He asked whether higher town-ordinance fines would better cover enforcement costs than RSA tickets. Discussion Items - Town engineer vacancy: The committee noted there is no town engineer and no applications for the position; the previous chair had been the town engineer. Members voted to wait before appointing a new chair and to revisit at the next meeting. - DOT guest discussion on Whitehall Road/Londonderry Turnpike: State traffic engineer Lee Baronis, safety section project manager Corey Spedalunis, and District 5 engineer Richard Wadwanski said no project is scheduled for that intersection. They acknowledged the signal is old, pedestrian facilities are lacking, and the area has development-related walking demand. The pedestrian crash was described as a major injury. They suggested working through the Southern New Hampshire Planning Commission, a road safety audit, the 10-year plan, and safety/LPA grant programs. On wider shoulders, they said widening may require full reconstruction and can encourage higher speeds. - Stop sign and street-light criteria: The committee reviewed draft guidelines based on the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. Members agreed to add estimated street-light costs to the criteria, remove the word 'optional' from the requested-action field on the request form, and update the form with simple bullet-point criteria. Andre noted past conversions of 409 street lights in Hooksett and 4,956 in Salem, supporting caution about adding new lights. - Farmer Road stop sign request: The committee voted not to approve a stop sign on Farmer Road after determining the criteria were not met; Chief Sergeant cited a speed study showing the highest recorded speed was 34 mph. - No-through trucking ordinance: The committee reviewed an expanded draft amending Ordinance No. 2601. Chief Sergeant explained enforcement challenges, including GPS misdirection, rotating drivers, and the inability to weigh trucks. Limbo argued local trucks still violate the ordinance and asked for stronger enforcement. The committee voted to initiate the ordinance amendment and send it to the town council for public hearing. - Opticom update: Captain Woolinski said 6-8 intersections in Hooksett have malfunctioning emergency preemption; the list has been given to administration/DOT. There is no timeline yet, and the town must cover Opticom equipment and maintenance costs. - Utility pole at Dartmouth Street and Route 3: Eversource is willing to move the pole at no cost, but the property owner objected to a proposed support 'kickstand'; highway and Eversource are exploring alternatives. - Victory Lane accessory sign: Snoo installed an accessory sign under the stop sign reading "Oncoming traffic does not stop" at Victory Lane and Donati Drive. - School drop-off/pickup backups: Councillor Smith raised congestion at school pickup/drop-off, noting busing costs around $2 million and that staff supervise carlines. He proposed a convenience fee as a deterrent, while the chief noted the schools already have free busing. The committee will research how other districts handle drop-off traffic, including a Goffstown school road restriction, and may bring a recommendation to the school board. - Winter parking ordinance: No background was found for this item; it was removed from consideration. - Meeting frequency: The committee agreed to try a 45-day meeting cycle and set the next meeting for April 24, 2026, at 9:30 AM. - Jeff Nyam attendance: A motion to remove Jeff Nyam, who had missed three meetings, was made and seconded; the motion drew at least one no vote, and the committee instead directed staff to contact Nyam and revisit if needed. - Industrial Park Drive and Route 3: The state is not acting because traffic counts do not meet signal warrants; a signal was estimated at about $10 million several years ago and possibly north of $15 million today. Police detail coverage is funded by GE and ProCon. - Route 3 and 3A projects: Route 3 widening remains in the 10-year plan, with preliminary engineering 2027-2029 and construction 2031-2033; the Route 3A Hackett Hill/Main Street project is expected in 2028. - SNHPC traffic counts: Anthony Summers of SNHPC offered speed, volume, and classification studies; the committee requested data for Main Street and Martins Ferry to support truck enforcement and safety work. - Main Street/Grant Drive/Donati four-way stop request: Limbo's request was discussed under the new stop-sign criteria. The committee decided to gather SNHPC data before making a recommendation. - Streetlight requests: The Dartmouth Street/Route 3 request was tabled until the new building's lighting is known. The Royal Oaks Drive/West Allis Avenue request was moved to the next meeting pending clarification. Key Outcomes - Approved December 12, 2025 minutes. - Voted to wait before appointing a new chair. - Voted not to add a Farmer Road stop sign. - Voted to advance the no-through trucking ordinance amendment to town council. - Voted to table the Dartmouth Street/Route 3 streetlight request. - Did not approve the motion to remove Jeff Nyam; directed outreach instead. - Set next meeting for April 24, 2026, at 9:30 AM. - Requested SNHPC traffic counts on Main Street and Martins Ferry. - Congratulated the police department on voter approval of all its articles.

The Conservation Commission held a public meeting on March 12, 2026, starting at 5:05 PM, to present and gather input on the draft stewardship plan for the 97.7-acre Quimby Mountain Conservation Area. The meeting featured a detailed ecological inventory by Moosewood Ecological, followed by extensive public comment from nearby property owners who raised concerns about proposed trails, parking, fire risk, and boundary issues. The plan remains a draft; final adoption will be decided by the Town Council after further revisions. Public Comments & Testimony - Jeremy Freund (resident adjoining property): Expressed two concerns: (1) the monetary value of timber harvest may not outweigh ecological damage from a "working forest" designation; (2) the proposed summit trail cuts through backyards of neighbors, and he prefers a more direct route or no summit trail, citing existing trash issues with minimal traffic. - Mark (last name not stated) (summit landowner, recently purchased): Noted that his surveyed property includes about 50% of the summit, making the trail map inaccurate. He argued that the trail would invite trespassers onto private land, and that the conservation easement requires trails to follow best practices (AMC guide), which recommend avoiding residential edges. He also stated that the summit is a unique three-owner high point (two private, one conservation), possibly unprecedented in New Hampshire, and urged the commission to conduct a formal survey before planning. - Jesse Tringali (neighbor closest to summit): Opposed the summit trail, citing extreme wind and fire risk (his house has steel beams and shakes; fire chief said his house would burn with the culvert and cistern). He emphasized that his subdivision covenants prohibit access to adjoining parcels, and that the trail would put people in his backyard, creating liability. He also noted that the town never owned the summit, so the trail is not in the master plan or easement, and asked for the summit trail to be removed from consideration. - Bob (resident at 20 Quimby Mountain Road): Supported a loop trail using existing logging roads to avoid backyards, and echoed concerns about fire risk (a small fire spread in 15–20 minutes despite fire department response). - Another neighbor (name not given): Referenced subdivision covenants that protect the peace and quiet of the neighborhood, and asked the commission to respect those covenants as neighbors. - Julie Tyson (Bearpaw Regional Greenways representative): Noted that conservation easement allows parking lot, and best management practices would be followed for wetland crossings (need DES approval). She also stated that the property is monitored yearly. - Tony McCass (likely resident): Clarified that when the plan goes to Town Council, the public can comment during council meetings. Discussion Items - Stewardship Plan Presentation: Jeff Lytleton and Stephen Lamont of Moosewood Ecological presented findings from an ecological inventory: 254 plant species, 63 bird species, 10 reptiles/amphibians, 14 mammal species (including bobcat, black bear, and coyote using camera traps), and a total of 550 species of flora and fauna. They documented 43 species of conservation concern. The property contains a 600-year-old black gum tree, a vernal pool, and several uncommon plant species (American chestnut, yellow screw stem, Cyperus sedge). The plan recommends management zones (working forest, habitat, recreation, sense of place), a parking area off Goffstown Road, and a proposed trail to the summit. - Trail and Parking Controversy: Multiple residents objected to the proposed parking area (which would require crossing a wetland) and the summit trail alignment. Concerns included: wetland disturbance requiring DES approval, trespass risks because the summit is partly on private land, fire danger due to high winds and lack of water, trash and illicit activity, and inconsistency with conservation easement language requiring trails to avoid residential edges. Some residents, including Jeremy Freund, suggested using an existing logging road as a trail that avoids backyards. - Survey and Legal Issues: The commission acknowledged they are in the process of collecting bids for a survey of the summit. The conservation easement does not explicitly prohibit a parking lot but limits disturbances to wetland. Commission member Joe Carroll noted that the trail in the plan is a recommendation; the actual trail will be designed with site-specific grades and may differ. - Fire Risk and Archaeology: Jesse Tringali raised the fire threat; the commission had previously discussed fire in minutes. Jeff Lytleton noted the plan includes measures to protect historic and cultural sites, and an archaeological study may be required (RSA 227-C9). Key Outcomes - The draft stewardship plan will be revised based on public input and then finalized. - The final plan will be presented to the Town Council, which will vote to adopt or reject it. Public comment will be allowed during that council meeting. - No formal vote was taken at this meeting; the commission accepted the public comments for consideration. - The commission committed to conducting a survey of the summit boundaries before finalizing trail plans. - The commission did not commit to removing the summit trail from the plan but acknowledged residents' legal concerns and the need to respect private property boundaries and conservation easement requirements.