Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Meeting - January 21, 2026

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board met on January 21, 2026 (the meeting was called to order at approximately 1:02 PM, though the official start time was listed as 6:00 PM). The board approved minutes, reviewed ongoing park maintenance, discussed the controversial installation of heritage plaques at Riverside Park, and received updates on a proposed volleyball court and a community track project.

Consent Calendar

• The board unanimously approved the minutes from the November 18, 2025 meeting. Motion made, seconded, and passed by voice vote.

Public Comments & Testimony

• No members of the public were present to provide input.

Discussion Items

• Old Business – Riverside and Lambert's Park Updates: Rob (DPW) reported that after snowmelt and rain, crews cut down growth at Lambert's Park, though the wood chip pile was frozen and could not be buried. Cemetery trimming and other site work were completed. The board also discussed storing cornhole boards on an A-frame closer to the pavilion to accommodate players seeking shade. New cornhole bags were made with “Hooksett DPW” markings to deter theft, and a portable set of boards and horseshoes were acquired.
• HYAA Report – Goodwin Building Flooding: Scott reported that the Goodwin Building (blue building) flooded with water that froze due to a frozen ground and thawing. This is a recurring winter issue; the board typically uses sandbags and squeegees. A French drain exists but does not fully prevent the problem. Suggestions included regrading the area to pitch water away from the building.
• New Business – Heritage Commission Plaques at Riverside Park: The board extensively reviewed the Alfred J. Lambert sign, identifying multiple errors: (1) The park name was listed as “Alpha J. Lambert Riverside Park” instead of “Alfred J. Lambert Riverside Park”; (2) A reference to “brother” should be “uncle” and “nephew”; (3) The “Parks and Rec Committee” should be the “Parks and Rec Advisory Board”; (4) The phrase “Ann Hooks and Falls” was included despite the board and council having voted against that addition. The board noted that the Heritage Commission had reneged on prior agreements to include radii and to send draft text for review. The board made a motion to approve installation of the plaques contingent on making the corrections submitted to administration. The motion passed 3-0. The board also discussed controlling QR code content through the town administration to prevent unauthorized changes.
• Fraser Park Volleyball System: Judy presented research on outdoor volleyball systems, with prices ranging from $250 to $2,500. The board favored a removable pole system under $1,000. They will look into funding from the operating budget, capital reserve, or donations. Rob will help identify a suitable location away from wet areas.
• Sam's Running Track Project: An update was provided: Sam is obtaining quotes for fencing, benches, and concrete work. She plans to solicit donations directly to the town, which will be accepted via consent agenda at council meetings. The project is moving forward but requires significant fundraising.
• Proposal for “Cars and Coffee” Event: Andy suggested a free, informal car show at a park, but other board members were not interested and noted their schedules were already full. No action was taken.

Key Outcomes

• The board passed a motion (3-0) to approve the installation of the Heritage Commission plaques at Riverside Park only if the corrections (corrected name, family relationships, committee title, removal of “Ann Hooks and Falls”) are made. The motion will be forwarded to the town moderator, Leanne.
• The board will continue to review the other two proposed signs (industrial era and indigenous people) for accuracy, with members researching local historians and sources.
• The volleyball system proposal will be further researched, with a target cost under $1,000, and funding options will be explored.
• Sam's track project will proceed with donation solicitation; the board will assist as needed.
• No action was taken on the car show idea.