Hooksett Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting - October 20, 2026

The Hooksett Parks and Recreation Commission met on October 20, 2026, at 6:10 PM. Members present included Andy, Cindy, Judy, and later Scott (representing Friends of Hooksett Athletics). New member Cindy Gagney was welcomed. The meeting covered a variety of park and recreation issues, including park signage, bench projects, field use policies, and land acquisition opportunities.

Consent Calendar

• Approval of Minutes: The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the previous month's meeting.

Discussion Items

• Macy Sign: Andy reported a delay in getting a metal sign from Nick Macy, who offered to make it but then sent a sticker template instead. The town's Ben offered to cover any costs over $200, but communication stalled. The commission discussed whether to pursue the sign more actively or let it proceed as is.
• Scout Bench Project: Andy coordinated with Jeff Scott of the scouts about building A-frame benches and additional benches for parks. Benches cost approximately $270 each. Commission discussed locations: Riverside Park, Fraser Park (where two benches need repair), and near the basketball court. They also noted benches are often moved by users.
• Gym Rental: A proposal to rent town gym space (possibly to a church) was tabled as Rob, the staff member handling it, was absent.
• Field Use by Travel Teams: Scott reported a rumor that Hooksett would charge for-profit travel teams for field use. He clarified no such policy has been discussed at the town council or commission level. Currently, leagues permit each other's use via insurance binders and in-kind trades (e.g., indoor facility access). The commission emphasized requiring insurance binders before use.
• Wood Chips for Riverside Park: Scott explored chip sources. Collins Yard charges $700/truckload. An alternative is Chipdrop.com, which can deliver for free (with donation). Scott provided this info to Rob.
• Pat's Peak Ski Program: Scott reported declining participation – last year only 6 kids, this year fewer. The program requires 10 kids minimum. He distributed flyers but faces competition from other winter sports. The program costs $160 for five weeks of lessons and all-day lift tickets. Scott expressed frustration that other nearby towns have 80–100 participants.
• Town Budget and Park Funding: Randall noted health insurance costs decreased by 3%, freeing up funds. He hopes to restore some cut park projects. He also mentioned a citizen inquiry about resurfacing the basketball court and hoops; a cost estimate is needed for potential fundraising.
• Tennis/Pickleball Court Repairs: Recent crack filling at Fraser Park was ineffective; cracks reopened. The field also has lifting. The tennis court repairs may go to a warrant article.
• Brick Fundraiser: A previous brick donation program failed after 5 years due to software compatibility issues. The commission decided not to revive it.
• Riverside Park Walkway: The stone walkway is overgrown with weeds. Commission discussed possible alternatives but no decision.
• Farmer Road Property: Andy researched an 8-acre parcel (formerly Hanley donation) with water runoff easements. It may be difficult to develop as a park due to wetland restrictions. Commission debated whether to pursue further.
• 80-Acre Parcel near Collie School: A property owner is offering 80 acres for $75,000. The school district declined. The land is landlocked by development and may sell to neighbors instead. Commission noted it could be a valuable town acquisition but no action taken.
• State Park Inspection: A state conservation officer inspected Fraser Park for annual compliance. She noted cracks and broken equipment, and mentioned federal grant money was used previously. Commission hopes to explore further federal funding.

Key Outcomes

• Macy Sign: Andy will follow up with Nick Macy or consider alternative sign options.
• Bench Project: Andy will contact Jeff Scott for a formal quote and determine specific bench numbers.
• Gym Rental: Tabled to next meeting pending Rob's input.
• Field Use: Commission advised strict enforcement of insurance binder requirements for travel teams.
• Wood Chips: Rob to be informed of Chipdrop.com option.
• Pat's Peak: Scott will continue promotion efforts.
• Basketball Court: Andy to request cost estimate from Rob for resurfacing and hoop repairs.
• Land Acquisition: No formal votes; discussion only.
• Meeting was adjourned at 6:52 PM.