Bedford Heights public meetings in 2025

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will review a request to temporarily fill a portion of an intermittent stream for a utility crossing. The body will also receive updates on the Acorn Acquisition and RTP Grant Acceptance.

• Review of Trendezza, LLC request to fill 68 square feet of intermittent stream at 54 Rundlett Hill Road
• Update on Acorn Acquisition status
• Update on RTP Grant Acceptance
• Non-public session regarding the acquisition, sale, or lease of real or personal property

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the November 25, 2025 meeting. Chair Killian appointed Erin Crowley and Diana Szumiesz as voting members for the evening. No other actions were voted on during the session.

• Approved November 25, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Erin Crowley and Diana Szumiesz as voting members for this meeting

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission will discuss the status, budget, and schedule of the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility. Members will also review a new rate structure for Community Power to determine the program's launch. The meeting includes updates on school project planning and the C-PACER program.

• Chubbuck Road Solar Facility status, bonding, and budget
• Community Power new rate structure review
• C-PACER Program information
• School projects progress and system upgrades
• Climate Pollution Reduction Grant updates

The commission approved the minutes of the November 20, 2025 meeting after correcting the date, with a vote of 4 yea, 0 nay, and 1 abstention. A motion to adjourn the December 18 meeting was also passed. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved November 20, 2025 minutes (4-0-1)
• Motion to adjourn passed

Town Council

The Bedford Heights Town Council will consider accepting a $24,800 NH Trails Bureau grant to build a viewing platform at the Pulpit Rock Conservation Area. The council will also certify a petitioned zoning amendment and discuss potential zoning changes from the Planning Board. Additional items include actions on collective bargaining agreements for the fire and police unions, awarding a fire department medical equipment contract, and reviewing 2026 budget decisions.

• Accept $24,800 NH Trails Bureau Recreational Trails Program Grant for a viewing platform at Pulpit Rock Conservation Area
• Certification of a petitioned zoning amendment
• Action on the Bedford Professional Firefighters Association (Local 3639) collective bargaining agreement
• Award of the Fire Department medical equipment contract
• Review of 2026 budget decisions and related warrant articles

The council voted 7-0 to accept a $24,800 Recreational Trails Program grant for a viewing platform at the Pulpit Rock Conservation Area and authorized the Town Manager to complete the grant agreement. They also voted 7-0 to forward a citizen‑petition with 51 signatures to amend the Historic District boundary to the Planning Board and Historic District Commission for review.

• Approved $24,800 Recreational Trails Program grant for Pulpit Rock viewing platform (7-0)
• Authorized Town Manager to finalize grant agreement (7-0)
• Forwarded historic district boundary amendment petition (51 signatures) to Planning Board (7-0)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold a public hearing to accept a $24,800 grant from the NH Trails Bureau for constructing a viewing platform at the Pulpit Rock Conservation Area.

• Public hearing for NH Trails Bureau grant ($24,800)
• Construction of viewing platform at Pulpit Rock Conservation Area

The Bedford Town Council voted to accept a $24,800 Recreational Trails Program grant to fund a viewing platform at the Pulpit Rock Conservation Area. The council also authorized the Town Manager to finalize any required grant agreements. The motion passed unanimously, 7‑0.

• Approved acceptance of $24,800 Recreational Trails Program grant for viewing platform at Pulpit Rock Conservation Area (7-0)
• Authorized Town Manager to complete required grant agreements (7-0)

BCTV-WBNH Board of Overseers

The BCTV‑WBNH Board of Overseers Subcommittee will meet on Dec. 17, 2025 to review action items related to creating the "Friends of BCTV‑WBNH" non‑profit organization. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• Review of action items regarding the formation of the "Friends of BCTV‑WBNH" non‑profit

The sub‑committee reviewed a draft of the Supporters of BCTV‑WBNH bylaws and agreed on minor changes. A motion by Bob Thomas to transfer the remaining non‑profit formation tasks to the participants and remove the task from the sub‑committee was seconded by Julio Nunez and passed unanimously. The participants scheduled their next meeting for December 30, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. at BCTV.

• Minor bylaws changes agreed; Bob Thomas to update and distribute revised copy
• Motion to transfer non‑profit formation tasks to participants passed unanimously
• Task removed from Sub‑Committee as a result of the motion
• Non‑profit participants set meeting for Dec 30, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. at BCTV

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board will hear an appeal regarding retaining walls at 16 Suzanne Drive and a variance request for a porch at 28 Westview Road. The meeting will also include the approval of minutes from November 18, 2025.

• Appeal of retaining wall decision at 16 Suzanne Drive
• Variance request for porch at 28 Westview Road
• Approval of November 18, 2025 Zoning Board minutes
• Miller and Brown applicants for wall appeal
• Andrew Vincent applicant for porch variance

The Bedford Zoning Board unanimously approved the December 16, 2025 meeting minutes. The board also voted unanimously to hold nonpublic input for the variance request on 28 Westview Road. No final decision on the variance was recorded; further deliberation is pending.

• Approved meeting minutes (All in Favor)
• Moved to nonpublic input for variance deliberation (All in Favor)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will consider three permit requests: a conditional use permit for streambank work at Manchester Country Club, a home occupation permit for a wholesale car dealership office, and a site‑plan approval for exterior changes to a 3‑unit multifamily building. The Board will also read and post the proposed 2026 zoning amendments and announce the public hearing dates of January 5 and January 12, 2026. Minutes from the December 1, 2025 meeting will be approved.

• Conditional Use Permit request for streambank stabilization at Manchester Country Club, 180 South River Road, Lot 22‑52, Zoned PZ
• Home Occupation Permit request for a wholesale car dealership office at 62 Palomino Road, Lot 11‑24‑15, Zoned GR
• Site‑Plan approval request for exterior modifications to an existing 3‑unit multifamily development at 61 Plummer Road, Lot 13‑1‑1, Zoned GR
• Reading and posting of proposed 2026 zoning amendments and announcement of public hearing dates: Jan 5 2026 and Jan 12 2026
• Approval of minutes from the December 1, 2025 meeting

The Bedford Planning Board accepted the agenda as read with a unanimous vote. The board then approved a Conditional Use Permit for Manchester Country Club, Lot 22-52, to permit stream‑buffer disturbance and restoration work, subject to post‑construction reporting and buffer‑marking conditions. The motion was seconded and carried unanimously. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Accepted agenda as read (unanimous)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Manchester Country Club, Lot 22-52 (unanimous)

Trustees of the Trust Funds

The Bedford Trustees of the Trust Funds will meet to acknowledge prior minutes, confirm no withdrawals from BCOCA funds, and review quarterly investment performance. The agenda includes a discussion on potential new candidates for the board.

• Review quarterly investment performance
• Confirm no withdrawals from BCOCA funds
• Discuss possible new candidates for Trustees

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will review updates on the Legacy Skateboard Park Project and the Riley Field Fieldhouse Project. The body will also discuss renaming Swenson South Field after Michael Bernard.

• Legacy Skateboard Park Project update
• Riley Field Fieldhouse Project
• Proposed renaming of Swenson South Field after Michael Bernard

The Parks & Recreation Commission accepted a motion to recommend that Bedford Town Council rename Swenson South field as Lt. Michael Bernard Field. No vote tally was recorded. The meeting also included updates on the Legacy Skateboard Park and Riley Fieldhouse projects, but no formal actions were taken on those items.

• Accepted motion to recommend renaming Swenson South field to Lt. Michael Bernard Field (no vote recorded)
• No formal action taken on Legacy Skateboard Park update
• No formal action taken on Riley Fieldhouse funding request

BCTV-WBNH Board of Overseers

The BCTV-WBNH Board of Overseers Subcommittee will meet to discuss the formation of a non-profit organization called “Friends of BCTV-WBNH”.

• Discussion regarding the formation of “Friends of BCTV-WBNH” Non-profit

The sub‑committee discussed creating a Friends of BCTV‑WBNH 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Bob Thomas, Dick Rawlings and Julio Nunez volunteered to serve on its board of officers, and Harry Kozlowski offered to serve as a non‑voting member. The group agreed on action steps to file for corporation status, obtain a tax ID, and open a bank account, and scheduled the next meeting for Dec 17 2025.

• Bob Thomas, Dick Rawlings, and Julio Nunez volunteered to serve on the Board of Officers (no vote recorded)
• Harry Kozlowski offered to serve as a non‑voting member (no vote recorded)
• Committee agreed to pursue filing for corporation, tax ID, and 501(c)(3) status (no vote recorded)
• Committee set next sub‑committee meeting for Dec 17 2025 at 5 p.m. (no vote recorded)

Historic District Commission

The Commission will receive a presentation on draft design guidelines from consultant Chris Skelly of Skelly Preservation Services. The body will also address the amended Historic District Ordinance and CAMP Grant programming.

• Draft Design Guidelines presentation by Chris Skelly
• Amended Historic District Ordinance
• CAMP Grant programming and dates
• Administrative approvals

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review a site‑plan request for a single‑story, 150,000‑sq‑ft commercial building at 308 South River Road, Lot 24‑98‑19, zoned PZ. It will also consider a conditional use permit and site plan for a 21‑unit cottage‑court housing development off Constitution Drive, Lot 13‑72, zoned OF. Additionally, the board will discuss draft zoning amendments for 2026.

• Site‑plan approval request for a single‑story, 150,000 sq ft commercial building at 308 South River Road, Lot 24‑98‑19 (Zoned PZ) – applicant Robert Golub and owner Bedford RLG Properties LLC
• Conditional Use Permit and site‑plan request for a 21‑unit Cottage Court Housing Development off Constitution Drive, Lot 13‑72 (Zoned OF) – applicant West Keene Street, LLC
• Discussion of 2026 Draft Zoning Amendments

The Planning Board appointed Chris Bandazian as a voting member for this meeting. The Board then unanimously approved the agenda as read. No other substantive actions were decided at this session.

• Appointed Chris Bandazian as a voting member for the meeting (by Chair)
• Approved agenda as read (all in favor)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will consider a request for a Conditional Use Permit regarding stream buffer disturbance on Chandler Brook. The body will also discuss a submittal policy, trail projects, and the Acorn acquisition.

• Conditional Use Permit request for streambank stabilization at 180 South River Road (Manchester Country Club)
• Amended Submittal Policy
• Trail Projects Work Plan
• Acorn Acquisition
• Joppa Hill CE Amendments

The commission approved the minutes from the October 28, 2025 workshop by a unanimous vote. Ms. Diana Szumiesz was appointed as a voting member for the evening. A request from Manchester Associates for a Conditional Use Permit to stabilize Chandler Brook was presented and discussed, but no recommendation or vote was recorded.

• Approved October 28, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Diana Szumiesz as voting member for this meeting
• Discussed Manchester Associates streambank stabilization request – no decision recorded

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission will review the status of the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility, covering bonding, scope, budget, and schedule. It will discuss the launch of the Community Power program, which depends on a new rate period decision expected by the end of December 2025. Additional updates include next steps for the C‑PACER program, school project progress, and several grant‑related items.

• Chubbuck Road Solar Facility – bonding, progress, scope, budget, schedule
• Community Power launch – pending new rate period decision
• C‑PACER Program – next steps
• Master Plan/Display Monitor at Transfer Station – on hold
• Grant Funding for NH Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) program – discussion

The commission voted 7‑yea to 0‑nay to approve the minutes from the October 23, 2025 meeting. A motion to adjourn the November 20, 2025 meeting was also passed. The remainder of the agenda consisted of informational updates on the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility, Community Power launch, C‑PACER program, and other projects, with no further actions taken.

• Approved October 23, 2025 minutes (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Town Council

The Bedford Heights Town Council will consider awarding a contract to purchase police vehicles and a separate bid for an ambulance. Council members will review decisions from the 2026 budget workshop and continue budget discussions, including a presentation linking the ballot box to the tax bill. A public hearing will address updates to the Rate and Fee Schedule, and the council will discuss facilities survey results.

• Award of Police vehicle purchase contract
• Award of the ambulance purchase bid
• Review of 2026 budget workshop decisions and continuation of budget discussions
• Public hearing on updates to the Rate and Fee Schedule
• Facilities Survey Results

The Bedford Town Council adopted updates to the fee schedule and Transfer Station rates (6‑0). It awarded a $147,495 contract for three police vehicles to Grappone Ford (6‑0) and a $384,609 ambulance purchase to Sugarloaf Ambulance/Rescue Vehicles (6‑0). The council also approved multiple budget line changes, including increases for council miscellaneous and recreation intern funding, and decreases for property insurance, planning donations, and fire uniform allowances.

• Approved fee schedule and Transfer Station rates changes (6-0)
• Awarded police vehicle contract to Grappone Ford for $147,495 (6-0)
• Awarded ambulance purchase to Sugarloaf Ambulance/Rescue Vehicles for $384,609 (6-0)
• Increased Town Council Miscellaneous line by $2,000 to $4,500 (4-2) [Strand, Greazzo nay]
• Increased Recreation Administrative budget by $5,000 for part‑time intern (4-2) [Bemiss, Radke nay]
• Decreased property insurance line by $14,600 (6-0)
• Decreased planning donations line by $500 (6-0)
• Increased planning budget by $5,000 for educational expense reimbursements (6-0)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is holding a public hearing to receive testimony regarding proposed updates to the Rate & Fee Schedule.

• Public hearing on Rate & Fee Schedule updates

The council approved updates to the rate and fee schedule, including raising the historic district abutter notice fee to $2, increasing the dog replacement tag fee to $1.50, making scrap metal disposal free, removing “metal” from the bulky items definition, and adding a definition for scrap metal. The motion was moved by Councilor Levesque, seconded by Councilor Greazzo, and passed unanimously with a 6‑0 vote. No other actions were taken.

• Approved fee schedule and Transfer Station Rates & Rules changes (6-0)

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment meets on November 18, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. in the Town Meeting Room. It will decide on a variance request to permanently impact 2,128 sq ft and temporarily impact 270 sq ft of wetlands for a medical office building at 265 and 269 South River Road, Zone PZ. The board will also hear an appeal concerning permitting and construction of retaining walls at 16 Suzzane Drive, Zone RA. The meeting includes routine items such as approval of October 21, 2025 minutes.

• Variance request to fill 2,128 sq ft of wetlands (permanent) and 270 sq ft (temporary) for a medical office at 265/269 South River Road, Zone PZ
• Appeal of administrative decision on retaining walls at 16 Suzzane Drive, Zone RA
• Approval of minutes from the October 21, 2025 meeting

The Bedford Zoning Board approved the minutes from the October 21, 2025 meeting with all members voting in favor. Chair Morin appointed Marc Snyder and Joe Fahey to vote on the variance request later that evening. No vote outcome was recorded for the 265 SRR LLC variance request during this meeting.

• Approved October 21, 2025 minutes (All in Favor)
• Appointed Marc Snyder and Joe Fahey to vote on the variance request

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider sign waiver requests for two businesses and a site plan for building demolition and parking expansion. The board will also discuss draft zoning amendments for 2026.

• Sign waiver request for Genesis dealership at 213 South River Road (up to 72.08 sq. ft. wall signs and 97.44 sq. ft. ground signs)
• Sign waiver request for pylon sign modifications at 26 South River Road
• Site plan approval for demolition and additional parking at 41 & 45 South River Road
• Discussion of 2026 Draft Zoning Amendments

The Planning Board voted to accept the agenda as read, with all members in favor. No other actions were voted on or decided during this meeting. The sign waiver request for the Genesis dealership was discussed but no decision was recorded.

• Accepted agenda as read (unanimous vote)

Water & Sewer Advisory Committee

The Bedford Heights Water & Sewer Advisory Committee will approve minutes from October 10, 2024 and June 12, 2025. It will discuss a proposed upgrade to the siphon station. The committee will review updates to the financial model, including the master plan, BOD and TSS updates, and flow metering plans for 2026. Finally, it will set the date for the next meeting.

• Approval of minutes – October 10, 2024 and June 12, 2025
• Siphon station upgrade plan
• Financial model update – master plan
• Financial model update – BOD and TSS
• Flow metering plan for 2026

The Water & Sewer Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the October 10, 2024 meeting by a 4‑0‑1 vote (four approvals, one abstention). It also approved the minutes from the June 12, 2025 meeting by a 3‑0‑2 vote (three approvals, two abstentions). No other actions were formally decided at this meeting.

• Approved October 10, 2024 minutes (4 approve, 0 deny, 1 abstain)
• Approved June 12, 2025 minutes (3 approve, 0 deny, 2 abstain)

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will consider a request from David Chaisson to excavate approximately 4.5 × 35 feet for a new stonewall and driveway expansion at 311 Wallace Road, Lot 20‑66. The commission will also review proposed amendments to the Historic District Ordinance and continue discussions on certificates of approval, administrative approvals, exemptions, and tree regulations. Old business includes an update on design guidelines and CAMP grant programming.

• Request for a certificate of approval to excavate ~4.5’ × 35’ for a stonewall and driveway expansion at 311 Wallace Road, Lot 20‑66
• Proposed amendments to the Historic District Ordinance
• Continued discussion of Certificates of Approval, Administrative Approvals, and Exemptions
• Continued discussion of proposed tree regulations
• Update on status of Design Guidelines (old business)

The commission voted unanimously to approve the applicant’s request to construct a dry‑stacked stone wall on the north side of the driveway at 311 Wallace Road, Lot 20‑66, with conditions to submit photos, complete the work within one year, and remove all stockpiled materials. The commission also approved amendments to the Historic District Ordinance, moving the district description into the ordinance, revising the list of activities that require a certificate of approval, and delegating procedural details to the regulations. The amendments establish a one‑year extension limit for project completion and set a penalty of $275 per day for non‑compliance as referenced in the town’s zoning ordinance.

• Approved stone wall request at 311 Wallace Rd (unanimous)
• Adopted amendment moving district description into the ordinance
• Revised ordinance to require a certificate of approval for construction, alteration, movement, or demolition
• Moved application procedure language from ordinance to regulations
• Set one‑year maximum extension for project completion
• Specified $275 per day penalty for violations per Zoning Ordinance 275.87

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will review three pending site‑plan applications: a sign‑waiver for the Genesis dealership at 213 South River Road, a 150,000‑sq‑ft commercial building at 308 South River Road, and a 3,500‑sq‑ft addition with daycare at 24 Tirrell Hill Road. The board will also approve minutes from the October meetings. No other business is listed.

• Performance Zone Sign Waiver for Genesis dealership – up to 72.08 sq ft wall signs and 97.44 sq ft ground signs at 213 South River Road, Lot 22‑28 (Zoned PZ)
• Site‑plan approval for a 150,000 sq ft commercial building with 36 loading bays and 275 parking spaces at 308 South River Road, Lot 24‑98‑19 (Zoned PZ)
• Site‑plan approval for a 3,500 sq ft addition and daycare use at Bedford Montessori School, 24 Tirrell Hill Road, Lot 1‑67 (Zoned R&A)

The Planning Board unanimously accepted the agenda as read. Two applications were postponed: TT of Willow, LLC’s performance‑zone sign waiver was moved to the November 17 meeting, and Robert Golub’s site‑plan request for 308 South River Road was moved to the December 1 meeting. No other substantive actions were recorded.

• Accepted agenda as read (unanimous vote)
• Postponed TT of Willow performance‑zone sign waiver to Nov 17
• Postponed Robert Golub site‑plan application to Dec 1

Town Council

The Bedford Heights Town Council will hold a budget workshop to discuss the upcoming fiscal year. Council members will review budget items for each department, including BCTV, Fire, Police, Planning, and others. No specific motions or approvals are listed on the agenda.

• Budget review – BCTV
• Budget review – Fire Department
• Budget review – Police Department
• Budget review – Planning Department
• Budget review – Department of Public Works (DPW)

The council voted to approve transferring funds so the police department can replace its tasers this year. The town manager funded a part‑time records clerk position for the police department but did not fund a victim‑advocate position. Other budget items, such as ambulance revenue handling and fire department staffing, were discussed but no formal decisions were recorded.

• Approved transfer of funds for police taser replacement
• Funded part‑time police records clerk
• Did not fund police victim‑advocate position

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will conduct an informal workshop to review local ordinances and conservation initiatives. No public testimony will be heard during this session.

• Review of Year 1 of Stream Protection Ordinance
• Review of the Bedford Wetland Ordinance
• Request for conservation funds for a stream survey for Riddle Brook Bridge replacement at Van Loan Preserve
• Discussion of Joppa Farm Conservation Area Holstein cow sign

The commission voted 5-0 to authorize up to $5,000 for a stream survey needed for the NH DES permit for the Riddle Brook bridge replacement. They directed staff to obtain a cost estimate for a new Holstein Cow sign at Joppа Hill Conservation Area and to gather data on wetland buffer widths and possible grant funding. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved $5,000 stream survey for Riddle Brook bridge (5-0)
• Directed staff to obtain cost estimate for new Holstein Cow sign
• Requested staff to seek data on wetland buffer width effectiveness
• Requested staff to investigate grant opportunities for wetland data
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission will discuss the status, budget, and schedule of the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility. Members will also review the CPCNH Cost Sharing Agreement and the C-PACER program presentation. The meeting includes updates on school project planning and various energy grants.

• Chubbuck Road Solar Facility status, bonding, and budget
• CPCNH Cost Sharing Agreement and Complete Service Bundle
• C-PACER Program presentation by NHBFA
• School projects progress and planning updates
• Climate Pollution Reduction Grant and NH Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) program

The commission approved the minutes from the September 25, 2025 meeting with a vote of 6 yeas, 0 nays and 2 abstentions. Members received updates on the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility, including panel delivery delays and monitoring plans. The launch of the Community Power program was placed on hold until February/March 2026, and the council took a wait‑and‑see approach to the C‑PACER financing program. No other actions were voted on.

• Approved September 25, 2025 minutes (6‑yea, 0‑nay, 2‑abstain)
• Motion to adjourn passed (motion by McLaughlin, seconded by Foote)

Town Council

The council will hold a public hearing on a petition to discontinue a portion of Rundlett Hill Road. In new business, they will receive a library annual update, discuss a possible 2026 ballot warrant to rebuild the Bedford Skateboard Park, hear a presentation on the State’s Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy and Resiliency (C‑PACER) program, review facilities survey results, and consider the Town Manager’s budget submission.

• Petition for discontinuance of a portion of Rundlett Hill Road (public hearing)
• Library annual update
• Discussion of potential 2026 ballot warrant for rebuilding Bedford Skateboard Park
• Presentation on the State’s Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy and Resiliency (C‑PACER) program
• Submission of the Town Manager’s budget

The Bedford Town Council held a roll‑call vote on whether Councilor Michael Strand could continue serving and join the meeting. All six present members voted aye, allowing him to remain on the council and participate. No other substantive actions or approvals were recorded in this meeting.

• Allowed Councilor Michael Strand to remain on council and join meeting (6‑0)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold a public hearing on October 22, 2025 at 6:30 PM in the Bedford Meeting Room. The hearing will solicit public testimony regarding the discontinuance of a portion of Rundlett Hill Road. The segment considered is about 120 feet long and is located north of the intersection of Rundlett Hill Road and Worthley Road.

• Public hearing on discontinuance of ~120‑ft segment of Rundlett Hill Road north of the Rundlett Hill and Worthley Road intersection

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will consider four variance requests. These include requests to build structures closer to wetlands or setbacks than allowed and a request to permit a daycare facility in a residential zone.

• Variance for 1,038 sq. ft. barn at 40 Barr Farm Road (45.8 ft from wetland; 50 ft required)
• Variance for 480 sq. ft. shed at 40 Barr Farm Road (38 ft from wetland; 50 ft required)
• Variance for 476 sq. ft. home addition at 28 Essex Road (20.7 ft from side setback; 25 ft required)
• Variance for daycare facility at 24 Tirrell Hill Road in R&A zone

The Board voted 5‑0 to approve the minutes from the September 16, 2025 meeting. No vote or final decision was recorded on the two variance requests for 40 Barr Farm Road; the discussion remained open.

• Approved September 16, 2025 minutes (5-0)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will consider five applications for permits and site plans. Items include a home‑occupation permit for a hair salon, a lot subdivision, a sign‑waiver for a car dealership, a time‑extension for a warehouse site plan, and a new site‑plan for a fitness facility. The board will also approve minutes from previous meetings and handle routine communications.

• Home Occupation Permit for expansion of a hair salon at 157 Nashua Road, Lot 32-19 (Zoned R&A)
• Subdivision of one residential lot into two at 61 Plummer Road, Lot 13-1-1 (Zoned GR)
• Performance Zone Sign Waiver for Genesis dealership at 213 South River Road, Lot 22-28 (up to 72.08 sq ft wall signs, 97.44 sq ft ground signs, Zoned PZ)
• Time‑extension request for a previously approved site plan for a 17,012 sq ft warehouse at 451 South River Road, Lot 36-6-1 (Zoned PZ)
• Site Plan approval for Flight House Gym, a 30,000 sq ft, two‑story fitness facility at 125 South River Road, Lot 12‑33 (Zoned PZ)

The board approved the agenda as presented, with all members voting in favor. No vote or decision was recorded for the Flight House Gym site plan or the home‑occupation permit request. Public comments were heard regarding the salon relocation request.

• Accepted agenda as read (all in favor)

BCTV-WBNH Board of Overseers

The Board will approve minutes from the April 3, 2025 meeting and discuss the "Friends of BCTV‑WBNH" group. The primary focus is a discussion of the BCTV‑WBNH 2026 Proposed Budget. Additional items include an underwriter update, the manager’s report with the WBNH radio program, and a director’s report outlining 2026 meeting dates.

• Approve minutes from the April 3, 2025 meeting
• Discuss "Friends of BCTV‑WBNH"
• Discuss BCTV‑WBNH 2026 Proposed Budget
• Underwriter Update discussion
• BCTV‑WBNH Manager’s Report & WBNH Radio Program

The Board approved the April 3, 2025 meeting minutes with all members in favor and two abstentions. They removed Kathleen Bemiss from the Friends of BCTV‑WBNH sub‑committee and added Chairman Bob Thomas, creating a new member list. A motion to adjourn was passed unanimously. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved April 3, 2025 minutes (all in favor, 2 abstentions)
• Replaced Kathleen Bemiss with Bob Thomas on Friends sub‑committee
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Town Council

The Town Council will meet to discuss new business and review reports. The primary decision item involves the approval of a cost sharing and complete service bundle from the Community Power Coalition of NH.

• Approval of Community Power Coalition of NH cost sharing & complete service bundle
• Update on the Facilities Survey

Council members discussed safety concerns at the Benchmark Human Services residential home and the town's limited authority over the state‑contracted facility. They also reviewed the Community Power Coalition of NH cost‑sharing agreement and related policies, noting that current electricity rates are higher than the default supplier and that no launch decision can be made yet. No motions were voted on, approved, denied, or tabled during the meeting.

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will hold an informal workshop on October 7, 2025. Commissioners will discuss a range of topics related to the historic district, such as the status of design guidelines, possible changes to the ordinance and regulations, tree regulations, and the district boundary. Additional items include the abutter notification fee and expanded administrative approvals. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Status of the Design Guidelines
• Potential changes to the Historic District Ordinance & Regulations
• Tree regulations
• Historic District Abutter Notification Fee
• Review of the Historic District Boundary

The Historic District Commission directed staff to keep the $25 application fee and charge $2 for abutter notifications. It limited the certificate of approval requirement to activities visible from the public way, with other activities needing only administrative approval. The commission approved creating an approved paint‑color palette, requiring a certificate for any other colors. It asked staff to draft new tree‑removal regulations covering buffering, line‑setbacks, rear‑yard removal, size criteria, and possible size increases.

• Set abutter notification fee at $2 and retain $25 application fee
• Limit certificate of approval to activities visible from the public way; other activities get administrative approval
• Instruct staff to research alternative definitions for “public view” terminology
• Approve development of an approved paint‑color palette; non‑palette colors require a certificate
• Task staff with drafting tree‑removal regulations covering buffering, line setbacks, rear‑yard removal, size criteria, and possible size increases

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider approval of a site plan for a single‑story, 150,000 sq ft commercial building with 36 loading bays and 275 parking spaces at 308 South River Road. A postponed site‑plan request for the Flight House Gym, a 30,000 sq ft fitness facility at 125 South River Road, will be noted for future consideration. The board will also hold conceptual discussions on a 12‑unit townhouse project at 9 Sunset Lane and a proposed gas station, convenience store, and carwash off South River Road. Minutes from the September 8, 2025 meeting will be approved.

• Site‑plan approval request for 150,000 sq ft commercial building at 308 South River Road, Lot 24‑98‑19, Zoned PZ
• Site‑plan request for Flight House Gym (30,000 sq ft) at 125 South River Road, Lot 12‑33, Zoned PZ (postponed to Oct 20)
• Conceptual discussion of 12‑unit townhouse development with 10% workforce rentals at 9 Sunset Lane, Lots 24‑98‑10, Zoned PZ
• Conceptual discussion of proposed gas station, convenience store, and carwash at Lot 35‑3‑1 off South River Road, Zoned PZ
• Approval of minutes from the September 8, 2025 Planning Board meeting

The Bedford Planning Board unanimously approved the agenda as read. The Board appointed Chris Bandazian, Chris Swiniarski, and Logan Johnson as voting members. The Flight House Gym site‑plan application was postponed to the October 20, 2025 meeting. No vote was taken on the Robert Golub commercial building site‑plan, which remains under review.

• Accepted agenda as read (unanimous vote)
• Appointed Chris Bandazian, Chris Swiniarski, and Logan Johnson as voting members
• Postponed Flight House Gym site‑plan to Oct 20, 2025
• Continued discussion of Robert Golub commercial building site‑plan; no decision

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will hold an informal workshop to discuss proposed amendments to the Bedford Land Development Control Regulations and the Bedford Zoning Ordinance. No public comments will be solicited, but residents may attend. The meeting will also allow board members to raise any other planning topics.

• Discussion of proposed amendments to the Bedford Land Development Control Regulations
• Discussion of proposed amendments to the Bedford Zoning Ordinance
• Open floor for any other topics or comments from board members

The Board discussed a regional impact notice for an elderly and workforce housing project, proposed changes to land development control regulations, zoning ordinance updates, and community‑engagement ideas, but no motions were adopted. The only vote was a motion to adjourn, which passed unanimously. The next Planning Board meeting is set for October 6, 2025.

• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission will review the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility project, covering bonding, progress, scope, budget, schedule, and projected breakeven. It will also examine how to demonstrate the facility's impact and benefits. The commission will discuss Community Power policies, noting the launch is on hold until the new rate period in February 2026. Additional items include updates on old business such as the transfer station display monitor and grant funding for charging infrastructure.

• Chubbuck Road Solar Facility – status, bonding, budget, schedule, impact analysis
• Community Power – review CPCNH coalition policies, launch on hold until Feb 2026
• Master Plan/Display Monitor at Transfer Station – on hold
• NH Saves program – discussion
• Grant Funding for NH Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) program

The commission approved the August 28, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0-1). It voted to recommend that the Town Council adopt the Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire cost‑sharing agreement, energy portfolio risk management, retail rates, financial reserves, and data security policies, and to appoint Town Manager Rick Sawyer as the signing representative (7-0-0). The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved August 28, 2025 minutes (5 yea, 0 nay, 1 abstain)
• Recommended Town Council adopt Community Power policies and appoint Town Manager to sign (7 yea, 0 nay, 0 abstain)
• Motion to adjourn passed

Town Council

The Bedford Heights Town Council will consider awarding contracts for voting machines, fire gear, and traffic signals, approve a sidewalk development agreement, and set 2026 meeting dates and wage ranges.

• Award of voting machines contract to VotingWorks
• Approval of sidewalk construction on Ridgewood Road
• Approval of 2026 Employee Compensation Wage Ranges
• Award of 2026 mowing and landscape maintenance contract
• Acceptance of $100 from Bedford Martial Arts Academy

The council voted 7-0 to approve the purchase and use of VotingWorks VxSuite voting machines, including seven tabulators, a laptop and a printer. The council also approved a $199,727.15 contract with Bergeron Protective Clothing to provide 55 sets of fire‑department protective gear and authorized the Town Manager to sign the agreement. Both actions were recorded as motions that passed.

• Approved VotingWorks VxSuite purchase (7-0 vote)
• Approved $199,727.15 fire gear contract (motion passed)

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Heights Conservation Commission will consider three variance applications that seek to reduce the required 50‑foot setback from a wetland for a barn, a shed, and a pool. Additional agenda items include a rules of procedure amendment, a violation update, and reports on the Joppa Hill Integrated Plant Management Plan and related CE amendments. The meeting also covers updates on prior projects, public outreach, and subcommittee reports.

• Jeremy Chad Laird – variance to build a 24’ × 42’ barn 45.8 ft from a wetland edge at 40 Barr Farm Road, Lot 2‑23‑14
• Jeremy Chad Laird – after‑the‑fact variance to build a shed 39.9 ft from a wetland edge at the same location
• Naylor Family 2024 Revocable Trust – variance to build a pool 32.2 ft from a wetland edge at 112 McAllister Road, Lot 2‑14
• Rules of Procedure Amendment
• Violation Update

The Commission approved the July 22, 2025 regular and nonpublic meeting minutes. It then unanimously voted to recommend a variance allowing a new barn 45.8 ft from a wetland and an after‑the‑fact variance for a 20 × 24 ft shed 39.9 ft from the wetland, plus a two‑foot drainage stone trench, at 40 Barr Farm Road. No other variances were decided.

• Approved July 22, 2025 regular meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved July 22, 2025 nonpublic meeting minutes (Councilor Carter abstained)
• Recommended variance for barn at 45.8 ft from wetland (unanimous)
• Recommended variance for shed at 39.9 ft from wetland (unanimous)
• Recommended two‑foot drainage stone trench with pipe (unanimous)

Trustees of the Trust Funds

The Trustees of the Trust Funds will meet to review the Carbonneau Scholarship trust dismantling directive and the status of BCOCA funds. The body will also conduct a quarterly review with investment advisors and discuss potential new candidates for Trustees.

• Review of Carbonneau Scholarship directive to dismantle the Trust after final distribution
• Confirmation of a lock on BCOCA funds and verification of no withdrawals
• Quarterly review with investment advisors
• Review of Trustee website accuracy and email address formats
• Discussion of new candidates for Trustees of the Trust Funds

The trustees approved the minutes from the March 11, 2025 meeting. They reaffirmed that no withdrawals have been made from the BCOCA funds and that the funds will not be distributed until fully reconstituted. They also confirmed the next trustees meeting for December 9, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.

• Approved March 11, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Reaffirmed policy: no BCOCA fund withdrawals until fully reconstituted
• Scheduled next meeting for Dec 9, 2025 at 10:00 am (unanimous)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will meet to consider two variance requests regarding the placement of sheds. Both applicants are seeking permission to build structures closer to property lines than current zoning ordinances allow.

• Variance request for a 16 x 10 foot shed 0.3 feet from the rear property line at 5 Galloway Lane
• Variance request for a 16 x 10 foot shed and 4 foot overhang 5.7 feet from the side property line at 66 Rundlett Hill Road

The Zoning Board approved the minutes from the August 19, 2025 meeting with a 3‑0 vote, two members abstaining. A variance application to place a 16 × 10‑foot shed at 5 Galloway Lane was presented and discussed, but the minutes contain no vote or decision on that request.

• Approved August 19, 2025 minutes (3-0)

Town Council

The Bedford Heights Town Council will discuss several credit and exemption proposals, including a Veteran’s Tax Credit and an Elderly Exemption. Council members will review the Capital Improvement Program and vehicle replacement schedules, consider zoning issues, and examine the feasibility of adding a second floor or extension to the Town Office Building. They will also consider whether to pursue land acquisition as an alternative or addition to the SR location and address the bidding process.

• Veteran’s Tax Credit proposal
• Elderly Exemption proposal
• Review of CIP/Vehicle replacement schedules and funding options
• Zoning discussion
• Feasibility study for adding a second floor/extension to the Town Office Building

The council held a retreat on September 10, 2025 to discuss possible changes to elderly exemption asset limits and to review a consultant's work on historic district guidelines. Council members asked questions and exchanged viewpoints, but no votes or official actions were taken. The meeting was informational and did not result in any approved, denied, or tabled measures.

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Bedford Parks and Recreation Commission will open the meeting and hear a Legacy Skateboard Park update presented by Dave Gilbert. Commissioners will vote to approve the minutes from the June 19, 2025 meeting. The board will set the date and location for its next meeting on December 9, 2025, and then adjourn.

• Legacy Skateboard Park update (presentation by Dave Gilbert)
• Approval of June 19, 2025 meeting minutes
• Set date and location for next meeting (December 9, 2025)

The Parks & Recreation Commission voted 3‑1 to recommend that the Town Council place a warrant article for rebuilding the Legacy Skateboard Park on the March 2026 ballot. A prior motion to simply discuss the issue before the Town Council failed 1‑3. The commission also approved a tree donation for Benedictine Park and adopted the June 19, 2025 minutes.

• Motion to discuss skate park rebuild before Town Council failed (1‑3)
• Motion to recommend skate park rebuild warrant article passed (3‑1)
• Motion to recommend acceptance of Scarlet Fire Dogwood tree donation passed (all in favor)
• Motion to approve June 19, 2025 minutes passed (3‑1, Ms. Salmon abstained)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting passed (all in favor)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board voted to accept the agenda as read, with all members in favor. Two site‑plan applications – the Robert Golub commercial building and the Flight House Gym – were postponed to the October 6, 2025 meeting at the request of the applicants. The 2026 Capital Improvement Plan was presented for comment, and no action was taken by the Board.

• Accepted agenda as read (all in favor)
• Postponed Robert Golub site‑plan to Oct 6, 2025
• Postponed Flight House Gym site‑plan to Oct 6, 2025
• No action taken on 2026 Capital Improvement Plan

Historic District Commission

The commission voted 4-0 to reorder agenda items 2c and 2d. A motion to raise the abutter mailing fee to $5 was introduced and then withdrawn. No vote was taken on the request for the Town Council to absorb the fee.

• Reordered agenda items 2c and 2d (vote 4-0)
• Motion to increase abutter mailing fee to $5 withdrawn

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission will review the status of the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility, including its budget and schedule. Members will also receive an update on Bedford Community Power, which is on hold until February 2026.

• Status of Chubbuck Road Solar Facility bonding, scope, budget, and schedule
• Update on Bedford Community Power launch status
• Progress report on school projects planning and system upgrades
• Discussion of Town Hall Energy Audit
• Grant funding for NH Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) program

The commission approved the July 24, 2025 meeting minutes by an 8‑0 vote. The launch of the community power program was placed on hold until CPCNH rates are lower than Eversource’s rates, not before March 2026. A groundbreaking ceremony was held for the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility. The next commission meeting is scheduled for September 25, 2025.

• Approved July 24, 2025 minutes (8‑0)
• Postponed community power launch until rates are lower than Eversource (no vote)
• Motion to adjourn passed (no vote recorded)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board met on August 28, 2025 for a site walk at 308 South River Road, Lot 24-98-19. Board members and the applicant’s representatives reviewed the proposed 150,000‑sq‑ft commercial building, loading bays, parking and site improvements. No formal actions, approvals, or denials were taken during the walk. The meeting concluded at 6:25 p.m.

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board met on August 19, 2025 and approved the minutes from the July 15, 2025 meeting. The motion to approve was made by Michael Reopel, seconded by Bob MacPherson, and passed unanimously with a 3‑0 vote; two members abstained. No other applications or variances were decided during this meeting.

• Approved July 15, 2025 Zoning Board minutes (3-0, two abstentions)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council held an interview on August 13, 2025 for a vacancy on the Highway Safety Committee and Southern NH Planning Commission. Candidate Ken Kash, a retired veteran, expressed willingness to serve. No votes, approvals, or other decisions were recorded in the minutes.

Town Council

The Town Council voted 5-0 to authorize the Town Manager to purchase about 70.2 acres of undeveloped land off New Boston Road for conservation. It also voted 5-0 to accept a donation of the Piccola Easement for permanent trail access and to authorize the manager to complete the paperwork. A separate motion to table the proposed updates to the town’s fee schedule was passed 6-0, delaying those changes until the next meeting.

• Approved purchase of ~70.2 acres for conservation (5-0)
• Accepted donation of Piccola Easement for trail access (5-0)
• Tabled fee schedule amendments until next meeting (6-0)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board voted to accept the agenda as read, with all members in favor. The Flight House Gym site‑plan application was postponed to the September 8 meeting at the applicant’s request. No other motions were decided at this meeting.

• Accepted agenda as read (unanimous)
• Postponed Flight House Gym site‑plan application to Sept 8 (per applicant request)

Energy Commission

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the June 26, 2025 meeting, with six votes in favor, none against, and one abstention. The meeting was then formally adjourned at 7:32 PM.

• Approved June 26, 2025 minutes (6 yea, 0 nay, 1 abstain)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Conservation Commission approved the minutes from the June 24 and May 27, 2025 meetings, with a few abstentions. It also unanimously approved Bradley Bourcier’s request to construct a kiosk at the Marston‑Dunlap Conservation Area and directed staff to determine the final location.

• Approved June 24, 2025 regular meeting minutes (Vice Chair abstained)
• Approved June 24, 2025 nonpublic meeting minutes (Vice Chair abstained)
• Approved May 27, 2025 nonpublic meeting minutes as originally presented (Councilor Bemiss abstained)
• Approved Bradley Bourcier’s kiosk project at Marston‑Dunlap Conservation Area; vote unanimous

Highway Safety Committee

The committee voted to hold off on permanent “No Parking” signs on Rundlett Hill Road and instead require St. Anselm’s College to monitor parking during events, erect temporary barriers and signs, and tow vehicles if needed. An amendment adding these enforcement measures was also approved. The motion to send a request for enforcement authority to the Town Council was noted, and the April 22, 2025 minutes were approved.

• Approved April 22, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed, Chief Fraitzl abstained)
• Approved motion to hold off permanent “No Parking” signs; all in favor
• Approved amendment requiring St. Anselm’s to monitor parking, install temporary barriers and signs, and tow vehicles if necessary; all in favor
• Noted that a motion will be sent to the Town Council to allow enforcement during certain events
• Adjourned meeting at 7:41 a.m. (all in favor)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council approved Contract #03-2025 with Allegiance Trucks for two dump trucks at $274,000 and Contract #04-2025 with H.P. Fairfield to outfit the trucks for $249,700. It also approved a payment‑in‑lieu‑of‑taxes agreement with Dartmouth Hitchcock Clinic and accepted a $2,000 donation from the Bedford Education Foundation for graduation costs. The council voted to table the proposed Winter Maintenance Memorandum of Understanding with the Bedford School District.

• Approved Contract #03-2025 with Allegiance Trucks, $274,000 total (6-0)
• Approved Contract #04-2025 with H.P. Fairfield, $249,700 total (6-0)
• Approved payment‑in‑lieu‑of‑taxes agreement with Dartmouth Hitchcock Clinic (6-0)
• Accepted $2,000 donation from Bedford Education Foundation for graduation coverage (6-0)
• Tabled Winter Maintenance MOU with Bedford School District (6-0)

Zoning Board

The Board approved the minutes from the June 17, 2025 meeting. The motion was made by Marc Snyder, seconded by Alex Kellermann, and passed with four votes in favor and one abstention (Dave Gilbert). The variance request for 90 Joppa Hill Road was presented and discussed, but no vote or decision was recorded.

• Approved June 17, 2025 Zoning Board minutes (4‑0, 1 abstention)
• Variance request for 90 Joppa Hill Road discussed, no vote taken

Planning Board

The Planning Board accepted the agenda as read with all members in favor. The site‑plan request for Flight House Gym was postponed to the August 11 meeting. A motion was made to grant a sign waiver for the Mercedes‑Benz dealership allowing 133.87 sq ft of wall signs and a 30.21 sq ft monument sign, but the minutes do not record a vote outcome. No other business was acted upon.

• Accepted agenda as read (unanimous vote)
• Postponed Flight House Gym site‑plan application to August 11 meeting
• Motion to grant sign waiver for Mercedes‑Benz dealership presented (outcome not recorded)

Planning Board

The Planning Board voted unanimously to accept the agenda as read. No old business was considered. New business included a request from Group 1 Automotive for a Performance Zone sign waiver to allow up to 133.87 sq ft of wall signs for the Mercedes‑Benz dealership at 5A East Point Drive. A motion to grant the waiver was made, but the minutes do not record the vote outcome.

• Accepted agenda as read (unanimous vote)
• Motion to grant signage waiver for Mercedes‑Benz dealership presented (vote outcome not recorded)

Energy Commission

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the May 22, 2025 meeting. The motion passed with seven votes in favor, none against, and one abstention (Carolyn Mahoney). The meeting was then adjourned by a motion of Chris Bandazian. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Approved May 22, 2025 minutes (7 yea, 0 nay, 1 abstain)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Town Council

The council heard a report from Town Clerk Sally Kellar on the two voting‑tabulation machines under consideration, VotingWorks and LHS Image‑Cast. Councilors asked about timelines, costs, customer service, reconciliation features, and security. No recommendation or vote was made, leaving the decision pending.

• No recommendation made on voting machine selection

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Conservation Commission approved the minutes from the January 28, 2025 meeting (4‑0), the non‑public May 27, 2025 meeting (4‑0), the May 27, 2025 regular meeting (motion carried after one abstention), and the corrected non‑public May 27, 2025 minutes (motion carried). The commission also appointed Ms. Szumiesz as a voting member for the evening.

• Approved January 28, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved nonpublic May 27, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved May 27, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried, one abstention)
• Approved corrected nonpublic May 27, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Appointed Ms. Szumiesz as a voting member

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Conservation Commission appointed Ms. Szumiesz as a voting member. The commission approved the January 28, 2025 meeting minutes (4‑0), the January 28, 2025 nonpublic minutes (4‑0), the May 27, 2025 meeting minutes, the May 27, 2025 nonpublic minutes, and the corrected May 27, 2025 nonpublic minutes. All motions carried.

• Appointed Ms. Szumiesz as a voting member
• Approved January 28, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved January 28, 2025 nonpublic minutes (4-0)
• Approved May 27, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved May 27, 2025 nonpublic minutes (motion carried)
• Approved corrected May 27, 2025 nonpublic minutes (motion carried)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission elected Diane Phelps as chairwoman and Mr. Hawkes as vice chair, both unanimously. They set regular commission meetings for Tuesdays at 7 PM, also unanimously. They approved the 2025 Fall Field Use Schedule and the April 8, 2025 minutes, with Howard Sobolov abstaining on the minutes.

• Diane Phelps elected Chairwoman (unanimous)
• Mr. Hawkes elected Vice Chairman (unanimous)
• Schedule commission meetings at 7 PM on Tuesdays (unanimous)
• Approve 2025 Fall Field Use Schedule (unanimous)
• Approve April 8, 2025 minutes (all in favor, Howard Sobolov abstaining)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Zoning Board

The Board approved the minutes from the May 20, 2025 meeting with all five members voting in favor and one member abstaining. Chair Morin also appointed Joe Fahey as a voting member for the remainder of the meeting. No other variances or proposals were decided at this session.

• Approved May 20, 2025 Zoning Board minutes (5‑0, 1 abstention)
• Appointed Joe Fahey as a voting member

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board voted to accept three new applications as complete and to adopt the agenda as read, with all members in favor. The board also appointed Chris Swiniarski and Chris Bandazian as voting members for the meeting. Mr. Swiniarski recused himself from the Saint Benedict/ Saint Anselm site‑plan discussion. No other actions or approvals were decided at this meeting.

• Accepted three new applications as complete (unanimous)
• Adopted the agenda as read (unanimous)
• Appointed Chris Swiniarski and Chris Bandazian as voting members
• Recused Chris Swiniarski from the Saint Benedict/ Saint Anselm site‑plan application

Water & Sewer Advisory Committee

The Water & Sewer Advisory Committee discussed the outdated 2008 sewer master plan and, after consensus, decided to move forward with a study and budgeting for an update in the next fiscal year. A motion was made to delay approval of the October 10, 2024 meeting minutes, though the outcome was not recorded. The committee also reviewed possible updates to sewer design standards, but no formal decision was taken.

• Motion to delay approval of Oct 10, 2024 minutes (outcome not recorded)
• Committee reached consensus to proceed with updating the 2008 sewer master plan and add the study to next year's budget

Town Council

The council voted 7-0 to accept a $1,785 donation from the Bedford Women’s Club and to spend the funds on an ADA‑compliant picnic table and trail‑maintenance materials. The motion was moved by Councilor Carter and seconded by Councilor Bemiss. The meeting also included the presentation of the Boston Post Cane to William (Bill) F. Morin Sr. and discussion of the Joppa Hill Conservation Area.

• Accepted $1,785 Bedford Women’s Club donation for accessible picnic table (7‑0)
• Presented Boston Post Cane to William F. Morin Sr.

Historic District Commission

The commission unanimously accepted the meeting agenda. It then approved the applicant's request to install roof‑mounted solar panels on the south side of the roof at 60 Pinecrest Drive, Lot 20‑10‑31, with conditions requiring a building permit, completion within two years, and submission of photos. All votes were unanimous.

• Accepted agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved roof‑mounted solar panels at 60 Pinecrest Drive, subject to permit and timing conditions (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board unanimously accepted the agenda. It approved a one‑year extension for the previously approved lot consolidation and lot line adjustment for the Dumas Trust properties. It also approved a one‑year extension for the previously approved site plan of the 54‑unit senior‑housing development. Both motions passed with unanimous votes.

• Accepted agenda as read (unanimous)
• Approved one‑year extension for lot consolidation and lot line adjustment (unanimous)
• Approved one‑year extension for senior‑housing site plan (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The commission voted to accept the April 22, 2025 meeting minutes, with Councilor Carter and Jim Murray abstaining and the motion carrying. Jim Murray was designated as a regular member. Erin Crowley and Diana Szumiesz were appointed as voting members for the evening.

• Approved April 22, 2025 minutes (abstentions: Carter, Murray)
• Designated Jim Murray as a regular member
• Appointed Erin Crowley as a voting member
• Appointed Diana Szumiesz as a voting member

Energy Commission

The commission elected John Russell as chair and Chris Bandazian as vice chair. The March 27, 2025 minutes were approved with one abstention. The commission approved the Public Utilities Commission‑required updates to the Electric Aggregation Plan, allowing it to be resubmitted to the Town Council. No other actions were taken on pending projects.

• Elected John Russell as Chair (7 yea, 0 nay, 0 abstain)
• Elected Chris Bandazian as Vice Chair (7 yea, 0 nay, 0 abstain)
• Approved March 27, 2025 minutes (6 yea, 0 nay, 1 abstain)
• Approved PUC‑required changes to the Electric Aggregation Plan (7 yea, 0 nay, 0 abstain)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council voted 6-0 to accept a $50,000 donation from the Archibald Foundation and authorize its use for design, maintenance, and construction of the skate park. The Council also voted 6-0 to accept a $12,000 state grant for EMS Warm Zone Rescue training and authorized the Town Manager and Fire Chief to execute the paperwork. A proclamation designating May 15‑25 as Bedford’s 275th‑anniversary celebration was adopted.

• Accepted $50,000 Archibald Foundation donation for skate park design, maintenance, construction (6-0)
• Authorized expenditure of the $50,000 donation for skate park projects (6-0)
• Accepted $12,000 NH Department of Safety grant for EMS Warm Zone Rescue training (6-0)
• Authorized Town Manager and Fire Chief to execute grant documentation (6-0)
• Adopted proclamation designating May 15‑25, 2025 as Bedford’s 275th‑anniversary celebration

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council voted 6‑0 to accept a $50,000 donation from The Archibald Foundation and to authorize its use for design, maintenance, and construction of the Skateboard Park. The council also voted 6‑0 to accept a $12,000 state grant for EMS Warm Zone Rescue training and authorized the Town Manager and Fire Chief to complete the paperwork. A proclamation was adopted designating May 15‑25, 2025 as Bedford’s 275th Anniversary Celebration.

• Accepted $50,000 Archibald Foundation donation for Skateboard Park; authorized expenditure (6-0)
• Accepted $12,000 EMS Warm Zone Training grant; authorized Town Manager and Fire Chief to execute documentation (6-0)
• Adopted proclamation designating May 15‑25, 2025 as Bedford’s 275th Anniversary Celebration

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board approved the minutes from the April 15, 2025 meeting with a 4‑0 vote, Chair Morin abstaining. Chair Morin also appointed Marc Snyder as a voting member for the evening. No other variances or proposals were decided at this meeting.

• Approved April 15, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0, Chair abstained)
• Appointed Marc Snyder as a voting member

Planning Board

The Board approved all proposed fee changes, adjusting the conceptual review fee to $125. It expressed support for reducing multi‑family parking requirements and removing covered‑parking requirements for those projects, noting that formal action will require a public hearing. The motion to adjourn was approved unanimously.

• Approved revised planning board fee schedule (conceptual review fee $125)
• Motion to adjourn passed (all in favor)

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission voted unanimously to issue a Certificate of Approval for a clear‑cut of more than 1,500 square feet at 42 Ministerial Road, Lot 14‑47‑02. The approval is conditioned on the applicant planting at least five hardwood trees and completing the landscaping within two years, with photos of the finished work to be submitted. The agenda was also accepted unanimously earlier in the meeting.

• Accepted agenda as presented (All in Favor – Unanimous)
• Issued after‑the‑fact Certificate of Approval for clear‑cut at 42 Ministerial Rd (All in Favor – Unanimous)
• Required planting of at least 5 hardwood trees in the cleared area (All in Favor – Unanimous)
• Mandated completion of landscaping within two years of approval (All in Favor – Unanimous)
• Required applicant to submit photos of completed landscaping and hardwood trees (All in Favor – Unanimous)

Town Council

The Town Council approved a waiver of the $136.90 tipping fees for the Bedford Men’s Club dugout improvements, passing the motion 7‑0. Council also appointed Kate Kelley as an alternate on the Conservation Commission, with a vote of 7‑0. Additionally, the Council approved the Retreat Minutes (6‑0‑1), the April 23 Public Session Minutes (6‑0‑1), and the April 23 Nonpublic Session Minutes (4‑0‑3).

• Waived demolition debris tipping fees ($136.90) for Bedford Men’s Club project (7-0)
• Appointed Kate Kelley as alternate on Conservation Commission, term to 2027 (7-0)
• Approved April 16 Retreat Minutes (6-0-1)
• Approved April 23 Public Session Minutes (6-0-1)
• Approved April 23 Nonpublic Session Minutes (4-0-3)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board voted to accept the agenda as read, with all members in favor. No other motions or approvals were recorded during this meeting. The board proceeded to hear a presentation on a site‑plan application, but no decision was made on that item.

• Accepted agenda as read (all in favor)

Trustees of the Trust Funds

Trustees Peterson and Callaghan, with financial advisor Corey Boucher, gave a 30‑minute presentation of the 2024 calendar/fiscal year financial results. They reported a $17,715 (14.1%) total return on $142,584 invested and a CIP interest earnings of $241,038, leaving the CIP balance at $9,633,602. A memo on the Bedford Center Old Cemetery Association funds was read, noting the target sum of $21,850. No formal decisions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

Town Council

The council interviewed Sue Thomas for the Town Treasurer position but took no action. A public comment suggested adding directional signs at the Gault‑Meetinghouse roundabout, with no decision taken. Trustees of the Trust Funds presented investment performance and policy updates, but no votes or approvals were recorded. The meeting was otherwise procedural.

Conservation Commission

The commission approved the February 25 and March 25 2025 meeting minutes, both regular and non‑public, with the chair abstaining on some votes and unanimous approval on others. After discussion, members reached consensus to post Commission updates on the Town of Bedford Facebook page rather than creating a separate page. The chair volunteered to prepare three months of content on a shared drive by the May meeting.

• Approved February 25, 2025 meeting minutes (Chair abstained, motion carried)
• Approved March 25, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved February 25, 2025 nonpublic minutes (Chair abstained, motion carried)
• Approved March 25, 2025 nonpublic minutes (unanimous)
• Decided to use the Town of Bedford Facebook page for Commission updates (consensus)
• Chair pledged to post three months of content to a shared drive by the May meeting

Highway Safety Committee

The Highway Safety Committee approved the March 26, 2024 meeting minutes. A motion to keep Jeff Foote as Chair and Daniel Douidi as Vice Chair was passed. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Approved March 26, 2024 minutes (motion passed; Gail Levesque and Ted Kitsis abstained)
• Retained Jeff Foote as Chair and Daniel Douidi as Vice Chair (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Planning Board

The Planning Board appointed Logan Johnson as a voting member. The Board then unanimously accepted the agenda as read. No other actions were decided; the solar array proposal was discussed but not voted on.

• Appointed Logan Johnson as voting member (unanimous)
• Accepted agenda as read (unanimous)

Town Council

Council members reviewed the Harriman Study and debated three options for the Facilities Committee: continue it this year, pause it, or restructure it. They considered using an online survey to gauge public preference and discussed updating the town website with facility information. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board unanimously approved the minutes from the March 18, 2025 meeting. The board then unanimously moved to nonpublic input for deliberation on a variance request to build an inground pool at 22 Green Meadow Lane. No final decision on the variance was recorded in these minutes.

• Approved March 18, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Moved to nonpublic deliberation on pool variance request (unanimous)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council held interviews for openings on the Planning Board, Parks & Recreation Commission, Conservation Commission, Historic District Commission, Cemetery Trustees, and other bodies. No votes, appointments, or other formal actions were taken during the meeting. The session was purely an interview process.

Town Council

The council voted to approve a $400,000 warrant article that funds paving projects. The approval was confirmed despite earlier discussion about a larger $500,000 cut. No other substantive motions were adopted at this meeting.

• Approved $400,000 paving warrant article (passed)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Parks & Recreation Commission formally approved the Spring 2025 field use schedule. The meeting also included an update on the town-owned skateboard park, with a design cost estimate of $700,000 and discussion of possible funding options. Commissioners discussed maintenance responsibilities and the possibility of separating the skate park warrant from the Little League fields.

• Approved Spring 2025 Field Use Schedule

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board granted Conditional Use Permits for detached accessory apartments at 19 Beaver Lane and 4 West Wind Drive. Both approvals were unanimous. Each permit was approved with conditions requiring a building permit, an NHDES‑approved septic design, and payment of school and recreation impact fees.

• Approved Conditional Use Permit for detached ADU at 19 Beaver Lane (unanimous)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for detached ADU at 4 West Wind Drive (unanimous)

Historic District Commission

The commission unanimously approved the request to replace the wood windows at 11 Ministerial Road, Lot 14‑9 with new aluminum‑clad windows. The approval includes conditions that all work be finished within two years, photos of the completed work be submitted, and that windows installed within the two‑year period need no further review if they meet the original specifications. The motion passed with a unanimous vote.

• Accepted agenda as stated – unanimous vote
• Approved March 4, 2025 minutes – unanimous vote
• Approved February 4, 2025 minutes with corrections – 3 affirmative, 2 abstentions (Ms. Bemiss, Ms. Levesque)
• Approved window replacement request (aluminum‑clad) at 11 Ministerial Rd, Lot 14‑9 – unanimous vote

Energy Commission

The commission voted 7-0 to approve the February 27, 2025 minutes. The Bedford Community Power Plan was noted as approved by the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission, and updates were given on the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility with no changes to scope, budget, or schedule. Member Chuck Nettleship announced his step down, and no new actions were taken on pending items.

• Approved February 27, 2025 minutes (7 yea, 0 nay, 0 abstain)
• Motion to adjourn passed (unanimous)

Facilities Subcommittee

The Facilities Committee voted not to approve Warrant Article 3, receiving roughly 40 % support. Committee members discussed the failed fire‑station proposal and other facility needs. Chairwoman Bemiss said the committee will forward its report to the Town Council for further direction at the next council meeting.

• Warrant Article 3 not approved
• Committee will submit facilities report to Town Council

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Conservation Commission unanimously approved a request to spend up to $4,000 from the Conservation Fund to hire Conservation Trail Services for an assessment of the Ravine Trail in the Pulpit Rock Conservation Area. Members were asked to return to the next meeting with rewritten suggestions for the commission’s Mission Statement. The commission entered a nonpublic session, voted unanimously to keep its minutes unsealed, and adjourned.

• Approved up to $4,000 from the Conservation Fund for a Ravine Trail assessment (unanimous)
• Tasked members to submit rewritten Mission Statement suggestions by next meeting
• Entered a nonpublic session at 8:18 p.m. (unanimous)
• Voted not to seal the minutes of the nonpublic session (unanimous)
• Exited the nonpublic session at 8:50 p.m. (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting at 8:51 p.m. (unanimous)