Newmarket public meetings in 2024

Town Council

The Newmarket Town Council is holding its regular session, primarily to consider a first reading of a resolution approving an amendment to the police collective bargaining agreement. The agenda also includes routine items such as minutes approval, town manager and department reports, and committee updates. Public comment is limited to a 15-minute forum at the start.

• Resolution #2024/2025-25: Approval of Amendment to the Collective Bargaining Agreement Police (1st reading)
• Acceptance of December 4, 2024 meeting minutes
• Town Manager report for December 18, 2024
• Department reports for November 2024

The Town Council unanimously approved Resolution #2024/2025-25, an amendment to the police collective bargaining agreement, after suspending rules to vote on it due to time constraints. The council also approved the December 4, 2024 meeting minutes. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included reports from the town manager and committees.

• Approved Resolution #2024/2025-25 - Police Collective Bargaining Agreement amendment (7-0)
• Approved December 4, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Suspended rules to vote on police CBA amendment (7-0)

Budget Committee

The Newmarket Budget Committee is meeting to ask questions about the proposed FY'26 town and school budgets, and to approve the minutes from the December 9th meeting. This is a working session ahead of a public hearing and final vote in January.

• Town FY'26 proposed budget questions
• School FY'26 proposed budget questions
• Approval of Dec 9th, 2024 meeting minutes
• Upcoming schedule: public hearing 1/6/25, vote on warrant articles 1/13/25

Conservation Commission

The Newmarket Conservation Commission will meet to discuss the NH Plan Riverfront Charette for Schanda Park and Heron Point Sanctuary, along with land conservation projects and easement monitoring. The agenda includes financial summaries, committee reports, and updates on projects like the Wiggin Farm boardwalk replacement and Ash Swamp Road turtle crossing. The meeting is a regular session with public comment and approval of prior minutes.

• Discussion: NH Plan Riverfront Charette for Schanda Park and Heron Point Sanctuary
• Land conservation: Rosa and Mitchell properties
• Projects: prime wetlands mapping, Heron Point boundary survey, Wiggin Farm boardwalk replacement, Ash Swamp Road turtle crossing
• Financial summary: Conservation Fund balance $139,087.39 as of 11/7/24; approved spending includes $13,000 for Mitchell land acquisition and $7,000 for Wiggin Farm boardwalk
• Events: TurtleFest 2025 on May 10, UNH capstone on vernal pool mapping

The Conservation Commission approved a letter of support for The Nature Conservancy's NOAA grant application on salt marsh restoration. They also discussed land conservation projects, including the Mitchell Property, which has secured funding from multiple sources. No other formal votes were taken; the meeting was primarily updates and discussions.

• Approved letter of support for Nature Conservancy NOAA grant (unanimous)
• Appointed Colin Lawson and Jessica Cann as voting members
• Postponed discussion of NH Plan Riverfront Charrette to next meeting
• Adjourned at 8:58 PM (5-0)

Public Transportation Advisory Committee

The Public Transportation Advisory Committee meeting has no agenda available. The agenda text indicates there is nothing to report, and interested parties are directed to review the minutes.

The Public Transportation Advisory Committee voted 4-0 to recommend extending the Route 7 On Demand Service to Wadleigh Falls Senior Housing, addressing access for non-drivers. They also discussed and refined the transportation chapter goals for the Master Plan, making several wording changes and additions. The meeting was otherwise procedural, approving the previous minutes and adjourning.

• Approved minutes of November 13, 2024 (4-0)
• Recommended extending Route 7 On Demand Service to Wadleigh Falls Senior Housing (4-0)
• Adjourned at 9:25 PM (4-0)

Budget Committee

The Newmarket Budget Committee is meeting to review the proposed FY'26 town and school budgets. The agenda includes a public session for resident input, discussion of both budgets, and approval of the previous meeting's minutes. No votes on the budgets are scheduled at this meeting; a public hearing and vote are planned for January 2025.

• Review of Town FY'26 Proposed Budget
• Review of School FY'26 Proposed Budget
• Public session for resident comments
• Approval of Nov 25, 2024 meeting minutes

The Budget Committee reviewed the Town Council-approved FY2026 operating budget of $18,634,219 (5.35% increase) and the proposed school budget of $27,911,594 (1.97% increase). No votes were taken on the budgets; the committee will hold Q&A sessions, public hearings, and a final vote in January. The committee approved the November 25, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0, 4 abstentions).

• Approved November 25, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0, 4 abstentions)
• Reviewed Town FY2026 budget of $18,634,219 (5.35% increase)
• Reviewed School FY2026 budget of $27,911,594 (1.97% increase)
• Discussed potential warrant articles including Bay Road Force Main replacement and police union contract amendment

Trustees of the Trust Funds

The Trustees of the Trust Funds will hold a fiscal meeting with Cambridge Trust to review the town's trusts. They will also review and approve the minutes from the June 10, 2024 meeting. The agenda is otherwise routine, with no specific decisions or proposals listed.

• Fiscal meeting on the Trusts with Cambridge Trust
• Review/Approve Minutes from June 10, 2024 meeting

Highway Safety Committee

This meeting has no published agenda. The only available material is the meeting minutes, so there are no specific items to report as being decided or discussed.

• No agenda items listed

Ad hoc Riverfront Advisory Committee

The committee approved the November 18 minutes as amended (4-0) and heard public comments about private property rights and parking near the riverfront. Staff presented an outline for the Riverfront Chapter of the Master Plan, covering themes like vibrancy, connectivity, accessibility, affordability, and resiliency. No formal decisions were made on riverfront designs or proposals.

• Approved November 18, 2024 minutes as amended (4-0)

Energy & Environment Advisory Committee

The Energy and Environment Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss updates on the Energy Chapter of the Master Plan, the Community Power program, and continued recycling discussions. The agenda also includes routine items like roll call, public comments, and approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Energy Chapter Master Plan Update
• Community Power Update
• Recycling Discussion Continued
• Approval of Oct. 29 Meeting Minutes

Town Council

The Newmarket Town Council is holding its regular session, which includes a public forum, approval of prior meeting minutes, and a second reading of a resolution for a water and sewer metal storage building. The meeting is largely procedural, with the resolution being the only substantive item on the agenda.

• Resolution # 2024/2025 - 24 Water & Sewer Metal Storage Building (2nd reading)
• Approval of November 20, 2024 non-public and regular meeting minutes
• Public forum for resident comments (3-minute limit per speaker, 15-minute total)

The Newmarket Town Council approved Resolution #2024/2025-24 for a water and sewer metal storage building, located behind the ambulance garage, in a unanimous 7-0 vote. The council also approved the November 20, 2024 non-public minutes (6-0-1, with Councilor White abstaining) and the November 20, 2024 regular meeting minutes (7-0). No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included reports on ongoing discussions with NH DOT about road takeover and budget presentations.

• Approved Resolution #2024/2025-24 Water & Sewer Metal Storage Building (7-0)
• Approved November 20, 2024 Non-public Minutes (6-0-1, White abstained)
• Approved November 20, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes (7-0)

Arts, Culture, & Tourism Commission

The Newmarket Arts, Culture & Tourism Commission is meeting to handle routine business including minutes, financial reports, and correspondence, and to discuss several projects. Key items include a mural request, the 2025 annual report draft, and planning for 2025 projects. The commission will also review updates on the Willey House Park project and the Master Plan.

• Acceptance of minutes from 11/12/24
• October financial report
• SueAnne Bottomley resignation
• NY Jewish Foundation donation
• Big Bean Mural Request

Budget Committee

The Newmarket Budget Committee will review the Town's Q1 FY25 finance report and approve the October 28, 2024 meeting minutes. The agenda also outlines the upcoming budget schedule, including presentations, a public hearing, and a vote in January 2025.

• Town Q1'25 Finance Report
• Approval of Oct 28, 2024 Meeting Minutes
• Upcoming schedule: 12/09/24 Town/School Budget Presentations
• Public Hearing on 1/6/25
• Vote on Town/School Budget on 1/20/25

Town Council

The Newmarket Town Council will hold a regular session with a non-public meeting first. The main business includes second readings and votes on four resolutions: Ash Swamp Rd bridge rehabilitation, school impact fees, funding for computer-aided dispatch and records management systems, and a Railroad Ave easement abandonment. A first reading will be held for a water and sewer metal storage building resolution. The agenda also includes a public forum, minutes approval, and a report from the town manager.

• Resolution #2024/2025-20: Ash Swamp Rd Bridge Rehabilitation
• Resolution #2024/2025-21: Approve School Impact Fees
• Resolution #2024/2025-22: Purchase/Release of funds for Computer Aided Dispatch Systems (CAD) and Records Management Systems (RMS)
• Resolution #2024/2025-23: Railroad Ave Easement Abandonment
• Resolution #2024/2025-24: Water & Sewer Metal Storage Building (1st reading)

The Newmarket Town Council unanimously approved resolutions for the Ash Swamp Rd bridge rehabilitation, school impact fee withdrawal, and police CAD/RMS system purchase. It also passed a resolution to abandon a slope easement on Railroad Ave (6-1), with Chair Conley voting against. The council entered non-public session and sealed those minutes.

• Approved Ash Swamp Rd bridge rehabilitation resolution (7-0)
• Approved school impact fee withdrawal of $22,650.70 for courtyard renovations (7-0)
• Approved purchase of CAD/RMS systems using $358,000 grant (7-0)
• Approved Railroad Ave easement abandonment (6-1)
• Appointed Councilor Ward to USA 250 Steering Group (7-0)
• Approved November 6, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Entered non-public session and sealed minutes (6-0-1)

Conservation Commission

The Newmarket Conservation Commission is meeting to approve minutes, review finances, and discuss several conservation projects. Key items include a $10,500 trail construction contract for the Wiggin Farm boardwalk, a $1,148.10 invoice for wetland permitting, and updates on land conservation efforts for the Rosa and Mitchell properties. The agenda also covers easement monitoring, wildlife projects, and community outreach events.

• Approve $10,500 contract with Martin Forestry Consulting for Wiggin Farm boardwalk replacement
• Review $1,148.10 invoice from West Environmental for Wiggin Farm wetland permitting
• Discuss Mitchell land acquisition, with $100,000 approved from Conservation Fund and Open Space Bond
• Update on Heron Point Sanctuary: hazard tree removal, boundary survey, and access
• Review Ash Swamp Road turtle crossing and aquatic passage project

The Conservation Commission approved several expenditures, including up to $10,500 for a trail construction agreement with Martin Forestry Consulting at Wiggin Farm, funded by grants. They also approved up to $5,000 for an appraisal of the Rosa Property, a $450 NHACC membership, and a $300 artist design fee for TurtleFest 2025. The Commission voted to request closing the Open Space Bond ($87,969.03) for the Mitchell Land Conservation Project, with funds reallocated to other projects if the deal falls through. All votes were unanimous except the NHACC membership, which passed 6-0-1 with one abstention.

• Approved up to $10,500 for Wiggin Farm trail construction (7-0)
• Approved up to $5,000 for Rosa Property appraisal (7-0)
• Approved $450 NHACC membership (6-0-1)
• Approved $300 artist design fee for TurtleFest shirts (7-0)
• Approved request to close Open Space Bond for Mitchell Land Project (7-0)
• Approved minutes of May 9 and October 10, 2024 (7-0)
• Kept non-public notes sealed (7-0)

Public Transportation Advisory Committee

The November 13, 2024 meeting of the Newmarket Public Transportation Advisory Committee has no agenda available. Residents are directed to review the minutes of a previous meeting instead.

The Public Transportation Advisory Committee reviewed and discussed baseline maps for the transportation chapter of the Master Plan, identifying sidewalk and trail inaccuracies and opportunities for improvement. No formal decisions were made beyond approving the previous meeting's minutes and adjourning.

• Approved October 9, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Adjourned at 8:50 PM (4-0)

Arts, Culture, & Tourism Commission

The Arts, Culture & Tourism Commission will accept minutes from its October 1 meeting, review the October financial report, and discuss old business including the Willey House Park Project, the Master Plan Update, and the 2025-26 budget proposal for a library project. New business includes NH Listens as a resource for community input on the Elm Street mural renovation.

• Willey House Park Project: final grant reports, lights for mural, chess tables, merchandise (calendar, t-shirts, postcards)
• Master Plan Update: experts’ survey results, town-wide survey & workshop feedback, review of reference chapters (Littleton, Peterborough, Dover)
• 2025-26 Budget: proposed library project
• NH Listens: resource for Elm Street mural renovation community input

Town Council

The Newmarket Town Council is meeting to consider several resolutions, including approval of the FY2026 budget, preliminary designs for infrastructure projects, and school impact fees. The agenda also includes appointments to town boards and committees, and acceptance of prior meeting minutes.

• Resolution #2024/2025-19: Approval of FY2026 Budget
• Resolution #2024/2025-16: Bay Road Forcemain Preliminary Design
• Resolution #2024/2025-17: Moonlight Brook Stormwater Investigation
• Resolution #2024/2025-18: Ash Swamp Rd Culvert Preliminary Design
• Resolution #2024/2025-21: Approve School Impact Fees

The Town Council unanimously approved the FY2026 budget totaling $18,634,219, including amendments adding $80,000 for sidewalks, $70,000 for a fire department study, $7,544 for Cornerstone VNA, and adjusting fund balance use. The council also approved several resolutions for infrastructure projects and made appointments to town boards.

• Approved FY2026 budget of $18,634,219 (7-0)
• Approved Bay Road forcemain preliminary design with Wright-Pierce (7-0)
• Approved Moonlight Brook stormwater investigation with Geosyntec (7-0)
• Approved Ash Swamp Rd culvert preliminary design using $99,608 grant (7-0)
• Accepted Lee Veader's resignation from Zoning Board (7-0)
• Appointed Doug Spicher to Arts, Culture & Tourism Commission (7-0)
• Appointed Dylan Tooch to Zoning Board of Adjustment (7-0)
• Approved minutes from Oct 16 joint, regular, and Oct 24 budget sessions (7-0, 6-0-1)

Veteran's Memorial Trust Committee

The Newmarket Veterans Memorial Trust Committee is meeting to handle routine business including roll call, public comments, and approval of minutes. They will also discuss committee vacancies, a sample tag for bandstand name replacements, refilling an urn for a cemetery reveal, and a historical program for the 80th anniversary of the end of WW2. Additionally, they will consider rebuilding or refurbishing the GAR memorial, an article for a book, and adding a website link for veterans resources.

• Discussion of rebuilding or refurbishing GAR memorial
• Historical program for 2025 80th anniversary of end of WW2
• Sample tag for bandstand name replacements
• Refilling urn for October cemetery reveal
• Add link on website for veterans resources

Energy & Environment Advisory Committee

The Energy and Environment Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss updates on the Energy Chapter of the Master Plan, Community Power, and recycling next steps. The agenda also includes roll call, new member introductions, public comments, and approval of September 2024 meeting notes.

• Energy Chapter Master Plan Update
• Community Power Update
• Recycling update – Next Steps

Budget Committee

The Newmarket Budget Committee is meeting to review the schools' FY24 finance report and a Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) report from Brian Rowley. They will also consider approving the minutes from the September 30, 2024 meeting. The agenda is routine, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Schools FY24 Finance Report
• CIP Report by Brian Rowley
• Approval of Sept 30, 2024 meeting minutes

Town Council

The Newmarket Town Council is holding a work session to review the FY2026 budget, department by department, including Public Works, Recreation, Police, CIP/Planning, Library, Fire, and Environmental Services. The Town Manager will present remaining budget lines. This is a working session, not a public hearing, though public comment is limited.

• Budget review for Public Works Department
• Budget review for Recreation Department
• Budget review for Police Department
• Budget review for Fire Department
• Budget review for Environmental Services

The Town Council held a budget work session for FY2026, reviewing department budgets and capital reserve funds. Councilors voted by straw poll to reinstate the sidewalk capital reserve fund to $125,000 and to add $60,000 for a fire department study. Formal votes on these amendments will occur at the November 6, 2024 meeting.

• Reinstated sidewalk CRF to $125,000 (straw poll 6-0)
• Added $60,000 for fire department study (straw poll)
• Level-funded DPW CRF to $75,000
• Level-funded roadway improvements CRF to $250,000
• Set stormwater CRF at $50,000
• Level-funded police CRF to $15,000
• Reduced recreation CRF to $25,000
• No formal votes taken; amendments to be voted Nov 6

Town Council

The Newmarket Town Council will hold its regular session, including a public forum, and consider several resolutions in first and second readings. Key items include the FY2026 proposed budget, town server replacement, and multiple wastewater and stormwater infrastructure projects. The council will also make appointments to the Housing Authority and Energy & Environment Advisory Committee.

• Resolution #2024/2025-19: Approval of FY2026 Budget (first reading)
• Resolution #2024/2025-11: Town Server Replacement (second reading)
• Resolution #2024/2025-12: Septage Station Final Design Bidding (second reading)
• Resolution #2024/2025-14: Bay Road Forcemain Preliminary Design (second reading)
• Resolution #2024/2025-16: Bay Road Forcemain Preliminary Design (first reading)

The Town Council unanimously approved several resolutions, including the FY2026 budget proposal of $18,476,675, a town server replacement, septage station final design bidding, Bay Road forcemain preliminary design, and wastewater collection system repair engineering. They also accepted resignations and made appointments to the Housing Authority and Energy & Environment Advisory Committee. The meeting was largely procedural with no public comment.

• Approved FY2026 budget proposal of $18,476,675 (7-0)
• Approved Resolution #2024/2025-11 for town server replacement (7-0)
• Approved Resolution #2024/2025-12 for septage station final design bidding (7-0)
• Approved Resolution #2024/2025-14 for Bay Road forcemain preliminary design (7-0)
• Approved Resolution #2024/2025-15 for wastewater collection system repair engineering (7-0)
• Accepted Michael Parkin's resignation from Housing Authority (7-0)
• Appointed Judi Case to Housing Authority (7-0)
• Appointed George Anderson to Energy & Environment Advisory Committee (7-0)

Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Committee

This Capital Improvement Program Committee meeting was cancelled because there was no quorum. The agenda had included reviewing and voting on 2024 CIP requests from the School District, but no official business could be conducted.

• Meeting cancelled due to no quorum
• Scheduled review of School District CIP requests

Town Council

The Newmarket Town Council and School Board are holding a joint meeting to discuss community growth, future projects and budgets, facilities, and the Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the agenda consists of general discussion items only.

• Discussion of community growth
• Discussion of future projects and budgets
• Discussion of facilities
• Discussion of Community Power Coalition of NH, led by Councilor LaMattina

The Town Council and School Board held a joint informational meeting with no formal votes or decisions. Discussions covered the town-wide revaluation, Master Plan progress, school enrollment trends, upcoming capital projects, and a facilities study. Councilor LaMattina was granted permission for Superintendent Allen to meet with the Community Power Coalition to explore lower energy rates for the school.

• No formal votes or decisions taken at joint meeting
• Superintendent Allen authorized to meet with Community Power Coalition to discuss school energy rates

Conservation Commission

The Newmarket Conservation Commission meets to discuss land stewardship, trail improvements, and updated wetland mapping. Members will review hazard tree removal, fence repairs, boardwalk replacements, and grant-funded projects like Old Lee Class A Trail upgrades. A non-public session on land conservation is also scheduled.

• $4,200 contract for Heron Point Sanctuary boundary survey
• Up to $200 for 10 new fence rails at Piscassic River–Loiselle
• $3,635.92 spent on Old Lee Class A Trail drainage and bridge upgrades (LRAC grant)
• Prime wetlands mapping project using LiDAR to update 888.6-acre inventory
• Ash Swamp Road turtle crossing/aquatic passage grant applications submitted

Public Transportation Advisory Committee

The Public Transportation Advisory Committee is meeting, but no agenda has been posted. The only available item is a note directing readers to review the minutes, so no specific decisions or discussions are listed for this session.

• No agenda items listed

The committee reviewed community survey results on transportation priorities and discussed updating the Master Plan's Transportation chapter. No formal decisions were made; the committee accepted the September minutes and discussed future steps, including draft goals from SRPC and possible complete streets policies.

• Accepted September 11, 2024 meeting minutes unanimously
• Discussed survey results on parking, walkability, and transit priorities
• Reviewed 2001 Transportation chapter goals for status update
• Agreed to have maps available at next meeting
• Scheduled next meeting for November 13, 2024

Town Council

The Newmarket Town Council will hold its regular session, including a public forum, approval of minutes, and a reappointment. The main business includes a second reading of a resolution to establish a charter commission ballot question, and first readings of resolutions for town server replacement, septage station design bidding, ARPA grant funds for septage, Bay Road forcemain preliminary work, and wastewater collection system repair engineering. The meeting is open to the public with limited participation.

• Resolution #2024/2025-10: Establish Charter Commission Ballot Question (2nd reading)
• Resolution #2024/2025-11: Town Server Replacement (1st reading)
• Resolution #2024/2025-12: Septage Station Final Design Bidding (1st reading)
• Resolution #2024/2025-13: ARPA Grant Funds - Septage (1st reading)
• Resolution #2024/2025-14: Bay Road Forcemain Prelim (1st reading)

The Town Council unanimously approved placing a question on the ballot to establish a Charter Commission, which would review the town charter. They also approved a resolution to use ARPA grant funds for the septage station, and reappointed Richard Alperin to the Cemetery Trustees. The meeting included reports on grants, community power, and budget status.

• Approved Resolution #2024/2025-10 to place charter commission question on ballot (5-0)
• Approved Resolution #2024/2025-13 to use ARPA grant funds for septage (5-0)
• Reappointed Richard Alperin to Cemetery Trustees (5-0)
• Approved September 18, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved entering non-public session for pending litigation (5-0)

Arts, Culture, & Tourism Commission

The Arts, Culture & Tourism Commission is meeting to accept minutes from September 3, review the September financial report, and handle correspondence. Under old business, members will discuss the Willey House Park Project retrospective and merchandising, and review a project proposal for the 2025-26 budget. No new business items are listed beyond adjournment.

• Willey House Park Project retrospective and merchandising discussion
• 2025-26 budget project proposal review
• Acceptance of September 3, 2024 minutes
• September financial report review

Budget Committee

The Newmarket Budget Committee is meeting to review the Town's FY24 Finance Report and to approve the minutes from the August 26, 2024 meeting. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Town FY24 Finance Report
• Approval of Aug 26, 2024 Meeting Minutes

The Budget Committee reviewed the Town's FY2024 Finance Report, noting expenditures were under budget and revenues exceeded projections by 2 percentage points. No formal decisions were made beyond approving the August 26, 2024 meeting minutes as amended. The committee discussed tax revenue increases, fund balance concerns, and water revenue estimates.

• Approved August 26, 2024 meeting minutes as amended (9-0)

Energy & Environment Advisory Committee

The Energy and Environment Advisory Committee is meeting to review August meeting notes, discuss updates on Community Power, the Master Plan status following a September 14 open house, and waste management information. They will also plan for an October presentation from Blue Sky on waste management.

• Update on Community Power program
• Master Plan status after Sept 14 Open House
• Waste management recycling information
• October presentation from Blue Sky on waste management

Town Council

The Newmarket Town Council is holding its regular session, with the most consequential item being a first reading of Resolution #2024/2025-10 to establish a Charter Commission ballot question. The council will also hear a report from the Town Manager on final revaluation numbers, receive department reports for August 2024, and consider appointments, including to the Racial Equity, Inclusion & Human Rights Advisory Committee. The meeting includes routine items like minutes approval and a proclamation for Constitution Week.

• Resolution #2024/2025-10 - Establish Charter Commission Ballot Question (1st reading)
• Revaluation Final Numbers report
• Department Reports - August 2024
• Appointment: Chase Eagleson to Racial Equity, Inclusion & Human Rights Advisory Committee (term to April 2025)
• Proclamation: Constitution Week, September 17-23

The Town Council approved the final figures of the 2024 town-wide revaluation, which showed a 68% increase in overall property values. The approval was 6-0-1, with Chair Conley abstaining due to audio difficulties. The council also appointed Chase Eagleson to the Racial Equity, Inclusion & Human Rights Advisory Committee and approved the September 4 meeting minutes.

• Approved 2024 revaluation final numbers (6-0-1, Chair abstained)
• Appointed Chase Eagleson to Racial Equity, Inclusion & Human Rights Advisory Committee (7-0)
• Approved September 4, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0)

Conservation Commission

The Newmarket Conservation Commission will discuss and potentially approve several items, including lot mergers for the Tuttle Swamp and Lita Lane conservation areas, new funding requests for trail repairs and a boundary survey, and updates on various land stewardship projects. The agenda also includes routine items like public comment, minutes approval, and financial summaries.

• Request to merge three Tuttle Swamp parcels (417, 479, 481 Wadleigh Falls Rd) into one lot
• Request to merge 19 Lita Lane lots into one lot and lots 9-10 into another, creating a 27.5-acre conservation area
• New funding requests: $200 for Piscassic River-Loiselle replacement rails, $500 for SELT easement monitoring, and partial boundary survey at Heron Point
• Discussion of Ash Swamp Road turtle crossing/aquatic passage grant application
• Planning for TurtleFest 2025 on May 10

Public Transportation Advisory Committee

The Public Transportation Advisory Committee meeting has no published agenda. The only listed item directs readers to review the minutes for any prior discussion or decisions.

• No agenda items listed

Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Committee

The Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Committee is meeting to review capital improvement requests for the 2024-25 fiscal year. The agenda includes draft minutes from a previous meeting and a list of CIP requests. No decisions are noted on the agenda itself.

• Review of draft minutes from October 16, 2023
• Review of CIP requests for 2024-25 (document dated September 6, 2024)

General

The Newmarket Zoning Board of Adjustment is meeting to consider a variance request from EPW, LLC to allow three additional housing units at 60 Exeter Road, Building 300, in the M-2A Zoning District. The board will also review minutes from previous meetings. This is a regular business meeting with one substantive item.

• Variance request by EPW, LLC from Town Code Section 32-89 Dimensions Table
• Property at 60 Exeter Road, Building 300 (Tax Map U4, Lot 11-3)
• Request to permit three additional housing units in M-2A Zoning District
• Minutes acceptance for February 12, March 11, and August 12, 2024

Town Council

The Newmarket Town Council will hold its regular session, including a public forum and approval of minutes. The main business is second-reading resolutions on annual lease payments for two International dump trucks with plows, a Trackless MT7 sidewalk tractor, and Engine 5, plus purchases of a Stryker Power Pro cot with load systems, paving improvements, and two Ford trucks. The council will also consider appointing Scott MacGrath to the Energy and Environment Advisory Committee.

• Resolution #2024/2025-04: Annual lease payment for two International dump trucks with plow equipment
• Resolution #2024/2025-05: Annual lease payment for Trackless MT7 sidewalk tractor
• Resolution #2024/2025-06: Annual lease payment for Engine 5
• Resolution #2024/2025-07: Purchase of Stryker Power Pro cot & two power load systems
• Resolution #2024/2025-08: Paving improvements

Arts, Culture, & Tourism Commission

The Arts, Culture & Tourism Commission will discuss updates on the Willey House Park Project, including a final mural design, community mosaic prints, landscape plans, and an unveiling event. Members will also review survey results from the town’s master plan and plan a public input meeting for September 14.

• Final mural design acceptance from Alex Edgerly
• Community Engagement Interweave Mosaic Canvas Prints proposal
• Willey House Landscape Proposal review
• Unveiling event scheduled for Sept. 28
• Master Plan survey results review and Sept. 14 public input meeting planning

Energy & Environment Advisory Committee

The Energy and Environment Advisory Committee will meet to introduce new members, provide updates on community power initiatives, master plan progress, and a solar project request for qualifications. The committee will also gather information on waste management for an October presentation from Blue Sky.

• Introduction of new member Rebecca Camire and prospective member Scott McGrath
• Update on Community Power initiative
• Master Plan Status update
• Solar Project Request For Qualifications discussion
• Waste management information gathering for October Blue Sky presentation

The Energy and Environment Advisory Committee met on Aug. 28, 2024, but lacked a quorum, so no formal decisions were made. Members discussed the Master Plan's Energy Chapter, solar energy RFQ results, recycling efforts, and Community Power promotion. The meeting was informational and procedural only.

• No formal decisions made due to lack of quorum
• Discussed Master Plan Energy Chapter workshop scheduled for Sept. 14
• Noted selection of Revision Energy for Sewall Well solar installation planning
• Assigned action items for outreach on recycling and Community Power

Budget Committee

The Newmarket Budget Committee is meeting to review the School FY24 Finance Report and approve the minutes from the June 24, 2024 meeting. No other substantive items are listed.

• School FY24 Finance Report
• Approval of June 24, 2024 meeting minutes

The Budget Committee received the School District's FY2024 finance report and discussed the upcoming budget. The School Board has set a 2% budget increase target, which would require cutting $335,000 from the level-services budget. The committee approved the June 24, 2024 meeting minutes (10-0, 1 abstention). No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved June 24, 2024 meeting minutes (10-0, 1 abstention)
• School Board set 2% budget increase target for FY2025
• School Board directed $335,000 in budget cuts to meet 2% target

Town Council

The Newmarket Town Council will hold a public hearing and second reading on accepting Briallia Circle and Kielty Drive as town roads. They will also consider several resolutions in first reading, including annual lease payments for dump trucks, a sidewalk tractor, and Engine 5, as well as purchases for a cot system, paving improvements, and two Ford trucks. The agenda includes appointments to commissions and routine reports.

• Public hearing and second reading on Resolution #2024/2025-02 to accept Briallia Circle and Kielty Drive as town roads
• Second reading of Resolution #2024/2025-01 on the town's investment policy
• Second reading of Resolution #2024/2025-03 to adopt ImageCast electronic ballot-counting box
• First reading of resolutions for annual lease payments for two International dump trucks, a Trackless MT7 sidewalk tractor, and Engine 5
• First reading of resolutions for purchase of Stryker Power Pro Cot & two Power Load Systems, paving improvements, and two Ford trucks

The Town Council unanimously approved a resolution to officially accept Briallia Circle and Kielty Drive as town roads, correcting an oversight where the town had maintained them without formal acceptance. The council also approved the town's investment policy update, adopted the use of an electronic ballot-counting box, and made several appointments and resignations. No other substantive decisions were made; several resolutions were introduced for first reading but not voted on.

• Approved Resolution #2024/2025-02 accepting Briallia Circle and Kielty Drive as town roads (6-0)
• Approved Resolution #2024/2025-01 updating the town's investment policy (6-0)
• Approved Resolution #2024/2025-03 adopting the ImageCast electronic ballot-counting box (6-0)
• Appointed Sue Anne Bottomley as alternate to Arts, Culture and Tourism Commission (6-0)
• Accepted Eric Hicks' resignation from Arts, Culture & Tourism Commission (6-0)
• Appointed Michael Hoffman to Public Transportation Advisory Committee (6-0)
• Approved July 17, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0)

General

The Newmarket Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on three variance requests. The board will consider requests for a garage setback, a change to a non-conforming landscaping use, and parking/storage at a fitness business. The meeting will also include approval of prior minutes.

• Variance for garage within side yard setback at 18 Prescott Street (Tax Map U3, Lot 29), R-4 district
• Variance to allow landscaping business at 63 Elm Street (Tax Map U1, Lot 48), R-2 district
• Variance for parking/storage at 191 Exeter Road (Tax Map R3, Lot 10), B-1 district

Arts, Culture, & Tourism Commission

The Arts, Culture & Tourism Commission is meeting to approve minutes, review finances, and discuss grants and expenses, including an Eversource grant for a Willey House bench and signage costs. They will also cover updates on the Willey House Park project, summer events, and a proposed letter to the Town Council about a blight ordinance.

• Eversource Grant – Willey House Bench $1750
• Photo Contest & Donations - $503
• Expense Approvals: Signage $378, Ice Cream Social supplies $81.00, Sprinkled on Main invoice
• Art in the Park Sundays - $25
• Blight Ordinance and Main Street Business Maintenance - Letter to Town Council

The Arts, Culture & Tourism Commission approved a second payment to Alex Edgerly for mural design completion and created three mosaic canvas prints for local buildings. They also approved reimbursing Debra Smith's expenses and set photo contest prize amounts. No position was taken on the blight ordinance or Main Street business maintenance.

• Approved reimbursement of Debra Smith's expenses (unanimous)
• Approved 2nd payment to Alex Edgerly for mural design completion (unanimous)
• Approved creation of 3 mosaic canvas prints for Library, Town Hall & Sunrise Center
• Accepted Ed Hicks' resignation as Alternate Member
• Accepted minutes of 7/2/24
• Closed photo contest submissions; voting ends Aug. 21 with prizes $250/$100/$50

Town Council

The Newmarket Town Council will hold a regular session to accept meeting minutes, consider nominations and resignations for advisory committees, and vote on multiple resolutions in second reading. The Council will also review ordinances in first reading, including updates to the town's investment policy and road acceptance.

• Accept minutes from June 26, 2024 meetings
• Appoint new members to Public Transportation Advisory Committee and Conservation Commission
• Vote on Resolution #2023/2024-40 (Mitchell Land Conservation)
• Vote on Resolution #2023/2024-46 (Solar Development Services)
• Vote on Resolution #2024/2025-02 (Accept Briallia Circle and Kielty Drive as town roads)

Conservation Commission

The Commission discussed the FY26 budget request and reviewed several conservation projects. Members also addressed land stewardship items including Wiggin Farm signage and potential repairs at Heron Point.

• Approved $1,362.50 in invoices for Wiggin Farm kiosk sign prep, mapping, and printing
• Proposed FY26 General Fund Budget of $5,343
• Approved a $550.00 LCHIP check for Piscassic River-Loiselle easement monitoring
• Discussed Ash Swamp Road culvert replacement and America the Beautiful Challenge grant
• Approved a letter of support for state funding to repair a sewer leak under the Lamprey River

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved a $1,000 contract with SELT for easement monitoring in 2024, and also unanimously approved forwarding the proposed 2024 budget of $5,343 to the Town Manager. The commission approved the March 14, 2024 meeting minutes as drafted. Several grant applications were reported as approved, including the PREPA grant for prime wetlands mapping and the LRAC grant for the Old Lee Class A Trail.

• Approved $1,000 SELT easement monitoring contract (7-0)
• Approved forwarding FY2024 budget of $5,343 to Town Manager (7-0)
• Approved March 14, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Adjourned at 8:10 PM (7-0)

Arts, Culture, & Tourism Commission

The Arts, Culture, & Tourism Commission will accept minutes from its June 4 meeting, receive a financial update including Eversource and Ice Cream Social sponsorships, and discuss final survey questions, the Willey House Park Project, and upcoming summer events. A presentation on a Willey House Mini Art Gallery concept will also be heard.

• Eversource Grant – Willey House Bench $800
• Ice Cream Social Sponsorship $500 Newmarket Dental
• Willey House Park Project Update with Community Engagement Interweave Series art piece
• Art in Park Music Series – July
• Ice Cream Social & Best of Photos Contest – August 6

Energy & Environment Advisory Committee

This meeting has no published agenda. The only listed item is to review the minutes, so no decisions or discussions are scheduled for public notice.

• No agenda items listed

General

The Newmarket Town Council will hold a public hearing and second reading on an ordinance banning vehicle sales on public lands. The council will also consider accepting meeting minutes, nominations, and a town-wide property revaluation report from Municipal Resources Inc. Several resolutions on conservation, solar development, and infrastructure projects will receive first readings.

• Ordinance No. 5 2023/2024 - Prohibiting vehicle sales on public lands (public hearing & 2nd reading)
• Scott Marsh and Paul McKenney (Municipal Resources Inc.) - present preliminary town-wide revaluation values
• Resolution #2023/2024-40 - Mitchell Land Conservation (1st reading)
• Resolution #2023/2024-48 - Letter of support for Ash Swamp Rd Culvert Replacement grant proposal (1st reading)
• Resolution #2023/2024-47 - Plan NH Charrette Services (1st reading)

The Town Council approved Ordinance No. 5 2023/2024, prohibiting the sale of vehicles on public lands, with a 5-1 vote. They also approved an amended elderly exemption resolution, raising income limits for single and married households. The council received preliminary revaluation results showing a 69% overall increase in property values, with an estimated tax rate of $19.29 per thousand.

• Approved Ordinance No. 5 2023/2024 prohibiting vehicle sales on public lands (5-1)
• Approved Resolution #2023/2024-42 amending the Elderly Exemption, raising income limits to $38,000 for single and $52,000 for married (6-0)
• Appointed Rebecca Camire to Energy & Environment Advisory Committee (6-0)
• Sealed June 26, 2024 non-public meeting minutes indefinitely (6-0)
• Approved June 5, 2024 non-public and regular meeting minutes (6-0)

Budget Committee

The Budget Committee will meet at Town Hall to hear a presentation regarding the third quarter of fiscal year 2024. The committee will also discuss the schedule for upcoming town and school facilities tours.

• Town Presentation – Q3 FY’24
• Town/School Facilities Tours Schedule
• Approval of May 20th, 2024 Minutes

The Budget Committee reviewed the End-of-May 2024 financial report, noting expenditures at 83% of budget and revenues meeting expectations. The committee approved the May 20, 2024 meeting minutes as amended. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved May 20, 2024 meeting minutes as amended (7-0, 2 abstentions)
• Agreed to agenda change to present End-of-May 2024 financials instead of Q3 FY2024

Conservation Commission

The Newmarket Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing to decide whether to recommend a $100,000 contribution toward the permanent conservation of 132 acres of Mitchell family land on Bald Hill and Jacobs Well Roads. The land would be acquired by the Southeast Land Trust of New Hampshire and NH Fish and Game, with the town holding a third-party right of enforcement on 70 acres.

• Public hearing on $100,000 contribution (approx. $87,000 from 2002 Land Acquisition Bond, $13,000 from Conservation Fund) toward $2.2M land acquisition
• $100,000 contribution split: $87,000 from 2002 Land Acquisition Bond, $13,000 from Conservation Fund
• 132-acre Mitchell family land on Bald Hill and Jacobs Well Roads proposed for permanent conservation
• Town to hold third-party right of enforcement on 70 acres of the conserved land
• New Non-Voting Student Liaison Emma Fortin introduced

The Conservation Commission voted unanimously to recommend a $100,000 contribution toward the $2.2 million acquisition and permanent conservation of the 132-acre Mitchell family land on Bald Hill and Jacobs Well Roads by SELT and NH Fish and Game. The recommendation will go to the Town Council, and a letter of support will be sent to SELT. The commission also approved $5,000 in seed money for the Ash Swamp Road aquatic passage grant, and several smaller expenditures.

• Approved resolution recommending $100,000 for Mitchell Land Conservation project (6-0)
• Approved $5,000 seed money for Ash Swamp Road grant match (6-0)
• Approved $99.67 reimbursement to Chair for Heron Point supplies (6-0)
• Approved funds for bookmark and postcard mock-ups (6-0)
• Approved using remaining General Fund for outreach efforts (6-0)
• Approved February 8, 2024 minutes as amended (6-0)

Master Plan Subcommittee

The subcommittee discussed and refined draft survey questions for the Master Plan, focusing on future land use, riverfront, and other topics, and reviewed the Community Viz buildout analysis. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was procedural, with plans to redraft riverfront questions and adjust buildout map inputs.

• Consensus to use choice-based survey questions rather than open-ended
• Agreed to redraft downtown riverfront survey questions and send to Riverfront Advisory Committee for feedback
• Agreed to adjust Community Viz buildout map inputs, including B-3 non-residential development
• Noted open space section near final draft, to be appendix to Land and Water Conservation chapter

Zoning Board

The Newmarket Zoning Board of Adjustment will consider a motion for rehearing by John Terlizzi regarding an administrative appeal upheld on May 13, 2024. The board will also note that the owner of 23 Exeter Street will not exercise the previously granted special exception for a barn footprint move. The meeting includes routine items like pledge, minutes approval, and adjournment.

• Motion for rehearing by John Terlizzi on administrative appeal upheld May 13, 2024
• 23 Exeter Street will not exercise ZBA special exception for barn footprint move
• Acceptance of minutes from May 13, 2024

Ad hoc Riverfront Advisory Committee

The Ad hoc Riverfront Advisory Committee met on June 10, 2024, and held discussions only, with no formal votes or decisions. Topics included a potential floating walkway to Heroin Point (considered low priority), rewording a Master Plan survey question, salt use and stormwater runoff, Moonlight Brook bacteria sampling, property ownership, and signage at Bryant Rock. The next meeting is scheduled for August 19, 2024.

• No formal decisions or votes taken
• Floating walkway to Heroin Point discussed as low priority
• Survey question 7 rewording proposed for downtown riverfront
• Property ownership and easements to be addressed before October charrette
• Next meeting set for August 19, 2024

Town Council

The Newmarket Town Council will hold a regular session with a non-public personnel discussion, public forum, and votes on several resolutions in second reading, including water and sewer rate increases for 2025, amendments to elderly and disabled tax exemptions, an increased disabled veterans' tax credit, a town website upgrade, the sale of 302 Piscassic Street, and a metal storage building. The council will also consider a first reading of an ordinance prohibiting vehicle sales on public lands and a nomination to the Lamprey River Advisory Committee.

• Resolution #2023/2024-41: Water & Sewer Rate Increases 2025
• Resolution #2023/2024-39: Sale of 302 Piscassic Street
• Resolution #2023/2024-42: Amending the Elderly Exemption
• Resolution #2023/2024-45: Increasing the Disabled Veterans' Tax Credit
• Ordinance No. 5: Prohibiting Sale of Vehicles on Public Lands (1st reading)

Arts, Culture, & Tourism Commission

The Arts, Culture & Tourism Commission will review updates on the Willey House Park project, including mural approvals and community art events. Members will also discuss declined park sponsorships, mural printing costs, and a new Sundays in the Park proposal. Financial updates on grants and the town budget will be presented.

• Motion to approve $898 for 8 mural panel printing for Artist Among Us Pocket Park
• Willey House Park project update including Eversource utility box painting permission
• American Legion declined park sponsorship; proposal pending with VFW
• Sundays in the Park proposal by Shannon Culpepper
• Community Engagement Interweave Series dates scheduled for Willey House Park

The Arts, Culture & Tourism Commission approved a Letter of Agreement with muralist Alex Edgerly, unanimously, and approved $898 for mural panel printing. They also voted to rent display panels to local artists for $25 per Sunday. A bench design to camouflage a utility box was held until an Eversource grant is approved.

• Approved Letter of Agreement with muralist Alex Edgerly (unanimous)
• Approved $898 for 8 mural panel printing costs
• Approved $25/Sunday rental of display panels to local artists (unanimous)
• Held bench design for utility box until Eversource grant approval
• Approved minutes of May 13 & May 21 Willey House Mural Subcommittee

Energy & Environment Advisory Committee

The Energy and Environment Advisory Committee will review updates on Newmarket Community Power statistics, a discretionary fee recommendation for the next rate cycle, and the Seacoast Clean Energy Challenge. The meeting will also include a resignation notice and an update on the town’s energy chapter in the Master Plan.

• Roberta Branca resignation notice
• Recommendation for Community Power discretionary fee next rate cycle
• Community Power Seacoast Clean Energy Challenge discussion
• Master Plan/Energy Chapter Update

The Energy and Environment Advisory Committee met on May 29, 2024, but lacked a quorum, so no formal votes or decisions were made. Members discussed Newmarket Community Power statistics, a potential discretionary fee, and a clean energy contest. The committee reached a unanimous consensus to delay considering a discretionary fee, which will be passed to the Town Council.

• No formal decisions made due to lack of quorum
• Unanimous consensus to wait before adding discretionary fee to electric rates
• Joe to reserve booth space for Newmarket Community Power at Back Yard Bash
• Homework: consider contest promotion options for next meeting

Budget Committee

The Newmarket Budget Committee is meeting to review a Q3 FY'24 school presentation, discuss the town/school facilities tours schedule, and approve the minutes from the April 29 meeting. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific budget decisions or dollar amounts listed.

• School Presentation – Q3 FY'24
• Town/School Facilities Tours Schedule
• Approval of April 29, 2024 Minutes

Zoning Board

The Newmarket Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold three public hearings on special exception and variance applications for nonconforming structures and setback modifications. The board will also accept minutes from prior meetings and conduct routine business.

• Special Exception for vertical expansion at 1 Lafayette Street (R1 Zone)
• Special Exception for horizontal expansion at 23 Exeter Road (M2 Zone)
• Variance for condenser and propane tank at 9 Creighton Street (R4 Zone)

Conservation Commission

This is a procedural agenda for the Newmarket Conservation Commission meeting on May 9, 2024. The agenda contains only the single item 'Agenda' with attached PDF documents, and no specific decisions, discussions, or action items are listed. The meeting appears to be routine with no substantive business detailed in the agenda text.

• Agenda item: Agenda (with attached agenda and packet PDFs)

Master Plan Subcommittee

This meeting has no agenda available. The agenda text states only that there is no agenda and directs readers to review the minutes.

The subcommittee discussed parameters for a CommunityViz buildout analysis and draft survey questions, but took no formal votes or decisions. They set a June 12 meeting date and plan to have baseline data and preliminary survey results by then.

• No formal decisions made; discussion only on CommunityViz parameters and survey questions
• Set June 12 meeting date for next discussion

Arts, Culture, & Tourism Commission

The Arts, Culture & Tourism Commission will vote on several motions related to the Willey House Park Project, including funding for community engagement, a photo campaign, and mural printing. They will also consider installing art display panels in Artist Among Us Pocket Park and discuss other updates.

• Motion to accept $4,288 estimate for Interweave community engagement and distribute LRAC funds
• Motion to reimburse $68 for refreshments for Interweave participants
• Motion to accept $10 per resident photo submission fee for mural/Master Plan campaign
• Motion to disburse $898 for printing mural panels for Artist Among Us Pocket Park
• Motion to proceed with Art in the Park Sunday series and install display panels

The Arts, Culture & Tourism Commission approved funding for the Interweave community art project and mural printing, and made several other decisions. They tabled a motion to install a screen for a utility box pending more info from Eversource, and declined an offer for a lease at Willey House. The commission also approved a photo campaign with optional donations and installation of display panels in the park.

• Approved $4,288 Interweave event estimate and LRAC fund distribution (motion 2)
• Approved $68 reimbursement for refreshments (motion 3)
• Approved optional resident photo donation campaign via Better World (motion 4)
• Approved $898 mural printing expense (motion 5)
• Approved installation of display panels in Artist Among Us Pocket Park (motion 6)
• Tabled motion to install screen for utility box pending Eversource info
• Declined Willey House owner's lease offer; no seating or sculpture to be installed

Town Council

The Newmarket Town Council will hold a regular session to accept the minutes from the April 17 meeting, receive a report from the Town Manager, and consider resolutions including the purchase of a police cruiser. The meeting will also include committee reports, public forum, and discussions on new business.

• Acceptance of April 17, 2024 Town Council minutes
• Resolution 2023/2024-36: Purchase of Police Cruiser
• Resolution #2023/2024-37: SRF Loan Application Authorization

The Newmarket Town Council approved Resolution 2023/2024-36 to purchase a police cruiser, with a unanimous 7-0 vote. The decision was made after Police Chief Jordan explained that a hybrid vehicle on order for two years remains unavailable, and the department will proceed with a conventional cruiser. The council also approved the April 17, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0-1) and heard reports on the equalization ratio increase and committee appointments.

• Approved Resolution 2023/2024-36 to purchase a police cruiser (7-0)
• Approved April 17, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0-1, Chair Conley abstained)
• Licensing Board approved 3 event applications (block party, marathon, Memorial Day parade)

Budget Committee

This Budget Committee meeting has no agenda available; the only item listed is a note directing readers to review the minutes. The meeting appears to be procedural or lacking substantive items for public discussion.

• No agenda items listed

Budget Committee

The Newmarket Budget Committee is meeting to elect officers, approve the 2024 meeting calendar, and receive a town presentation on Q2 FY'24 finances. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific budget items or dollar amounts listed for decision.

• Election of Chair, Vice Chair, and CIP Representative
• Approval of 2024 meeting calendar
• Town presentation on Q2 FY'24 financials
• Approval of January 22, 2024 minutes

Town Council

The Newmarket Town Council will hold a regular session with a work session on the Arts, Culture & Tourism Commission update. The council will consider reappointments, a resolution on the Public Transportation Advisory Committee, and a first reading of a resolution to purchase a police cruiser. Public forum is limited to 15 minutes with 3-minute speaking slots.

• Resolution #2023/2024-35 - Public Transportation Advisory Committee (2nd reading)
• Resolution 2023/2024-36 - Purchase of Police Cruiser (1st reading)
• Reappointment of Bruce Fielding to Housing Authority Commission (term to April 2026)
• Reappointment of Shannon Culpepper to Arts, Culture & Tourism Commission (term to April 2027)
• Acceptance of April 3, 2024 meeting minutes

The Town Council unanimously approved Resolution #2023/2024-35 to establish a Public Transportation Advisory Committee, with members to be solicited immediately and one seat reserved for a Town Councilor. The council also approved committee assignments, reappointed two commission members, and accepted prior meeting minutes. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included a work session presentation on the Willey House arts project and a first reading of a police cruiser purchase resolution.

• Approved Resolution #2023/2024-35 creating Public Transportation Advisory Committee (6-0)
• Approved committee assignments as written (6-0)
• Reappointed Bruce Fielding to Housing Authority Commission (6-0)
• Reappointed Shannon Culpepper to Arts, Culture & Tourism Commission (6-0)
• Approved April 3, 2024 non-public meeting minutes (5-0-1)
• Approved April 3, 2024 meeting minutes as amended (5-0-1)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will meet to approve meeting minutes, elect officers, and review financial summaries for its Conservation and General Funds. The body will discuss land stewardship projects like Heron Point boundaries and Piscassic River-Loiselle parking area fence, trail improvements for Old Lee Class A Trail, and updates on projects like Ash Swamp Road turtle crossing and Wiggin Farm bridge rebuild. Public comment and committee reports will also be heard.

• Old Lee Class A Trail drainage improvement proposal up to $3,000
• Heron Point boundaries and trees discussion
• Piscassic River-Loiselle parking area fence project
• Wiggin Farm bridge rebuild
• Financial summaries for Conservation and General Funds

Master Plan Subcommittee

This meeting has no published agenda. The only item listed is 'No Agenda,' directing readers to review the minutes for any prior discussion.

The subcommittee met and conducted a visioning workshop with the Strafford Regional Planning Commission, discussing community aspirations, walkability, demographics, and themes for the Master Plan. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational and adjourned with consensus.

• Held visioning workshop with SRPC (no vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:07 PM (consensus)

Arts, Culture, & Tourism Commission

The Newmarket Arts, Culture, & Tourism Commission is meeting to accept minutes, discuss old business, and receive project updates. Key items include a grant application update for Willey Park, community events, a photo campaign, and fundraising ideas such as a mural auction. The meeting is open to the public with a 15-minute public forum.

• Public forum (15 min. maximum)
• Acceptance of minutes from 3/5/24
• Arts in the Park Gr8 Restaurant Coupon update
• Willey Park LRAC Grant Application update
• Fundraising ideas: Mural Auction, Art in the Pocket Park, Ladies Art Salon Nites

Town Council

The Newmarket Town Council will hold its regular session to elect a chair and vice-chair, adopt 2024/2025 council rules, and reappoint members to the Zoning Board of Appeals and Riverfront Advisory Committee. The meeting includes procedural items such as accepting minutes, committee reports, and a public forum for resident comments.

• Elect Council Chair and Vice-chair
• Adopt Town Council Rules for 2024/2025
• Reappointment of James Drago to Zoning Board of Appeals (term through April 2027)
• Reappointment of Ingrid Ahlberg and Betsy Wolfe to Riverfront Advisory Committee (terms through April 2027)
• First reading of Resolution #2023/2024-35 (Public Transportation Advisory Committee)

Energy & Environment Advisory Committee

The Energy and Environment Advisory Committee is meeting to accept prior minutes, receive an update on Community Power, and discuss which experts to invite to future meetings via the Strafford Regional Planning Commission (SRPC). The agenda is mostly routine, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Update on Community Power
• Discussion on experts to invite to future meetings (SRPC)
• Acceptance of February 29, 2024 minutes

Town Council

The Newmarket Town Council is holding its regular session, covering routine items like minutes approval, reports, and appointments. The main substantive item is a second reading of Resolution #2023/2024-34 regarding the Water Treatment Plant Acid Room. Several appointments to town boards are also on the agenda.

• Resolution #2023/2024-34: Water Treatment Plant Acid Room (2nd reading)
• Appointment: Tom Jones to Conservation Commission (term to April 2027)
• Reappointment: Michael Pelczar as Cemetery Trustee (term to April 2027)
• Reappointment: Sam Kenney to Riverfront Advisory Committee (term to April 2027)
• Reappointment: John Reddy as Housing Authority Commissioner (term to April 2029)

The Town Council unanimously approved Resolution #2023/2024-34 to fund improvements to the water treatment plant's acid room, using a $245,000 settlement and awarding the contract to TBUCK Construction for $253,000. The council also approved several appointments and reappointments to town boards and commissions. All votes were unanimous (7-0).

• Approved $253K water treatment acid room contract (7-0)
• Approved March 6, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Appointed Tom Jones to Conservation Commission (7-0)
• Reappointed Michael Pelczar as Cemetery Trustee (7-0)
• Reappointed Sam Kenney to Riverfront Advisory Committee (7-0)
• Reappointed John Reddy to Housing Authority (7-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission’s March 14, 2024 meeting agenda contains only procedural items and no decisions, proposals, or discussions are listed in the provided document.

The Newmarket Conservation Commission approved accepting a $550 check from LCHIP for easement monitoring, approved sending a letter of support for state funding to repair a sewer leak under the Lamprey River, and approved paying three invoices for the Wiggin Farm kiosk. The commission also discussed a potential grant application for Ash Swamp Road culvert replacement and reviewed the Master Plan update.

• Approved accepting $550 LCHIP check for Piscassic River-Loiselle monitoring (7-0)
• Approved sending letter of support for sewer leak funding under Lamprey River (7-0)
• Approved paying three invoices for Wiggin Farm kiosk ($1,362.50 total) (7-0)

Zoning Board

The Newmarket Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on an application by Chinburg Development, LLC for an Equitable Waiver of Dimensional Requirements. The waiver concerns 16 duplex buildings (32 units) at Stonehill Point at Hersey Green on Green Road, which are 40 feet 7 inches tall, exceeding the 35-foot limit in Section 32-88 of the Zoning Ordinance. The board will also accept minutes and hear reports.

• Public hearing for Equitable Waiver of Dimensional Requirements by Chinburg Development, LLC
• 16 duplex buildings (32 units) on Green Road exceed height limit: 40'7" vs allowed 35'
• Properties located at Stonehill Point at Hersey Green, Tax Map R5, Lot 132, R2 District

Town Council

The Newmarket Town Council will hold a public hearing and second reading on Ordinance No. 04-2023/2034, which revises the Administrative Code. The council will also consider a resolution to use Compensated Absences Trust Funds, a first reading for a Water Treatment Plant Acid Room resolution, and several appointments and resignations to town committees.

• Public hearing on Ordinance No. 04-2023/2034 (Administrative Code revisions)
• Resolution #2023/24-33: Using Compensated Absences Trust Funds
• Resolution #2023/2024-34: Water Treatment Plant Acid Room
• Reappointment of Julianna Tyson to Conservation Commission (term to April 2027)
• Resignation of Ginny Ouellette from Energy & Environment Committee

Arts, Culture, & Tourism Commission

The Newmarket Arts, Culture, & Tourism Commission is meeting to discuss and decide on several ongoing projects, including the Arts in the Park 2024 schedule, Willey Park improvements (LRAC grant application, artist RFP, Main Street Corp. update), and new fundraising ideas. They will also review a draft chapter for the Master Plan. The meeting includes a public forum and acceptance of previous minutes.

• Arts in the Park 2024 schedule discussion
• LRAC grant application update for Willey Park
• Artist RFP final drafts for Willey Park
• New fundraising ideas: Mural Auction, Art in the Pocket Park, Ladies Art Salon Nites
• Master Plan ACT Chapter draft review

The Arts, Culture & Tourism Commission approved the February minutes and discussed upcoming events, including Arts in the Park concerts and a mural RFP for Willey Park. They also began planning the arts chapter for Newmarket's Master Plan with Strafford Regional Planning. No major funding decisions were made; actions were mostly organizational.

• Approved minutes of 2/6/24 (motion by Glazebrook, second by Santos)
• Agreed to post Rep. Pappas's scholarship info on social media
• Planned 3-4 Arts in the Park concerts starting first Tuesday in July
• Authorized mural RFP for Willey Park; sculpture RFP pending LRAC grant
• Scheduled community art education event with Christine Destrempes for July 15 or 21
• Set brainstorming meeting with Library staff for 4/9
• Agreed to create survey questions for Master Plan arts chapter
• Adjourned at 8:02 pm

Energy & Environment Advisory Committee

The Energy and Environment Advisory Committee will hear from Autumn Scott of the Strafford Regional Planning Commission about the Energy Chapter of the master plan. They will also discuss updates on Community Power, including a meeting with COAST representatives and forming an ad hoc committee, and transportation topics with guest Town Councilor Sonke.

• Presentation on Energy Chapter of master plan by Autumn Scott
• Update on Community Power and meeting with COAST representatives
• Formation of Ad Hoc Committee for Community Power
• Discussion of transportation with guest Town Councilor Sonke

The Energy and Environment Advisory Committee heard a presentation on the Newmarket Master Plan update and discussed the Energy Chapter, with Patrick Reynolds volunteering for 'Team 4'. Joe Lamattina reported that 4,071 residents are enrolled in Newmarket Community Power, with 39 opting out and 56 opting in, and the March cutover from Eversource is on track. The committee also met with Town Councilor Sonke Dornblut about public transportation options, noting that federal and state funds are already allocated and a standalone effort would be cost-prohibitive. No formal votes were taken on these topics; the only votes were approving the Nov. 29, 2023 minutes (4-0-1).

• Approved Nov. 29, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0-1)
• Patrick Reynolds volunteered to represent committee on 'Team 4' for Energy Chapter
• Committee to review other communities' Master Plan Energy Chapters as homework
• Committee to identify technical details for appendix and experts to engage
• Next steps include creating Ad Hoc Transportation Committee and obtaining Coast 2019 survey

Town Council

The Newmarket Town Council will hold a work session on COAST public transportation, then consider accepting minutes, hear reports, and take up first readings of an administrative code ordinance and a resolution to use compensated absences trust funds. The council will also consider a library trustee appointment and hear public comments.

• Work session on COAST bus transportation
• Ordinance No. 04-2023/2034: Revisions to the Administrative Code (1st reading)
• Resolution #2023/24-33: Using the Compensated Absences Trust Funds
• Appointment of Joan DeYoreo as Library Trustee (term to April 2027)
• Public Forum for resident comments (3-minute limit per speaker)

Veteran's Memorial Trust Committee

The Newmarket Veterans Memorial Trust Committee will meet to approve minutes, discuss committee vacancies, and address new business including a golf fundraiser and Memorial Day Parade plans. The committee will also consider adding a Veterans resources link to its website.

• Committee vacancies discussion
• Golf fundraiser planning
• Memorial Day Parade planning
• Add Veterans resources link to website

Zoning Board

The Newmarket Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on two applications: a special exception to expand a garage at 23 Exeter Road and an equitable waiver for buildings exceeding height limits at Stonehill Point at Hersey Green. The board will also accept minutes from prior meetings and discuss other business.

• Public hearing: Special Exception for horizontal expansion of garage by 2 feet at 23 Exeter Road (Tax Map U3, Lot 35, M2 Zone), requested by Laurie A. Dion Revocable Trust
• Public hearing: Equitable Waiver of Dimensional Requirements for 16 duplex buildings (32 units) at Stonehill Point at Hersey Green (Green Road, Tax Map R5, Lot 132, R2 District), requested by Chinburg Development, LLC; buildings are 40'7" tall vs. 35' allowed
• Acceptance of minutes from 12/18/23 and 01/08/24 meetings

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission’s February 8, 2024 meeting agenda contains only procedural items and no decisions or discussions. No documents indicate specific topics, ordinances, or public hearings.

Town Council

The Newmarket Town Council will hold a regular session to accept minutes from prior meetings, receive the Town Manager’s report, and consider a resolution for wastewater treatment facility launder covers. No substantive decisions are scheduled beyond procedural actions.

• Resolution #2023/2024-32: WWTF Launder Covers
• Acceptance of January 16, 2024 Public Hearing Minutes
• Acceptance of January 17, 2024 Meeting Minutes
• Town Manager’s Report for February 7, 2024

Arts, Culture, & Tourism Commission

The Newmarket Arts, Culture, & Tourism Commission will meet to discuss and potentially act on several items, including the draft Master Plan, revisions to the 2024 event schedule, and updates on projects like Arts in the Park and Willey Park improvements. The meeting includes a public forum for resident input.

• Master Plan Draft & Format discussion
• 2024 Event Schedule Revisions
• Arts in the Park update
• LRAC Grant Application Update for Willey Park
• New fundraising ideas: Mural Auction, Art in the Pocket Park, Ladies Art Salon Nites

Energy & Environment Advisory Committee

The Energy and Environment Advisory Committee is holding a public information session on Newmarket Community Power, a municipal electricity aggregation program. The agenda includes a presentation and a question-and-answer period. No decisions are scheduled; this is an informational meeting.

• Public information session on Newmarket Community Power
• Presentation and Q&A on the program

Conservation Commission

This is a procedural agenda with no substantive items listed. The only agenda item is the agenda itself, with supporting documents available as PDFs.

• Agenda item: Agenda

Zoning Board

The Newmarket Zoning Board of Adjustment will hear two variance requests at its January 8 meeting. One seeks a 2-foot-9-inch height increase for a two-story home on Hamel Farm Drive; the other requests an equitable waiver for 32 units in 16 duplex buildings on Green Road. The board will also consider changing its meeting schedule from as-needed to monthly.

• Variance for 2-story home at 21 Hamel Farm Drive to exceed 35-foot height limit by 2’9”
• Equitable waiver for 16 duplex buildings (32 units) on Green Road to exceed 35-foot height limit
• Proposal to change meeting frequency from as-needed to once per month

Town Council

The Newmarket Town Council will hold its regular session, including a public forum, approval of minutes, and reports. The main business is first readings of resolutions for the Bennett Well project, ARPA funding, and a Water Master Plan, plus an ordinance to amend the Downtown Commercial Overlay District. These are first readings, so no final decisions are expected at this meeting.

• Resolution #2023/2024-29: Bennett Well Project
• Resolution #2023/2024-30: Bennett Well ARPA
• Resolution #2023/2024-31: Water Master Plan
• Ordinance No. 2-2023/2024: Amend Downtown Commercial Overlay District

Arts, Culture, & Tourism Commission

The Arts, Culture, & Tourism Commission will convene to accept prior meeting minutes, hear project updates on a February fundraiser, a Willey Park grant application, and the 2024 Artist Among Us Pocket Park mural schedule, and adopt the 2024 meeting schedule.

• February Fundraiser Draft Promotional Materials review
• Willey Park LRAC Grant Application Draft review
• Artist Among Us Pocket Park 2024 Mural Schedule presentation
• 2024 Commission Meeting Schedule adoption