Brian LeBlanc

The committee meeting focused on reviewing committee operations, the charge of the sub-committee, and providing an overview of historic information and relevant NH RSAs for new members. A key discussion topic involved a resident request to review the proposed discontinuance of four Class VI road segments, with plans to forward any recommendations to the City Council. The committee also planned to review a draft meeting schedule for the remainder of the year.

The Board discussed various operational updates, including cemetery maintenance reports, vandalism repairs, and the status of recent burial lot sales. Significant deliberations focused on the design and naming conventions for infant grave sections, where members reached a consensus on the use of lamb imagery and specific labeling. The Board reviewed draft natural burial regulations and discussed cemetery access policies, including bicycle usage and a proposed smoking ban that failed to pass. Additionally, the members addressed records regarding private burial sites and conducted the election of new officers.

The committee discussed the potential use of the former Seminary Hill School facility, ongoing efforts of the Arts & Culture Commission including art installations and branding initiatives, and an update on the Spencer Street reconstruction project. Additionally, the commission explored the possibility of promoting whitewater recreation on the Mascoma River, reviewed a visit from the NH Business and Economic Affairs department, and addressed concerns regarding affordable housing and the need for economic development guidelines.

The task force held a meeting to discuss revisions to provisions within the Welcoming Lebanon Ordinance, specifically focusing on the disclosure of immigration or citizenship status. Key discussions involved the language regarding exceptions for ongoing criminal investigations, the distinction between felonies and other legal violations, and ensuring consistency with the original ordinance approved by voters. The task force also planned to schedule a follow-up meeting to finalize report recommendations to the City Council.

The committee discussed the status of the RFP for EV charging stations, aiming to secure real proposals to evaluate potential funding models and partnerships. Additionally, progress on the Lebanon workplace charging program was reviewed, including updates on policy development and facility maintenance procedures. The committee also examined potential revisions to the zoning ordinance for multi-unit housing and evaluated a proposal for ebike charging stations, focusing on the need for further demand assessment.