Christopher R Culberson

The commissioners conducted elections for officer positions, nominating a Chairman and Deputy Treasurer. Financial discussions included reviewing treasurer reports, accounts payable manifests, and payroll, as well as an update on the 2025 audit. An emergency response plan was finalized for submission to state authorities. Legal matters regarding agreements with Manchester Manor, Granite Hills, and Granite Heights were addressed. The board reviewed operational updates, including a cybersecurity grant program, a superintendent succession plan, and a summary of a recent water main break on Benton Road. Finally, the board approved several policies including the housekeeping and indemnity rules.

The report detailed various operational activities and project updates. Key items included the submission of first quarter disinfection byproduct samples and the scheduling of required 2026 cross-connection testing. Updates were provided on construction progress at Park Place and resolution of water connection issues at 51 Thames Road. For the Panera Bread service application, the hydrostatic test passed, but the line is awaiting service pending the resolution of a small leak. Water service connection planning is underway for Eagles Nest, which will be phased due to ledge encountered. A TRC meeting was held regarding a proposed car wash at 1317-1319 Hooksett Road, requiring the existing water main to be cut and capped. An issue was reported concerning the un-abandoned service line at 108 Whitehall Road following an un-notified demolition. The 2026 Operating Budget was finalized and approved by the Budget Committee. An inquiry regarding water availability for a potential subdivision at 48 Zapora Road is pending further review. Marmon Aerospace's proposed expansion includes extending an existing 8" water main for fire service. A Utility Layout Plan for a contractor bay development at 1373 and 1375 Hooksett Road was reviewed and approved by the TRC. Progress is being made on a software upgrade to the billing system, and the 2025 Audit is scheduled for March. A significant water main break occurred on Benton Road in sub-zero temperatures, resulting in the estimated loss of 600,000-700,000 gallons, which was isolated and repaired. A frozen service line at Merchants Fleet was thawed, and the thawing machine was loaned to Hooksett Village Water Precinct. The office underwent an upgrade to LED lighting.

The superintendent's report covered several operational and administrative topics. Key discussions included the status of required monthly Total Coliform samples and first-quarter disinfection byproduct sampling results submitted to NHDES. Updates were provided on ongoing construction projects, specifically framing progress at Park Place (Hooksett Road). A significant discussion involved an amendment to the water service design for the 49 and 51 Thames Road subdivision, where an agreement was reached to abandon the extension of the existing private water line in favor of a new live tap on the 12" water main for 51 Thames Road. The status of water service installation for Panera Bread at 1265 Hooksett Road was reviewed, noting a leak requiring repair before pressure testing and service activation. For Eagles Nest at 1501 Hooksett Road, discussions covered phasing the project due to rock excavation and the potential to split connection fees across phases. The report also noted the demolition of the house at 108 Whitehall Road occurred without notifying CHWP, leaving the water line abandoned but not properly disconnected from the main. Administrative items included the finalization of the 2026 Operating Budget for presentation, progress on a software upgrade for the billing system, and the ongoing 2025 Audit. Finally, a scheduled meeting was noted for reviewing insurance policy renewals.

Key discussions included the review and approval of Treasurer and Accounts Payable reports, as well as payroll manifests for January 2026. Correspondence addressed a donation to the American Heart Association and provided legal guidance on motion initiation by the Treasurer. Important operational matters involved developing new agreements with Manchester Manor, and clarifying responsibilities via an easement document for water valves and road maintenance concerning Granite Hill and Granite Heights. Old business covered the 2026 budget, which was approved by the commissioners after Budget Committee review, and policy reviews, including updates on a cybersecurity grant program. New business detailed a significant water main break on Benton Road, which prompted a plan to increase customer enrollment in emergency notifications via informational flyers. Commissioners also approved Housekeeping Rule, Indemnity Rule, and Policy changes.

The annual meeting covered the election of officers, including the moderator, clerk, treasurer, and commissioners for varying terms. Key financial decisions included the appropriation of funds for municipal operations, the Source Development and Infrastructure Preservation Fund, and approval of stipend increases for commissioners, the treasurer, and the clerk. Additionally, the precinct authorized the acceptance of unanticipated funds from governmental or private sources, the acceptance of gifts, grants, and bequests, and ratified and affirmed ordinances and bylaws, as well as the schedule of fees and charges.