Judy Renaud

The commission addressed cell phone coverage issues by coordinating with the Economic Development Commission to share provider resources and carrier-provided data. Discussions were held regarding potential zoning regulation updates for cell tower installations, the master planning process as it pertains to communications infrastructure, and the legislative advocacy role of the City Council. The commission also reviewed the status of local cable access programming and discussed the future educational needs regarding 5G network technology and infrastructure.

The Board reviewed and acted upon several property-related variance and special exception requests. Regarding old business, the Board approved a request for a lot merger and the construction of three single-family dwellings, while a request for a new residential care facility was denied due to concerns regarding property values. In new business, the Board approved a request for modifications to a property involving the construction of a three-season room and deck, and granted a special exception for a change of use from professional office to esthetic services for another property.

The Portsmouth Master Plan is a comprehensive framework designed to guide the future development of the City of Portsmouth, NH, aligning with principles of smart growth, sound planning, and resource protection. It outlines a vision to cultivate Portsmouth as a vibrant cultural and economic hub, emphasizing the protection of its historic character, investment in sustainability and resilience, and expansion of attainable housing options. The plan is structured around core values of vibrancy, authenticity, inclusivity, connectivity, sustainability, and resiliency, with strategic goals focused on enhancing quality of place, creating diverse housing, promoting fiscally responsible development, strengthening the local economy, and safeguarding essential assets. Key recommendations involve strategic infrastructure and capital investments, alongside streamlined zoning and development review processes to achieve these objectives.

The meeting agenda includes a public hearing on open enrollment, a superintendent's report covering school board email summaries, a budget decision, resignation and retirement correspondence, and administrative reports on expenditure and revenue. Business items encompass a budget update, a board retreat, the consideration and approval of a community engagement committee, and the second reading of various policies regarding automated external defibrillators, physical activity, distance education, student conduct, and student physical health needs. New business includes sabbatical leave requests, employment approvals for a school psychologist, leave of absence considerations, donation approvals, teacher contracts, open enrollment policy, and the elimination and first reading of several policies. Additionally, the agenda covers committee updates.

The City Council meeting agenda covers several key items, including a work session on the Water/Sewer Enterprise Fund Rate Model study and a public art report from the Public Art Review Committee. Action items include the approval of Memorandums of Agreement with the Portsmouth Fire Officers Association and the Portsmouth Police Civilian Employees Association, as well as the acceptance of easements for properties at 1465 Woodbury Avenue and 550 Sagamore Avenue. The agenda also lists the acceptance of grants and donations for the Senior Activity Center, the Portsmouth Police Department, and a Granite United Way Opioid Abatement Responsive Grant. Informational items include a SchoolCare update, a report back on childcare access and quality, and a review of the State Street two-way traffic trial recommendation.