Kathi Bradt

The board discussed upcoming warrant articles derived from the Capital Improvement Plan and coordinated remarks for the town meeting. Additionally, the meeting addressed three vacant positions on the board, with current members and members of the public expressing interest in running for these terms. Technical discussion also occurred regarding the status of grandfathered lots in the event of an increase in property size.

The meeting included an information session regarding Langdon School Board's potential withdrawal from SAU60, which generated significant public discussion and highlighted potential increases in Acworth's school taxes. The Board approved the Bill Manifest and Payroll Manifest. Action items included approving and signing a letter of commitment to purchase a 2026 Ford F600 dump truck pending authorization at Town Meeting, and signing the Warrant. The Conservation Commission discussion was postponed.

This annual report summarizes the activities for the year ending December 31, 2025, and includes key information regarding town officials, committees, and financial schedules. Discussions within the Select Board referenced ongoing flood repair projects, specifically the Forest Road Bridge, Thayer Brook Road, and Crane Brook Road, along with the process concerning Walpole and Langdon's potential withdrawal from the Fall Mountain Regional School District. The report notes the completion of the 2025 property revaluation, which resulted in a significant decrease in the municipal tax rate from $8.88 to $4.87. The Emergency Management section detailed continued coordination with FEMA and HSEM on 2023 flood damages and the completion of the 2025 Hazard Mitigation Plan update.

The Public Hearing focused on accepting grant funds from The Davis Conservation for the Keyes Hollow Wetland Restoration Project. The discussion covered the significant conservation value of Keyes Hollow, which is the largest wetland on the Cold River and acts as a flood deterrent. It was noted that water flowing down Keyes Hollow Road is diverting water that should be entering the wetland. The awarded $15,000 grant, part of a total estimated cost of $24,000, will be used for a biologist assessment to develop restoration options. The Conservation Commission agreed to contribute funds, and additional support may come from the Acworth Charitable Trust. The CT River Conservancy will lead the restoration effort with oversight from town representatives.

The key discussions included the appointment of an alternate member for the meeting and the appointment of an administrative assistant for the Planning Board. The Board also decided to defer the discussion of an ordinance, including the definition of "Yurt," to the March meeting when new members are seated. The discussion also touched upon RSA 91-A requirements for minutes and timing, as well as upcoming monthly training sessions.