Town of Hillsborough

The board conducted several public hearings, including one regarding a Brownfield Grant application for 171 West Main Street, as well as hearings on a Community Development Block Grant for housing rehabilitation at the same address, a residential anti-displacement and relocation assistance plan, and a housing and community development plan. Budget discussions for 2026 took place with various department heads, covering the police, fire, highway, teen center, parks and recreation, and transfer station departments. Additionally, the board addressed a reimbursement request from the Sewer Commission, evaluated a payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) request from Kearsarge Energy, authorized a Hazard Mitigation Grant application, approved a consent agenda, and authorized the signing of payroll and accounts payable manifests.

The board opened the Sidewalk Construction Bid for Main Street, receiving one proposal. A public hearing was held regarding a 10-lot subdivision application on Myrtle Street, involving discussions on property conveyance, drainage concerns, and infrastructure plans such as water lines and road construction. The board ultimately approved the subdivision application with various conditions, including requirements for road construction, erosion control, and wetland protection. Additionally, the board discussed the future implementation of sidewalk requirements in the Village Residential Zone.

The board addressed several administrative and budgetary matters. Key discussions included the transition of the Treasurer position from an elected to an appointed role, a review of property revaluation processes with the town assessor, and a public hearing regarding the 2026 operating budget. Various revenue and expense concerns were raised, including police coverage for the town of Deering, staffing and salary allocations, the Teen Center budget, and the funding of equipment such as a sidewalk tractor and a heavy rescue pumper truck.

Key discussions during the meeting included the proposed budget for the upcoming year, where the Commission decided on specific amounts for contract services, signs, printing, training, and dues, while planning to finalize the contract services amount after securing an actual quote. The Commission also reviewed a Trails Presentation PowerPoint, deciding to use it for a presentation to the Selectboard. New business covered a report from the ACC Conference and the donation of 10 metal posts by a member, which led to an authorized reimbursement for paint costs. Furthermore, the Commission reviewed a Major Subdivision application for 109 Jones Road, raising concerns regarding storm drainage, wetlands impact, the property's role as a wildlife corridor, steep slopes, and unique geologic features, ultimately authorizing a member to provide formal comments to the Planning Board.

Key discussions during the meeting included a public comment regarding the upcoming Library open house. The board approved the consent agenda, which covered a tax abatement and a hardship abatement request. Authorization was granted for the Selectmen to sign manifests and order the Treasurer to issue payroll and accounts payable checks totaling over $1.78 million. The Thrift Store Board presented a detailed plan for structural changes to their building, including mold remediation and expansion, proposing a 0-year memorandum of understanding where the Town would assist with removal and filling costs. Liability concerns regarding volunteer demolition and required testing for asbestos or lead paint were raised. The board authorized reimbursement to the Water & Sewer Commissioners for the Park & Whittemore Project using American Rescue Plan Act Funds. A procedural change for the 2026 Budget Process was proposed, eliminating budget work sessions to incorporate departmental reviews into regular public meetings. Recommendations from the Highway Safety Committee for creating a one-way traffic environment on Bear Hill Road were accepted. Updates were provided regarding Economic Revitalization Zones, which aim to encourage business growth through state tax breaks, with a public hearing scheduled for November 25th. Departments were asked to review fees for an update public hearing scheduled for December 9th. The potential impact of Deering withdrawing from the school cooperative was discussed, noting significant budget cuts required for Hillsborough if the withdrawal proceeds. Requests were made for updating emergency service contracts and addressing paving on Center Road. Finally, the status of the Road Bond for Hillsborough Heights was reviewed, and the developer will be contacted regarding paving a specific section if the project is on hold.