Town of Kensington

The meeting included discussions and decisions on several key areas. The minutes from the December 19th meeting were approved. There was a clarification to bylaws regarding displaying flags within the cemeteries and their removal during the winter, with revised language moving to council for review. Updates were provided on cemetery maintenance, including stone repairs and mowing. New burials were updated, and the search for missing burial records was discussed. There were no new updates on town newsletter and website communications. The annual report for 2024 will be addressed in September/October, and the 2025 budget status will be further discussed during the October meeting.

The meeting included discussions on the Hodges Conservation Land, specifically the removal of the trail closed sign and the status of a proposed new sign. The commission addressed the payment of the Forest Management Plan and will investigate a warrant article to utilize funds from the Hodges Trust account for managing the land. The limited funding available for conservation interests in Kensington was noted. SELT monitoring reports showed no concerns. The Great Bay Change Maker Program is seeking volunteers to help protect water resources in the Exeter River/Squamscott watershed.

The Zoning Board meeting included a public hearing for a special exception request by Building Block Commons to change the use of property at 267 South Road from Farm Stand Agricultural to Commercial Educational Use. The board discussed public safety concerns, traffic management, and compatibility with the surrounding area. The board deliberated on public safety, health, welfare, and convenience, traffic volume, and the need for an engineered traffic study. The board approved the application for a Special Exception, contingent upon the completion of an engineered traffic study.

The meeting was called to order by the chairman Aaron Fenton. The applicant requested a modification of a prior non-conforming new use to establish enclosed inventory storage and setback relief to permit placement of a storage trailer. The applicant preferred to be heard in front of a full Board and offered alternative dates to meet. The Board agreed to meet on August 14, 2025.

The committee meeting included a review of the Kensington Summer Camp, with suggestions for the following year including requiring shoes, additional counselor training on liability concerns, encouraging bathing suits, and informing families of rules. The director will send intent to return letters to counselors. The committee discussed Old Home Day, including budget, supplies, music, and posting an agenda on Facebook.