Bedford Heights public meetings in 2021

Conservation Commission

This meeting of the Bedford Heights Conservation Commission has no agenda items listed. The agenda consists solely of a note indicating there is no business to conduct, with a link to view minutes from previous meetings.

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on three applications: a variance for an in-ground pool near a wetland, a variance to allow a community center in a residential zone, and an appeal of a cease and desist order against a church. The board will also approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• Variance for in-ground pool within 30.3 feet of wetland (50 ft required) at 77 Oriole Drive
• Variance to operate a Community Center in R&A district at 18 N. Amherst Road
• Appeal of cease and desist order for gatherings before Certificate of Occupancy at 445 Rte 101

The Bedford Zoning Board granted two variances: one for an in-ground pool within 35.3 feet of a wetland (5-0) and one to allow a community center in a residential zone (5-0). The board also denied an appeal of a cease and desist order against New Hope Christian Fellowship, upholding the order (4-0).

• Granted variance for in-ground pool at 77 Oriole Drive (5-0)
• Granted variance for community center at 18 N. Amherst Road (5-0)
• Denied appeal of cease and desist order at 445 Route 101 (4-0)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will discuss updates to the Land Development Control Regulation Article 120, specifically adjusting School and Recreation impact fees. The board will also read and post proposed zoning amendments and citizens' petitions, and announce dates for public hearings. A site plan amendment for 18 Kilton Road has been postponed to January 10, 2022.

• Discussion of impact fee adjustments for School and Recreation fees under Article 120
• Reading and posting of proposed zoning amendments and citizens' petitions
• Announcement of public hearing dates for zoning amendments
• Site plan amendment for 18 Kilton Road (Ira Lexus) postponed to January 10, 2022

The Bedford Planning Board voted to set a public hearing for January 24, 2022, to adopt changes to Section 120 – Impact Fees, which would increase school and recreation impact fees for new residential development. The Board also voted to post three zoning amendments for public hearings on January 10 and January 24, 2022, including amendments related to solar energy systems, detached accessory apartments, and a citizens' petition to limit medical clinic size in the Performance Zone. The Board postponed a site plan amendment for Ira Lexus to January 10, 2022, at the applicant's request.

• Set public hearing for January 24, 2022, to adopt changes to Section 120 – Impact Fees (all in favor)
• Posted three zoning amendments for public hearings on January 10 and January 24, 2022 (all in favor)
• Postponed Group I Realty site plan amendment for Ira Lexus to January 10, 2022 (all in favor)
• Approved minutes of November 22, 2021, meeting (with two abstentions)
• Approved minutes of December 6, 2021, meeting (with one abstention)

Telecommunications Subcommittee

This is a procedural meeting of the Bedford Telecommunications Committee. The agenda contains only the meeting time, date, and location, with no listed discussion items or decisions.

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission is meeting to hear a presentation from the Community Power Coalition NH and review a draft solar zoning amendment. Members are also discussing solar projects at the transfer station, town pool, and highway garage.

• Presentation by Community Power Coalition NH on launching community power programs
• Draft Solar Zoning Amendment presentation by Assistant Planning Director Jillian Harris
• Discussion of a proposed 0.5MW solar project at the Transfer Station
• Review of solar projects for the Town Pool and Public Works Highway Garage
• Analysis of Municipal Aggregation Costs and the creation of a Study Committee for CCA

The Bedford Energy Commission met on December 16, 2021, and approved the minutes from November 18, 2021, as amended. The main agenda item was a presentation by Assistant Planning Director Jillian Harris on a draft solar zoning amendment (Amendment No. 1 Relative to Solar Energy Systems), which the Planning Board is considering. The Commission discussed various aspects of the amendment, including definitions, height limits, setbacks, and screening requirements, but took no formal action on it. The meeting also included a report on a potential solar project at the Transfer Station, with an estimated cost of $910,000 for extending 3-phase power, but no decisions were made.

• Approved November 18, 2021 minutes as amended (all in favor, Schneller and Thomas abstaining)
• Discussed draft solar zoning amendment, no vote taken
• Discussed Transfer Station solar project, no decision made

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold a regular meeting with several significant items, including awarding bids for a new ambulance and a material screener, certifying petitioned zoning amendments, and appealing a sewer permit denial for 188 Route 101. The council will also review 2022 budget decisions and move the proposed budget to public hearings, approve a Grant Management Policy update, decide on participation in the national opioid settlement, and appoint a member to the Conservation Commission.

• Award of Bid, New Ambulance
• Award of Bid, Material Screener
• Certification of petitioned zoning amendments
• Appeal of sewer permit denial for 188 Route 101, Lot 20-22-2, Greiner Investments, LLC
• Review 2022 budget decisions and move proposed budget to public hearings

The Bedford Town Council voted unanimously to move the recommended 2022 municipal operating budget of $35,415,675 to public hearings on January 12 and 26, 2022. The council also approved several other items, including the purchase of a new ambulance and a material screener, and authorized joining the national opioid settlement.

• Approved $285,000 ambulance purchase from Sugarloaf Ambulance/Rescue Vehicles (7-0)
• Approved $175,739 material screener bid from Monroe Tractor (7-0)
• Forwarded citizen petition zoning amendment on medical clinics to Planning Board (7-0)
• Approved recommended 2022 budget changes and moved $35,415,675 budget to public hearings (7-0)
• Approved revised Grants Management Policy (7-0)
• Authorized joining national opioid settlement with McKesson, Cardinal Health, and AmerisourceBergen (7-0)
• Appointed Deborah Evans to Conservation Commission (7-0)
• Approved minutes of November 17, 2021 public session (7-0)

Trustees of the Trust Funds

The Trustees of the Trust Funds will meet to review their annual schedule and receive updates on cemetery issues. The board will also receive a quarterly update from financial advisors and discuss the process for approving minutes via email.

• Review and action on Annual Schedule of items
• Update on cemetery issues
• Quarterly update by financial advisors
• Discussion on approving minutes via e-mail

The Bedford Trustees of the Trust Funds met on Dec 13, 2021, approving prior minutes and adopting a new process to approve future minutes via email. They discussed the meaning of 'for cemetery care' in cemetery trusts, with the Town Attorney and state officials indicating it means 'specific gravesite' care. They also considered using trust funds for cemetery maintenance, pending legal advice, and received a quarterly investment update showing $125,838 market value.

• Approved minutes of 19 Aug 2021 meeting as written
• Adopted email voting process for approving minutes (unanimous)
• Scheduled quarterly investment review for 10:00 AM
• Agreed to seek Town Attorney advice on expending cemetery trust funds

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will hold a public meeting to consider a lot line adjustment request from Waterford Construction, LLC and Dean & Kathryn Williams for two lots on Back River Road and 25 Bixby Farm Lane. The board will also discuss zoning amendments and approve minutes from previous meetings. No old business or continued hearings are scheduled.

• Subdivision – Lot Line Adjustment for 2 lots at Back River Road and 25 Bixby Farm Lane (Lots 34-36 and 34-40-4, zoned RA)
• Discussion of zoning amendments
• Approval of November 8, 2021 Planning Board minutes
• Approval of November 22, 2021 Planning Board minutes

The Bedford Planning Board granted final approval for a lot line adjustment between 170 Back River Road and 25 Bixby Farm Lane, owned by Waterford Construction, LLC and Dean and Kathryn Williams, with conditions to be met within one year. The board also discussed two draft zoning amendments (solar energy systems and detached accessory apartments) but took no final action on them, directing staff to revise the drafts for the next meeting. Minutes from the November 8, 2021 meeting were approved.

• Approved final lot line adjustment for Lots 34-36 and 34-40-4, with conditions including technical review, recording fees, surveyor certification, and plan signatures.
• Approved minutes of the November 8, 2021 Planning Board meeting as written, with two members abstaining.
• Discussed draft zoning amendment for solar energy systems; no vote taken, staff to revise based on board feedback.
• Discussed draft zoning amendment for detached accessory apartments; no vote taken, staff to revise based on board feedback.
• Discussed potential micro-site for the Master Plan; no decision made, board to consider at next meeting.

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Conservation Commission will hold a regular meeting on November 23, 2021, at 7:00 PM in the Town Meeting Room at BCTV, 10 Meetinghouse Road. The main item is a variance request by Raymond and Lynn Arner to build an in-ground pool within the 50-foot wetland setback at 77 Oriole Drive. The agenda also includes approval of minutes, updates on old business, and a non-public session for property acquisition or sale discussions.

• Variance request for in-ground pool within 50-foot wetland setback at 77 Oriole Drive
• Approval of minutes from September 28 and October 26, 2021 meetings
• Updates on Goedecke Eagle Scout Project, Monument Replacement, and Property Blazing on Conservation Lands
• Review of previously issued permits and variances, including Crandall and Martin variances
• Non-public session per RSA 91-A:3, II(d) for property acquisition, sale, or lease

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will hold continued hearings and new business on two site plan requests. The main item is a continued review of a major mixed-use expansion at the Market and Main site on South River Road, adding 174,000 square feet of retail, restaurant, office, and hotel space. The board will also consider a site plan amendment for renovations at the Wire Belt Company facility on Colby Court for a new tenant. Minutes from the November 8 meeting will be approved.

• Continued site plan review for ER Bedford, LLC: 174,000 SF additional mixed-use development at 125 South River Road (Lots 12-33, 12-33-1, 12-33-2, zoned PZ)
• New site plan amendment for Wire Belt Company of America: renovations at 17 Colby Court (Lot 11-25-1, zoned PZ) for new tenant
• Approval of minutes from November 8, 2021 meeting

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission is meeting to appoint a new Chairman and Vice Chairman. The body will discuss the creation of a Study Committee for Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) and review solar proposals for the landfill, town pool, and highway garage.

• Study Committee for Community Choice Aggregation (CCA)
• Landfill solar engagement with Jeff Foote
• Town Pool PV Shade/Shelter
• Public Works Highway Garage PV Vehicle Port/Shelter(s)
• Transfer Station congressionally directed spending

Poles and Wires Committee

The Poles and Wires Committee is holding a public meeting to consider a request from Cellco Partnership d/b/a Verizon Wireless to install small cell equipment on an existing utility pole in the right-of-way adjacent to 187-189 South River Road. The committee will also review and approve minutes from its September 9, 2021 meeting. This is a routine permitting matter for telecommunications infrastructure.

• Verizon Wireless application for small cell equipment on existing utility pole
• Location: right-of-way adjacent to 187-189 South River Road, Lots 22-22 & 22-87
• Approval of minutes from September 9, 2021 meeting

The Poles and Wires Committee voted unanimously to continue Verizon's application for a small-cell installation on an existing utility pole at 187-189 South River Road to the January 13, 2022 meeting. The continuance allows the applicant to provide additional information and the committee to hire a third-party reviewer, paid for by the applicant. The committee also approved the September 9, 2021 minutes as written.

• Continued the Cellco Partnership (Verizon Wireless) small-cell application hearing to January 13, 2022, to allow for additional information and a third-party review paid by the applicant.
• Approved the September 9, 2021 committee minutes as written.
• Accepted the meeting agenda unanimously.
• Closed the public hearing on the Verizon application before the continuance motion.
• Adjourned the meeting at 10:04 AM.

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold a public hearing to consider Ordinance 2021-01, which amends Chapter 262-7 (Stop Signs) to add stop signs on Woodbury Lane northbound and southbound at the intersection of Palomino Lane. This is the only item on the agenda.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 2021-01 amending Chapter 262-7, Stop Signs
• Adds stop signs on Woodbury Lane northbound and southbound at Palomino Lane intersection

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold a public hearing on adding stop signs at Woodbury Lane and Palomino Lane, and will consider several new business items including the 2021 Impact Fee Study, a new fee schedule, an MOU for the Educational Farm at Joppa Hill, and awards for police/fire dispatch and security system contracts. They will also review 2022 budget decisions and discuss a November 2020 election ballot matter.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 2021-01 adding stop signs at Woodbury Lane and Palomino Lane (4-way)
• Presentation of 2021 Impact Fee Study
• Adoption of application fee schedule for Utilities, Poles and Wires Committee
• Approval of MOU for Educational Farm at Joppa Hill lease area
• Award of Police/Fire Computer Aided Dispatch and Police Record Management System; Award of RFP 04-2021 Municipal Facilities Security Systems Upgrade

The Town Council approved Ordinance 2021-01, adding stop signs on Woodbury Lane northbound and southbound at the intersection of Palomino Lane, creating a 4-way stop. The council also awarded contracts for a new Police/Fire dispatch and records system and a town-wide security system upgrade. A motion to express 'no confidence' in four town officials over the handling of uncounted 2020 ballots failed on a 3-4 vote.

• Approved Ordinance 2021-01 to add stop signs on Woodbury Lane at Palomino Lane, creating a 4-way stop.
• Recommended the Planning Board adopt the School and Recreation Impact Fees as calculated in the 2021 Impact Fee Study.
• Approved a $100.00 per node, pole, or site installation fee for Right-of-Way Utilities and Equipment Installation applications.
• Authorized the Town Manager to sign a Memorandum of Understanding defining the lease area for the Educational Farm at Joppa Hill.
• Awarded a $267,859 contract to CSI Technology Group for a new Police/Fire Computer Aided Dispatch and Records Management System.
• Awarded a $441,832 contract to Pelmac Industries for town-wide security system upgrades.
• Approved recommended changes to the 2022 budget and authorized the Town Manager to approve 2021 budget transfers.
• A motion to make a finding of 'no confidence' in Brian Shaughnessy, Sally Kellar, Bill Klein, and Rick Sawyer failed on a 3-4 vote.

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on two variance requests by Daniel Morgan and Ana Celaya-Morgan to build a shed at 158 Back River Road. The requests seek relief from side and front setback requirements. The board will also approve minutes from its October 19 meeting.

• Variance to allow shed 8.17 feet from side lot line (25 feet required)
• Variance to allow shed 22 feet from front lot line (35 feet required)
• Property at 158 Back River Road, Lot 34-31, zoned R&A

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment approved two variances for Daniel Morgan and Ana Celaya-Morgan to build a shed at 158 Back River Road, Lot 34-31, zoned R&A. The first variance allows the shed to be 22 feet from the front lot line where 35 feet is required; the second allows it to be 8.17 feet from the side lot line where 25 feet is required. Both motions passed 4-1, with Vice Chair Neal Casale dissenting. The board also approved the minutes from the October 19, 2021 meeting.

• Approved variance for shed 22 ft from front lot line (required 35 ft) at 158 Back River Road (4-1)
• Approved variance for shed 8.17 ft from side lot line (required 25 ft) at 158 Back River Road (4-1)
• Approved minutes of October 19, 2021 meeting (unanimous, with one abstention)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is holding a budget workshop to review the town's finances. The agenda contains only this single budget review item, with no other business listed.

• Budget review workshop

The Town Council held a budget workshop to review department budgets for 2022, but made no final decisions. They discussed numerous proposals, including new staffing positions, ARPA fund uses, and capital purchases, but agreed to defer all budget votes until the November 17 meeting. The only formal action was a motion to allow Councilor Murphy to participate by phone, which passed unanimously.

• Allowed Councilor Murphy to participate via telephone (5-0)
• Agreed to add $1,500 to Town Council Miscellaneous line for volunteer appreciation event
• Agreed to remove $15,250 for poll pads from Elections budget
• Deferred all budget decisions to November 17 meeting

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a site plan application for a major mixed-use development at the Market and Main site, adding 174,000 square feet of retail, restaurant, office, and hotel space. The board will also hold a public hearing on the 2021 Master Plan and consider minutes from previous meetings.

• Site plan review for ER Bedford, LLC: 174,000 SF addition at 125 South River Road, Lots 12-33, 12-33-1, 12-33-2, zoned PZ
• Public hearing on Master Plan 2021
• Approval of minutes from September 27 and October 25, 2021 meetings

The Bedford Planning Board approved seven zoning and two land development waivers for the Market & Main mixed-use development at 125 South River Road, including allowances for 79.9% impervious coverage and reduced setbacks. The site plan application was continued to the November 22, 2021 meeting. The Board also adopted the 2021 Master Plan with a condition to add information about the Bedford Land Trust.

• Approved waiver for 79.9% impervious coverage (all in favor)
• Approved waiver for 26-ft front setback on Building D (all in favor)
• Approved waiver for 19.5-ft rear setback on Building J hotel (all in favor)
• Approved waiver for narrower street tree and front landscape strips (all in favor, amended to replace dead/diseased trees on Upjohn Street)
• Approved waiver for narrower side/rear landscape strips and shorter trees (all in favor)
• Approved waiver for two 10-ft interior landscape strips instead of one 15-ft strip (all in favor)
• Approved waiver for light trespass up to 0.1 foot-candles (all in favor)
• Approved waivers to omit topographical and soils info on existing conditions plan (all in favor)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will conduct a public hearing on November 8, 2021, to consider adopting the 2021 Master Plan Update. The plan is available online and at the Planning Department for public review before the hearing.

• Public hearing on adoption of 2021 Master Plan Update
• Master Plan available for viewing at Planning Department, 24 North Amherst Road
• Master Plan available online at town website

The Bedford Planning Board approved nine waivers for the Market & Main mixed-use development at 125 South River Road, including impervious coverage, setbacks, and landscaping relief. The site plan application was continued to the November 22, 2021 meeting. The Board also adopted the 2021 Bedford Master Plan with a condition to add information about the Bedford Land Trust.

• Approved waiver for 79.9% impervious coverage (all in favor)
• Approved waiver for 26-ft front setback for Building D (all in favor)
• Approved waiver for 19.5-ft rear setback for hotel Building J (all in favor)
• Approved street tree/landscape strip waiver, amended to require replacement of dead/diseased trees on Upjohn Street (all in favor)
• Approved side/rear landscape strip waiver (all in favor)
• Approved interior pavement landscape strip waiver (all in favor)
• Approved light trespass waiver (all in favor)
• Approved waivers for topographical and soils information on Existing Conditions Plan (all in favor)

Historic District Commission

The Bedford Historic District Commission is meeting to consider one new application: a request by Scott and Judy Crandall to build a 12 ft by 16 ft shed at 37 Church Road (Lot 14-56, zoned R&A). No old business is listed. The agenda also includes routine items like approval of prior meeting minutes and member comments.

• Application by Scott and Judy Crandall for a 12 ft by 16 ft shed at 37 Church Road, Lot 14-56, zoned R&A

The Bedford Historic District Commission unanimously approved a certificate of approval for Scott and Judy Crandall to build a 12 by 16-foot historic colonial style shed at 37 Church Road, Lot 14-56, subject to conditions. The shed will house a tractor and equipment, and the project had already received approval from the Conservation Commission and Zoning Board of Adjustment. The Commission also approved the August 3, 2021 minutes, but tabled the September 14, 2021 minutes until the next meeting.

• Approved 12x16 shed at 37 Church Road (unanimous)
• Approved August 3, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled September 14, 2021 minutes

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission is reviewing reports on school projects and updates from Solsmart. Members are preparing to meet with Town Council on November 5 to discuss spending and energy infrastructure.

• Municipal Aggregation Cost Analysis and Presentation
• Congressionally directed spending for the Transfer Station
• Town Pool PV Shade/Shelter
• Public Works Highway Garage PV Vehicle Port/Shelter(s)
• Solsmart update

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold a regular meeting with a library update, new business including a stop sign ordinance and employee wage ranges, and the town manager's budget submission. Public comments are welcome.

• Library update with Library Director
• Public hearing for Ordinance 2021-01 adding stop signs on Woodbury Lane at Palomino Lane (4-way)
• Approval of Employee Compensation Wage Ranges
• Submission of Town Manager's Budget

The Bedford Town Council voted 7-0 to schedule a public hearing for November 17, 2021, to consider Ordinance 2021-01, which would add stop signs on Woodbury Lane at Palomino Lane, creating a 4-way stop. The council also approved the 2022 non-union employee compensation wage ranges, effective January 1, 2022, and approved minutes from previous meetings. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included informational updates and reports.

• Scheduled public hearing for Nov. 17 on Ordinance 2021-01 adding stop signs on Woodbury Lane at Palomino Lane (7-0)
• Approved 2022 Bedford Employee Compensation Plan Non-Union Wage Schedule effective Jan. 1, 2022 (7-0)
• Approved Oct. 13 interview minutes (5-0, Carter and Murphy abstained)
• Approved Oct. 13 public session minutes (6-0, Carter abstained)
• Approved Oct. 13 non-public session minutes (6-0, Carter abstained)
• Moved into non-public session for pending claims/litigation discussion (7-0)

Highway Safety Committee

The Bedford Heights Highway Safety Committee is meeting to consider a request for caution or slow-down signage for a hidden or blind driveway near 136 Jenkins Road. The agenda also includes approval of the previous meeting's minutes, sub-committee reports, and other routine business.

• Request for caution/blind driveway or slow down signage near 136 Jenkins Road
• Approval of minutes from September 28, 2021 meeting
• Sub-committee reports
• Correspondence and communications
• Old business and public comments

The Bedford Highway Safety Committee tabled a resident's request for cautionary/blind driveway signage at 136 Jenkins Road until the Department of Public Works clears roadside vegetation and confers with the resident to see if a sign is still needed. The committee also discussed ongoing items, including a crosswalk study at Quincy Dr./Ledgewood Rd. and a 4-way stop recommendation for Palomino Lane and Woodbury Lane scheduled for Town Council. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Tabled cautionary/blind driveway sign request at 136 Jenkins Rd pending DPW foliage mitigation and resident consultation (all in favor)
• Approved minutes from September 28, 2021 meeting (motion passed; Councilor Murphy abstained)

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Conservation Commission is holding an informal workshop to discuss general conservation planning, including a proposal for blazing property boundaries on Town Conservation Areas. They will also consider developing a volunteer project list and a Trail Stewardship Program. The public may attend but will not be solicited for comments during the workshop.

• Proposal for blazing property boundaries on Town Conservation Areas
• Development of a volunteer 'List of Projects' to support the Conservation Commission
• Development of a Trail Stewardship Program

The Bedford Conservation Commission approved spending $6,090 from the Conservation Fund for FORECO to blaze property lines at town-owned conservation areas. The meeting also included workshop discussions on potential service group projects and a trail stewardship program, with a goal to hold the first subcommittee meeting in January 2022. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved $6,090 expenditure for FORECO to blaze property lines (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will hold a public meeting to consider two site plan amendments: one for the Sebbins Brook Crossing residential development and another to allow a gas station and convenience store at 195 South River Road to operate 24 hours. The board will also hold a conceptual discussion for an electric automobile dealership on South River Road and approve minutes from prior meetings.

• Amendment to conditions for Sebbins Brook Crossing: 142 workforce housing units and 96 elderly housing units, South River Road
• Request to extend hours of operation to 24 hours for gas station/convenience store at 195 South River Road
• Conceptual discussion for electric automobile dealership at South River Road, Lot 35-3-1
• Approval of minutes from September 27 and October 11, 2021 meetings

The Bedford Planning Board approved an amendment to the Sebbins Brook Crossing site plan, allowing 25% of workforce and elderly housing units to be either rented or sold, modifying conditions #21 and #22. The board denied a request to extend Mega-X gas station hours to 24 hours, citing detrimental impacts. A conceptual discussion for an electric vehicle dealership was held with no formal decision.

• Approved amendment to Sebbins Brook Crossing site plan to allow workforce/elderly units to be rented or sold (5-2, Duschatko and Clough opposed)
• Denied Mega-X request to extend gas station hours to 24 hours (unanimous)
• Held conceptual discussion for EV dealership; no formal action taken

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on two variance requests, each seeking to build closer to wetlands than the 50-foot requirement. The board will also approve minutes from its August 17 meeting. No old business is scheduled.

• Variance for shed 13.6 ft from wetland (50 ft required) at 37 Church Road, Lot 14-56
• Variance for garage 30.8 ft from wetland (50 ft required) at 177 County Road, Lot 22-84
• Approval of minutes from August 17, 2021

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment approved two variances from the 50-foot wetland setback requirement. The first allowed Scott and Judy Crandall to build a 12'x16' shed 13.6 feet from the wetland at 37 Church Road. The second allowed Rick and Linda Martin to build a garage 30.8 feet from the wetland at 177 County Road, with a condition to include a trench drain. Both motions passed unanimously 5-0.

• Approved variance for shed at 37 Church Road, 13.6 ft from wetland (5-0)
• Approved variance for garage at 177 County Road, 30.8 ft from wetland, with trench drain condition (5-0)
• Approved minutes of August 17, 2021, with correction (unanimous)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is meeting to conduct routine business, including appointments to boards and commissions, approval of minutes, and a town manager report. A notable item is a proposed budget transfer related to the PFAS investigation around the former fire station at 10 Meetinghouse Road. The agenda also includes public comments and potential non-public session.

• Budget transfer for PFAS investigation at former fire station, 10 Meetinghouse Road
• Appointments to Boards & Commissions
• Approval of minutes from September 22, 2021 (public and non-public sessions)
• Public comments (up to 5 minutes per person)

The Bedford Town Council appointed several residents to boards and commissions, approved the September 22, 2021 public and non-public session minutes, and postponed a budget transfer related to the PFAS investigation until after a non-public discussion. The council then entered a non-public session to discuss pending claims or litigation. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Appointed Deborah Evans to Conservation Commission alternate (term to 2023)
• Appointed Gregory Handy to Conservation Commission alternate (term to 2024) and Telecommunications Subcommittee
• Appointed Kelly Tope to Historic District Commission alternate (term to 2024) and Parks & Recreation Commission alternate (term to 2023)
• Appointed Danielle Evansic to Southern NH Planning Commission alternate (term to 2022) and Water & Sewer Advisory Committee (term to 2023)
• Approved minutes of September 22, 2021 public session (6-0)
• Approved minutes of September 22, 2021 non-public session (6-0)
• Postponed budget transfer for PFAS investigation until after non-public discussion
• Moved to non-public session per RSA 91-A:3 II (e) (6-0)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will hold a public meeting to consider two site plan and sign waiver requests. The first is a proposal to convert 4,960 square feet of second-floor commercial space into a 4-unit workforce housing residential use at 4 Ridgewood Road. The second is a request for a sign waiver for building signage larger than 32 square feet, awning signage, and a second freestanding directional sign at 10 Iron Horse Drive. The board will also receive a development update and approve minutes from the September 13, 2021 meeting.

• Site plan approval for change of use to 4-unit workforce housing at 4 Ridgewood Road, Lot 12-05, Zoned PZ
• Sign waiver request for signage larger than 32 sq ft, awning signage, and second freestanding directional sign at 10 Iron Horse Drive, Lot 35-13, Zoned PZ
• Development update
• Approval of minutes from September 13, 2021 meeting

The Bedford Planning Board granted final site plan approval to convert 4,960 square feet of second-floor commercial space into a 4-unit workforce housing development at 4 Ridgewood Road, including a waiver to allow multi-family housing on a parcel with frontage on South River Road. The board also approved three sign waivers for Eastern Industrial Automation and the building owner at 10 Iron Horse Drive, allowing a 75.6-square-foot building sign, three awnings, and a second freestanding directional sign, while denying a proposed garage door decal. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved site plan for 4-unit workforce housing at 4 Ridgewood Road (unanimous)
• Granted waiver to allow multi-family housing with frontage on South River Road (unanimous)
• Approved waiver for 75.6 sq ft building sign for Eastern Industrial Automation (unanimous)
• Approved waiver for three awning signs for building tenants (unanimous)
• Approved waiver for second freestanding directional sign at 10 Iron Horse Drive (unanimous)
• Denied garage door decal signage for Eastern Industrial Automation (unanimous)

Telecommunications Subcommittee

The provided agenda contains only procedural information regarding the meeting time and location. There are no specific topics, proposals, or decisions listed for discussion.

The Bedford Telecommunications Committee reviewed responses from three organizations for a broadband RFIP but took no formal action, continuing to review the proposals. The committee also discussed NH Fiber Networks projects, potential legislation on 'unserved' definitions, and ARPA funds for broadband. A Verizon small cell application was announced for a hearing on October 14, 2021.

• No formal action taken on RFIP proposals from Comcast, Consolidated Communications, and Matrix Design Group
• Chairman to seek additional info on NH Fiber Networks projects and report at next meeting
• Verizon small cell application hearing scheduled for October 14, 2021 at 9 a.m.

Highway Safety Committee

The Bedford Highway Safety Committee is meeting to discuss several traffic safety concerns, including speed on Powder Hill Rd., traffic near 83 Liberty Hill Road, a crosswalk sign request at Quincy Dr./Ledgewood Rd., and a cross-traffic sign at Woodbury and Palomino. The agenda also includes routine items like approval of minutes and subcommittee reports.

• Speed issues on Powder Hill Rd.
• Traffic concerns near 83 Liberty Hill Road
• Request for crosswalk sign at Quincy Dr./Ledgewood Rd. and sidewalk to Hannaford Market
• Request for 'Cross Traffic Does Not Stop' sign at Woodbury and Palomino

The Highway Safety Committee approved making the intersection of Palomino and Woodbury a 4-way stop, adding two stop signs on Woodbury Lane and small 4-way stop signs below each stop sign. The committee also discussed but took no action on speeding concerns on Powder Hill Road, a directional sign request for Bedford High School, and a crosswalk/sidewalk request near Hannaford Market, tabling the latter for further study.

• Approved 4-way stop at Palomino & Woodbury with added stop signs (all in favor)
• Tabled crosswalk/sidewalk request at Quincy Dr./Ledgewood Rd. pending DPW cost estimate and pedestrian count
• No action on Powder Hill Road speeding; DPW to check signage, police to continue patrols
• No action on directional sign at 83 Liberty Hill Road; tabled unless issue persists

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Conservation Commission is meeting to review a variance request for a shed within a wetland setback, discuss a dredge and fill application for a rail project, and consider entering a non-public session to discuss property acquisition or sale. The agenda also includes updates on previously reviewed permits, conservation land surveys, and upcoming public hikes.

• Variance request by Scott and Judy Crandall for a shed within 50-foot wetland setback at 37 Church Road, Lot 14-56
• Dredge and Fill Application for Nashua-Manchester 40818 (Rail Project)
• Non-public session per RSA 91-A:3, II(d) for property acquisition, sale, or lease
• Results of RFP for survey work on conservation lands
• Easement mowing/workday at Pulpit Rock possibly on October 16

The Bedford Conservation Commission unanimously recommended approval of a 50-foot wetland setback variance for a 12' by 16' shed at 37 Church Road, Lot 1456, after a presentation by Earl Sanford of Sanford Surveying and Engineering. The Commission also unanimously approved spending $12,200 from the Conservation Fund to replace missing property monuments on conservation lands. Pat Grogan was elected as the new Chair, succeeding Maggie Wachs who stepped down.

• Recommended approval of 50-foot wetland setback variance for shed at 37 Church Road (unanimous)
• Approved $12,200 expenditure for monument replacement on conservation lands (unanimous)
• Elected Pat Grogan as Chair of the Commission (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board is holding an informal workshop to discuss general community planning issues and board procedures. Topics include a landscape architect stamp requirement, the 2021 Master Plan, impact fees, and proposed zoning amendments for solar infrastructure and detached accessory dwelling units. The board will not solicit public comments at this meeting.

• Landscape Architect Stamp Requirement
• Master Plan 2021
• Impact Fees Update
• Zoning for Solar infrastructure discussion
• Detached Accessory Dwelling Units Conditional Use Permit

The Bedford Planning Board held an informal workshop with no formal votes or motions. They discussed requiring landscape architect stamps on site plans, reviewed the draft 2021 Master Plan, and considered updates to school and recreation impact fees. Staff will draft amendments and bring proposals to future meetings.

• No formal motions or votes taken at workshop
• Discussed requiring landscape architect stamp on site plans; staff to draft amendment
• Reviewed draft Master Plan; comments due by October 1, public hearing set for November 8
• Discussed school impact fee increase from $6,922 to $9,148 for single-family homes
• Volunteers named for workforce housing subcommittee
• Agreed to draft zoning amendments for solar infrastructure and detached accessory dwelling units

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission is meeting to review a proposed gas station and convenience store with charging stations on the Rte 101 corridor. Members will also discuss municipal aggregation cost analysis and potential solar projects for the town pool and highway garage.

• Review of proposed Rte 101 corridor gas station/convenience store charging stations
• Municipal Aggregation Cost Analysis and Presentation
• EV charging station for Library paving project budget
• Town Pool PV Shade/Shelter
• Public Works Highway Garage PV Vehicle Port/Shelter(s)

The Bedford Energy Commission discussed a conceptual proposal for a gas station/convenience store with electric vehicle charging stations along Route 101, but took no formal action. The commission also discussed Solsmart solar zoning, EV charging at the Library, and other energy topics. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting was primarily informational.

• Approved August 26, 2021 minutes (all in favor)
• Discussed Route 101 gas station/EV charging proposal (no action)
• Discussed Solsmart solar zoning (no action)
• Discussed EV charging at Library/BCTV (no action)
• Discussed Transfer Station, municipal aggregation, solar projects (no action)
• Adjourned at 8:01 PM (all in favor)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is holding its regular meeting with a light agenda. The main items are a Capital Improvement Program (CIP) update and approval of the 2022 Town Council meeting dates. The rest of the agenda consists of routine items like public comments, minutes approval, and reports.

• CIP update
• Approval of 2022 Town Council meeting dates
• Approval of minutes from September 8, 2021 public and non-public sessions
• Public comments (up to 5 minutes per person)

The Bedford Town Council approved the 2022 meeting dates and authorized a $15,000 budget transfer to fund a water line connection at 7 Meetinghouse Road related to PFAS contamination. The council also received a Capital Improvement Plan update and approved minutes from prior sessions.

• Approved 2022 Town Council meeting dates (7-0)
• Authorized $15,000 transfer from Health Insurance to Town Manager Professional Services for water line connection at 7 Meetinghouse Road (7-0)
• Approved minutes of September 8, 2021 Public Session (7-0)
• Approved minutes of September 8, 2021 Non-Public Session (7-0)
• Moved into non-public session for pending litigation (7-0)

Zoning Board

This meeting has no published agenda. The only available record is the minutes, which are referenced for review. No decisions or discussions are listed for this session.

• No agenda items listed

Historic District Commission

The Bedford Historic District Commission is meeting to consider one new application: a request by Christopher Allen to replace the front stairs and walkway at 42 Liberty Hill Road. The agenda includes no old business, and the rest of the meeting covers minutes approval, communications, and member comments.

• Application by Christopher Allen (owner) to replace front stairs and walkway at 42 Liberty Hill Road, Lot 21-30, zoned R&A

The Bedford Historic District Commission unanimously approved Christopher Allen's request to replace the front stairs and walkway at 42 Liberty Hill Road, Lot 21-30, zoned R&A. The approval is subject to conditions: all work must be completed within two years, and photos of the completed work must be submitted. The commission also unanimously approved the June 1, 2021 minutes, but tabled approval of the August 3, 2021 minutes until the next meeting.

• Approved replacement of front stairs and walkway at 42 Liberty Hill Road (unanimous)
• Approved June 1, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled approval of August 3, 2021 minutes until next meeting

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will hold a public meeting with three site plan and subdivision requests, plus a review of the proposed 2022 Capital Improvements Plan. The most consequential item is a request to convert a former Walmart retail building at 17 Colby Court into a light industrial manufacturing facility.

• Site plan approval to convert former Walmart retail building to light industrial manufacturing at 17 Colby Court, Lot 11-25-1, zoned PZ
• Time extension request for subdivision of one lot into three residential parcels at 98 Perry Road and Joppa Hill Road, Lot 18-7-6, zoned R&A
• Re-approval of site plan amendment to add 1,200 sq ft second-floor office space at Goedecke Decorating Center, 284 Route 101, Lot 27-55, zoned CO
• Review and comments on proposed 2022 Capital Improvements Plan
• Approval of minutes from July 19 and August 16 meetings

The Bedford Planning Board granted final site plan approval to convert the former Walmart at 17 Colby Court into a light industrial manufacturing facility, with conditions including fence repairs by May 30, 2022, dead tree removal before winter, and Planning Board approval for any future third shift. The board also approved a one-year time extension for a three-lot subdivision at 98 Perry Road and re-approved a site plan amendment for the Goedecke Decorating Center at 284 Route 101. The board reviewed the proposed 2022 Capital Improvement Plan and offered comments.

• Approved site plan for former Walmart to light manufacturing (motion carried)
• Approved 1-year extension for subdivision at 98 Perry Road (all in favor)
• Approved waivers for HISS mapping and dumpster setback for Goedecke site (all in favor)
• Re-approved site plan amendment for Goedecke Decorating Center (all in favor)
• Approved minutes of July 19, 2021 (motion carried, Clough abstaining)
• Approved minutes of August 16, 2021 (motion carried, Clough, Fairman, Sullivan abstaining)

Poles and Wires Committee

The Bedford Poles and Wires Committee is meeting to discuss application fees as new business. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with call to order, communications, other business, and adjournment.

• Discussion of application fees

The Poles and Wires Committee voted unanimously to recommend a $100 application fee for each node, pole, or site installation under the Right-of-Way Utilities and Equipment Installation Application. The recommendation will go to the Town Council for final approval.

• Recommended $100 application fee per node, pole, or site installation (unanimous)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is meeting to consider approving the purchase of land on Marston (Tax Map 3, Lots 5 and 4) as new business, along with recognizing National Building and Code Staff Appreciation Day. The agenda also includes public comments, approval of August 11 minutes, a town manager report, and councilor updates. Most items are routine procedural matters, with the land purchase being the only substantive action item.

• Approval of Marston land purchase, Tax Map 3, Lots 5 and 4
• Recognition of National Building and Code Staff Appreciation Day
• Approval of minutes from Public Session on August 11, 2021

The Bedford Town Council voted 7-0 to authorize the purchase of approximately 43 acres of undeveloped land owned by the Marcia A. Marston Revocable Trust, located off Wallace Road (Tax Map 3, Lots 5 and 4), and to convey a conservation easement on the property to the Piscataquog Land Conservancy. The purchase price is $1 million, with the Town contributing $956,000 from the Conservation Fund and the PLC contributing $44,000. The Council also approved the minutes of the August 11, 2021 public session and went into non-public session to discuss property acquisition and pending litigation.

• Approved the purchase of 43 acres of land from the Marcia Marston Revocable Trust for $1 million, with $956,000 from the Conservation Fund and $44,000 from the Piscataquog Land Conservancy (7-0).
• Authorized the conveyance of a conservation easement on the 43-acre parcel to the Piscataquog Land Conservancy.
• Approved the minutes of the August 11, 2021 Public Session (7-0).
• Moved into non-public session under RSA 91-A:3 II (d) and (e) to discuss property acquisition and pending litigation.

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission is discussing a potential sub-committee to investigate municipal aggregation costs. Members are also reviewing updates on Solsmart, EV charging stations, and solar shade structures for the town pool and highway garage.

• Municipal Aggregation Cost Analysis presentation
• Solsmart project update
• EV charging station research
• Town Pool PV Shade/Shelter proposal
• Public Works Highway Garage PV Vehicle Port/Shelter(s) proposal

The Bedford Energy Commission voted unanimously to request that the Town Council establish a subcommittee to investigate municipal electricity aggregation, with a presentation planned for September. The commission also discussed electric vehicle charging stations, school ventilation, and the transfer station's 3-phase power project, which is now financially unviable due to Eversource's cost increases.

• Approved minutes of July 22, 2021 (Thomas and Fromuth abstained)
• Motion to go to Town Council to set up subcommittee for municipal aggregation (all in favor)
• Discussed EV charging stations, no formal action
• Discussed transfer station 3-phase power, no formal action
• Discussed school ventilation, no formal action

Highway Safety Committee

The Bedford Highway Safety Committee is meeting to discuss two new items: a request for a deer crossing sign near 25 Meetinghouse Road and a speed limit reduction on Joppa Hill Road at the JHEF. The agenda also includes routine items like approving minutes and subcommittee reports.

• Request for deer crossing sign near 25 Meetinghouse Road
• Speed limit reduction on Joppa Hill Road at the JHEF

The Highway Safety Committee voted not to approve a deer crossing sign request for 25 Meetinghouse Road, citing a lack of evidence of higher deer-vehicle collision rates there compared to other roads. The committee also recommended installing two solar-powered cautionary crosswalk signs at the Joppa Hill Educational Farm crosswalk, and suggested the farm post 'no parking/loading and unloading only' signage, with a recommendation to Town Council to consider funding in the 2022 budget.

• Denied the deer crossing sign request for 25 Meetinghouse Road (motion by Ken Peterson, seconded by Jeff Foote, all in favor).
• Recommended installing two solar-powered cautionary crosswalk signs at the Joppa Hill Educational Farm crosswalk (motion by Madonna Lovett Repeta, amended and seconded by Bill Jean, all in favor).
• Recommended that the Joppa Hill Educational Farm post 'no parking/loading and unloading only' signage in front of its facility.
• Recommended that Town Council consider budgeting for the installation of the cautionary signage by DPW in its 2022 budget.
• Approved the minutes from the June 22, 2021 meeting (motion by Bill Jean, seconded by Ken Peterson, passed with abstentions from Jeff Foote, Madonna Lovett Repeta, and Scott Hunter).

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing to hear comments on spending up to $956,000 from the Conservation Fund to buy about 43 acres of undeveloped land off Wallace Road, owned by the Marcia A. Marston Revocable Trust. The purchase includes conveying a conservation easement to the Piscataquog Land Conservancy. The Commission will also consider authorizing fund use for related studies and investigations, such as surveys, environmental reports, and title review.

• Public hearing on expenditure of up to $956,000 from Conservation Fund
• Purchase of approximately 43 acres off Wallace Road, Tax Map 3, Lots 5 and 4
• Conveyance of conservation easement to Piscataquog Land Conservancy
• Authorization of fund use for survey, stewardship fees, environmental reports, and title review

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved spending up to $956,000 from the Conservation Fund to buy about 43 acres off Wallace Road from the Marcia A. Marston Revocable Trust, with a conservation easement to the Piscataquog Land Conservancy. The purchase will go to the Town Council for final approval on September 8. The Commission also recommended approval of a variance for Richard and Linda Martin to build a detached 24x28 garage within the 50-foot wetland setback at 177 County Road, with a stipulation for drainage trenching.

• Approved $956,000 Conservation Fund expenditure for 43-acre Wallace Road purchase (unanimous)
• Approved conveyance of conservation easement to Piscataquog Land Conservancy (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Martin garage variance at 177 County Road, with trenching stipulation (unanimous)
• Approved minutes for April 13, June 22, July 27, and August 11 meetings (unanimous)
• Approved non-public minutes for April 13, May 25, June 22, and July 27 (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on spending up to $956,000 from the Conservation Fund to buy about 43 acres of undeveloped land off Wallace Road and convey a conservation easement. The commission will also review a variance request for a garage within a wetland setback, and receive updates on town-owned land and other programs.

• Public hearing on $956,000 Conservation Fund expenditure for 43 acres off Wallace Road (Tax Map 3, Lots 5 and 4)
• Variance request for detached two-car garage (24' x 28') within 50-foot wetland setback at 177 County Road
• Update on town-owned land off Chubbuck Road
• Update on Bedford High School Ecological Program
• NHACC 50th Anniversary celebration on September 11, 2021

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved spending up to $956,000 from the Conservation Fund to buy about 43 acres off Wallace Road from the Marcia A. Marston Revocable Trust, with a conservation easement to the Piscataquog Land Conservancy. The vote also authorized using the fund for related studies and fees. The purchase will go to the Town Council for final approval on September 8. The Commission also unanimously recommended approval of a variance for Richard and Linda Martin to build a detached two-car garage within the 50-foot wetland setback at 177 County Road, with a stipulation to install a drainage trench.

• Approved expenditure of up to $956,000 from the Conservation Fund for purchase of 43 acres off Wallace Road (Tax Map 3, Lots 5 and 4) and conveyance of a conservation easement to the Piscataquog Land Conservancy.
• Authorized use of Conservation Fund for investigations and studies (survey, stewardship fees, environmental reports, title review) related to the land purchase.
• Recommended approval of a variance request by Richard and Linda Martin to build a detached two-car garage (24x28 feet) within the 50-foot wetland setback at 177 County Road, Lot 22-84, with a stipulation to install a drainage trench as suggested by the Commission.
• Approved minutes from April 13, June 22 (pending name corrections), July 27, and August 11 site walk meetings.
• Approved non-public meeting minutes from April 13, May 25, June 22, and July 27.
• Discussed but took no formal action on mowing an easement at Pulpit Rock; staff will ask DPW about including it in their mowing contract.
• Discussed cosponsoring a Bio Blitz in September with the library; no formal vote taken.
• Discussed an Eagle Scout proposal for kayak access to Ash Bog; no formal action taken.

Trustees of the Trust Funds

The Trustees of the Trust Funds will meet to approve previous minutes and review the annual schedule of items. The agenda includes an update on cemetery issues and a quarterly report from financial advisors.

• Review and action on Annual Schedule of items
• Update on cemetery issues
• Quarterly update by financial advisors
• On-line security test

The Bedford Trustees of the Trust Funds met and approved prior meeting minutes. They discussed the meaning of 'for cemetery care' in cemetery trusts and agreed to ask the Town Attorney for advice on whether trust funds could be legally expensed for general cemetery maintenance. They also received a quarterly financial update from new advisor Charles P. Nason, noting $52,352 income from Capital Reserve Funds and a 23% return over the last 12 months.

• Approved minutes of 16 Mar and 28 Apr 2021 meetings
• Agreed to contact Town Attorney for advice on 'for cemetery care' meaning
• Agreed to contact Town Attorney on expensing cemetery trust funds
• Noted new financial advisor Charles P. Nason from Clarfeld Citizens Private Wealth

Cemetery Trustees

The Bedford Heights Cemetery Trustees are meeting to discuss new business items. The agenda focuses on cemetery signs and water issues related to irrigation.

• Discussion on Cemetery signs
• Discussion on Water Issues & Irrigation

The Cemetery Trustees decided to use the same sign design and company as the Town of Merrimack for the Center, Joppa, and Beals cemeteries. They discussed but made no decision on repairing Hilltop irrigation lines, with estimates up to $6K. The Bedford Garden Club may do plantings at Center Cemetery, and a plan for historic stone repairs is being developed.

• Approved Merrimack-style signage for Center, Joppa, & Beals cemeteries (3-0)
• Tabled Hilltop irrigation repair decision pending quotes
• Directed Trustee Wiggin to contact Peter Barbuto for granite post quotes
• Tasked Trustee Wiggin with developing a historic stone maintenance plan

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on five variance requests. The most significant items involve Carnevale Spa Associates and Bedford-Carnevale seeking three variances to build a market-rate elderly housing development on Olde Bedford Way, including waivers from affordable housing requirements and buffer rules. Two other requests seek variances for a swimming pool at 33 Palomino Lane.

• Variance to allow market-rate elderly housing where 25% affordable is required (Olde Bedford Way)
• Variance to allow non-cluster elderly housing in R&A district (Lot 10-50-5)
• Variance to reduce buffer between commercial use and R&A zone (BVI Grand Hotel)
• Variance for in-ground pool 7 ft from street where 35 ft required (33 Palomino Lane)
• Variance for pool 28 ft from front yard where 35 ft required (33 Palomino Lane)

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment approved two of three variances for the Carnevale Spa Associates, LLC and Bedford-Carnevale, LLC elderly housing development on Olde Bedford Way, and denied one. The board approved a variance for the buffer strip and a variance to allow a non-cluster elderly housing unit on the residential lot, but denied the request to waive the 25% affordable housing requirement. The board also approved two variances for an in-ground swimming pool at 33 Palomino Lane.

• Approved buffer strip variance for access road (5-0)
• Denied variance to waive 25% affordable housing requirement (3-2)
• Approved non-cluster elderly housing variance on Lot 10-50-5 (5-0)
• Approved swimming pool side setback variance at 33 Palomino Lane (5-0)
• Approved swimming pool front yard setback variance at 33 Palomino Lane (5-0)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will hold a public hearing on proposed amendments to the Site Plan and Subdivision Checklists in the Land Development Control Regulations. It will also consider a conditional use permit for a freestanding sign for the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire at 545 NH Route 101. No concept proposals are scheduled.

• Conditional Use Permit for freestanding sign at 545 NH Route 101, Lot 30-15-29, zoned R&A
• Public hearing on amendments to Appendix B, Site Plan and Subdivision Checklists
• Full text of proposed revisions available at Town Clerk's office and town website

The Bedford Planning Board unanimously approved a conditional use permit for a 32-square-foot internally-illuminated monument sign for the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire at 545 NH Route 101, after the applicant revised the design to address board concerns. The board also adopted amendments to Appendix B of the Land Development Control Regulations, removing the checklists from the regulations to allow easier future updates. Minutes from June 14 and June 28, 2021, were approved.

• Approved conditional use permit for Animal Rescue League sign (unanimous)
• Adopted amendments to Appendix B, removing checklists from regulations (unanimous)
• Approved June 14, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved June 28, 2021 minutes (unanimous, Councilor Murphy abstained)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will hold a public hearing to receive comments on proposed amendments to the Bedford Land Development Control Regulations. The amendments concern Appendix B, which contains subdivision and site plan application checklists, with options to either amend or remove it. The full text is available for public review.

• Public hearing on proposed amendments to Appendix B – Subdivision and Site Plan Application Checklists
• Proposed removal of Appendix B – Subdivision and Site Plan Application Checklists

The Bedford Planning Board unanimously approved a Conditional Use Permit for a 32-square-foot internally-illuminated monument sign for the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire at 545 NH Route 101, after the applicant revised the design to address board concerns. The board also adopted amendments to Appendix B of the Land Development Control Regulations, removing the Site Plan and Subdivision Checklists from the regulations to allow easier future updates. Minutes from June 14 and June 28, 2021, were approved.

• Granted Conditional Use Permit for Animal Rescue League sign (unanimous)
• Adopted amendments to Appendix B, removing checklists from regulations (unanimous)
• Approved June 14, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved June 28, 2021 minutes (Councilor Murphy abstained)

Poles and Wires Committee

The Bedford Poles and Wires Committee is meeting to handle organizational matters, including electing officers, adopting rules of procedure, and reviewing the application form, meeting schedule, and fees. This is a procedural meeting with no substantive decisions listed on the agenda.

• Election of officers
• Adoption of rules of procedure
• Review of application form, meeting schedule, and fees

The Bedford Heights Poles and Wires Committee held its first meeting, electing Jeff Foote as Chair, Becky Hebert as Vice Chair, and Jillian Harris as Clerk. The committee unanimously adopted its Rules of Procedure with amendments setting monthly meetings and a 30-day permit application deadline, and approved the application form with minor changes. No substantive decisions on permits or projects were made.

• Elected Jeff Foote as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Becky Hebert as Vice Chair and Jillian Harris as Clerk (unanimous)
• Adopted Rules of Procedure with amendments (unanimous)
• Approved application form and meeting schedule with amendments (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Conservation Commission will meet on August 11, 2021, at 5:00 pm to view undeveloped land owned by the Marcia A. Marston Revocable Trust, located off Wallace Road (Tax Map 3, Lots 4 & 5). The parcels are being considered for potential land acquisition. The meeting will take place at the freestanding garage on the west side of Wallace Road, across from the caretaker's house, at 555 Wallace Road.

• Viewing of undeveloped land owned by Marcia A. Marston Revocable Trust
• Land located off Wallace Road, Tax Map 3, Lots 4 & 5
• Potential land acquisition consideration
• Meeting location: freestanding garage at 555 Wallace Road

The Bedford Conservation Commission held a site walk on August 11, 2021, to view undeveloped land owned by the Marcia A. Marston Revocable Trust off Wallace Road. No decisions were made; the meeting was for observation only.

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is meeting to discuss a Department of Public Works update, a 2021 property revaluation update, and to consider accepting $2,500 in unanticipated funds from the Bedford Veterans of Foreign Wars. The agenda also includes routine items like minutes approval and reports. No major decisions or public hearings are listed beyond the fund acceptance.

• Acceptance of $2,500 unanticipated funds from Bedford Veterans of Foreign Wars
• Department of Public Works update
• 2021 Revaluation update
• Approval of July 21, 2021 public session minutes

The Bedford Town Council accepted a $2,500 gift from the VFW for community policing events in honor of Officer Norman Frink, and approved the minutes of the July 21 public session. The meeting also included informational updates on the 2021 revaluation and Public Works projects, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Accepted $2,500 VFW gift for community policing events (7-0)
• Approved minutes of July 21, 2021 public session (6-0-1)

Historic District Commission

The Bedford Historic District Commission is meeting to elect officers and consider a request for a ground-mounted solar array at 99 Bedford Center Road, Lot 20-106, in the R&A zone. No old business is listed, and the agenda includes standard items like minutes approval and member comments.

• Election of officers
• Raenor Lakin (applicant) & Nicole A. Alosa (owner) request for ground-mounted solar array at 99 Bedford Center Road, Lot 20-106, zoned R&A
• Approval of minutes from previous meeting

The Bedford Historic District Commission unanimously approved a ground-mounted solar array at 99 Bedford Center Road, with conditions including no tree removal that would reduce screening. The commission also elected Chris Allen as Chair. Approval of the June 1, 2021, minutes was tabled due to lack of a second.

• Elected Chris Allen as Chair (unanimous)
• Approved ground-mounted solar array at 99 Bedford Center Road (unanimous, with conditions)
• Tabled approval of June 1, 2021, minutes

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Conservation Commission is meeting to review two NH DOT dredge and fill applications, one for the F.E. Everett Turnpike right-of-way and one for the Rte 101 Pulpit Rock Bridge replacement. The agenda also includes updates on town-owned land off Chubbuck Road and the Bedford High School Ecological Program, plus a presentation on the Pulpit Rock boundary survey. The commission will also discuss upcoming volunteer data collection and training opportunities, and may enter non-public session to discuss property acquisition, sale, or lease.

• NH DOT #13761D, F.E. Everett Turnpike Right-of-Way dredge/fill application
• NH DOT #13692C, Rte 101 Pulpit Rock Bridge Replacement dredge/fill application
• Pulpit Rock boundary survey presentation by Craig Francisco, Bedford Designs
• Update on town-owned land off Chubbuck Road
• Non-public session per RSA 91-A:3, II(d) for property acquisition, sale, or lease

The Bedford Conservation Commission unanimously recommended approval of two NH Department of Transportation Dredge and Fill applications: one for the Everett Turnpike widening (Bedford Tolls) and one for the Pulpit Brook Bridge project on Route 101. The commission also unanimously approved amending the contract with Bedford Design Consultants to complete boundary monumentation work at Pulpit Rock, with costs not to exceed $4,000. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included a presentation on the Pulpit Rock survey and discussions on training and an October workshop.

• Recommended approval of NH DOT Dredge and Fill permit for Everett Turnpike widening (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of NH DOT Dredge and Fill permit for Pulpit Brook Bridge project (unanimous)
• Approved contract amendment with Bedford Design Consultants for boundary monumentation, not to exceed $4,000 (unanimous)
• Tabled approval of April 13 and June 22 minutes until August meeting

Energy Commission

The commission will hear a presentation on municipal aggregation from energy consultant Bob Hayden. Members are also discussing various solar initiatives, including a potential solar farm at the Transfer Station and photovoltaic shelters for the town pool and Public Works Highway Garage.

• Muni Aggregation discussion by Bob Hayden of Standard Power
• Solar Farm at the Transfer Station update
• Town Pool PV Shade/Shelter project
• Public Works Highway Garage PV Vehicle Port/Shelter(s)
• EV charging station updates

The Bedford Energy Commission heard a presentation from Standard Power about Community Power aggregation, which would allow the town to aggregate residential and small business electricity purchases. The commission discussed forming a Community Power Subcommittee but deferred any decision until Town Council liaisons are present at the next meeting. No formal votes were taken on substantive matters; the only votes were to approve the June minutes and to adjourn.

• Approved June 24, 2021 minutes (4-0-1, Paradis abstained)
• Deferred discussion on Community Power Subcommittee until next meeting
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold a public hearing on accepting $2,368,917 in federal ARPA fiscal recovery funds, then consider several items including revised field usage fees, a crosswalk/sidewalk recommendation, a letter of support for a land acquisition, and a PFAS investigation transfer. The meeting also includes a presentation of the annual financial report and appointments to boards.

• Public hearing on acceptance of $2,368,917 in ARPA fiscal recovery funds
• Approval of revised Field Usage Fees
• Recommendation from Highway Safety Committee on crosswalk/sidewalk on County Road
• Requested letter of support for private acquisition of State of NH parcel (Lot 36-98-44) on South River Road
• PFAS update and transfer of unallocated reserves for site investigation at 10 Meetinghouse Road

The Bedford Town Council voted unanimously to accept $2,368,917 in American Rescue Plan Act funds, authorizing the town manager to apply for and expend the money with final approval by the Council. The Council also approved new field usage fees, including higher rates for the new Sportsman Field, and authorized the transfer of $15,150 for a PFAS investigation at the former fire station. Several appointments to boards and commissions were made, and a request for a letter of support for a private land acquisition was received and filed without action.

• Authorized applying for and accepting $2,368,917 in ARPA funds (6-0)
• Approved field usage fees: $200/2-hr block (no lights) and $275 (with lights) for Sportsman Field; $150 and $225 for other fields (4-1-1)
• Transferred $15,150 from unallocated reserves for PFAS site investigation (6-0)
• Authorized town manager to investigate costs and DES approval for water filtration systems at two homes (6-0)
• Appointed Robert MacPherson to Zoning Board, Julie Donovan to Conservation Commission, Steve MacDougall to Historic District Commission (all 6-0)
• Reappointed Bill Duschatko to SNHPC (5-0-1, recused), Bryan Lord and Bill Jean to SNHPC (6-0)
• Approved DPW engineering and cost estimate for sidewalk and crosswalk on County Road (6-0)
• Received and filed Botnick Acquisitions' request for letter of support (6-0)

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment is meeting July 20, but the three variance requests from Carnevale Spa Associates, LLC and Bedford-Carnevale, LLC for an elderly housing development on Olde Bedford Way have been postponed to the August 17 meeting at the applicant's request. The board will also consider a variance request from Rafael & Alyssa Peschiera to create a substandard lot at 21 Ministerial Branch, and will review minutes from the June 15 meeting.

• Postponed: variance to allow market-rate elderly housing where 25% affordable housing is required on Olde Bedford Way, Lots 13-40-1, 13-40-2, 10-50-5
• Postponed: variance to allow non-cluster elderly housing on Lot 10-50-5 in R&A district
• Postponed: variance for buffer impacts between BVI Grand Hotel (Lot 13-40-1) and R&A zone (Lot 10-50-5)
• Peschiera variance: create 1.38-acre substandard lot where 1.5 acres minimum required, at 21 Ministerial Branch, Lot 9-7
• Minutes of June 15, 2021 to be approved

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment voted 5-0 to deny a variance request from Rafael and Alyssa Peschiera to create a 1.38-acre substandard lot at 21 Ministerial Branch, where a 1.5-acre minimum is required. The board found the applicant did not demonstrate an unnecessary hardship, and members cited concerns about potential impacts on well water, property values, and the character of the neighborhood. The applicant had proposed to subdivide a 2.88-acre property into two lots, with the smaller one falling short of the minimum size.

• Denied the variance request for a substandard lot at 21 Ministerial Branch (Lot 9-7) by a 5-0 vote.
• Approved the minutes of the June 15, 2021 meeting as written by a 5-0 vote.
• Moved into non-public deliberation on the variance application by a 5-0 vote.
• Moved out of deliberations on the variance application by a 5-0 vote.
• Adjourned the meeting at 8:45 p.m. by a 5-0 vote.

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will hold a public meeting to consider several applications, including a conditional use permit for a sign, a lease lot for the Stevens Buswell Building, and a site plan amendment. The board will also discuss conceptual proposals for a large mixed-use development and a housing conversion, along with administrative items.

• Conditional Use Permit for freestanding sign at 545 NH Route 101 (Animal Rescue League of NH)
• 10,043 sq ft lease lot around Stevens Buswell Building at 18 & 24 North Amherst Road
• Site Plan Amendment for architectural and sign changes at 195 South River Road (Mega-X, LLC)
• Conceptual discussion of mixed-use development at Market and Main site, 125 South River Road (187,300 SF additional)
• Conceptual discussion of change of use to 4-unit workforce housing at 4 Ridgewood Road

The Bedford Planning Board tabled a conditional use permit for a larger, internally lit sign with changeable text at the Animal Rescue League, directing the applicant to return with a revised proposal. The board approved a 10,043-square-foot lease lot around the Stevens Buswell Building for the Historical Society's future community center, and approved a site plan amendment for architectural and sign changes at 195 South River Road. The board also scheduled a public hearing on updated application checklists and recommended appointments to the Southern NH Planning Commission.

• Tabled the Animal Rescue League's conditional use permit for a freestanding sign, with direction to revise the proposal.
• Approved the Town of Bedford's lease lot subdivision around the Stevens Buswell Building, with conditions.
• Approved the site plan amendment for architectural and sign modifications at 195 South River Road, with conditions.
• Scheduled a public hearing for August 16, 2021, on amendments to the Subdivision and Site Plan Checklists.
• Recommended to the Town Council the appointment of Bill Jean and reappointment of Bill Duschatko and Brian Lord to the Southern NH Planning Commission.

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Bedford Parks and Recreation Commission is holding a special meeting to consider a new fee for Sportsman's Field and other field fees, and to approve the fall field schedule. They will also discuss updates to the field/facility policy, a memorandum of understanding with the school district, and a sports tournament policy for Sportsman's Field.

• Approval and recommendation to Town Council on Field Use Policy, including new Sportsman's field fee and other field fees
• Approval of Fall Field Schedule
• Discussion of additional updates to Field/Facility Policy
• Discussion of Memorandum of Understanding with School District
• Discussion of Sports Tournament Policy for Sportsman's Field

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will hold a public meeting to consider several land-use applications, including subdivision approvals, a conditional use permit for a sign, an amendment to a subdivision plan, and a site plan for a light industrial building. These are public hearings where residents can provide input.

• Final subdivision approval for one lot into three at 501 Route 101 (Demers)
• Conditional use permit for a sign at 24 Old Bedford Road (Bowman Place)
• Amendment to subdivision plan at 25 Holbrook Road (Hughes)
• Final subdivision approval for one lot into three at South River Road (Circle Drive Associates)
• Site plan for two-story light industrial building at 29 Commerce Drive (LSNE)

The Bedford Planning Board granted final approval for a subdivision at 501 Route 101, creating three residential lots, and approved a conditional use permit for a 20.6-square-foot sign at 24 Old Bedford Road. The board also approved amendments to a subdivision at 25 Holbrook Road, a subdivision at South River Road, and a site plan for a light industrial building at 29 Commerce Drive.

• Approved final subdivision of Lot 30-10 at 501 Route 101 into three lots, with conditions.
• Granted a waiver to allow a shared driveway for the three lots at 501 Route 101.
• Denied a motion to deny the conditional use permit for the sign at 24 Old Bedford Road; the motion failed.
• Approved the conditional use permit for a 20.6-square-foot sign at 24 Old Bedford Road.
• Approved an amendment to a previously approved subdivision plan at 25 Holbrook Road, changing from municipal water to a private well.
• Approved final subdivision of Lot 35-98-40 on South River Road into three lots, with conditions.
• Granted five waivers related to the South River Road subdivision, including setbacks and frontage requirements.
• Approved final site plan for a two-story light industrial building at 29 Commerce Drive, with conditions.

Energy Commission

The commission is reviewing updates on solar initiatives and electric vehicle charging stations. Members are also coordinating a presentation on municipal aggregation costs.

• Solsmart update
• EV charging station research and coordination with other towns
• Solar farm proposal at the Transfer Station
• PV shade/shelter for the Town Pool
• PV vehicle port/shelter for the Public Works Highway Garage

The Bedford Energy Commission approved the minutes from its April 22 and May 27, 2021 meetings. Members discussed the passage of HB315, a municipal aggregation bill that allows the town to develop a solar farm at the landfill up to 5 megawatts. They also reviewed school energy projects, including a $20k agreement to reduce power bills, and considered how to address solar in town zoning, with a suggestion to post an advisory determination. No new business was introduced, and the meeting adjourned at 7:27 PM.

• Approved the April 22, 2021 meeting minutes (all in favor).
• Approved the May 27, 2021 meeting minutes (6-0-1, Thomas abstained).
• Discussed HB315, a state bill passed by the Legislature, which allows the town to develop a solar farm at the landfill up to 5 megawatts.
• Discussed school energy projects, including a $20k agreement to reduce power bills and LED upgrades at Memorial School.
• Discussed the possibility of adding a solar definition to town zoning or posting an advisory determination to achieve Solsmart silver designation.
• Discussed EV charging stations, with plans to contact officials in Derry and Durham for information.
• Discussed a potential $2.8 million federal grant for the solar farm at the Transfer Station.
• Discussed an RFP for solar PV shade/shelter projects at the Town Pool, Safety Complex, and DPW Highway garage.

Highway Safety Committee

The Bedford Heights Highway Safety Committee is meeting to discuss a request for a crosswalk from Wright Acres Rd. across County Rd. The agenda also includes routine items such as approval of minutes, correspondence, subcommittee reports, and public comments.

• Request for a crosswalk from Wright Acres Rd. across County Rd.

The Bedford Highway Safety Committee voted to recommend that the Town Manager and Town Council explore and develop plans and cost estimates for sidewalks and supporting infrastructure along County Road from Liberty Hill Road to the SAU building, including a crosswalk at Wright Acres. The committee also recommended prioritizing the crosswalk if full funding is unavailable. The motion passed unanimously.

• Approved motion recommending sidewalk and crosswalk plan on County Road (unanimous)
• Recommended prioritizing crosswalk at Wright Acres if full project funding unavailable

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Conservation Commission is meeting to approve prior minutes and discuss updates on town-owned land off Chubbuck Road, the Bedford High School Ecological Program, previously reviewed permits and ZBA applications, a Pulpit Rock boundary survey change order, and additional turtle crossing signs. The agenda includes a non-public session for potential real property acquisition, sale, or lease discussions. No new business or dredge and fill applications are listed.

• Update on town-owned land off Chubbuck Road
• Update on Bedford High School Ecological Program
• Pulpit Rock boundary survey updates and request for change order
• Request for additional turtle crossing signs
• Non-public session per RSA 91-A:3, II(d) for real property acquisition, sale, or lease

The Bedford Conservation Commission approved the purchase and installation of a turtle crossing sign on Jenkins Road near McQuade Brook, at a cost of approximately $147. The commission also discussed the Pulpit Rock boundary survey, which identified 21 missing boundary markers, and considered updating its priority mitigation list. No new dredge-and-fill applications or new business were reviewed.

• Approved May 25, 2021 meeting minutes with spelling correction (unanimous)
• Approved turtle crossing sign for Jenkins Road near McQuade Brook (unanimous)
• Tabled April 13, 2021 meeting minutes due to lack of quorum
• Discussed Pulpit Rock boundary survey; no action taken
• Discussed updating priority mitigation list; no action taken

BCTV-WBNH Board of Overseers

The BCTV-WBNH Board of Overseers is meeting to approve minutes from previous meetings, elect officers, and receive reports from the station manager and radio program director. The agenda is largely procedural, with public input limited to three minutes per person.

• Approval of minutes from October 8, 2020 and April 1, 2021 meetings
• Election of officers
• Manager's report for BCTV-WBNH
• WBNH Radio Program Director's report

The BCTV-WBNH Board of Overseers unanimously re-elected Dick Rawlings as Chair and Bob Thomas as Vice Chair. The board approved minutes from October 8, 2020, and April 1, 2021. The station manager reported on May activities, including live sports coverage and the start of 2022 budget planning. The program director noted WBNH will file its license renewal for 105.1 FM this year.

• Re-elected Dick Rawlings as Chair and Bob Thomas as Vice Chair unanimously
• Approved minutes from October 8, 2020, and April 1, 2021
• Noted WBNH will file its license renewal for 105.1 FM in 2021
• Heard station manager's report on May 2021 activities and budget planning

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on three variance requests from Paul and Sara Stanton for their property at 42 Oak Drive. The requests seek permission to build a two-story enclosed porch and deck, an in-ground pool within the wetland setback, and a pool closer to the side property line than normally allowed. No old business is scheduled; the board will also consider minutes from the May 18 meeting.

• Variance to build two-story enclosed porch and deck within 50-foot wetland setback at 42 Oak Drive
• Variance to build in-ground pool within 50-foot wetland setback at 42 Oak Drive
• Variance to construct in-ground pool 15 feet from side property boundary where 35 feet is required
• Public hearing for all three requests at 7:00 PM at BCTV Meeting Room, 10 Meetinghouse Road

The Bedford Zoning Board approved all three variance requests from Paul and Sara Stanton for their property at 42 Oak Drive. The approvals allow construction of a two-story enclosed porch and deck within the 50-foot wetland setback, an in-ground pool within the same setback, and a pool set 15 feet from the side property boundary where 25 feet is required. All three motions passed unanimously (5-0).

• Approved variance for two-story enclosed porch and deck within 50-foot wetland setback (5-0)
• Approved variance for in-ground pool within 50-foot wetland setback (5-0)
• Approved variance for in-ground pool 15 feet from side property boundary where 25 feet required (5-0)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will hold a virtual meeting to consider four applications: a subdivision request, a revocation of a lot line adjustment, a conditional use permit for a sign, and a site plan approval for a change of use. The board will also approve minutes and hear reports. Public access is available via BCTV and Zoom.

• Final approval of subdivision of one lot into three at 501 Route 101, Lot 30-10, Zoned R&A
• Revocation of final subdivision (lot line adjustment) approval for 96 and 98 Nashua Road, Lots 27-1 and 27-1-1, Zoned R&A
• Conditional Use Permit for a sign at 24 Old Bedford Road, Lot 10-50-3, Zoned R&A
• Final site plan approval for change of use at 10 Iron Horse Drive, Lot 35-13, Zoned PZ

The Bedford Planning Board tabled a final subdivision request for 501 Route 101, asking the applicant to revise lot lines to avoid a waiver and finalize a cistern location with the Fire Department. The board also tabled a conditional use permit for a sign at Bowman Place of Olde Bedford, requesting a smaller sign and lighting specs. Final site plan approval was granted for a multi-tenant industrial conversion at 10 Iron Horse Drive, along with three waivers. A lot line adjustment revocation for 96 and 98 Nashua Road was approved.

• Tabled Demers subdivision at 501 Route 101 (unanimous)
• Approved revocation of 2008 lot line adjustment for 96/98 Nashua Road (unanimous)
• Tabled Bowman Place sign conditional use permit (unanimous)
• Approved waiver for existing landscaping at 10 Iron Horse Drive (unanimous)
• Approved waiver for five dumpsters without landscape screening (unanimous)
• Approved waiver for existing vegetation screening loading docks (unanimous)
• Approved final site plan for multi-tenant industrial building at 10 Iron Horse Drive (unanimous)
• Approved May 10, 2021 minutes (unanimous, two abstentions)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold a regular meeting with a non-public session first. They will consider appointing a Town Assessor, discuss a possible special election, and review a sign waiver for Bedford High School. The agenda also includes a civil forfeiture warrant for unlicensed dogs and a board appointment.

• Appointment of Town Assessor
• Civil Forfeiture Warrant for unlicensed dogs
• Discussion of a Special Election
• Special Event Sign Waiver – Bedford High School Bulldog Program
• Board Appointment

The Bedford Town Council voted 4-3 to request a special election to fill the State Representative seat left vacant by the passing of David J. Danielson, and authorized $9,850 from Town Council Unallocated Reserves for the election. The Council also confirmed Doug Irvine as Chief Assessor, authorized civil forfeiture fines for unlicensed dogs, and modified the sign waiver for the Bedford High School Bulldog program to allow small business lettering.

• Confirmed Doug Irvine as Chief Assessor, effective June 10, 2021 (7-0).
• Authorized the Town Clerk and Animal Control Officer to send civil forfeiture letters and collect fines for unlicensed dogs as of July 6, 2021 (7-0).
• Requested a special election to fill the State Representative seat vacated by David J. Danielson and authorized $9,850 from Town Council Unallocated Reserves (4-3).
• Modified the sign waiver for the Bedford High School Bulldog program to allow business lettering up to 4 inches tall and covering no more than 10% of the bulldog, and extended the placement period to five years with a five-year renewal at the Planning Director's discretion (7-0).
• Appointed Bill Greiner as an alternate member of the Zoning Board with a term expiring in 2023 (6-0, Carter nay).
• Approved the minutes of the May 26, 2021 Public Session (7-0).

Historic District Commission

The Bedford Historic District Commission will meet electronically via Zoom to elect officers for 2021-2022 and review two applications: a roof-mounted solar array at 62 Bedford Center Road and a screened porch at 13 Bell Hill Road. The meeting is open to the public via BCTV and call-in.

• Election of officers for 2021-2022
• Roof-mounted solar array at 62 Bedford Center Road (Lot 13-62, Zoned R&A)
• Screened porch addition at 13 Bell Hill Road (Lot 20-5, Zoned R&A)

The Bedford Historic District Commission approved two applications: a roof-mounted solar array at 62 Bedford Center Road and a screened porch addition at 13 Bell Hill Road. Both approvals were subject to conditions requiring completion within two years and submission of photos. The commission also re-elected Theresa Walker as Chair and Lisa Muskat as Vice-Chair, and approved the May 4 meeting minutes.

• Approved roof-mounted solar array at 62 Bedford Center Road (unanimous)
• Approved screened porch addition at 13 Bell Hill Road (unanimous)
• Re-elected Theresa Walker as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Lisa Muskat as Vice-Chair (unanimous)
• Approved May 4, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous, with one abstention)

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission is meeting to elect a Chair and Vice Chair and review various energy initiatives. The body will discuss solar installations and municipal electricity costs.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Solsmart update
• EV charging stations and electricity usage
• Solar Farm at the Transfer Station and letter to Jeanne Shaheen
• Municipal Aggregation Cost Analysis and Presentation

The Bedford Energy Commission re-elected Tim Paradis as Chair and John Russell as Vice Chair. They discussed a Solsmart review of solar zoning, potential EV charging stations, and a solar farm proposal at the Transfer Station. No formal decisions were made on these topics; the meeting was largely informational and planning-focused.

• Re-elected Tim Paradis as Chair (unanimous roll call)
• Re-elected John Russell as Vice Chair (unanimous roll call)
• Postponed approval of April 22, 2021 minutes to June meeting
• Agreed to fact-check solar zoning with Planning Department
• Agreed to contact Derry and Durham officials about EV charging stations

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold its regular meeting, including an interview session for boards and commissions. The main business items are awarding a squad vehicle bid and making board appointments, along with public comments and routine reports.

• Award of Squad Vehicle Bid
• Board appointments
• Public comments (up to 5 minutes per person)
• Approval of minutes from May 12, 2021

The Bedford Town Council awarded the squad response vehicle purchase bid to Specialty Vehicles, Inc. at a purchase price of $294,332, with change orders and equipment not to exceed $300,000, and authorized the Town Manager to execute the contract. The council also appointed John Nelson as an alternate member of the Planning Board with a term expiring in 2022. The meeting included a moment of silence and tributes to Town Assessor Bill Ingalls and State Representative Dave Danielson, both recently deceased.

• Awarded squad response vehicle bid to Specialty Vehicles, Inc. at $294,332, not to exceed $300,000 (7-0)
• Appointed John Nelson as alternate Planning Board member, term expiring 2022 (7-0)
• Approved minutes of May 12, 2021 Public Session (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Conservation Commission is meeting remotely via Zoom to review two variance requests: one for a porch, deck, and in-ground pool within the 50-foot wetland setback at 42 Oak Drive, and another for a detached two-car garage within the setback at 177 County Road. The commission will also discuss updates on town-owned land off Chubbuck Road, the Bedford High School Ecological Program, and previously reviewed permits. The meeting includes approval of April 13, 2021 minutes and a non-public session for property discussions.

• Variance request: porch, deck, and in-ground pool within 50-foot wetland setback at 42 Oak Drive, Lot 12-74-22
• Variance request: detached two-car garage (24' x 28') within 50-foot wetland setback at 177 County Road, Lot 22-84
• Update on town-owned land off Chubbuck Road
• Update on Bedford High School Ecological Program
• Non-public session per RSA 91-A:3, II(d) for property acquisition, sale, or lease

The Bedford Conservation Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of a variance request by Paul Stanton to build a porch, deck, and in-ground pool within the 50-foot wetland setback at 42 Oak Drive. The commission also voted to table a variance request for a detached garage at 177 County Road until the June meeting because the applicants were not present. Additionally, the commission approved spending $147.36 for two turtle crossing signs on Meadow Crest Drive.

• Recommended approval of variance for porch, deck, and pool at 42 Oak Drive (unanimous)
• Tabled variance request for detached garage at 177 County Road to June meeting (unanimous)
• Approved $147.36 for two turtle crossing signs on Meadow Crest Drive (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board is holding an informal workshop to discuss general community planning issues and board procedures. Topics include a webinar on planning board workings, procedural updates, meeting and packet formats, the town's social media policy, recusal process, and goals for 2021-2022. No public comments will be solicited, and no formal decisions are expected.

• Discussion of 'The Workings of a Planning Board' webinar
• Procedural updates and meeting format
• Review of the Town's Social Media Policy
• Discussion of recusal process
• Goals and Priorities for 2021-2022

The Bedford Planning Board held a workshop on May 24, 2021, with no voting. The board agreed to continue using the Zoom format for meetings through the summer, with in-person meetings possibly starting in September. They also discussed training, packet formats, staff reports, waivers, recusal procedures, and social media policy. The board suggested planning priorities for staff, including reviewing greenhouse gas regulations, preserving affordable housing, and increasing density in the Performance Zone.

• Agreed to continue Zoom meeting format through summer (no vote, workshop consensus)
• Discussed but did not decide on packet format; members to email preference to Planning Department
• Agreed staff reports are helpful; no changes suggested
• Discussed limiting waivers and requiring applicants to detail how they meet criteria
• Reviewed recusal procedure and social media policy; cautioned against online discussions of pending applications
• Suggested planning priorities: greenhouse gas regulations, affordable housing preservation, workforce housing law info, and Performance Zone density review
• Adjourned at 8:48 p.m. on unanimous roll call vote

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a virtual meeting on May 18, 2021, to consider one new variance request. The applicant, Lois Brodsky, seeks a variance from Article I, Section 275-6 to build an above-ground pool as an accessory structure on a separate lot from the principal house, located at 27 Beaver Lane, Lot 31-23-1, zoned R&A. The meeting will also include approval of the April 20, 2021 minutes. No old business or continued hearings are listed.

• Variance request by Lois Brodsky for an above-ground pool at 27 Beaver Lane, Lot 31-23-1, zoned R&A
• Meeting held virtually via Zoom due to COVID-19, with public access via BCTV and call-in
• No old business or continued hearings on the agenda

The Bedford Zoning Board approved a variance for Lois and Steven Brodsky to install an above-ground pool on a lot (27 Beaver Lane) that is separate from their principal residence (29 Beaver Lane), with the pool to be placed behind the barn. The motion passed 3-2, with Chair Morin, David Gilbert, and Elizabeth Jude voting in favor, and Len Green and Neal Casale voting against. The board also elected Neal Casale as vice-chair and John Morin as chair for the coming year.

• Approved variance for above-ground pool at 27 Beaver Lane (3-2)
• Elected Neal Casale as vice-chair (unanimous)
• Elected John Morin as chair (6-0, one abstention)
• Approved minutes of April 20, 2021 meeting (4-0, one abstention)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is holding its regular meeting with a light agenda. They will hear a presentation on the Top Dog award, discuss a meeting with the Bedford Delegation, and receive an update on the PFAS Commission. The meeting also includes routine items like approving minutes and receiving the Town Manager's report.

• Presentation of the Top Dog by the Town Clerk
• Meeting with the Bedford Delegation
• PFAS Commission update
• Approval of minutes from April 28, 2021 (public and non-public sessions)

The Bedford Town Council held a regular meeting with no public comments. The only formal action was appointing Joe Vaccarello as a regular member of the Historic District Commission, effective until May 2024. The meeting also included presentations from the state delegation and the PFAS Commission, and a report from the town manager.

• Appointed Joe Vaccarello to Historic District Commission (7-0)
• Approved minutes of April 28 public session (6-0-1)
• Approved minutes of April 28 non-public session (6-0-1)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board is meeting electronically via Zoom to conduct its regular business. The agenda includes no old business, but features new business items: election of officers, a time extension request for a subdivision at 99 McAllister Road, and a final site plan for converting an office to a private school at 21 Eastman Avenue. Additionally, there will be a conceptual discussion of a proposed elderly housing development at 12 and 18 Olde Bedford Way.

• Election of officers for 2021-2022
• Time extension for phased subdivision at 99 McAllister Road (Lot 2-12, Zoned R&A)
• Final site plan for private school conversion at 21 Eastman Avenue (Lot 46-17, Zoned PZ)
• Conceptual discussion of elderly housing (up to 11 units) at 12 & 18 Olde Bedford Way (Lots 13-40, 10-50-5)

The Bedford Planning Board granted final site plan approval to convert an existing office building at 21 Eastman Avenue into a private school (Bedford Academy) for children ages 3-10, with a waiver for 24 parking spaces instead of the required 31. The approval includes conditions such as an updated operational plan for drop-off/pick-up and stormwater best management practices. The board also granted a second one-year time extension for a subdivision at 99 McAllister Road, and elected officers for 2021-2022.

• Approved final site plan for private school at 21 Eastman Avenue (4-3 vote)
• Granted parking waiver (24 spaces vs. 31 required) for the school
• Granted second one-year extension for subdivision at 99 McAllister Road to April 8, 2022
• Elected Mac McMahan as Chair, Bill Duschatko as Vice Chair, Priscilla Malcolm as Secretary
• Appointed Steve Clough as Conservation Commission liaison and John Quintal as Historic District Commission liaison
• Recommended reappointment of Bill Duschatko, Charlie Fairman, and Bryan Lord to Southern NH Planning Commission
• Approved April 12, 2021 minutes (with Quintal abstaining)

Town Council

This is an informational meeting, not a decision-making session, about PFAS contamination. The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) will present on PFAS discovery, health effects, sampling, homeowner water options, and potential solutions. A question and answer session will follow.

• PFAS health effects presentation
• PFAS sampling and notification process
• Homeowner alternative water options
• Potential solutions and funding options

Historic District Commission

The Bedford Historic District Commission will meet to consider two property requests: an amendment to a previously approved new home at 324 Wallace Road and a renovation at 29 North Amherst Road. The commission will also elect officers for 2021-2022 and approve prior meeting minutes. The meeting is held electronically via Zoom due to the coronavirus crisis.

• Amendment to prior approval for new single-family residence at 324 Wallace Road (Lot 14-67-1, R&A zoning)
• Renovation request for exterior doors, shutters, steps, and front entrance overhang at 29 North Amherst Road (Lot 20-60, R&A zoning)
• Election of Historic District Officers for 2021-2022
• Approval of minutes from previous meeting
• Meeting conducted via Zoom; public access via BCTV and call-in

The Bedford Historic District Commission approved two applications: an amendment to a previously approved single-family residence at 324 Wallace Road, allowing changes made during construction, and a renovation proposal for 29 North Amherst Road, including exterior restoration and an overhang addition. Both approvals include conditions for completion within two years and photo documentation. The commission also postponed officer elections to the June meeting and approved the April 6, 2021 minutes.

• Approved amended construction at 324 Wallace Road (unanimous)
• Approved exterior renovation and overhang at 29 North Amherst Road (unanimous)
• Postponed officer election to June meeting (unanimous)
• Approved April 6, 2021 minutes (unanimous, with one abstention)

Cemetery Trustees

The Cemetery Trustees will conduct a roll call and hold elections for a Chair and Secretary. The meeting also includes committee assignments and discussion of new and old business.

• Election of Chair
• Election of Secretary
• Committee assignments

The Bedford Cemetery Trustees re-elected David C. Bailey as Chairman and Art Alden as Secretary, and formed a committee to improve cemetery signage. They also decided to remove the damaged gate at Joppa Hill Cemetery instead of paying a $1,900 repair quote, and agreed to monitor gravestone conditions.

• Re-elected David C. Bailey as Chairman and Art Alden as Secretary (3-0)
• Formed sign committee chaired by Steve Wiggin (3-0)
• Directed Steve Wiggin to form committee and make signage recommendations (3-0)
• Rejected $1,900 gate repair quote; decided to remove gate at Joppa Hill Cemetery
• Agreed to monitor gravestones for sunken, cracked, or damaged stones

Trustees of the Trust Funds

The Trustees of the Trust Funds are meeting to provide their annual report to the Town Council.

• Annual Report to the Town Council

The Bedford Trustees of the Trust Funds met on 28 Apr 2021 to deliver their annual report to the Town Council and public. The report described the trustees' responsibilities, the two types of funds they manage (private trusts and capital reserve funds), and their investment approach. No formal decisions or votes were made during the meeting.

• Presented annual report to Town Council (no vote)
• Adjourned after presentation (no vote)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is meeting to discuss new business including a bid waiver and purchase of a 2021 John Deere mower, appointments to boards and committees, and a meeting with the Trustees of the Trust Funds. They will also consider amending or reaffirming council rules, code of conduct, and media/social media policies. The agenda includes standard items like public comments, minutes approval, and a town manager report.

• Approval of bid waiver and purchase of 2021 John Deere mower
• Meeting with the Trustees of the Trust Funds
• Appointments to Boards/Committees/Commissions
• Amending/reaffirming TC Rules of Procedure, Code of Conduct, Town Media Policy, Social Media Policy
• Approval of minutes from April 14, 2021 (interview, public, non-public sessions)

The Bedford Town Council approved a bid waiver and the purchase of a 2021 John Deere mower from H.P. Fairfield for $159,306.58, using a Sourcewell cooperative purchasing contract. The council also approved a slate of appointments to boards and committees, amended the Council Rules of Procedure, and reaffirmed the Code of Conduct and media policies. All votes were unanimous (6-0) except for the approval of April 14 minutes, which passed 5-0-1 with Councilor Murphy abstaining.

• Approved bid waiver and $159,306.58 purchase of 2021 John Deere mower from H.P. Fairfield (6-0)
• Approved slate of appointments to boards/committees/commissions (6-0)
• Amended Town Council Rules of Procedure (6-0)
• Reaffirmed Code of Conduct, Town Media Policy, and Social Media Policy (6-0)
• Approved April 14, 2021 Interview Minutes (5-0-1, Murphy abstained)
• Approved April 14, 2021 Public Session Minutes (5-0-1, Murphy abstained)
• Approved April 14, 2021 Non-Public Session Minutes (5-0-1, Murphy abstained)
• Approved April 24, 2021 Retreat Minutes (6-0)

Highway Safety Committee

The Bedford Highway Safety Committee is meeting electronically via Zoom due to the coronavirus crisis. The agenda includes resident concerns about traffic safety on Tirrell Rd and Stephanie Dr, a request for speed limit signage on Ministerial Rd, and old business regarding a crosswalk at Joppa Hill Farm.

• Tirrell Rd & Stephanie Dr: resident concerns for traffic safety
• Ministerial Rd: request for speed limit signage; concern for speeding
• Crosswalk at Joppa Hill Farm (old business)
• Approval of minutes from March 23, 2021

The Highway Safety Committee approved a motion to recommend installing 'No Outlet' signs at Stephanie Drive and Tirrell Road, and to review stop sign placement and pavement markings. They also passed a motion for DPW to review adding a speed limit sign on Ministerial Road. A motion to increase police patrols was withdrawn after discussion.

• Approved motion to recommend 'No Outlet' signs on Stephanie Drive and Tirrell Road, plus review of stop sign placement and pavement markings (all in favor)
• Approved motion for DPW review of adding a speed limit sign on Ministerial Road near Ministerial Branch (all in favor)
• Withdrew motion to recommend increased police patrols after discussion

Planning Board

This meeting has no published agenda; only minutes are available. The agenda is purely procedural with no substantive items to report.

Town Council

This agenda is for a Town Council retreat, not a regular decision-making meeting. It contains only the date, time, and location, with no listed agenda items or actions to be taken.

The Bedford Town Council held a retreat and established 14 goals and priorities for the town, including implementing the Facilities Master Plan, developing a pay-to-play policy for recreation fields, educating on PFAS, reviewing the town attorney appointment, and pursuing conservation of developable open space. No formal votes were taken; the retreat was a discussion and goal-setting session.

• Established Facilities Master Plan implementation as a goal (Gilbert & Duschatko)
• Set Recreation Facilities Plan implementation and pay-to-play policy development as a goal (Gilbert)
• Prioritized PFAS education and advocacy (Carter, PFAS Commission Members)
• Agreed to review appointment of the town attorney
• Committed to pursue conservation of developable open space (Carter)
• Supported the Clean Up Club and composting program
• Planned quarterly public relations articles (Murphy)
• Assigned councilor liaisons to departments (Gilbert)

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission is meeting to discuss electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and a municipal plan for future EV infrastructure. The body will also review solar projects and a municipal aggregation cost analysis.

• Discussion of HB 315 and Clean Energy NH Bill Synopsis
• Guest speaker Chris Palmieri on EV chargers and municipal infrastructure planning
• Solar Farm proposal at the Transfer Station
• Town Pool PV Shade/Shelter project
• Public Works Highway Garage PV Vehicle Port/Shelter project

The Bedford Energy Commission heard a presentation from EVBox on electric vehicle charging infrastructure and discussed options for municipal EV chargers, fleet electrification, and school bus electrification. The commission voted 9-0 to have members work with EVBox on a presentation to bring to the Town Council. They also discussed legislative updates, Solsmart designation progress, and potential solar projects, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from March 25, 2021 (7-0, 1 abstention)
• Voted to work with EVBox on a presentation for Town Council on EV charging (9-0)
• Discussed but did not vote on EV charger locations, fleet electrification, or school bus electrification
• Discussed but did not vote on Solsmart designation next steps
• Discussed but did not vote on solar projects at pool, highway garage, and Safety Complex

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment is meeting remotely via Zoom to hear three variance requests. One request seeks to build a garage closer to a wetland than allowed, and two requests from the same applicant seek to expand an office building beyond current floor and footprint limits. The board will also review minutes from its March 23 meeting.

• Variance for garage 37.7 ft. from wetland (50 ft. required) at 66 Parkhurst Rd., Lot 40-1-4, R&A zone
• Variance for third-floor addition (two floors max) at 2 Cooper Lane, Lot 10-23-9, CO zone
• Variance for building addition to 41,700 sq. ft. footprint (25,000 sq. ft. max) at 2 Cooper Lane, Lot 10-23-9, CO zone
• Minutes of March 23, 2021 to be reviewed

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment approved all three variance requests on the agenda. It granted a variance to construct a garage 37.7 feet from a wetland (where 50 feet is required) at 66 Parkhurst Rd., and approved two variances for Cooper Drive Office Park LLC at 2 Cooper Lane: one to add a third-floor addition (where only two floors are allowed) and another to expand the building footprint to 41,700 sq. ft. (where 25,000 sq. ft. is allowed). The board also approved the minutes of the March 23, 2021 meeting and noted the resignations of two board members and the retirement of Planner Karin Elmer.

• Approved variance for garage 37.7 ft. from wetland at 66 Parkhurst Rd. (5-0)
• Approved variance for third-floor addition at 2 Cooper Lane (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved variance for 41,700 sq. ft. building footprint at 2 Cooper Lane (5-0)
• Approved minutes of March 23, 2021 meeting (5-0)

Telecommunications Subcommittee

The Bedford Heights Telecommunications Subcommittee is meeting virtually to discuss Consolidated Communications' plans for fiber expansion and to approve the minutes from the previous meeting. The agenda includes public comments and new business, with no other substantive items listed.

• Discussion with Mike Cannon and Jeff McIver of Consolidated Communications on fiber expansion plans
• Approval of minutes from March 26, 2021

The Bedford Telecommunications Committee met virtually and discussed broadband initiatives, including the school district's fiber network, partnerships in other towns, and a presentation from Consolidated Communications on their Bedford coverage. No formal decisions or votes were made; the committee discussed the potential for issuing an RFP and conducting a community survey.

• No formal decisions or votes taken at the meeting

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold its regular meeting, including interviews for boards and commissions, and will consider several new business items. Key actions include approving the renaming of Chubbuck Field and a School Resource Officer (SRO) Memorandum of Understanding with SAU 25. The council will also amend or reaffirm its rules of procedure, code of conduct, and media/social media policies. A non-public session is scheduled for land acquisition discussions.

• Approval of renaming Chubbuck Field
• Approval of SRO Memorandum of Understanding with SAU 25
• Amending/reaffirming TC Rules of Procedure, Code of Conduct, Town Media Policy, Social Media Policy
• Recognition of Retired Board and Commission members
• Non-public session under RSA 91-A:3 II (d) for acquisition of land

The Bedford Town Council approved renaming Chubbuck Road Field to Hawkins Field in honor of the late Ken Hawkins, a longtime resident and community volunteer. The council also approved a Memorandum of Understanding with the Bedford School District governing the School Resource Officer program. A letter was sent to the Senate regarding the state budget and rooms and meals tax restoration.

• Approved renaming Chubbuck Road Field to Hawkins Field (5-0-1, Gilbert abstained)
• Approved SRO Memorandum of Understanding with SAU 25 and authorized Town Manager to sign (6-0)
• Approved sending letter to Senate regarding budget and rooms and meals tax (6-0)
• Approved minutes of March 10, 2021 Budgetary Town Meeting (6-0)
• Approved minutes of March 15, 2021 Organizational Meeting and Public Session (6-0)
• Entered non-public session to discuss acquisition of real or personal property (6-0)

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Conservation Commission will meet electronically via Zoom to review a dredge and fill permit application, hear a presentation from Bedford High School's Ecological Program, and discuss updates on town-owned land and previously reviewed permits. The meeting is open to the public through BCTV and call-in options.

• Review of permit to fill ~2,457 sq. ft. of wetland for shared driveway at 501 Rt. 101 (Lot 30-10)
• Presentation and discussion of Bedford High School Ecological Program
• Update on town-owned land off Chubbuck Road
• Update on previously reviewed permits and ZBA actions
• Non-public session for potential real property acquisition, sale, or lease

The Bedford Conservation Commission approved a dredge and fill permit for a shared driveway at 501 Rt. 101, allowing about 2,457 sq. ft. of wetland to be filled for a 3-lot subdivision. The commission also heard a presentation from Bedford High School about a game camera project on conservation lands and discussed potential volunteer support. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included approval of prior minutes and a non-public session.

• Approved dredge and fill permit for Demers subdivision at 501 Rt. 101 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of March 23, 2021 (unanimous)
• Entered non-public session for property acquisition discussion (unanimous)
• Sealed non-public session minutes (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board is meeting electronically via Zoom due to the coronavirus crisis. The board will hold public hearings on a home occupation permit for a firearms dealer and gunsmithing business, and a request to amend a 1992 subdivision condition. They will also discuss draft 2020 Master Plan edits and proposed amendments to the Planning Board Rules of Procedure.

• Public hearing: home occupation permit for non-stocking firearms dealer and gunsmithing business at 15 Chandler Road, Lot 14-2-1, zoned R&A
• Public hearing: amend a condition of subdivision approval from July 20, 1992, at 85 Hawk Drive, Lot 8-16-66, zoned R&A
• Discussion of draft 2020 Master Plan edits
• Public hearing for proposed amendments to the Planning Board Rules of Procedure

The Bedford Planning Board granted final approval for a home occupation permit allowing Gerald Violette to operate a non-stocking firearms dealer and gunsmithing business at 15 Chandler Road, with conditions including one-hour daily operation by appointment and exclusions on ammunition reloading, live firing, and welding. The board also approved a waiver and removal of a residential use restriction on a lot at 85 Hawk Drive, allowing it to revert to a residential building lot, and adopted amendments to its Rules of Procedure. The meeting was held remotely via Zoom due to the COVID-19 emergency.

• Approved home occupation permit for firearms dealer/gunsmith at 15 Chandler Road (unanimous)
• Approved waiver from driveway standards for lot at 85 Hawk Drive (unanimous)
• Approved removal of residential use restriction on lot 8-16-66 at 85 Hawk Drive (unanimous)
• Adopted amendments to Planning Board Rules of Procedure (unanimous)
• Approved March 8, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved March 22, 2021 minutes (unanimous)

Historic District Commission

The Bedford Historic District Commission will consider two requests to amend prior approvals: one for a new single-family home at 324 Wallace Road and one to extend a demolition/addition approval at 266 Wallace Road. The commission will also hold a public hearing on proposed changes to its Rules of Procedure. The meeting is held via Zoom due to the coronavirus emergency.

• Frank Robertson requests amendment of 2019 approval for new residence at 324 Wallace Road, Lot 14-67-1
• Patricia McLaughlin requests extension of 2019 approval to demolish rear of residence and add 1,800 sq ft at 266 Wallace Road, Lot 20-91-4
• Public hearing on proposed amendments to Historic District Commission Rules of Procedure

The Bedford Historic District Commission approved an amended application for 266 Wallace Road, allowing the owner to repair and remodel the existing structure instead of demolishing and replacing it. The approval requires the applicant to submit window and siding specifications for commission review before construction, complete all work within two years, and provide photos of the completed work. The commission also adopted a rule change to publish meeting notices on the town website instead of the newspaper, and postponed a separate application for 324 Wallace Road to the May 4 meeting.

• Approved amended application for 266 Wallace Road to repair and remodel existing structure, with conditions on window/siding specs, 2-year completion, and photo submission.
• Adopted amendment to Section 8.5A of rules of procedure, replacing newspaper notice with town website publication for applications.
• Postponed Frank Robertson's application for 324 Wallace Road to May 4, 2021 meeting.
• Accepted minutes from October 6, 2020 and November 10, 2020 meetings.
• Adjourned meeting at 7:39 pm.

BCTV-WBNH Board of Overseers

The BCTV-WBNH Board of Overseers met virtually on April 1, 2021, to approve minutes from the previous meeting held on October 8, 2020. The agenda included a report from the BCTV-WBNH Manager and a report from the WBNH Radio Program Director. No specific ordinances, contracts, or fee changes were listed for decision.

• Approval of minutes from October 8, 2020
• BCTV-WBNH Manager’s Report
• WBNH Radio Program Director’s Report

The BCTV-WBNH Board of Overseers met on April 1, 2021, but took no formal votes. Approval of the previous meeting's minutes was tabled due to a lack of quorum. The board heard reports from the station manager and program director on winter sports coverage, plans to reopen the studio for PSA recordings, and an upcoming town cleanup day.

• Tabled approval of October 8, 2020 meeting minutes due to lack of quorum
• Heard Station Manager's report on March 2021 operations and sports coverage
• Heard plan to reopen studio for one-person PSA recordings by appointment in April
• Heard announcement of First Annual C.U.B. (Clean Up Bedford) Day on April 17, 2021
• Heard WBNH report on winter sports coverage and FCC license renewal filing deadline of December 1, 2021
• Noted next meeting scheduled for June 17, 2021

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission will discuss proposals for the Bedford Skateboard Park and a request to rename Chubbuck Road Field. The meeting also includes updates on turf field research fees and approval of spring and summer field use schedules.

• Discussion regarding improvements to Bedford Skateboard Park
• Eagle Scout proposal for a bench at Skateboard Park
• Request for re-naming Chubbuck Road Field
• Update on research fee for turf fields
• Approval of Spring and Summer Camp field use schedules

Telecommunications Subcommittee

The Bedford Telecommunications Committee is meeting virtually to discuss municipal networks and approve the minutes from the January 21, 2021 meeting. The agenda includes public comments and roll call, with no other substantive items listed.

• Discussion of municipal networks
• Approval of minutes from January 21, 2021

The Bedford Telecommunications Committee met virtually and discussed municipal networks, but no substantive decisions were made. The committee approved the minutes from its January 21, 2021 meeting. The meeting was held under Governor Sununu's Emergency Order #12.

• Approved minutes of January 21, 2021 meeting

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission will hear from guest speaker Joshua Singer of Clean Energy NH regarding municipal membership. The body will also discuss various solar and EV charging initiatives, including a potential solar farm at the Transfer Station.

• Discussion of HB 315 and Clean Energy NH bill synopses
• Solsmart application for Bronze level status
• EV charging station updates regarding Tesla and Enel X
• Solar Farm proposal at the Transfer Station
• Municipal Aggregation Cost Analysis and Presentation

The Bedford Energy Commission approved a letter of interest to Solsmart, starting the process for potential Bronze-level membership. The commission also heard from Joshua Singer of Clean Energy NH about membership benefits, EV charging station issues, and pending state legislation, but took no other formal votes.

• Approved January 28, 2021 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved February 25, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0, 3 abstentions)
• Approved letter to Solsmart and application submission (8-0)
• Adjourned meeting (8-0)

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Conservation Commission is meeting electronically via Zoom due to the coronavirus crisis. They will review a variance request to build a garage closer to a wetland than allowed, discuss wildlife habitat on town land, and consider a non-public session on property acquisition. The meeting is open to the public via BCTV and call-in.

• Variance request by Jeremy Blanchard to build a garage 37.2 ft from wetland edge (25 ft required) at 66 Parkhurst Rd., Lot 40-1-4
• Discussion of wildlife habitat on town land on Chubbuck Rd.
• Update on previously reviewed permits and ZBA actions
• Non-public session per RSA 91-A:3, II(d) for property acquisition, sale, or lease

The Bedford Conservation Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of a variance request to build a garage 37.2 feet from a wetland (where 50 feet is required) at 66 Parkhurst Rd., contingent on moving the garage 20 feet from the retaining wall and installing all stormwater infiltration. The commission also heard a presentation on wildlife habitat on Chubbuck Rd. and agreed to develop a plan, with members Carter and MacPherson tasked to work on next steps. The minutes of the February 9, 2021 meeting were approved, and the commission entered a non-public session to discuss property acquisition, sealing those minutes afterward.

• Recommended approval of the variance request for Option A at 66 Parkhurst Rd., contingent on moving the garage 20 feet from the retaining wall and installing all stormwater infiltration.
• Approved the minutes of the February 9, 2021 meeting as presented.
• Agreed to develop a plan for the Chubbuck Rd. property, with Carter and MacPherson to work on next steps and Carter to raise the topic with the Town Council monthly.
• Entered a non-public session to discuss the acquisition, sale, or lease of real or personal property, and later sealed the non-public minutes.
• Adjourned the meeting at 9:30 PM.

Supervisors of the Checklist

The Supervisors of the Checklist will meet to review and approve updates to the checklist. This includes additions, deletions, and corrections to names or addresses.

• Approval of checklist additions, deletions, and name or address changes

Highway Safety Committee

The Bedford Highway Safety Committee is meeting electronically via Zoom due to the coronavirus crisis. The agenda includes approval of past minutes, organizational matters, and new business, notably a request for a crosswalk at Joppa Hill Farm. Public access is available via BCTV and call-in.

• Request for a crosswalk at Joppa Hill Farm
• Approval of minutes from July 23, 2019 and September 24, 2019
• Organizational meeting
• Subcommittee reports

The Highway Safety Committee voted to recommend installing a crosswalk on Joppa Hill Road at Joppa Hill Farm, with signage and warning lights, contingent on funding. The recommendation will be sent to the Town Manager and Public Works Director. The committee also approved the previous meeting's minutes and re-elected its chair and vice-chair.

• Approved minutes from September 24, 2019 meeting (with abstentions).
• Re-elected Chief John Bryfonski as Chair.
• Re-elected Chief Scott Hunter as Vice-Chair.
• Recommended crosswalk installation on Joppa Hill Road at Joppa Hill Farm with signage and warning lights, contingent on funding.

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board is meeting electronically via Zoom due to the coronavirus crisis. The board will consider a lot line adjustment request from Nicolas & Jennifer Pakler for properties at 119 McAllister Road and 8 Cobtail Way, and discuss proposed amendments to its Rules of Procedure. No old business or continued hearings are scheduled.

• Lot line adjustment request by Nicolas & Jennifer Pakler for 119 McAllister Road and 8 Cobtail Way, zoned R&A
• Discussion of proposed amendments to Planning Board Rules of Procedure
• Meeting held via Zoom; no physical location
• Public access via BCTV streaming or call-in; comments by email to planning@bedfordnh.org

The Bedford Planning Board granted final approval for a lot line adjustment between 119 McAllister Road and 8 Cobtail Way, owned by Nicolas and Jennifer Pakler, with conditions. The board also scheduled a public hearing for April 12, 2021, to discuss proposed amendments to its Rules of Procedure, including removing the Town Manager and Public Works Director as members and ending newspaper advertising requirements.

• Approved waivers from sections 218.1.11, 218.1.12, and 218.1.13 of the Bedford Land Development Control Regulations for the lot line adjustment.
• Granted final approval of the lot line adjustment between 119 McAllister Road and 8 Cobtail Way, subject to conditions including technical review, recording fees, waiver notation, and monumentation certification.
• Scheduled a public hearing for April 12, 2021, on proposed amendments to the Planning Board Rules of Procedure.
• Approved the February 8, 2021, Planning Board minutes as presented, with two abstentions.
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:31 p.m.

Trustees of the Trust Funds

The Trustees of the Trust Funds will conduct their annual organizational meeting and review the annual schedule of items. The body will also discuss a withdrawal request for library funds and receive a quarterly update from financial advisors.

• Annual organizational meeting
• Library funds withdrawal request
• Quarterly update by financial advisors
• Review of Annual Schedule of items
• Update on State of NH AG guidance on private trusts

The Bedford Trustees of the Trust Funds held their annual organizational meeting and unanimously renewed the existing slate of officers: Ken Peterson as Chair, Joe Fahey as Treasurer, and Mac McMahan as Cemetery Liaison. They approved the minutes from the 15 Dec 2021 meeting and reviewed the Annual Schedule of Items. The trustees discussed the possibility of consolidating small private trusts, but were told by the NH State AG office that no state-level remedies exist; they will seek advice from the Town Attorney. The meeting was procedural, with no major fund decisions made.

• Renewed the existing slate of officers: Chair Ken Peterson, Treasurer Joe Fahey, Cemetery Liaison Mac McMahan
• Approved the minutes of the 15 Dec 2021 meeting as written
• Reviewed and acted upon the Annual Schedule of Items
• Noted that the Financial Advisors were unable to attend for a quarterly update
• Confirmed that all trustees completed the Town-required computer security testing

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a virtual meeting on March 16, 2021, due to the coronavirus crisis. The main item is a variance request from Brian Lynch to build an addition closer to the front boundary than normally allowed. The board will also review minutes from the previous meeting.

• Variance request by Brian Lynch for an addition at 1 Kalmia Way, Lot 14-18, zoned R&A, to be 20.3 ft from front boundary instead of required 35 ft
• Meeting conducted via Zoom due to Governor Sununu's Emergency Order #12
• Public access via BCTV streaming and call-in; comments accepted by email

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment approved Bryan Lynch's request for a variance to build an addition 20.3 feet from the front boundary where 35 feet is required at 1 Kalmia Way. The board found the request met the variance criteria, citing the lot's unique shape and the addition's minimal visual impact. The motion passed 5-0.

• Approved the minutes of the February 16, 2021 meeting as written (5-0).
• Approved Bryan Lynch's variance request for an addition at 1 Kalmia Way (5-0).
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:31 p.m. (7-0).

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is holding its organizational and regular meeting, including the swearing-in of new councilors and election of leadership. The main substantive item is a letter of support for a sidewalk grant application for Old Bedford Road. The rest of the agenda is routine procedural business, such as approving minutes and receiving reports.

• Letter of support for Old Bedford Road sidewalk grant application
• Oath of office for new councilors
• Election of chair and vice chair
• Approval of minutes from February and March meetings
• Public comments (up to 5 minutes per person)

The Bedford Town Council unanimously approved a motion to support a grant application for a 3,800-foot sidewalk along Old Bedford Road, with the chairman authorized to send a letter of support. The grant requires a 20% match, fully funded by $100k from a senior living project, so no local taxpayer cost. The council also approved minutes from prior sessions and made committee assignments.

• Approved letter of support for TAP sidewalk grant along Old Bedford Road (7-0)
• Approved minutes of Feb 10 Non-Public Session (5-0-2, Murphy and Thomas abstained)
• Approved minutes of Feb 24 Public Session (5-0-2, Murphy and Thomas abstained)
• Elected Dave Gilbert as Chairman (7-0)
• Elected William Carter as Vice Chair (7-0)
• Swore in new councilors Bill Duschatko, Kelleigh Murphy, and Sue Thomas

Budgetary Town Meeting

This is a budgetary town meeting for the Town of Bedford, held on March 10, 2021, at the high school theater. The agenda is minimal, containing only the meeting notice and an accommodation statement, with no specific items listed for discussion or decision.

Voters approved Article 5, the Capital Reserve Fund, raising $3,049,050 for various projects, with $2 million from fund balance reserves earmarked for land acquisition and design for a new police/fire facility. An amendment to reduce that $2 million to $1 million failed. The $33.43 million town operating budget was also approved after four amendments added state revenues and reduced appropriations.

• Approved Article 4 (Conservation Fund) as written.
• Approved Article 5 (Capital Reserve Fund) as presented, including $2M for safety complex land/design.
• Defeated amendment to reduce the $2M safety complex allocation to $1M.
• Approved Article 6 (Town Operating Budget) as amended, totaling $33,428,548.
• Approved four budget amendments: added $200K state grant, $175K room & meals, $58,481 SRO revenue, and removed $44,375 for COLA.
• Restricted reconsideration on Articles 4, 5, and 6.

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will hold a virtual meeting on March 8, 2021, to consider two new business items: a subdivision request to create one new residential parcel at 58 Jenkins Road, and a site plan request for a 17,400 sq. ft. industrial warehouse with accessory office space on Harvey Road. No old business or continued hearings are scheduled. Public access is available via BCTV and Zoom due to the coronavirus emergency order.

• Subdivision request by AB Atlantic Group, LLC to create one new residential parcel at 58 Jenkins Road (Lot 32-40, Zoned R&A)
• Site plan request by Harvey Road Commercial Property, LLC for a 17,400 sq. ft. multi-tenant industrial warehouse with accessory office space at Harvey Road (Lot 35-98-30, Zoned PZ)

The Bedford Planning Board granted final approval for a two-lot subdivision at 58 Jenkins Road and a 17,400 sq. ft. industrial warehouse on Harvey Road. Both approvals were unanimous and include conditions such as easements, permits, and technical reviews. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved subdivision at 58 Jenkins Road to create one new residential lot (unanimous)
• Granted waiver for irregular lot shape at 58 Jenkins Road (unanimous)
• Approved site plan for 17,400 sq. ft. industrial warehouse on Harvey Road (unanimous)

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission is meeting to hear from guest speaker Joshua Singer of Clean Energy NH. Members will discuss legislative updates, municipal energy aggregation, and various solar and electric vehicle infrastructure projects.

• Discussion of HB 315 and Clean Energy NH bill synopsis
• Solsmart application for Town Council agenda
• Tesla and Enel X EV charging station updates
• Proposed solar farm at the Transfer Station
• Municipal Aggregation Cost Analysis and Presentation

The Bedford Energy Commission met via Zoom on February 25, 2021, but lacked a quorum, so no votes could be taken and the January minutes were not approved. The guest speaker was postponed to the March 25 meeting. Members discussed Solsmart designation, EV charging stations, and solar projects, but no formal decisions were made.

• Postponed guest speaker Joshua Singer to March 25, 2021 meeting
• Unable to approve January 28, 2021 minutes due to no quorum
• Adjourned meeting by roll call vote, motion passed 4-0

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is meeting to consider several new business items, including a Payment in Lieu of Taxes agreement with Senior Living of Bedford, updates on the 2021 Roads Program, and awards for solid waste disposal and vehicle/equipment bids. They will also discuss employee compensation wage ranges. The meeting includes public comments, approval of prior minutes, and a town manager report.

• Approval of Payment in Lieu of Taxes agreement with Senior Living of Bedford
• 2021 Roads Program Update
• Award of 2021 Solid Waste Disposal Contract
• Award of Bid 1-2021 (2) Six Wheel Cab & Chassis (Dump Trucks)
• Approval of Employee Compensation Wage Ranges

The Bedford Town Council approved a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreement with Senior Living of Bedford, the first such agreement in town, authorizing the Town Manager to execute it. The council also approved the 2021 roads program, a one-year extension of the solid waste disposal contract with Covanta Haverhill, and awarded bids for two dump trucks and their equipment. Additionally, the council approved a 1.1% wage range adjustment for non-union employees and approved the minutes from the February 10, 2021 meeting.

• Approved PILOT agreement with Senior Living of Bedford (7-0).
• Authorized advancing the 2021 roads program (7-0).
• Extended solid waste disposal contract with Covanta Haverhill for one year (7-0).
• Awarded bid for two dump trucks to Liberty International/Allegiance Trucks for $185,294 (7-0).
• Awarded bid for truck equipment to Tenco Industries for $176,472 (7-0).
• Approved 2021 non-union wage schedule with 1.1% increase (7-0).
• Approved minutes of February 10, 2021 public session (7-0).

Planning Board

There is no agenda for this meeting. The Planning Board will not be making any decisions or holding any discussions. Please refer to the minutes for any past actions.

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment is meeting remotely via Zoom due to the coronavirus crisis. The only substantive item is a continued hearing on a variance request to keep an existing detached apartment at 35 Back River Rd, which is not an allowed use in the R&A zone. The board will also approve minutes from the January 19, 2021 meeting.

• Continued variance request by Peter Boyle for detached apartment at 35 Back River Rd (Lot 22-43-3, zoned R&A)
• Meeting held electronically via Zoom due to Governor Sununu's Emergency Order #12
• Public access via BCTV livestream and call-in; comments accepted by email

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment denied a variance request from Peter Boyle to keep an existing detached apartment at 35 Back River Road, which is not an allowed use in the R&A zone. The board voted 5-0 to deny the variance after deliberations, citing that the request did not meet the spirit of the ordinance and that alternatives existed, such as removing the oven to change the classification. The meeting was held via Zoom due to the COVID-19 emergency order.

• Approved minutes of January 19, 2021 meeting (6-0)
• Denied variance for detached apartment at 35 Back River Road (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:27 p.m. (6-0)

Town Council

The Town Council will hold a public hearing regarding a Verizon request for a cell tower on town land off Chubbuck Road. The council also intends to award a bid for a custom aerial fire apparatus ladder truck.

• Public hearing for a Verizon cell tower construction request off Chubbuck Road
• Award of Bid 25-2020 for Custom Aerial Fire Apparatus (Ladder Truck)

The Bedford Town Council awarded a $1,312,952 contract to Specialty Vehicles, Inc. for a 2021 Rosenbauer aerial fire apparatus, using a 75% prepayment option. The council also voted unanimously not to enter lease negotiations with Verizon Wireless for a cell tower on Chubbuck Road. The minutes also include approval of prior meeting minutes and a motion to enter non-public session.

• Awarded $1,312,952 contract for 2021 Rosenbauer Aerial Apparatus to Specialty Vehicles, Inc. (7-0)
• Denied entering lease negotiations with Verizon Wireless for cell tower on Chubbuck Road (7-0)
• Approved minutes of January 27, 2021 Public Session (7-0)
• Moved to non-public session per RSA 91-A:3 II (b) and (d) (7-0)

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Conservation Commission is holding an informal workshop to discuss general conservation planning issues, including a demonstration of the NH Wetland/Wildlife Mapper Tool. The meeting is conducted via Zoom due to the coronavirus crisis, and the commission will not solicit comments from the audience. A non-public session is scheduled to consider the acquisition, sale, or lease of real property.

• Demonstration of the NH Wetland/Wildlife Mapper Tool
• Non-public session per RSA 91-A:3, II(d) for real property acquisition, sale, or lease
• Approval of January 26, 2021 minutes

The Bedford Conservation Commission held a workshop via Zoom, approving the January 26, 2021 minutes and the September 22, 2020 non-public minutes. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting focused on discussions about a potential conservation easement for the transfer station lot, a demonstration of the US Fish & Wildlife Mapper, and planning for the Clean Up Bedford event.

• Approved January 26, 2021 Conservation Commission minutes (all in favor, Grogan abstained)
• Approved September 22, 2020 non-public minutes (all in favor, Grogan abstained)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board is meeting electronically via Zoom due to the coronavirus crisis. The board will consider two new business applications: a Level II home occupation for a dog breeding business and a 100,000-square-foot manufacturing facility with a future addition for Wire Belt Company, which was postponed from a previous meeting. No old business, concept proposals, or committee reports are listed.

• Dog breeding business as Level II Home Occupation at 68 Perry Road, Lot 18-7-3, zoned PZ
• 100,000 sq ft manufacturing facility with 25,000 sq ft future addition for Wire Belt Company at 308 South River Road, Lot 24-98-19, zoned PZ
• Application postponed from January 25, 2021 meeting at applicant's request

The Bedford Planning Board approved a 108,250-square-foot manufacturing facility for Wire Belt Company of America at 308 South River Road, with 16 conditions including a conservation easement and offsite road improvements. The board also approved a Level II Home Occupation permit for a dog breeding business at 68 Perry Road, subject to four conditions, after rejecting a proposed cap on the number of dogs and puppies onsite.

• Approved Wire Belt Company manufacturing facility site plan (unanimous)
• Approved dog breeding home occupation at 68 Perry Road with 4 conditions (unanimous)
• Rejected condition limiting onsite dogs to 6 adults and 25 puppies (6-2)
• Approved minutes of Jan 11 and Jan 25 meetings (with abstentions)

Energy Commission

The Bedford Energy Commission is meeting virtually to discuss energy-related projects and legislative matters. They will review minutes, receive updates on state bills, and discuss solar initiatives, EV charging stations, and municipal aggregation.

• Discussion of HB 315 and Clean Energy NH bill synopsis
• SolSmart application for Bronze level designation
• Updates on Tesla EV charging station partnership
• Solar farm at Transfer Station with <1MW net metering
• Town Pool PV shade/shelter and Public Works garage solar vehicle port

The Bedford Energy Commission voted 6-0 to recommend that the town explore installing photovoltaic panels on the roofs of the DPW garage and the Safety Complex. The commission also discussed state legislation (HB 315) affecting community choice aggregation, with members expressing concerns and planning to testify. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved motion to recommend exploring PV on DPW garage and Safety Complex roofs (6-0)
• Approved December 17, 2020 meeting minutes (3-0, 1 abstention)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is meeting virtually to hold second public hearings on the proposed 2021 budget and a Conservation Fund warrant article, and to take action on a Field/Facility Naming Policy and proposed Charter amendments. The meeting is open to the public via BCTV and online streaming.

• Second public hearing on proposed 2021 budget
• Second public hearing on Conservation Fund warrant article
• Action on proposed Field/Facility Naming Policy
• Action on proposed Charter amendments
• Approval of minutes from January 13, 2021

The Bedford Town Council voted 6-1 to move the 2021 operating budget of $33,472,923 to the Budgetary Town Meeting on March 10, 2021. The Council also approved using $250,000 from the Unassigned Fund Balance to offset the tax rate, and voted to place all four proposed Charter amendments on the March ballot. A motion to cut Recreation Field Maintenance funding from $100k to $50k failed 3-4.

• Moved $33,472,923 operating budget to Town Meeting (6-1)
• Approved $250k from Unassigned Fund Balance to offset tax rate (4-3)
• Moved $3,049,050 Capital Reserve Fund to Town Meeting (5-2)
• Moved Conservation Fund warrant article to Town Meeting (unanimous)
• Adopted Town Parks, Fields and Recreational Facilities Naming Policy (unanimous)
• Placed proposed Charter amendments on 2021 ballot (unanimous)
• Rejected cutting Recreation Field Maintenance from $100k to $50k (3-4)
• Approved January 13, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Conservation Commission is meeting electronically via Zoom due to the coronavirus. The agenda includes approving prior meeting minutes, hearing presentations on completed Eagle Scout projects at local conservation areas, and discussing letters from a local 8th grade class on recycling, endangered species, and air pollution. No dredge and fill applications or old business are scheduled.

• Presentation on Eagle Scout project at Pulpit Rock Conservation Area
• Presentation on Eagle Scout project at Ash Bog and Sebbins Pond Conservation Areas
• Discussion of letters from Mr. Hamilton's 8th grade class on recycling, endangered species, and air pollution
• Update on previously reviewed permits and ZBA actions
• Non-public session on potential property acquisition or sale

The Bedford Conservation Commission met via Zoom and approved the public and non-public minutes from December 22, 2020, and voted to unseal the non-public minutes. They also heard presentations on completed Eagle Scout projects and discussed future workshop topics, but took no other substantive actions.

• Approved December 22, 2020 minutes (6-0, MacPherson abstained)
• Approved non-public minutes of December 22, 2020 (6-0, MacPherson abstained)
• Unsealed non-public minutes of December 22, 2020 (6-0, MacPherson abstained)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will meet electronically via Zoom due to the coronavirus crisis. The main item is a public hearing on proposed zoning amendments, while a request for a 100,000-square-foot manufacturing facility for Wire Belt Company has been postponed to February 8, 2021.

• Public hearing on proposed zoning amendments submitted by Planning Board and citizens' petition
• Postponed application: 100,000 sq ft manufacturing facility with 25,000 sq ft future addition for Wire Belt Company at 308 South River Road, Lot 24-98-19, Zoned PZ
• Meeting conducted via Zoom; no physical location
• Public access via BCTV and streaming

The Bedford Planning Board voted unanimously to place two proposed zoning amendments on the March 9, 2021 town ballot: one to lower the maximum building height in the Performance Zone from 80 to 60 feet, and another to repeal the River Corridor Smart Growth District. The board also voted unanimously not to support a citizen-petitioned amendment that would transfer authority over permitted-use waivers from the Planning Board to the Zoning Board of Adjustment. The manufacturing facility application for Wire Belt Company was postponed to the February 8 meeting.

• Moved Zoning Amendment No. 1 (lower Performance Zone building height from 80 to 60 feet) to the March 9, 2021 ballot (unanimous)
• Moved Zoning Amendment No. 2 (repeal River Corridor Smart Growth District) to the March 9, 2021 ballot (unanimous)
• Voted not to support citizen-petitioned Zoning Amendment No. 3 (transfer waiver authority to Zoning Board) (unanimous)
• Postponed BFB Real Estate Holdings manufacturing facility application to February 8, 2021 meeting

Telecommunications Subcommittee

The Bedford Telecommunications Committee is meeting virtually to discuss its ongoing activities and determine which items and programs should be prioritized given restrictions in existing New Hampshire statute. The agenda includes roll call, public comments, and adjournment, with no specific decisions or proposals listed.

• Discussion of committee activities and priorities under NH statute restrictions
• Virtual meeting per Governor Sununu's Emergency Order #12
• Public comments accepted via email or phone

The Bedford Telecommunications Committee met virtually and discussed the existing Comcast franchise agreement, a possible franchise with Consolidated, survey results, and municipal fiber network projects in New Hampshire. No formal decisions or votes were taken; the committee only discussed next steps, including having members review state statutes, cost estimates, and reaching out to Bristol's town administrator.

• No formal decisions or votes taken during the meeting
• Discussed amending Comcast franchise agreement to include broadband requirements
• Discussed possibility of franchise agreement with Consolidated
• Discussed results of preference survey and whether to redo it
• Reviewed municipal fiber projects in Rindge and Bristol, NH
• Agreed to have Mr. Koustas provide cost overview for Bedford buildout
• Agreed to have Mr. Swiniarski review state statute
• Agreed that Mr. Sawyer would reach out to Bristol's town administrator

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment is meeting electronically via Zoom due to the coronavirus. The board will consider three variance requests: one continued case for an existing detached apartment, and two new requests involving wetland impacts for a manufacturing facility and a warehouse. Public access is available via BCTV and call-in.

• Variance for existing detached apartment at 35 Back River Rd (continued, tabled)
• Variance to fill ~3,814 sq ft of wetland for 125,000 sq-ft manufacturing facility at 308 S. River Rd
• Variance to build 16,000 sq-ft warehouse 9.7 ft from wetland (50 ft required) on Harvey Rd

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is meeting virtually to hold first public hearings on the proposed 2021 budget, a Conservation Fund warrant article, and four proposed Charter amendments. The council will also consider approving the Local Emergency Operations Plan and awarding an ambulance billing contract. Public comments are welcome before the agenda and during the meeting.

• First public hearing on proposed 2021 budget
• First public hearing on Conservation Fund warrant article
• Four proposed Charter amendments
• Approval of Local Emergency Operations Plan
• Award of ambulance billing contract

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Bedford Heights Parks & Recreation Commission is meeting virtually to approve a naming policy for parks and recreation facilities and to discuss a potential field use fee for Sportsman's Field. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from January 2020 and scheduling the next meeting.

• Approve Parks & Recreation Naming Policy
• Discuss field use fee for Sportsman's Field
• Approve minutes from January 29, 2020
• Next meeting scheduled for March 9, 2021

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board is meeting electronically via Zoom due to the coronavirus crisis. The main business is the first public hearing on proposed zoning amendments submitted by the Planning Board, and a discussion of a Town Council-proposed charter amendment to change the board's membership from nine to seven members. The agenda includes no old business or continued hearings.

• First public hearing on proposed zoning amendments submitted by the Planning Board
• Discussion of Town Council charter amendment to reduce Planning Board membership from nine to seven
• Meeting held electronically via Zoom due to coronavirus; no physical location
• Public access via BCTV and call-in; questions accepted by email at planning@bedfordnh.org

The Bedford Planning Board held first public hearings on three proposed zoning amendments, with no votes taken on the amendments themselves. The board heard public comment on two Planning Board-proposed amendments (lowering max building height in the Performance Zone from 80 to 60 feet, and repealing the River Corridor Smart Growth District) and one citizen-petition amendment (shifting waiver authority from the Planning Board to the Zoning Board of Adjustment). A second public hearing and final action are scheduled for January 25, 2021. The board also discussed a Town Council charter amendment to reduce Planning Board membership from nine to seven members, but took no action.

• Opened and closed first public hearing on Zoning Amendments No. 1 and 2 (unanimous)
• Opened and closed first public hearing on Zoning Amendment No. 3, citizen petition (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Nov 23, Dec 7 (as amended), and Dec 21, 2020 meetings (Chairman abstained on Nov 23 and Dec 21)
• Accepted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 7:50 p.m. (unanimous)