Bedford Heights public meetings in 2022

Energy Commission

The Bedford Energy Commission is meeting to discuss ongoing and upcoming energy projects, including school system upgrades, solar projects, and community power. The agenda includes reports, old business, and new business items, with no major decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• School projects progress and planning with Bill Foote and Melinda Bator
• Solar project at Transfer Station (Chris)
• Community Power PUC Docket update
• Upcoming CENH 2023 Legislative Preview on Jan 23, 2023
• Inflation Reduction Act update

The commission approved the minutes from the November 17, 2022 meeting. Members discussed progress on school energy upgrades and plans for a solar project at the Transfer Station, including a potential warrant article for voters.

• Approved November 17, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on three variance requests. Two requests by Nancy Weeks seek to divide a property at 161 County Road into lots smaller than the required 1.5 acres and with less frontage. A third request by 265 SRR, LLC and Rockfish REI, LLC seeks permission to permanently impact wetlands for a medical office building at 265-269 South River Road.

• Variance to create two non-conforming lots of 1.249 and 0.5 acres at 161 County Road (required 1.5 acres each)
• Variance to allow 100-foot frontage where 150 feet is required at 161 County Road
• Variance to permanently impact 2,128 sq ft and temporarily impact 270 sq ft of forested wetlands at 265-269 South River Road
• Development includes medical office building, parking, and stormwater facilities

The Board approved a variance for a medical office building to impact forested wetlands at 265-269 South River Road. Two variance requests for a residential subdivision at 161 County Road were denied.

• Approved variance for 2,128 s.f. permanent and 270 s.f. temporary wetland impact at 265-269 South River Road (Unanimous)
• Denied variance for creation of two non-conforming lots (1.249 and 0.5 acres) at 161 County Road (Unanimous)
• Denied variance for 100-foot frontage where 150 is required at 161 County Road (Unanimous)
• Approved November 15, 2022 meeting minutes

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a 54-unit 55+ elderly housing development at 227 Wallace Road, a 6-unit commercial condominium subdivision at 125 South River Road, a home occupation permit for a legal/real estate office at 187 County Road, a sign waiver for dermatology office signage at 176 South River Road, and a site plan amendment to create two new tenant spaces in the existing TD Bank building at 184 Route 101. The Board will also read and post proposed zoning amendments and set public hearing dates.

• 54-unit 55+ elderly housing development at 227 Wallace Road (Design Review)
• 6-unit commercial condominium subdivision at 125 South River Road
• Home occupation permit for legal/real estate office at 187 County Road
• Sign waiver for building signage over 32 sq ft at 176 South River Road
• Site plan amendment to create two new tenant spaces in 8,000 SF TD Bank building at 184 Route 101

The Planning Board granted final approval for a home occupation permit, a commercial condominium subdivision, and a sign waiver. It also approved a site plan amendment for the Bedford Village Shops and closed the design review for a proposed 54-unit elderly housing development.

• Approved Home Occupation Permit for legal and real estate office at 187 County Rd (Unanimous)
• Approved 8-unit commercial condominium subdivision at 125 South River Road (Unanimous)
• Approved sign waiver for building signage exceeding 32 sq ft at 176 South River Road (Unanimous)
• Approved Site Plan amendment for three tenant spaces at 184 Route 101 (Unanimous)
• Closed Design Review for 54-unit 55+ elderly housing at 227 Wallace Road (Unanimous)
• Voted to post nine zoning amendments and one citizens' petition for public hearings on Jan 9 and Jan 23, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved December 5, 2022 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will consider scheduling public hearings on several items, including a proposed $3.5 million bond for a solar array and Transfer Station improvements, rate increases for Transfer Station disposal, Town Pool, and Summer Camp, and an ordinance amending stormwater management rules. They will also review 2023 budget decisions, certify petitioned zoning amendments, and discuss other new and old business. The meeting is a regular session with public comment periods.

• Proposed $3.5 million bond for 1.04 MW solar array and Transfer Station improvements
• Proposed rate increases for Transfer Station disposal, Town Pool, and Summer Camp
• Ordinance 2022-04 amending Chapter 236, Stormwater Management
• Certification of petitioned zoning amendments
• Re-adoption of Optional and All Veterans' Tax Credits

The Town Council approved the recommended 2023 Municipal Operating Budget of $38,106,798 and scheduled public hearings for January. The board also approved a citizen petition regarding livestock zoning and a grant application for a new sidewalk on Old Bedford Road.

• Approved moving 2023 Municipal Operating Budget to public hearings (7-0)
• Added $250K from Unreserved Fund Balance to the budget (7-0)
• Approved forwarding citizen petition on livestock and poultry zoning to Planning Board (7-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for $3.5M solar array and Transfer Station bond for Jan 25, 2023 (7-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for Transfer Station, Town Pool, and Summer Camp rate increases for Jan 11, 2023 (7-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for Stormwater Management Ordinance 2022-04 for Jan 11, 2023 (7-0)
• Re-adopted Optional and All-Veterans’ tax credits at $500 (6-0-1)
• Approved placing Charter Commission questions on the March 14, 2023 ballot (6-1)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will consider a variance request to permanently impact 2,128 square feet of forested wetland and temporarily impact 270 square feet for a medical office building, parking, and stormwater infrastructure at 269 South River Road. The agenda also includes a report on utility work by Eversource, updates on the Joppa Hill Farm survey and Pulpit Rock Subcommittee, and a non-public session on property acquisition or sale.

• Variance request by 265 SRR, LLC and Rockfish REI, LLC for wetland impacts at 269 South River Road
• Eversource report on Permit by Notification for Utility Work on Line 3194
• Marston-Dunlap Archaeological Study discussion
• Joppa Hill Farm Survey update
• Non-public session under RSA 91-A:3, II(d) for property acquisition, sale, or lease

The Conservation Commission recommended approval for a variance to impact forested wetlands at 265-269 South River Road. The board also reached a consensus to pursue an archaeological study of the Marston-Dunlap property and reviewed a utility permit for Eversource.

• Recommended approval of variance for 2,128 sq. ft. permanent and 270 sq. ft. temporary wetland impact at 265-269 South River Road (Unanimous)
• Approved October 25, 2022 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Reached consensus to request RFP for Phase One archaeological study of Marston-Dunlap property
• Approved motion to enter nonpublic session per RSA 91-A:3, II(d) (Unanimous)

Trustees of the Trust Funds

The Bedford Trustees of the Trust Funds will meet to handle routine business, including approving minutes, discussing old and new items, and reviewing investments. Key actions include a possible decision on the School Building Maintenance Fund and a quarterly investment review with advisors.

• Action on School Building Maintenance Fund (#28091)
• Review of Town Council minutes from 18 Nov 2020 regarding a motion discussed with NH Director of Charitable Trusts
• Discussion of a petition to the NH Supreme Court
• Quarterly investment review with Clarfeld (Citizens Bank) investment advisors
• Query from Bedford Town Director of Finance Matt Mannino

The Trustees approved the meeting minutes from October 26, 2022. The board discussed the availability of approximately $424,840.46 for current year capital improvement expenditures and reviewed economic outlooks with financial advisors.

• Approved minutes of 26 Oct 2022
• Moved School Building Maintenance Fund (#28091) into principle with $250 set aside for investment fees
• Confirmed Town Council motion to accept $11,708.23 gift from The Friends of the Town of Bedford Cemeteries

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will hold a public meeting on December 5, 2022, to consider three new applications: two lot line adjustments and a site plan for a light industrial warehouse. The board will also discuss a conceptual plan for a 55+ senior living facility and an InvestNH planning grant.

• Lot line adjustment at 2-6 Bailey's Green (Lots 38-10-4 and 38-10-5, zoned RA)
• Lot line adjustment at Route 101 and Hardy Rd (Lots 28-21 and 28-20, zoned CO & RA)
• Site plan review for a light industrial warehouse at Route 101 and Hardy Rd (Lots 28-21 and 28-20)
• Conceptual review of a 5-story, 65-unit senior living (55+) facility at 125 South River Road (Lot 12-33, zoned PZ)
• Discussion of the InvestNH Planning and Zoning Grant

The Board granted final approval for a 16,830 SF light industrial warehouse facility and two separate lot line adjustments. A conceptual proposal for a 65-unit senior living residence was discussed but not decided. The Board also voted to support a grant application for housing opportunity planning.

• Approved lot line adjustment for 2-6 Bailey’s Green (Unanimous)
• Approved lot line adjustment for Route 101 and Hardy Rd (Unanimous)
• Approved two waivers for sight distance and drainpipe cover at Route 101/Hardy Rd (Unanimous)
• Approved site plan for 16,830 SF warehouse at Lot 28-21, NH Route 101 (Unanimous)
• Approved support for NH Housing Opportunity Planning Grant application (Unanimous)
• Approved November 7, 2022 meeting minutes with modifications

Conservation Commission

This meeting of the Bedford Heights Conservation Commission has no agenda items listed. The agenda consists solely of a note that there is no agenda and a reference to viewing minutes, indicating the meeting is likely procedural or cancelled.

• No agenda items listed

Planning Board

This meeting has no published agenda. The only available record is the minutes, which are not included here. Therefore, no specific items for decision or discussion can be reported.

Energy Commission

The Bedford Energy Commission is meeting to discuss ongoing energy initiatives, including progress on school system upgrades, solar projects at the Transfer Station, Community Power, and follow-ups on Solsmart and Button-Up Bedford. The agenda includes reports from members and committees, old and new business, and reminders about the next meeting.

• School projects progress and planning with systems upgrades
• Solar projects at Transfer Station
• Community Power discussion
• Solsmart update
• Button-Up Bedford follow-up

The Commission approved the minutes from the October 27, 2022 meeting. Members discussed potential solar projects at the Transfer Station and energy efficiency upgrades for school blowers and switch gear. No other formal votes were taken.

• Approved October 27, 2022 minutes (5-0)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold its regular meeting on November 16, 2022, covering new business that includes an annual update on the Educational Farm at Joppa Hill, a Small Business Saturday proclamation, an ISO rating update, review of 2023 budget decisions and inter-budget transfers, and action on the Bedford Professional Firefighters Collective Bargaining Agreement. The meeting also includes public comments, approval of minutes, a town manager report, and councilor updates.

• Review 2023 budget decisions and approval of inter-budget transfers
• Action on the Bedford Professional Firefighters Collective Bargaining Agreement
• Educational Farm at Joppa Hill annual update
• 2022 Small Business Saturday Proclamation
• Insurance Services Office (ISO) Public Protection Classification rating update

The Town Council ratified a three-year collective bargaining agreement for professional firefighters and approved several 2023 budget changes. The council also authorized the purchase of police and highway vehicles using unspent appropriations and state funds.

• Approved 2023 budget changes including poll pads and Assistant Town Clerk funding (7-0)
• Authorized transfers of 2022 unspent appropriations to purchase three police vehicles (7-0)
• Approved $450,000 in SB401 funds for two dump trucks (7-0)
• Increased Supervisors of the Checklist hourly rate from $12.50 to $15.00 (7-0)
• Approved 3-year Professional Firefighters Association contract (7-0)
• Proclaimed November 26, 2022, as Small Business Saturday
• Approved October 26, 2022 Public and Non-Public session minutes (7-0)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will review several requests for dimensional variances and lot creation at 70 Palomino Lane, 25 Curtis Lane, and 161 County Road. The board will also hold a public hearing regarding amendments to its own Rules of Procedure.

• Home addition variance at 70 Palomino Lane
• New home reconstruction variances at 25 Curtis Lane
• Lot creation and frontage variances at 161 County Road
• Public hearing on amendment to Rules of Procedure, Section 7.2

The Board granted three variances for home additions and reconstructions at Palomino Lane and Curtis Lane. Additionally, the Board adopted amended Rules of Procedure to comply with state law regarding application review timelines.

• Approved variance for home addition at 70 Palomino Lane to allow 23.55ft side setback instead of 25ft (Unanimous)
• Approved variance for home reconstruction at 25 Curtis Lane to allow 14.5ft front setback instead of 35ft (Unanimous)
• Approved variance for home reconstruction at 25 Curtis Lane to allow 24.3ft side setback instead of 25ft (Unanimous)
• Approved Amended Rules of Procedure to align with House Bill 1661 regarding 90-day review timelines (5-0)
• Approved minutes from October 18, 2022 meeting (All in favor)

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing to discuss proposed changes to its Rules of Procedure, Article 7, Section 7.2. The change responds to state law and would add a required deadline for the board to approve or disapprove applications within 90 days of receipt.

• Public hearing on proposed changes to Rules of Procedure, Article 7, Section 7.2
• Change adds 90-day deadline for ZBA to approve or disapprove applications
• Meeting at 7 p.m. on November 15, 2022, at BCTV, 10 Meetinghouse Rd., Bedford, NH

The Board granted three variances for home additions and reconstructions on Palomino Lane and Curtis Lane. Additionally, the Board adopted amended Rules of Procedure to comply with new state law regarding application review timelines.

• Approved variance for home addition at 70 Palomino Lane to allow 23.55ft side setback (Unanimous)
• Approved variance for home reconstruction at 25 Curtis Lane to allow 14.5ft front setback (Unanimous)
• Approved variance for home reconstruction at 25 Curtis Lane to allow 24.3ft side setback (Unanimous)
• Approved Amended Rules of Procedure regarding 90-day application review timeline (5-0)
• Approved minutes from October 18, 2022 meeting (All in favor)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a site plan amendment for parking lot modifications and architectural approval of a Phase II building addition at 6 Bellemore Drive. The board will also discuss draft zoning amendments and an InvestNH planning and zoning grant. Minutes from the October 24 meeting are scheduled for approval.

• Site plan amendment for parking lot modifications at 6 Bellemore Drive, Zone SI
• Architectural approval of Phase II building addition at 6 Bellemore Drive
• Discussion of draft zoning amendments
• Discussion of InvestNH Planning and Zoning Grant

The Board granted final site plan approval for an 8,960 square-foot industrial building addition. The approval includes conditions regarding lighting, exterior storage, and operational hours. The Board also discussed several draft zoning amendments and a potential housing grant.

• Approved Phase II building addition at 6 Bellemore Drive (Unanimous)
• Approved October 24, 2022 meeting minutes (Carried with 2 abstentions)
• Tabled decision on InvestNH Planning and Zoning Grant application
• Declined to draft zoning amendment regarding the regulation of roosters

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is holding a budget workshop to review the town's finances. The agenda lists only a budget review session with no specific items detailed.

• Budget review session

The Town Council held a budget workshop to review departmental requests and capital projects. The Council agreed to move forward with a warrant article for solar panels at the Transfer Station and discussed various funding adjustments for town services.

• Approved moving forward with solar project warrant article for Transfer Station
• Agreed to fund assistant Town Clerk hours at $3,000
• Approved $16,950 for poll pad kits and setup
• Reduced Southern NH Planning Commission dues by $1,911
• Approved $3,000 increase for Auditing Services
• Consensus to move forward with two additional Fire Department personnel requests and SAFER grant application

Cemetery Trustees

The Bedford Cemetery Trustees are meeting to discuss and select new software and a company to remove two diseased maple trees in Center Cemetery. The agenda includes only new business items and no old business.

• Discussion & selection of new software program
• Discussion & selection of company to remove 2 diseased large maple trees in old section of Center Cemetery

The Cemetery Trustees approved a bid for a new data and website software program. They also selected a company to remove two diseased maple trees in the Center Cemetery to prevent damage to gravestones.

• Approved CemSites bid for new software program (unanimous)
• Approved Technical Tree Service bid for $9,850 to remove two diseased maple trees (unanimous)

Historic District Commission

The Bedford Historic District Commission is holding a workshop to discuss the Certified Local Government program with the NH Division of Historical Resources. The meeting includes a tour of the Stevens-Buswell Community Center and a presentation on the program. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Workshop on Certified Local Government program with NH Division of Historical Resources
• Tour of Stevens-Buswell Community Center by Bedford Historical Society
• Meeting at Town Meeting Room at BCTV, 10 Meetinghouse Road, 6:00 P.M.

The Commission held a workshop with the NH Division of Historical Resources regarding the town's approval into the Certified Local Government (CLG) Program. The session focused on grant funding priorities and potential project ideas. No formal votes or decisions were recorded.

Energy Commission

The commission will hear a presentation from NH Saves regarding Lakes Region Community College. Members will also discuss updates on school projects and various solar energy initiatives.

• Presentation by Dr. Andy Duncan of NH Saves
• Discussion of School projects progress and planning
• Solar Projects discussion including Transfer Station status
• Inquiry into $500,000 federal funding status
• Review of Eversource costs regarding $910,000 plus poles

The commission approved the minutes from the September 22, 2022 meeting. The session featured a presentation on energy efficiency and home weatherization from the NHSaves program. Members also discussed progress on school sprinkler and ventilation projects.

• Approved September 22, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0-2)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is meeting to receive the Town Manager's budget submission, along with updates on the library and Red Ribbon Week awareness. The agenda is largely procedural, with public comments, approval of minutes, and a town manager report.

• Submission of the Town Manager's Budget
• Library Update
• Red Ribbon Week Awareness
• Approval of minutes from October 12, 2022 public session

The Town Council approved the minutes from the October 12, 2022, public session. The meeting included a presentation on library services and the submission of the Town Manager's budget for review.

• Approved October 12, 2022 Public Session minutes (6-0-1)
• Entered non-public session at 8:34 PM for property acquisition, sale, or lease consideration (7-0)

Trustees of the Trust Funds

The Bedford Trustees of the Trust Funds will meet to approve prior meeting minutes and discuss old and new business. Actions include a decision on the School Building Maintenance Fund, a letter to the state AG about cemetery funds, and a conference call with the AG's office. The agenda is mostly routine, with no major financial decisions listed.

• Action on School Building Maintenance Fund (#28091)
• Letter to Ms. Diane Quinlan (State AG office) re: cemetery funds
• Conference call with Ms. Diane Quinlan, Assistant Director, Charitable Trust Division
• Review of Trustees' Annual Schedule

The Trustees decided not to expend assets or personnel to pursue a petition regarding reports for Municipal Cemetery Perpetual Care Funds. The board also approved the minutes from the September 6 and September 26, 2022, meetings.

• Approved minutes of 06 & 26 Sep 2022 meetings
• Decided not to pursue petition for Instructions as to Reports for Municipal Cemetery Perpetual Care Funds
• Moved School Building Maintenance Fund (#28091) into principle

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission is holding an informal workshop where Mark West of West Environmental will present on wetland types, functions, and project impact assessment. The public may attend but will not be asked for comments.

• Presentation by Mark West (West Environmental) on wetland types, functions, and impact assessment
• Workshop format; no public comment period

The Conservation Commission held a workshop featuring a presentation by Mark West of West Environmental. The session focused on wetland permit applications, state-wide data resources, and determining wetland functions and values. No formal votes or policy decisions were recorded.

Highway Safety Committee

The Bedford Heights Highway Safety Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially act on several traffic safety requests, including cautionary signage for hidden driveways, a speed limit sign, a four-way stop, and a stop sign. The agenda includes approval of previous minutes, subcommittee reports, and updates on previously approved items. No new business is listed.

• Request for 'HIDDEN DRIVEWAY' or 'BLIND DRIVEWAY AHEAD' sign near 65 Meetinghouse Road
• Request for 30 MPH sign near 50 Liberty Hill Rd (Town Council approved reduction, signage pending)
• Request for 4-way stop at Birkdale and Cambridge (Town Council approved, signage pending)
• Request for caution hidden driveway sign at 421 Joppa Hill Rd
• Request for stop sign at Swan Ave/Johnson St

The committee denied a request for a hidden driveway sign at 421 Joppa Hill Rd following sight distance improvements. Members unanimously recommended removing a tree at the intersection of Swan Ave and Johnson St to improve visibility in lieu of installing a stop sign.

• Denied request for 'Caution-Hidden Drive' sign at 421 Joppa Hill Rd
• Recommended removal of tree at Swan Ave and Johnson St (unanimous)
• Approved September 27, 2022 meeting minutes

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will hold a public hearing on proposed amendments to Articles 217 and 316 of the Land Development Control Regulations, as well as associated Rules of Procedure amendments, to align with new state law. The meeting is scheduled for October 24, 2022 at 7:00 PM at BCTV, 10 Meetinghouse Road.

• Public hearing on amendments to Article 217 and Article 316 – Land Development Control Regulations
• Amendments modify Planning Board's timeline and procedure for application review to be consistent with new state law
• Public hearing on associated amendments to the Planning Board Rules of Procedure
• Full text available at Town Clerk's office, Planning Department, and town website

The Planning Board unanimously approved a one-year extension for Circle Drive Associates to obtain a building permit for the Sebbins Brook Crossing development, a 142-unit workforce housing and 96-unit elderly housing project. The board also adopted amendments to the Land Development Control Regulations and Rules of Procedure to align with state law changes eliminating the 90-day extension option. The November 22 meeting was canceled due to lack of new applications.

• Granted one-year building permit extension for Circle Drive Associates' 238-unit housing development (unanimous)
• Adopted amendments to Land Development Control Regulations Articles 217 and 316 (unanimous)
• Adopted amendment to Planning Board Rules of Procedure Section 7.7 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from September 12 and September 26, 2022 meetings (unanimous, with two abstentions)
• Canceled November 22, 2022 meeting due to no new applications

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing on proposed amendments to the Land Development Control Regulations and Rules of Procedure, and will consider a request for a time extension for a previously approved site plan for a 238-unit residential development (142 workforce housing units and 96 elderly housing units) on South River Road.

• Circle Drive Associates, LLC requests a time extension for a previously approved site plan for a 238-unit residential development (142 workforce housing units and 96 elderly housing units) on South River Road across from Iron Horse Drive, Lots 35-98-5 and 35-98-40, zoned PZ.
• Public hearing on proposed amendments to the Land Development Control Regulations, Articles 217 and 316.
• Public hearing on associated amendments to the Planning Board Rules of Procedure.

The Board unanimously approved a one-year extension for Circle Drive Associates to obtain a building permit for the Sebbins Brook Crossing development, a 142-unit workforce housing and 96-unit elderly housing project. The Board also unanimously adopted amendments to the Land Development Control Regulations and Rules of Procedure to comply with new state law eliminating the 90-day extension option for application review. The November 22 meeting was cancelled due to lack of new applications.

• Granted one-year building permit extension for Circle Drive Associates' 238-unit housing development (unanimous)
• Adopted amendments to Land Development Control Regulations Articles 217 and 316 to comply with state law (unanimous)
• Adopted amendment to Planning Board Rules of Procedure Section 7.7 on denial without prejudice (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from September 12 and September 26, 2022 (unanimous, with two abstentions)
• Cancelled November 22, 2022 meeting due to no new applications

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will consider two variance requests at its October 18, 2022 meeting. One request seeks to allow a short-term rental in a secondary detached home where not currently permitted, and the other seeks to reduce a required side setback for a detached garage. The meeting will also include approval of the previous month's minutes.

• Variance request by Dan Heath for short-term rental at 434 Donald Street, Lot 44-60, zoned GR
• Variance request by A.J. Garron to build detached garage within 15.8 feet of side setback (25 feet required) at 44 Ministerial Branch, Lot 9-2-4, zoned R&A
• Approval of minutes from September 20, 2022

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment denied a variance to allow a short-term rental in a secondary detached home at 434 Donald Street, finding it did not satisfy all five criteria, particularly the spirit of the ordinance and hardship. The board granted a variance to build a detached garage within 15.8 feet of the side setback (25 feet required) at 44 Ministerial Branch, ruling it met all five criteria. Both votes were unanimous.

• Denied variance for short-term rental at 434 Donald Street (unanimous)
• Approved variance for detached garage at 44 Ministerial Branch (5-0)
• Approved minutes from September 20, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is meeting to consider a fund transfer for completing 3-phase power on Chubbuck Road, discuss Saturday hours for the Transfer Station, receive a Department of Public Works update, and consider appointing a Facilities Information and Communications Committee. The agenda also includes public comments, approval of minutes, and a town manager report.

• Transfer of funds for 3-phase power completion on Chubbuck Road
• Discussion of Transfer Station Saturday hours
• Department of Public Works update
• Appointment of Facilities Information and Communications Committee
• Approval of minutes from September 28, 2022

The Town Council voted 6-0 to authorize the Town Manager to transfer $500,000 within the 2022 budget to extend 3-phase power to the capped landfill at the Transfer Station, a key step toward building a 1.04-megawatt solar array that could offset all municipal electricity use. The council also set Saturday Transfer Station hours as 6:30am to 3pm (6-0) and created a Facilities Information and Communications Committee (6-0). No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included public comment on a noise ordinance and a DPW update.

• Approved $500,000 budget transfer for 3-phase power extension to landfill (6-0)
• Set Saturday Transfer Station hours as 6:30am to 3pm (6-0)
• Created Facilities Information and Communications Committee with slate of 7 members (6-0)
• Approved minutes of September 28, 2022 public session (5-0-1, Radke abstained)

Planning Board

This meeting has no published agenda. The only available record is the minutes, which are not included here. No decisions or discussions are listed for this meeting.

Historic District Commission

The October 4, 2022 Historic District Commission Workshop has been moved to November 1, 2022. No other items are on this agenda; it is purely a scheduling notice.

• Workshop rescheduled from Oct 4 to Nov 1, 2022

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold public hearings on adopting new sewer rates and building permit fees, and will accept state highway funds and a grant for a boat trailer. They will also discuss a long-range plan for Chubbuck Road and a possible Town Forest designation, and consider extending the municipal solid waste contract.

• Adoption of new Sewer Rates
• Adoption of new Building Permit fees
• Acceptance of $491,960.92 in unanticipated highway funds from the State of NH
• Acceptance of $25,000 HSGP grant for a boat and equipment trailer
• Discussion of Chubbuck Road long range plan and possible Town Forest designation

The Bedford Town Council approved a sewer rate increase of 6% annually for three years for most users, and 40%, 15%, 15% increases for Greenfield Farms residents. They also adopted a new building permit fee schedule with a 28% increase, accepted $491,960.92 in state highway funds, and extended the solid waste contract with Covanta Haverhill Associates for 18 months. The council also appointed a subcommittee to study a possible Town Forest designation for Chubbuck Road properties.

• Approved sewer rate increases: 6% annually for 3 years for metered users, 40%/15%/15% for Greenfield Farms (6-0)
• Adopted new building permit fees: $0.18/SF residential, $0.23/SF commercial, effective Oct 3 (5-1)
• Accepted $491,960.92 in state highway funds, expenditure to be determined later (6-0)
• Accepted $25,000 HSGP grant for a rescue boat trailer (6-0)
• Extended solid waste contract with Covanta Haverhill Associates for 18 months (6-0)
• Appointed subcommittee to develop long-range plan for Chubbuck Road properties and consider Town Forest designation (6-0)
• Approved 2023 Town Council meeting dates (6-0)
• Approved minutes from September 14, 2022 meetings (6-0)

Conservation Commission

The commission will review dredge and fill applications from Eversource and discuss various land conservation projects. The meeting includes a meet and greet with representatives from the Piscataquog Land Conservancy.

• Eversource dredge and fill permit by notification
• PRCA Camp Site discussion
• Fairy House Trail Proposal
• Marston Dunlap Trail Development
• Joppa Hill Farm Survey

The Commission approved the August 23, 2022 minutes (6-0-1) and received a presentation from Piscataquog Land Conservancy on regional land conservation. No substantive decisions were made on permits or projects; the meeting included discussion of trail development at Marston property and a planned workshop. The Commission entered nonpublic session to discuss property acquisition.

• Approved August 23, 2022 minutes (6-0-1, Bemiss abstained)
• Entered nonpublic session under RSA 91-A:3, II(d) for property acquisition discussion (unanimous)
• Returned to public session after nonpublic discussion (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Highway Safety Committee

The Bedford Highway Safety Committee is meeting to discuss routine business, including approval of previous minutes and reports. Two new requests will be considered: a caution hidden driveway sign at 421 Joppa Hill Rd. and a stop sign at Swan Ave/Johnson St. The meeting is open to the public with accommodations available upon request.

• Request for a Caution Hidden Driveway Sign at 421 Joppa Hill Rd.
• Request for a Stop Sign at Swan Ave/Johnson St.

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold an informal workshop regarding general community planning issues and board procedures. The meeting is open to the public, but the board will not solicit public comments.

• HB 1661 and HB 1021 overview
• Invest NH Planning and Zoning Grant Programs
• Discussion of possible zoning amendments for 2022-2023

The Bedford Planning Board held an informal workshop to discuss general planning issues, including a proposed zoning amendment for chickens, state housing laws, and a potential zoning map amendment. No formal votes were taken; the board agreed to continue discussions at future meetings.

• Discussed proposed zoning amendment for chickens; no action taken
• Reviewed HB 1021 religious use exemption and HB 1661 housing incentives
• Voiced support for pursuing InvestNH grant for full-scale zoning audit
• Discussed potential zoning map amendment for 54 Rundlett Hill Road; no decision
• Identified potential zoning amendments for 2022 to discuss further

Energy Commission

The Bedford Energy Commission will discuss and potentially vote on proceeding with Community Power, review progress on town solar projects including the Transfer Station and Town Pool, and explore new opportunities from the Inflation Reduction Act and energy-saving programs for residents.

• Vote requested to proceed with Community Power to Town Council
• Transfer Station solar project: federal $500k status, Eversource cost at $910k plus poles
• Town Pool PV shade/shelter project discussion
• Discussion of Inflation Reduction Act possibilities
• Energy cost saving programs: NHSaves, HAREI

The Bedford Energy Commission voted 5-0 to un-table its exploration of Community Power, restarting discussion of a municipal electricity aggregation program. Members also discussed solar projects at the Transfer Station and Town Pool, noting favorable changes under the Inflation Reduction Act. No final decisions were made on solar or Community Power; the commission plans to present the concept to the Town Council.

• Approved minutes of August 25, 2022 meeting (5-0-1, Thomas abstained)
• Voted to un-table exploration of Community Power (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:44 PM

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on two variance requests. The board will also discuss HB 1661 and changes to its rules of procedure, and approve minutes from its August 16 meeting.

• Variance request by Kelly Martin for an in-ground pool within 15 feet of rear setback (25 ft required) at 73 Old Bedford, Lot 14-8-2, R&A and Historic District overlay
• Variance request by John Mann for a Level II home occupation in a detached garage (normally must be in primary residence or attached garage/barn) at 112 Wallace Road, Lot 32-23, R&A
• Discussion of HB 1661 and overview of change to ZBA rules of procedure

The Bedford Zoning Board approved two variance requests: one for an in-ground pool at 73 Bedford Center Road with a reduced rear setback of 16.5 feet (unanimous), and another to allow a Level II home occupation in detached garages at 112 Wallace Road (4-0). The board also discussed new state requirements under HB 1661, including mandatory findings of fact for decisions and a 90-day review timeline, and scheduled a public hearing on rule amendments for November 15, 2022.

• Approved variance for in-ground pool at 73 Bedford Center Road, allowing 16.5-foot rear setback instead of required 25 feet (unanimous)
• Approved variance for Level II home occupation in detached garages at 112 Wallace Road (4-0)
• Approved minutes from August 16, 2022 (unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearing on proposed amendments to Rules of Procedure for November 15, 2022 (unanimous)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is meeting to discuss and decide on several items, including public hearings on road changes, new sewer rates, building permit fees, and acceptance of state funds. They will also consider adopting a personnel policy, approving wage ranges, and deciding on participation in a state opioid settlement. The agenda includes routine items like appointments and minutes approval.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 2022-02 to reduce speed limit on Liberty Hill Road from 35 to 30 MPH between Edinburgh Road and Meetinghouse Road
• Public hearing on Ordinance 2022-03 to add stop signs on Birkdale Road at Cambridge Road (4-way)
• Schedule public hearing for adoption of new Sewer Rates
• Schedule public hearing for acceptance of $491,960.92 in unanticipated highway funds from the State of NH
• Decision on participation in State's opioid settlement with Janssen Pharmaceuticals

The Bedford Town Council formally accepted Wheeler Farm Road into the town's road network and approved a speed limit reduction on Liberty Hill Road from 35 to 30 MPH between Caron Road and Meetinghouse Road. The council also confirmed Matthew Mannino as Finance Director and Tax Collector, adopted an updated personnel policy on discrimination and harassment, and approved 2023 non-union employee compensation wage ranges. Several public hearings were scheduled for September 28, 2022, including on proposed sewer rate increases and building permit fee adjustments.

• Accepted Wheeler Farm Road (974 LF, 50-ft right-of-way) into town road network (6-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2022-02 reducing Liberty Hill Road speed limit to 30 MPH between Caron and Meetinghouse (6-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2022-03 adding stop signs on Birkdale Road at Cambridge Road (4-way stop) (6-0)
• Confirmed appointment of Matthew Mannino as Finance Director and Tax Collector effective Sept. 30, 2022 (6-0)
• Adopted updated Prohibition of Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Harassment and Retaliation policy effective Sept. 19, 2022 (6-0)
• Approved 2023 Non-Union Employee Compensation Wage Schedule with 6.88% range adjustment effective Jan. 1, 2023 (6-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for Sept. 28, 2022 on sewer rate increases (6% per year for metered, 40%/15%/15% for Greenfield Farms flat-rate) (6-0)
• Authorized joining State of NH opioid settlement with Janssen Pharmaceuticals and Johnson & Johnson (6-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider site plan approvals and amendments for several commercial properties. The board will also hold a public hearing regarding proposed amendments to Land Development Control Regulations and review the 2023 Capital Improvements Plan.

• Lot line adjustment and site plan for a 4,000 SF vehicle storage garage at 209 Route 101 and 137 Bedford Center Road
• Site plan for converting a warehouse to 8,000 SF of light manufacturing and 9,780 SF of storage at 276 Route 101
• Site plan amendment for outside sales and display at 400 Boynton Street
• Public hearing on amendments to Land Development Control Regulations Sections 102.5, 317.1.20, 323.1, 323.1.3 and 341.2.4
• Review of the proposed 2023 Capital Improvements Plan

The Board unanimously approved a lot line adjustment and site plan for Millennium Running to construct a 4,000-square-foot vehicle storage garage with overflow parking and a future pad site at 209 Route 101 and 137 Bedford Center Road. Three waivers were granted for traffic impact analysis, sight distance, and parking setback requirements. The Board also approved a site plan amendment to allow outdoor sales of general retail items at 400 Boynton Street, and adopted amendments to the Land Development Control Regulations.

• Approved lot line adjustment for 209 Route 101 and 137 Bedford Center Road, Lots 20-39 and 20-41, with conditions including easement documentation and surveyor certification.
• Approved site plan for 4,000 SF vehicle storage garage, overflow parking, and future pad site at 209 Route 101 and 137 Bedford Center Road, with 17 conditions including stormwater permit, crosswalk removal, and soil contamination monitoring.
• Granted three waivers for the site plan: Traffic Impact Statement (Section 317.1.29), Sight Distance (Section 321.1.3), and Parking/Circulation Driveway Setback (Section 322.1.9).
• Approved site plan for converting 17,780 SF building at 276 Route 101 to 8,000 SF light manufacturing and 9,780 SF warehouse storage, with conditions including parking lot repairs and WB-50 truck size limit.
• Approved site plan amendment for 400 Boynton Street to allow outdoor sales and display of general retail items, modifying condition 4 of the August 3, 2020 approval.
• Adopted proposed amendments to Land Development Control Regulations Sections 102.5, 317.1.20, 323.1, 323.1.3, and 341.2.4.
• Set a public hearing for October 24, 2022, for amendments to Rules of Procedure and Land Development Control Regulations related to HB 1661.
• Approved minutes of the August 15, 2022, meeting.

Historic District Commission

The Bedford Historic District Commission will hold a public meeting to review three applications for changes to properties in the historic district: a window replacement, an above-ground pool, and an in-ground pool with a shed and tree removal. The commission will also receive an update on its Certified Local Government application and approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• Window replacement at 76 Bedford Center Road (Gladys M. Moore Trust II)
• Above-ground pool at 45 North Amherst Road (Marc P. Tessier Jr. and Christina N. Young-Tessier)
• In-ground pool, fence, 10' x 12' shed, and tree removal at 73 Bedford Center Road (Kelly O. Martin and Julie Martin)
• Certified Local Government Application update

The Bedford Historic District Commission approved three applications: replacement of interior windows at 76 Bedford Center Road (2-1), installation of an above-ground pool at 45 North Amherst Road (unanimous), and installation of an in-ground pool, shed, and tree removal at 73 Bedford Center Road (unanimous). The Commission also received an update on the Certified Local Government program, which was accepted and approved by the National Park Service.

• Approved interior window replacement at 76 Bedford Center Road (2-1)
• Approved above-ground pool installation at 45 North Amherst Road (unanimous)
• Approved in-ground pool, 10'x12' shed, and removal of up to 10 trees at 73 Bedford Center Road (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of August 2, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Noted acceptance of Certified Local Government application by National Park Service

Energy Commission

The Bedford Energy Commission is meeting to discuss old and new business, including solar projects, school project progress, and the status of the Transfer Station. They will also cover energy cost saving programs for residents, legislative updates, and possibilities from the Inflation Reduction Act. The agenda includes roll call, approval of minutes, and member reports, with a quorum of 5 required.

• Approval of July 28th, 2022 minutes
• Solar projects and school project progress with Bill Foote and Melinda Bator
• Transfer Station status and strategy discussion
• NHSaves and HAREI energy saving programs
• Inflation Reduction Act possibilities and Eversource price hike update

The meeting was largely discussion-based with no formal votes on substantive items. The commission reviewed school energy projects, solar initiatives at the Transfer Station and Town Pool, and the Solsmart Bronze designation process. Members also discussed the Inflation Reduction Act's potential for EV charging and resident energy cost-saving programs like NH Saves. The only formal action was approval of the previous meeting's minutes (6-0-1).

• Approved June 23, 2022 meeting minutes as amended (6-0-1, Foote abstained)

Highway Safety Committee

The Bedford Highway Safety Committee is meeting to discuss two requests for new stop signs: a 3-way stop at Cricket Hill Rd/County Rd and a 4-way stop at County/Back River Rd. The agenda also includes routine items like approving minutes and subcommittee reports.

• Request for 3-way stop sign at Cricket Hill Rd/County Rd
• Request for 4-way stop sign at County/Back River Rd
• Approval of minutes from July 26, 2022

The committee discussed but did not vote on a resident request for a 4-way stop at County Road and Back River Road, instead tabling the item for further study and data collection. They also reviewed a request for a 3-way stop at Cricket Hill Road and County Road, recommending DPW inspect vegetation to improve sight distance rather than installing a new stop sign. The committee approved minutes from the prior meeting and noted ongoing work on previously requested signage and speed reductions.

• Approved minutes of April 26, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Tabled 4-way stop request at County/Back River Rd for further study and accident data review
• Recommended DPW inspect vegetation at Cricket Hill Rd/County Rd intersection to improve sight distance
• Noted DPW is working on cautionary signage for blind driveway at 65 Meetinghouse Rd
• Noted 30 MPH speed reduction on Liberty Hill Rd is pending public hearing before Town Council
• Noted 4-way stop at Birkdale Rd/Cambridge Rd is pending public hearing before Town Council

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss several new business items including the Fairy House Trail Proposal and Pulpit Rock Camp Site. The body will also review ongoing projects such as the Marston-Dunlap Trail Development and property history write-ups.

• Fairy House Trail Proposal
• Pulpit Rock Camp Site
• Joppa Hill Farm Race and Survey
• Marston-Dunlap Trail Development
• Review of permits and variances for SV101, LLC and Two Hardy Road, LLC

The Commission unanimously approved spending $1,540 from the Conservation Fund to clean up trash, human waste, and graffiti at the Pulpit Rock campsite. They also approved $584.40 for invasive species treatment along a trail at the north end of Pulpit Road. The Commission discussed revising camping policies and will take the matter to the Pulpit Rock Subcommittee for recommendations. A nonpublic session was held to discuss real estate acquisition.

• Approved $1,540 cleanup of Pulpit Rock campsite (unanimous)
• Approved $584.40 for invasive species treatment at Pulpit Road trail (unanimous)
• Tabled camping policy revision to Pulpit Rock Subcommittee for recommendations
• Entered nonpublic session to discuss real estate acquisition (unanimous)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold a regular meeting with public comments, new business including a PFAS discussion, presentation of the annual financial report, and adoption of a purchasing policy update. The council will also schedule public hearings on accepting Wheeler Farm Road, reducing the speed limit on Liberty Hill Road, and adding stop signs at Birkdale and Cambridge Roads, and consider sunsetting the Telecommunications Committee.

• PFAS public discussion
• Presentation of Annual Comprehensive Financial Report
• Adoption of Purchasing Policy Update
• Public hearing scheduled for speed limit reduction on Liberty Hill Road from 35 to 30 MPH between Edinburgh Road and Meetinghouse Road
• Public hearing scheduled for adding stop signs on Birkdale Road at Cambridge Road (4-way)

The council voted 6-0 to adopt a revised Purchasing Policy that raises thresholds for purchase orders, manager approvals, and competitive bids to keep pace with inflation. They also scheduled public hearings for September 14 on accepting Wheeler Farm Road, reducing the speed limit on Liberty Hill Road, and adding stop signs at Birkdale and Cambridge roads. The council sunset the Telecommunications Committee, thanking members for their service.

• Approved revised Purchasing Policy with higher thresholds (6-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for acceptance of Wheeler Farm Road (6-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for speed limit reduction on Liberty Hill Road to 30 MPH (6-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for 4-way stop signs at Birkdale Road and Cambridge Road (6-0)
• Sunset the Telecommunications Committee (6-0)
• Approved minutes of July 20, 2022 interviews (5-0-1, Bandazian abstained)
• Approved minutes of July 20, 2022 public session (6-0)
• Approved minutes of July 20, 2022 non-public session (6-0)

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on two variance requests: one for an in-ground pool closer to the side property line than allowed, and one for a home addition with a minor side-yard setback. A third request for temporary storage units was withdrawn by the applicant. The board will also approve minutes from its July 19 meeting.

• Variance for in-ground pool at 380 Donald Street, 18 ft from side line (25 ft required)
• Variance for addition at 59 McIntosh Lane, 24.25 ft from side line (25 ft required)
• Storage unit variance at 30 Oak Drive withdrawn
• Minutes of July 19, 2022 to be approved

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment granted two variances at its August 16, 2022 meeting. One variance allowed an in-ground pool 18 feet from the side property line (25 feet required) at 380 Donald Street. The other allowed a home addition 24.25 feet from the side property line (25 feet required) at 59 McIntosh Lane. Both were approved unanimously (5-0). A third agenda item was withdrawn by the applicant.

• Approved variance for in-ground pool at 380 Donald Street, allowing 18-foot side setback instead of required 25 feet (5-0)
• Approved variance for home addition at 59 McIntosh Lane, allowing 24.25-foot side setback instead of required 25 feet (5-0)
• Third agenda item withdrawn by applicant before meeting

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will hold a public hearing to receive comments on proposed amendments to the Land Development Control Regulations (Article 100), Design and Construction Standards (Article 320), and Administration and Enforcement (Article 340). The full text of the amendments is available at the Town Clerk's office and Planning Department, and on the town website.

• Public hearing on amendments to Article 100 – Land Development Control Regulations
• Public hearing on amendments to Article 320 – Design and Construction Standards
• Public hearing on amendments to Article 340 – Administration and Enforcement

The Bedford Planning Board voted unanimously to continue the public hearing on proposed amendments to the Land Development Control Regulations (Sections 102.5, 317.1.20, 323.1, 323.1.3, and 341.2.4) to the September 12, 2022 meeting. The amendments would require landscape plans to be prepared and certified by a licensed landscape architect and would allow administrative approval of certain changes of use. Two applications by Millennium Running for a lot line adjustment and site plan approval were postponed to the September 12 meeting at the applicant's request. The board also approved the July 18, 2022 minutes as written, with one abstention.

• Continued public hearing on landscape architect amendments to Sept. 12 (unanimous)
• Postponed Millennium Running lot line adjustment to Sept. 12
• Postponed Millennium Running site plan for 4,000 SF garage to Sept. 12
• Approved July 18, 2022 minutes (Bandazian abstained)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding proposed amendments to the Land Development Control Regulations. Two applications for Millennium Running at 209 Route 101 and 137 Bedford Center Road have been postponed until the September 12, 2022 meeting.

• Public Hearing on proposed amendments to Land Development Control Regulations (Sections 102.5, 317.1.20, 323.1, 323.1.3 and 341.2.4)
• Postponed: Lot Line Adjustment for 209 Route 101 and 137 Bedford Center Road (Lots 20-39 and 20-41)
• Postponed: Site Plan approval for a 4,000 SF vehicle storage garage at 209 Route 101 and 137 Bedford Center Road

The Bedford Planning Board continued a public hearing on proposed amendments to the Land Development Control Regulations to the September 12, 2022 meeting. Two applications from Millennium Running for a lot line adjustment and site plan approval were postponed to the same date at the applicant's request. The board also approved the July 18, 2022 meeting minutes and adjourned after a brief session.

• Continued public hearing on Land Development Control Regulation amendments to September 12, 2022 (unanimous)
• Postponed Millennium Running lot line adjustment application to September 12, 2022 (at applicant's request)
• Postponed Millennium Running site plan application for 4,000 SF garage to September 12, 2022 (at applicant's request)
• Approved July 18, 2022 meeting minutes as written (unanimous, Councilor Bandazian abstained)

Historic District Commission

The Bedford Historic District Commission will hold a public meeting on August 2, 2022, to consider two applications: one for grading, tree clearing, and shed demolition at 137 Bedford Center Road, and another to change roofing materials on the Bedford Historical Society carriage house at 24 North Amherst Road. No old business is listed, and the agenda includes approval of minutes from the July 12 meeting.

• 209 Route 101 Realty, LLC and Millennium Running, LLC: grading, site alteration, tree clearing, and shed demolition for drainage and floodplain storage at 137 Bedford Center Road (Lot 20-41)
• Town of Bedford and Bedford Historical Society: change roofing materials for carriage house at 24 North Amherst Road (Lot 20-95)

The Bedford Historic District Commission approved a request by Route 101 Realty, LLC and Millennium Running, LLC for grading, site alteration, tree clearing, and shed demolition at 137 Bedford Center Road, Lot 20-41, subject to conditions including Planning Board approval within 180 days. The commission also unanimously approved a request by the Bedford Historical Society to replace the failed cedar shake roof on the carriage house at 24 North Amherst Road with asphalt architectural shingles. Both approvals were subject to conditions as recorded in the minutes.

• Approved grading, site alteration, tree clearing, and shed demolition at 137 Bedford Center Road (3-1)
• Approved roof material change for Bedford Historical Society carriage house at 24 North Amherst Road (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of July 12, 2022 (unanimous)

Energy Commission

The Bedford Energy Commission will vote on updated Rules of Procedure and hear reports on school projects, solar initiatives, and municipal aggregation. They will also discuss energy cost-saving programs for residents, including NHSaves and HAREI.

• Vote on updated Rules of Procedure
• Solar projects: Transfer Station and Town Pool PV Shade/Shelter
• Municipal Aggregation Cost Analysis and Presentation
• Discussion of NHSaves and HAREI programs
• Clean Energy NH Legislative & PUC Update

The Bedford Energy Commission approved its revised Rules of Procedure, originally adopted January 26, 2017, with amendments including telephonic/video conferencing attendance and site visit quorum clarifications. The commission also tabled the municipal aggregation cost analysis discussion to the May 2023 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting focused on updates on solar projects and energy programs.

• Approved June 23, 2022 minutes as amended (5-0)
• Approved revised Rules of Procedure (5-0)
• Tabled municipal aggregation cost analysis to May 2023 (5-0)

Trustees of the Trust Funds

The Bedford Heights Trustees of the Trust Funds will meet to approve minutes and discuss updates on cemetery trusts and the Carbonneau Scholarship. The meeting is primarily administrative, with no major decisions or public hearings on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from 14 Mar 2022 meeting
• Cemetery Trusts update (McMahan)
• Carbonneau Scholarship discussion (Peterson and Fahey)

The Bedford Trustees of the Trust Funds met and approved minutes from prior meetings. They discussed a $10,000 transfer from the dissolved Friends of Town of Bedford Cemeteries, which was placed in a Citizens Bank account labeled as a 'Trust' without a trust document. Trustee McMahan will contact the town attorney to pursue reclassifying the funds. They also noted a new investment advisor and reviewed their annual action items.

• Approved minutes of 14 Mar 2022 and 27 Apr 2022 meetings
• Trustee McMahan to contact town attorney about reclassifying $10,000 as non-trust funds
• Trustee Peterson to arrange meeting with new investment advisor Corey Boucher

Highway Safety Committee

The Bedford Heights Highway Safety Committee is meeting to discuss traffic safety issues, including speed concerns on Liberty Hill Road and a request for a 30 MPH sign, as well as speed concerns on Birkdale and Cambridge Roads with a request for stop signs. The agenda also includes routine items like approval of minutes and subcommittee reports.

• Speed concerns on Liberty Hill Rd and request for 30 MPH sign near 50 Liberty Hill Rd
• Speed concerns on Birkdale and Cambridge Roads, request for stop signs at Birkdale/Cambridge Rd

The Bedford Highway Safety Committee voted to recommend reducing the speed limit on Liberty Hill Road from 35 to 30 MPH between Edinburgh Road and Meetinghouse Road, and to make the Cambridge/Birkdale intersection a four-way stop. The committee also recommended adding 30 MPH signs in the Birkdale neighborhood and removing a faded children-at-play sign. These recommendations will be forwarded to the Town Council and DPW for action.

• Approved motion to recommend reducing Liberty Hill Rd speed limit to 30 MPH from Edinburgh Rd to Meetinghouse Rd (all in favor)
• Approved motion to make Cambridge/Birkdale intersection a four-way stop by adding stop signs on Birkdale (all in favor)
• Approved motion to recommend DPW place additional 30 MPH signs in Birkdale neighborhood (all in favor)
• Approved amendment to remove faded 'Children at Play' sign (all in favor)
• Approved minutes of April 26, 2022 meeting (motion passed, one abstention)

Conservation Commission

This meeting of the Bedford Heights Conservation Commission has no agenda items. The agenda consists solely of a placeholder indicating there is nothing to discuss or decide.

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council appointed Chris Bandazian to fill the vacancy left by the passing of Councilor Bill Duschatko, with a term expiring at the March 2023 election. The Council also approved a $219,185 contract for a new wheel loader, established a Stormwater Management Revolving Fund, and supported a list of transportation priorities for the FY2025-FY2034 Ten-Year Plan. A discussion on a potential noise ordinance resulted in no formal action, with Councilor Bemiss to gather data from the Police Chief.

• Appointed Chris Bandazian to Town Council, term expiring March 2023 (6-0)
• Awarded Contract #07-2022 to Chadwick-Baross for a wheel loader, $219,185 (7-0)
• Established Stormwater Management Revolving Fund (7-0)
• Supported FY2025-FY2034 NH 10-Year Transportation Improvement Program priorities (6-1, Greazzo opposed)
• Appointed Bob Thomas as Town Treasurer, term expiring April 30, 2023 (6-0-1, Thomas abstained)
• Appointed Bill Jean, Bryan Lord, and Danielle Evansic to Southern NH Planning Commission (7-0)
• Supported NHMA legislative policies and appointed Town Manager as delegate (6-1, Greazzo opposed)
• Approved minutes from June 8, June 22, and July 6 sessions (6-0-1, Bandazian abstained)

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on eight variance requests from four applicants. The requests seek exceptions to zoning rules to allow stormwater ponds, a light industrial warehouse, and a gas station/convenience store with a drive-thru at specific locations. One request for a gas pump canopy setback variance has been withdrawn.

• Variance for stormwater pond and floodplain mitigation at 137 Bedford Center Road (Lot 20-41)
• Variance for stormwater pond and floodplain mitigation at 209 Route 101 (Lot 20-39)
• Variance to allow light industrial/warehouse use at NH Route 101 (Lots 28-21 & 28-20)
• Variance for wetland setbacks for warehouse at NH Route 101 (Lots 28-21 & 28-20)
• Variance for gas station/convenience store with drive-thru at 2 Hardy Road (Lots 28-21 & 28-20)

The Bedford Zoning Board approved two variances for stormwater pond and floodplain mitigation accessory uses on separate lots/zones at 137 Bedford Center Road and 209 Route 101 (both 5-0). It also approved a variance for light industrial/warehouse use at NH Route 101 (3-2) and a related wetland setback variance (4-1). The board denied a request to hear gas station variance applications at 2 Hardy Road, finding no material change from a 2014 application.

• Approved variance for stormwater pond/floodplain mitigation at 137 Bedford Center Road (5-0)
• Approved variance for stormwater pond/floodplain mitigation at 209 Route 101 (5-0)
• Approved light industrial/warehouse use variance at NH Route 101 (3-2)
• Approved wetland setback variance for building/retaining wall at NH Route 101 (4-1)
• Denied rehearing for gas station variance applications at 2 Hardy Road (5-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a non-binding discussion regarding a parking lot expansion at the Bedford Public Library. The meeting also includes a conceptual discussion for a 14-lot cluster residential subdivision at Wallace Road, Kennedy Drive, and County Road.

• Parking lot expansion at Bedford Public Library (3 Meetinghouse Road & 15 Bell Hill Road)
• 14-lot cluster residential subdivision proposal at 227 Wallace Road, Kennedy Drive and County Road
• Discussion of Draft Land Development Control Regulation Amendments
• Discussion of New Hampshire Department of Transportation Ten-Year Plan Update

The Bedford Planning Board held a non-binding discussion on a proposed library parking lot expansion and a conceptual review of a 14-lot cluster subdivision. The board voted to forward a prioritized list of seven highway projects to the Town Council for the NHDOT 10-year plan. The board also scheduled a public hearing for August 15, 2022, on proposed amendments to the Land Development Control Regulations.

• Forwarded 7 prioritized highway projects to Town Council (motion carried, Councilor Greazzo opposed)
• Scheduled public hearing for August 15, 2022, on Land Development Control Regulation amendments (all in favor)
• Approved June 27, 2022 Planning Board minutes (motion carried, Mr. Quintal abstained)
• Accepted agenda as read (all in favor)
• Adjourned at 9:48 pm (all in favor)

Historic District Commission

The Bedford Historic District Commission will hold a public meeting on July 12, 2022, at 7:00 PM in the Town Meeting Room at BCTV, 10 Meetinghouse Road. The agenda includes a non-binding discussion on a proposed parking lot expansion at the Bedford Public Library (3 Meetinghouse Road & 15 Bell Hill Road), which was postponed from a previous meeting. The commission will also review a request for exterior renovation and deck replacement at 4 Briar Road, and approve minutes from the June 7, 2022 meeting.

• Non-binding discussion on parking lot expansion at Bedford Public Library (3 Meetinghouse Road & 15 Bell Hill Road, Lots 20-1 & 20-7, Zoned R&A)
• Request by Kathleen and David Peterson for exterior renovation and deck replacement at 4 Briar Road, Lot 20-89-2, Zoned R&A
• Approval of minutes from June 7, 2022 meeting

The Bedford Historic District Commission unanimously approved a request for exterior renovation and deck replacement at 4 Briar Road, with conditions including completion within two years and a building permit. The commission also held a non-binding discussion on a proposed parking lot expansion at the Bedford Public Library, taking public comments but taking no vote. Minutes from the June 7, 2022 meeting were approved.

• Approved exterior renovation and deck replacement at 4 Briar Road (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from June 7, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Held non-binding discussion on Bedford Public Library parking lot expansion (no vote)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is holding a special meeting to consider appointing a Deputy Town Clerk and to discuss the process for appointing a new Town Councilor. No other substantive business is listed.

• Approve appointment of a Deputy Town Clerk
• Discussion of process to appoint a Town Councilor

The Bedford Town Council approved a process to fill a vacant council seat, opening applications to town residents from July 8-18, with interviews and appointment on July 20. The council also approved Paula Talmanson as Deputy Town Clerk for a term ending in 2023. The meeting included a non-public session for property discussion, with minutes sealed.

• Approved appointment of Paula Talmanson as Deputy Town Clerk (6-0)
• Approved process to appoint a new councilor: open applications July 8-18, interviews and appointment on July 20 (6-0)
• Entered non-public session for property discussion (6-0)
• Sealed non-public session minutes (6-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission is reviewing several requests for wetland fill and variances for projects at the corner of NH Route 101 and Hardy Road. The body is also considering a dredge and fill application from the NH DOT.

• NH DOT Bedford 43138 dredge and fill application for NH Rte 114 N. of New Boston Road
• SV101, LLC request for variance to build a warehouse within 10 feet of wetland at NH Route 101 and Hardy Road
• SV101, LLC request for 990 sq. ft. of wetland fill for a retaining wall and driveway at NH Route 101 and Hardy Road
• Two Hardy Road LLC request for variance for 3,645 sq. ft. of wetland fill for a gas station and convenience store at NH Route 101 and Hardy Road
• Two Hardy Road LLC request for variance to build a retaining wall greater than 6 feet at the edge of a wetland at NH Route 101 and Hardy Road

The Bedford Conservation Commission voted 4-3 to recommend approval of a variance for a light industrial warehouse building within 10 feet of a wetland at Route 101 and Hardy Road (Lot 28-21), but voted 4-3 against recommending a variance for a gas station/convenience store with drive-thru and retaining wall on the adjacent lot (Lot 28-20). The commission also approved minutes from April and May meetings and recommended approval of an NH DOT culvert repair project on Route 114.

• Approved April 12, 2022 meeting minutes with edit clarifying resident comment was in opposition (unanimous)
• Approved May 24, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of NH DOT dredge and fill for culvert repair on Route 114 (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of SV101 LLC variance for warehouse within 10 ft of wetland (4-3)
• Recommended approval of SV101 LLC wetland fill for driveway access (4-3 after revote)
• Did not recommend Two Hardy Road LLC variance for 2,532 sq ft wetland fill for gas station (4-3)
• Did not recommend Two Hardy Road LLC variance for retaining wall and store within 50-ft setback (4-3)
• Entered non-public session to discuss real estate acquisition (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review several land use applications including subdivisions, condominium units, and a change of use. The Dartmouth-Hitchcock Clinic site plan request has been postponed to the July 18, 2022 meeting.

• Subdivision extension for 99 McAllister Road
• Subdivision of 2 lots at Old Bedford Road and Davies Street
• Condominium subdivision for 9 units at Olde Bedford Way
• Change of use to Commercial Recreation Center at 379 South River Road
• Postponed site plan for 49,092 SF medical office at Ridgewood Road and Kilton Road

The Bedford Planning Board approved a subdivision creating a new 21.2-acre residential lot from the St. Joseph Cemetery property, along with six requested waivers. The board also approved a time extension for a subdivision at 99 McAllister Road, a 9-unit condominium subdivision at Olde Bedford Way, and a change of use for an event center at 379 South River Road. Officers were elected for the 2022-2023 term.

• Approved subdivision of Lot 10-53 creating one new residential lot (all in favor)
• Approved 6 waivers from Land Development Control Regulations (2 opposed)
• Granted third one-year time extension for subdivision at 99 McAllister Road (all in favor)
• Approved condominium subdivision for 9 units at Olde Bedford Way (all in favor)
• Approved change of use to Commercial Recreation Center at 379 South River Road (all in favor)
• Approved parking waiver reducing required spaces from 94 to 92 (all in favor)
• Elected Charlie Fairman as Chairman, Hal Newberry as Vice Chairman, Matt Nichols as Secretary
• Recommended reappointments to Southern NH Planning Commission (all in favor)

Cemetery Trustees

The Bedford Heights Cemetery Trustees are meeting to discuss several items of new business, including a sprinkler bid, the cemetery website, cemetery maintenance, and retrieving trust funds. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda; all items are listed as discussions.

• Discussion of sprinkler bid
• Discussion on cemetery website
• Discussion on cemetery maintenance
• Discussion on retrieving trust funds

The Bedford Cemetery Trustees rejected a late sprinkler system bid that exceeded the 2022 budget by over three times, voting 3-0. They then voted 3-0 to use the budgeted sprinkler funds for a new cemetery website, requesting IT and Town Manager assistance with an RFP. They also voted 3-0 to withhold $2,000 from the current month's payment to the lawn maintenance contractor for contract violations.

• Rejected sprinkler system bid (3-0)
• Approved using sprinkler budget for new cemetery website (3-0)
• Withheld $2,000 from lawn maintenance contractor's monthly payment (3-0)

Energy Commission

The Bedford Energy Commission will review and vote on updated Rules of Procedure, hear reports on school projects and solar initiatives, and discuss municipal aggregation cost analysis. They will also consider energy cost saving programs for residents, including NHSaves and HAREI.

• Vote on updated Rules of Procedure
• Solar projects: Transfer Station and Town Pool PV Shade/Shelter
• Municipal Aggregation Cost Analysis and Presentation
• Discussion of NHSaves and HAREI programs for residents
• Clean Energy NH Legislative & PUC Update

The Bedford Energy Commission approved the May 25, 2022 meeting minutes (with two abstentions) and deferred a vote on updated Rules of Procedure to the next meeting. No other formal decisions were made; discussions covered school project updates, solar project funding challenges, and resident energy-saving programs.

• Approved May 25, 2022 meeting minutes (Thomas and Bator abstained)
• Deferred vote on updated Rules of Procedure to next meeting

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is meeting to handle routine business, including interviews for boards and commissions, new business items, and approval of minutes. Notable items include continued participation in Primex CAP programs, an Energy Commission appointment, and a discussion on the Town Charter Commission.

• Authorization for continued participation in Primex CAP Programs
• Appointment to the Energy Commission
• Fire Department Centennial Celebration
• Chief Hunter Recognition-Executive Fire Officer
• Town Charter Commission Discussion

The Bedford Town Council voted 5-1 not to place a question on the March 2023 ballot about forming a Charter Commission to consider changing the town's budget adoption process. The council also approved continued participation in the Primex risk pool program, appointed Carolyn Mahoney to the Energy Commission, and recognized the Fire Department's centennial and Chief Hunter's achievement.

• Approved participation in Primex CAP program for 2023-2025 (6-0)
• Appointed Carolyn Mahoney to Energy Commission, term expiring 2023 (6-0)
• Declined to place Charter Commission question on March 2023 ballot (5-1, Radke nay)
• Approved minutes of June 8, 2022 interview and non-public sessions (6-0)
• Tabled approval of June 8, 2022 public session minutes (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public meeting to discuss and decide on several variance requests, including two rehearing requests for previously denied variances. The agenda includes requests for a home occupation in a detached garage, a 28-unit elderly housing development with septic, and various property modifications. Two applications for a commercial development at 137 Bedford Center Road have been postponed to the July 19 meeting.

• Rehearing request for variance to allow Level II Home Occupation in detached garage at 6 Lynn Drive
• Rehearing request for variance to allow 28-unit elderly housing with private septic at Route 101
• Variance request for addition 14.5 ft from front property line (35 ft required) at 115 Bedford Center Road
• Two variance requests for detached accessory dwelling unit at 390 Boynton Street (including 1,630 sq ft vs 1,000 sq ft limit)
• Variance request to convert 8,000 sq ft of warehouse to light manufacturing at 276 Route 101

The Bedford Zoning Board approved a variance for a 14.5-foot front setback addition at 115 Bedford Center Road (5-0) and a variance to allow a detached accessory dwelling unit at 390 Boynton Street (5-0). The board denied a rehearing request for a home occupation variance at 6 Lynn Drive and a rehearing request for a 28-unit elderly housing development at Route 101 (4-1). A variance to allow a 1,630 sq. ft. accessory dwelling unit at 390 Boynton Street was denied (5-0). The board also approved a variance to convert 8,000 sq. ft. of warehouse space to light manufacturing at 276 Route 101 (5-0).

• Approved variance for 14.5-ft front setback addition at 115 Bedford Center Road (5-0)
• Approved variance for detached accessory dwelling unit at 390 Boynton Street (5-0)
• Denied variance for 1,630 sq. ft. accessory dwelling unit at 390 Boynton Street (5-0)
• Denied rehearing request for home occupation variance at 6 Lynn Drive (unanimous)
• Denied rehearing request for 28-unit elderly housing at Route 101 (4-1)
• Approved variance for light manufacturing use at 276 Route 101 (5-0)
• Re-elected John Morin as Chair and Neal Casale as Vice Chair (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Bedford Parks and Recreation Commission will consider a resident's request to revise the 'No Floatation Device' policy at Bedford Town Pool and approve the Fall Field Use and Tennis Court schedules. The meeting is open to the public and includes a call to order, new business, old business, and setting the next meeting date.

• Resident request to review and revise 'No Floatation Device' policy at Bedford Town Pool
• Approval of Fall Field Use Schedule and Tennis Court Schedule
• Next meeting scheduled for Tuesday, September 13, 2022

Planning Board

This meeting has no published agenda. The only available record is the minutes, so no specific decisions or discussions are listed for this session.

Water & Sewer Advisory Committee

The Bedford Heights Water & Sewer Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss sewer rates, including Pennichuck and flat rate options, and to review existing and future sewer connections. The committee will also approve minutes from the previous meeting and set the next meeting date.

• Sewer rate discussion (Pennichuck & flat rate)
• Sewer map review of existing and future sewer connections
• Approval of minutes from May 12, 2022

The Water and Sewer Advisory Committee voted to appoint resident Richard Moore as chair, starting next meeting, with all members approving. The committee also discussed sewer rates, including the flat fee for Pennichuck users, and reviewed future sewer connection plans. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from May 12, 2022, with two minor changes (unanimous)
• Appointed Richard Moore as Committee Chair (all approved)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will consider a civil forfeiture warrant for unlicensed dogs, discuss transfer station hours of operation, and review a solar and 3-phase power proposal for the transfer station. The meeting also includes appointments to boards and commissions, approval of minutes, and a town manager report.

• Civil Forfeiture Warrant for unlicensed dogs
• Transfer Station hours of operation
• Transfer Station Solar & 3-Phase Power Proposal
• Appointment to Boards & Commissions
• Approval of minutes from May 25, 2022 public session

The Bedford Town Council voted 7-0 to change Saturday Transfer Station hours from 8:30am-5pm to 6:30am-3pm starting June 25, 2022, with a review in September. They also approved a civil forfeiture warrant for unlicensed dogs (6-1) and appointed Matt Nichols and Christopher Swiniarski to the Planning Board (7-0). A motion to block $500,000 in ARPA funds for the Chubbuck Road utility extension failed 3-3-1, and the council agreed to seek return of Eversource's deposit and file the federal grant application.

• Approved Saturday Transfer Station hours change to 6:30am-3pm (7-0)
• Authorized civil forfeiture letters for unlicensed dogs (6-1)
• Appointed Matt Nichols to Planning Board, term to 2024 (7-0)
• Appointed Christopher Swiniarski as Planning Board alternate, term to 2024 (7-0)
• Motion to not use $500k ARPA for utility extension failed (3-3-1)
• Approved minutes of May 25, 2022 public session (7-0)
• Entered non-public session and sealed minutes (7-0)

Historic District Commission

The Bedford Historic District Commission will hold a public meeting to review two applications: an after-the-fact approval for a shed at 320 Wallace Road and a covered porch addition at 1 Chandler Road. A parking lot expansion at the Bedford Public Library has been postponed to July 5, 2022. The commission will also approve minutes from the May 3, 2022 meeting.

• After-the-fact approval of a 16' x 16' shed at 320 Wallace Road
• Covered porch addition at 1 Chandler Road
• Parking lot expansion at Bedford Public Library postponed to July 5
• Approval of minutes from May 3, 2022 meeting

The Bedford Historic District Commission approved two applications: a covered porch addition at 1 Chandler Road and an after-the-fact approval for a 16' x 16' shed at 320 Wallace Road. Both approvals were unanimous and subject to conditions. The commission also rescheduled its July 5 meeting to July 12 and discussed adding a checkbox to building permits to flag Historic District properties.

• Approved covered porch addition at 1 Chandler Road (unanimous)
• Approved after-the-fact 16' x 16' shed at 320 Wallace Road (unanimous)
• Rescheduled July 5 meeting to July 12 (unanimous)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved May 3, 2022 minutes (unanimous, Tefft abstained)

Telecommunications Subcommittee

The Bedford Heights Telecommunications Subcommittee is meeting to discuss possible future action programs and consider reducing its meeting schedule to once a quarter. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from the January 28, 2022 meeting. No specific decisions or proposals are detailed in the agenda.

• Discuss possible future action programs
• Consider reducing meetings to once a quarter
• Approval of minutes – January 28, 2022

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is meeting to consider awarding a construction management services contract for a new Police Station, Fire Substation, and renovations to the Safety Complex and Town Office Building. The agenda also includes public comments, approval of minutes from May 11, and routine reports. No other substantive decisions are listed.

• Award construction management services contract for new Police Station, Fire Substation, and Safety Complex/Town Office renovations
• Public comments (up to 5 minutes per person)
• Approval of minutes from May 11, 2022 (interview, public, non-public sessions)
• Town Manager report and Councilor comments

The Bedford Town Council unanimously approved a contract with Fulcrum Associates for pre-bond construction services ($89,420) and post-bond services (3.5% of construction costs for CM, 8.5-11% for A/E) related to a new Police Station, Fire Substation, and renovations to the Safety Complex and Town Office Building. The motion passed 7-0. The council also approved minutes from May 11, 2022, and adjourned.

• Approved Fulcrum Associates contract for pre-bond services at $89,420 and post-bond services at 3.5% CM and 8.5-11% A/E (7-0)
• Approved May 11, 2022 Interview Minutes (7-0)
• Approved May 11, 2022 Public Session Minutes (7-0)
• Approved May 11, 2022 Non-Public Session Minutes (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Conservation Commission will meet to reorganize, approve minutes, and review several variance and wetland fill requests for proposed developments at the corner of NH Route 101 and Hardy Road. The agenda includes no new dredge and fill applications or new business, but old business features two applicants seeking variances for wetland setbacks and fills. Other business covers administrative items like a Boy Scout presentation, submittal policy changes, and updates on conservation areas.

• SV101, LLC: variance for light industrial/warehouse building within 10 ft of wetland and retaining wall >6 ft within 5 ft (Lot 28-21)
• SV101, LLC: request for ~990 sq ft wetland fill for retaining wall and driveway (Lot 28-21)
• Two Hardy Road LLC: variance for 2,642 sq ft wetland fill for gas station/convenience store with drive-thru (Lot 28-20)
• Two Hardy Road LLC: variance for retaining wall >6 ft at wetland edge (Lot 28-20)
• Non-public session for property acquisition/sale/lease discussion

The Conservation Commission tabled all four parts of the SV101 LLC and Two Hardy Road LLC applications for wetland variances and fill at the corner of NH Route 101 and Hardy Road until the June 28 meeting. The commission also approved a Boy Scout's Eagle project to install emergency location signs at Van Loan Preserve, a revised submittal policy, $2,200 for conservation area signs, and $500 for 24 logo hats. The April 12, 2022 minutes were tabled for further review.

• Tabled all parts (a-d) of SV101 LLC and Two Hardy Road LLC wetland variance/fill requests (unanimous)
• Approved Andrew Deml's Eagle Scout project for emergency location signs at Van Loan Preserve (unanimous)
• Approved revised submittal policy (unanimous)
• Approved up to $2,200 from Conservation funds for signs (unanimous)
• Approved $500 from Commission funds for 24 logo hats (unanimous)
• Tabled approval of April 12, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted May 11, 2022 site walk minutes (unanimous, Vice Chair Carter abstained)
• Re-elected Patricia Grogan as Chair and William Carter as Vice Chair (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board is holding an informal workshop to discuss general community planning issues and board procedures. Discussion topics include officer elections, training opportunities, and goals for 2022-2023.

• Election of Officers 2022-2023
• Discussion of training opportunities including NHMA webinars and social media policy
• Goals and Priorities for 2022-2023 regarding Housing Working Group and LDCR Update
• Discussion of Temporary and Real Estate Signs

The Bedford Planning Board held an informal workshop on May 23, 2022, discussing officer elections, training, housing goals, and temporary sign concerns. No formal decisions were made; officer elections were postponed to the June 27 meeting, and a housing working group was proposed but not formally established.

• Postponed officer elections to June 27, 2022 meeting
• Volunteers for officer positions: Fairman (Chairman), Duschatko (Vice Chairman), Nichols (Secretary), Clough (Conservation Commission Liaison)
• Discussed forming a housing working group with up to 3 Planning Board members and 3 resident members
• Agreed to schedule a housing working group meeting in June
• Staff to prepare analysis of neighboring communities' temporary sign regulations

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on May 17, 2022, to consider four requests: an after-the-fact variance for a shed near a wetland, two variances for a 28-unit elderly housing development, and a special exception for a garage. The board will also approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• Variance for shed within 32.2 feet of wetland (50 ft required) at 110 New Boston Road
• Variance to allow 28-unit elderly housing with private septic at Route 101
• Variance to allow 28-unit elderly housing without required affordable units at Route 101
• Special exception for 4,000 sq ft garage at 137 Bedford Center Road

The Bedford Zoning Board approved an after-the-fact variance for a shed at 110 New Boston Road, denied a variance for private septic at a proposed elderly housing development on Route 101, and granted a special exception for a 4,000-square-foot garage at 137 Bedford Center Road. The board also approved the April 19, 2022 minutes. The applicant for the affordable housing variance withdrew that request after the septic denial.

• Approved after-the-fact variance for shed within 32.2 ft of wetland (5-0)
• Denied variance for private septic at Route 101 elderly housing (5-0)
• Withdrawn affordable housing variance request (applicant)
• Approved special exception for 4,000 sq ft garage at 137 Bedford Center Rd (5-0)
• Approved April 19, 2022 minutes (unanimous)

Water & Sewer Advisory Committee

The Bedford Water & Sewer Advisory Committee is meeting to approve minutes from March 10, 2022, vote on a committee chair, and consider a recommended sewer rate option. The meeting is scheduled for May 12, 2022, at 7:45 a.m. in the BCTV Meeting Room.

• Vote on committee chair
• Sewer rates recommended option
• Approval of March 10, 2022 minutes
• Set next meeting date

The Water and Sewer Advisory Committee approved a motion to recommend Option 4 for sewer rate changes, which includes a 6% increase for water-metered residential rates until 2026 (then 3%) and a 40%, 15%, 15%, 10% increase for flat-rate residential over four years, with adjustments pending Pennichuck data. The committee also approved renaming two capital reserve accounts (accessibility fee and capital investment). A motion to maintain a $1 million revenue balance and transfer the rest to capital reserve was deferred to next month. The committee postponed voting for a new chair until bylaws are reviewed.

• Approved motion to recommend Option 4 sewer rate plan (6% water-metered increase until 2026, then 3%; flat-rate 40%, 15%, 15%, 10% over 4 years) with adjustments pending Pennichuck data
• Approved renaming two capital reserve accounts: accessibility fee and capital investment
• Deferred motion to maintain $1 million revenue balance and transfer excess to capital reserve
• Postponed vote for new committee chair until bylaws are reviewed
• Approved minutes from March 10, 2022 and March 15, 2018 meetings

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold a regular meeting with public comments, a presentation, and several action items. New business includes authorizing the sale of 4 Sunset Lane, discontinuing employment licenses, and making appointments to the Historic District Commission. Old business includes discussion on the Library parking lot expansion project. The meeting also includes approval of minutes, reports, and a non-public session.

• Authorize the sale of 4 Sunset Lane
• Discontinuance of Employment Licenses
• Appointments to the Historic District Commission
• Discussion on the Library parking lot expansion project
• Town Clerk Presentation of the Top Dog

The Town Council authorized the sale of 4 Sunset Lane for $1.5 million to Matt Skeffington of MS Athletic LLC, with a 6-0 vote. The council also voted to discontinue employment licenses and appointed two members to the Historic District Commission. The library parking lot expansion was discussed but no action was taken, as the council confirmed no motion was required.

• Approved sale of 4 Sunset Lane to Matt Skeffington for $1,500,000 (6-0)
• Discontinued issuance of employment licenses effective May 11, 2022 (7-0)
• Appointed Kelly Tope to Historic District Commission, term to 2025 (7-0)
• Appointed Elaine Tefft to Historic District Commission, term to 2025 (7-0)
• Approved April 27, 2022 interview minutes (6-0-1, Radke abstained)
• Approved April 27, 2022 public session minutes (6-0-1, Radke abstained)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission is meeting to conduct a site walk at 2 Hardy Road. The body is considering potential land development involving wetland fill and wetland setback encroachment.

• Site walk at 2 Hardy Road (Tax Map 28, Lots 20 and 21)

The Conservation Commission conducted a site walk to view the proposed gas station and warehouse/light industrial building at 2 Hardy Road, including wetlands and vernal pool areas. No decisions were made; the meeting was informational, with questions answered about construction timeline, tree removal, fuel tanks, blasting, and wetland hydrology. The project will be discussed again at the regular meeting on May 24.

• No formal decisions made; site walk was informational
• Project discussion scheduled for May 24 regular meeting

Planning Board

This Planning Board meeting has no published agenda. The only available item is a note directing readers to view the meeting minutes for details.

• No agenda items listed

BCTV-WBNH Board of Overseers

The Board of Overseers will conduct the election of a Chair and Vice-Chair. The meeting includes the approval of minutes from June 16, 2021, and reports from the BCTV-WBNH Manager and WBNH Radio Program Director.

• Election of Chair and Vice-Chair
• Approval of June 16, 2021 minutes
• BCTV-WBNH Manager’s Report
• WBNH Radio Program Director’s Report

The BCTV-WBNH Board of Overseers re-elected Dick Rawlings as Chair and Julio Nunez as Vice-Chair by unanimous votes. The board approved the minutes from the June 16, 2021 meeting with one abstention. No other formal decisions were made; the meeting included reports on station operations, including a new hire, closed captioning tests, and a grant application.

• Re-elected Dick Rawlings as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Julio Nunez as Vice-Chair (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from June 16, 2021 meeting (all in favor, one abstention)

Cemetery Trustees

The Cemetery Trustees are meeting to elect officers for 2022 and discuss the 2022 budget. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with roll call and adjournment.

• Election of officers for 2022
• Discussion of 2022 budget

The Bedford Cemetery Trustees held a routine meeting, electing David Bailey as chairman and deciding to share secretary duties. They discussed the 2022 budget and old business, including an upcoming irrigation project to repair and extend the system in the Center Cemetery, and plans to repair about 10 historic gravestones. No formal votes were taken on these items, and no substantive decisions were made beyond the officer election.

• Elected David Bailey as chairman (3-0)
• Decided trustees would share secretary duties

Historic District Commission

The Bedford Historic District Commission is meeting to review several property alteration requests in the historic district, including a barn demolition and addition, a retaining wall and patio installation, and a covered porch addition. The commission will also elect officers for 2022-2023 and approve minutes from the previous meeting. A library parking lot expansion application has been postponed to the June 7 meeting.

• Postponed: Bedford Public Library parking lot expansion at 3 Meetinghouse Road & 15 Bell Hill Road (to June 7, 2022)
• Michael Franzino: extend approval to demolish attached barn and build 3-story addition at 115 Bedford Center
• Karen & John Cormier: retaining wall, walkway, patio, fire pit at 42 Church Road
• Karen & Bill Wilshire: covered porch addition at 1 Chandler Road
• Election of Historic District Officers for 2022-2023

The Bedford Historic District Commission approved a 2-year time extension for Michael Franzino to demolish an attached barn and construct a 3-story addition at 115 Bedford Center Road, extending the approval to May 12, 2024. The commission also approved a site alteration application for Karen and John Cormier at 42 Church Road, including a retaining wall, walkway, patio, and fire pit, subject to conditions. Two applications were postponed to the June 7, 2022 meeting: the Bedford Public Library parking lot expansion and the Wilshire porch addition at 1 Chandler Road. Joe Vaccarello was elected Chair and Lisa Muskat Vice Chair for 2022-2023.

• Approved 2-year time extension for Franzino project at 115 Bedford Center Road (unanimous)
• Approved Cormier site alteration at 42 Church Road with conditions (unanimous)
• Postponed Bedford Public Library parking lot expansion to June 7, 2022
• Postponed Wilshire porch addition at 1 Chandler Road to June 7, 2022
• Elected Joe Vaccarello as Chair for 2022-2023 (unanimous)
• Elected Lisa Muskat as Vice Chair for 2022-2023 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from April 5, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Energy Commission

The Bedford Energy Commission is meeting to approve prior minutes and hear updates on Solsmart initiatives, including solar projects at the Transfer Station and Town Pool, and municipal aggregation status. Members will also discuss the 2022 Energy Innovation Conference and review testimony related to New Hampshire's Statewide Energy Efficiency Program proceedings, including HB549 and the 2022-2023 plan.

• Approval of minutes from 03/24/2022 meeting
• Solar project updates: Transfer Station and Town Pool PV Shade/Shelter; Safety Complex Equipment Bay
• Municipal aggregation status update
• 2022 Energy Innovation Conference on May 24, 2:00-4:30 PM at Derryfield School, 2108 River Rd, Manchester, NH
• Review of NH PUC Statewide Energy Efficiency Program proceedings, including HB549 and utility/consumer testimony

Trustees of the Trust Funds

The Trustees of the Trust Funds will meet to deliver their annual report to the Town Council and the citizens of Bedford. No other specific business items are listed on the agenda.

• Annual report to the Town Council and Citizens of Bedford

The Trustees of the Trust Funds met with only one member present (Ken Peterson) and gave their annual report to the Town Council. They discussed their organizational structure, investment policy, and last year's return on investments, with financial advisor Charles Nason providing an economic outlook. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational only.

• No formal decisions made; meeting was informational

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is meeting to discuss several items, including an update from the State PFAS Commission, a discussion on the library parking lot expansion project, and a request to release a sewer easement on South River Road. They will also meet with the Trustees of the Trust Funds and make appointments to boards and commissions.

• Discussion on Library parking lot expansion project
• Request to release sewer easement on Lot 35-3-1 on South River Road by South River Road Ventures, LLC
• Meeting with Trustees of the Trust Funds
• Update from State PFAS Commission
• Appointments to Boards/Committees/Commissions

The Bedford Town Council approved the release of a sewer easement on Lot 35-3-1 to allow construction of an electric auto dealership, with the applicant paying recording fees. A motion to pull back ARPA funds from the Library parking lot expansion failed for lack of a second. The Council also approved a slate of appointments to various boards and commissions.

• Approved release of sewer easement on Lot 35-3-1 for South River Road Ventures (6-0)
• Motion to pull ARPA funds from Library parking lot failed (no second)
• Approved appointments to Planning Board, ZBA, Parks & Rec, Conservation, Energy, and other boards (6-0)
• Approved minutes of April 13, 2022 interviews and public session (6-0)

Highway Safety Committee

The Bedford Heights Highway Safety Committee is meeting to discuss routine business, including approval of previous minutes and subcommittee reports. The main new item is a request for 'Blind Driveway' caution signage near 65 Meetinghouse Road.

• Request for 'Blind Driveway' caution signage at 65 Meetinghouse Road
• Approval of minutes from February 22, 2022
• Organizational meeting and subcommittee reports

The Highway Safety Committee approved installing a 'Blind Driveway' sign near 65 Meetinghouse Road, with exact placement and wording left to DPW Director Jeff Foote. The committee also approved the February 22, 2022 minutes and re-elected Chief Bryfonski as Chair and Chief Hunter as Vice Chair.

• Approved 'Blind Driveway' sign between 65 Meetinghouse and Liberty Hill Rd (motion passed)
• Approved February 22, 2022 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Re-elected Chief Bryfonski as Chair and Chief Hunter as Vice Chair (motion passed)

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on six variance requests, including one for a home occupation in a detached garage and several for sheds and a pool that would encroach on required setbacks or wetland buffers. The board will also approve minutes from its February 15, 2022 meeting. No old business or continued hearings are scheduled.

• Variance for Level II home occupation in detached garage at 6 Lynn Drive
• Variance for 16'x24' shed 8.7 ft from rear setback (25 ft required) at 7 Birkdale Road
• Variance for 16'x24' shed 37 ft from wetland (50 ft required) at 7 Birkdale Road
• After-the-fact variance for above-ground pool 45 ft from wetland at 7 Birkdale Road
• Variance for 17'x20' shed 5 ft from side setback at 116 McAllister Road

Planning Board

The Planning Board is reviewing several development requests including a medical office building and an electric car maintenance facility. Other items include a lot line adjustment on Joppa Hill Road and a site plan re-approval for a hotel on South River Road.

• 49,092 SF medical office building at Ridgewood Road and Kilton Road (postponed to June 13, 2022)
• 41,486 SF electric car maintenance facility and dealership at South River Road and Technology Drive
• Lot line adjustment for two lots at 410 and 414 Joppa Hill Road
• Five-story, 120 room extended stay hotel at 270 South River Road
• Site plan amendment to expand office and warehouse addition at 7 Commerce Drive

The Bedford Planning Board granted final approval for a 41,486-square-foot electric car maintenance facility and dealership at South River Road and Technology Drive, with conditions including public charging access for the manufacturer's vehicles, ADA-compliant pedestrian connections, and updated signage. The board also approved a lot line adjustment, re-approved a hotel site plan, and granted a time extension for a building addition.

• Approved site plan for electric car dealership (all in favor)
• Approved lot line adjustment at 410/414 Joppa Hill Road (all in favor)
• Re-approved site plan for 120-room extended stay hotel at 270 South River Road (all in favor)
• Granted one-year time extension for LSNE building addition at 7 Commerce Drive (all in favor)
• Tabled approval of March 28, 2022 minutes (all in favor)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is holding a public hearing on Ordinance 2022-01 to set a 25 mph speed limit on Hamilton Way, Kennedy Dr., Roosevelt Dr., Jefferson Rd., and Presidential Rd. The council will also discuss a solar and 3-phase power proposal for the transfer station, reaffirm or amend council rules and policies, and recognize retiring board members. Interviews for boards and commissions are scheduled before the regular meeting.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 2022-01: 25 mph speed limit on Hamilton Way, Kennedy Dr., Roosevelt Dr., Jefferson Rd., Presidential Rd.
• Discussion of Transfer Station Solar & 3-Phase Power Proposal
• Reaffirming/amending Town Council Rules of Procedure, Code of Conduct, Town Media Policy, Social Media Use Policy
• Recognition of retired board and commission members
• Meeting with the Bedford Delegation

The Bedford Town Council approved Ordinance 2022-01, setting a 25 mph speed limit on Hamilton Way, Kennedy Drive, Roosevelt Drive, Jefferson Road, and Presidential Road. The council also tabled a proposal for a solar array and 3-phase power at the Transfer Station, and reaffirmed several town policies. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved Ordinance 2022-01 setting 25 mph speed limit on five roads (7-0)
• Tabled Transfer Station solar and 3-phase power proposal (7-0)
• Reaffirmed Town Council Rules of Procedure, Code of Conduct, Town Media Policy, and Social Media Use Policy (7-0)
• Approved minutes of March 9, 2022 Budgetary Town Meeting (5-0-2)
• Approved minutes of March 14, 2022 Organizational & Public Session (7-0)
• Approved minutes of April 2, 2022 Town Council Retreat (7-0)

Conservation Commission

The commission is reviewing several requests for variances and permits to allow construction and wetland fill at the corner of NH Route 101 and Hardy Road. The body will also discuss submittal policy changes and updates on trail stewardship and property surveys.

• SV101, LLC request for variance to build a warehouse within 10 feet of wetland and a retaining wall within 5 feet at NH Route 101 and Hardy Road
• SV101, LLC request for 990 sq. ft. of wetland fill for a retaining wall and driveway at NH Route 101 and Hardy Road
• Two Hardy Road LLC request for variance for 2,642 sq. ft. of wetland fill for a gas station, convenience store, and drive-thru at NH Route 101 and Hardy Road
• Two Hardy Road LLC request for variance for a retaining wall over 6 feet at the edge of a wetland at NH Route 101 and Hardy Road
• Frank Silva request for after-the-fact variance for a shed within 32.2 feet of a wetland at 110 New Boston Road

The Bedford Conservation Commission tabled a request by Two Hardy Road LLC for wetland fill and buffer variances for a gas station/convenience store at NH Route 101 and Hardy Road, pending a site walk. The commission approved an after-the-fact variance for a shed at 110 New Boston Road, and approved expenditures for trail supplies, a survey of Joppa Hill Farm, and debris removal at Marston-Dunlap Conservation Area. No dredge and fill applications were reviewed.

• Approved minutes of March 22, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Tabled Two Hardy Road LLC wetland fill and buffer variance requests to May meeting (4-1)
• Approved after-the-fact variance for shed at 110 New Boston Road with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved up to $4,000 for trail supplies (unanimous)
• Approved $20,000 for S&H Land Surveying survey of Joppa Hill Farm (unanimous)
• Approved up to $4,000 for debris removal at Marston-Dunlap Conservation Area (unanimous)

Planning Board

This Planning Board meeting has no published agenda. The only available record is the meeting minutes, so no specific decisions or discussions are listed for this date.

• No agenda items listed

Historic District Commission

The Bedford Historic District Commission will hold a public hearing on proposed amendments to the Historic District Regulations that would require a Certificate of Approval for solar energy systems and add design and construction requirements. The commission will also consider a request from the Town of Bedford to expand the parking lot at the Bedford Public Library at 3 Meetinghouse Road and 15 Bell Hill Road. The agenda includes approval of minutes from the March 1, 2022 meeting.

• Public hearing on amendments to Historic District Regulations to require Certificate of Approval for solar energy systems and add new Section 285-28 - Solar Energy Systems
• Request by Town of Bedford for parking lot expansion at Bedford Public Library, 3 Meetinghouse Road & 15 Bell Hill Road, Lots 20-1 & 20-7, Zoned R&A
• Approval of minutes from March 1, 2022 meeting

Town Council

This agenda is for a Town Council retreat, not a regular decision-making meeting. No specific items for discussion or action are listed, only the date, time, and location. The agenda is purely procedural boilerplate.

The Town Council held a retreat and established 14 goals and priorities for the year, covering facilities, PFAS education, conservation, leases, and more. No formal votes or binding decisions were made; the retreat was for discussion and goal-setting only.

• Established 14 goals/priorities for 2022
• Assigned councilors to lead each goal
• No formal votes taken; retreat was discussion-only

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider a site plan for an electric car maintenance facility and dealership. A request for a medical office building at Ridgewood Road and Kilton Road has been postponed until April 18, 2022.

• Site Plan Approval: 41,486 SF electric car maintenance facility and dealership at South River Road and Technology Drive
• Postponed: 49,092 SF medical office building at Ridgewood Road and Kilton Road

Energy Commission

The Bedford Energy Commission is meeting to discuss old and new business, including the $500,000 Chubbuck Road 3-phase upgrade funding, solar projects, and a potential Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) study committee. The commission will also consider car charging stations and a new gas station proposal.

• $500,000 in funding for Chubbuck Road 3-phase upgrade
• Discussion on Town Pool PV shade/shelter
• Building car charging stations opportunities
• New Nouria Gas Station at 101/Jenkins Road
• Municipal Aggregation Cost Analysis and Presentation

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will review variance requests for a shed and an existing above-ground pool at 7 Birkdale Drive. The meeting also includes a geocaching presentation and updates on several ongoing projects.

• Variance request for shed construction within 50-foot wetland setback (7 Birkdale Drive)
• After-the-fact variance request for existing above-ground pool within 50-foot wetland setback (7 Birkdale Drive)
• Geocaching presentation by resident Ken Streeter
• Update on RFP for Joppa Hill Farm Survey
• Non-public session regarding potential real or personal property transactions

The Conservation Commission voted unanimously to recommend that the Zoning Board of Adjustment approve a variance for a 16x24-foot shed to be built no closer than 37 feet from the wetland edge, and an after-the-fact variance for an existing pool at 45 feet from the wetland, both at 7 Birkdale Drive. The recommendation includes a condition that the existing shed be removed once the new one is built. The Commission also heard a presentation on geocaching and discussed plans for a cleanup event, but took no formal action on that topic.

• Approved January 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved February 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended ZBA approval of shed variance at 7 Birkdale Drive, no closer than 37 feet from wetland (unanimous)
• Recommended ZBA approval of after-the-fact pool variance at 7 Birkdale Drive, 45 feet from wetland (unanimous)
• Condition: existing shed to be removed after new shed is built (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Bedford Parks and Recreation Commission will vote on the spring field use schedule and discuss creating a Trail Stewardship Subcommittee with the Conservation Commission. The meeting also includes approval of minutes and scheduling the next meeting for June 14, 2022.

• Approve Spring Field Use Schedule
• Discuss Trail Stewardship Subcommittee initiation
• Approval of minutes
• Next meeting set for June 14, 2022

Zoning Board

This meeting has no agenda available; only minutes may be reviewed. The agenda is purely procedural boilerplate with no specific items to report.

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 business item is scheduling a public hearing on an ordinance to establish a 25 MPH speed limit along Hamilton Way, Kennedy Dr., Roosevelt Dr., Jefferson Rd., and Presidential Rd. The agenda also includes public comments, approval of prior meeting minutes, and a town manager report.

• Schedule public hearing on Ordinance 2022-01 setting 25 MPH speed limit on Hamilton Way, Kennedy Dr., Roosevelt Dr., Jefferson Rd., and Presidential Rd.
• Oath of office for new councilors
• Election of chair and vice chair
• Board and commission assignments
• Approval of minutes from Feb 23 and Mar 9, 2022 meetings

The Bedford Town Council voted 7-0 to schedule a public hearing for April 13, 2022, to consider Ordinance 2022-01, which would set a 25 mph speed limit on Hamilton Way, Kennedy Dr., Roosevelt Dr., Jefferson Rd., and Presidential Rd. The council also elected Bill Carter as Chair and Lori Radke as Vice Chair, and made board and commission assignments. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely organizational.

• Scheduled public hearing for April 13, 2022 on Ordinance 2022-01 (25 mph speed limit) (7-0)
• Elected Bill Carter as Chair (7-0)
• Elected Lori Radke as Vice Chair (7-0)
• Approved minutes of February 23, 2022 Public Session (5-0-2, Bemiss and Greazzo abstained)
• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

Trustees of the Trust Funds

The Bedford Heights Trustees of the Trust Funds will meet to approve minutes, review the annual schedule of items, and receive a quarterly update from financial advisors. They will also discuss requesting a meeting with the Town Council to update the public on 2021 actions and results, and consider preferred months for quarterly meetings.

• Review and act on Annual Schedule of items
• Update on cemetery issues (Trustee McMahan)
• Quarterly update by financial advisors
• Discuss requesting a meeting with Town Council in April
• Discussion of preferred months for quarterly meetings

The Bedford Trustees of the Trust Funds met and approved the previous meeting's minutes. They re-elected Ken Peterson as Chair and Joe Fahey as Treasurer unanimously. The board reviewed the quarterly investment report, noting capital reserve funds produced $19,511 income and trust funds $128, with a -6.3% return due to market disruptions. They also discussed cemetery trust issues and planned to seek legislation.

• Approved minutes of 13 Dec 2021 as modified
• Re-elected Ken Peterson as Chair and Joe Fahey as Treasurer (unanimous)
• Scheduled quarterly investment review for 10:00 AM
• Agreed to present to Town Council at first April meeting

Water & Sewer Advisory Committee

The Water & Sewer Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss a Sewer Enterprise Fund Rate Study and a GIS update on asset management. The agenda also includes roll call, approval of minutes from a 2018 meeting, and setting the next meeting date. No decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Sewer Enterprise Fund Rate Study
• GIS Update – Asset Management
• Approval of minutes from March 15, 2018 meeting

The committee reviewed a sewer rate study by Hoyle Tanner showing current rates and projected revenue shortfalls, with options including a 4% increase starting in 2023. No formal decision was made on rate changes; the committee will discuss next steps at a future meeting. The GIS sewer inventory update was also presented, with no formal action taken.

• Approved minutes from March 15, 2018 meeting (deferred, not formally approved)
• No rate increase approved; rate study options discussed
• No formal action on sewer inventory GIS update

Poles and Wires Committee

This meeting was canceled. The only scheduled item, a Verizon Wireless request for small cell equipment on a utility pole near 187-189 South River Road, was postponed to the April 14, 2022 meeting at the applicant's request.

• Verizon Wireless small cell equipment application postponed to April 14, 2022
• Location: utility pole in Right-of-Way adjacent to 187-189 South River Road, Lots 22-22 & 22-87

Budgetary Town Meeting

This is the agenda for the Town of Bedford's Budgetary Town Meeting on March 9, 2022, at the High School Theater. The agenda contains only the meeting's time, location, and an accessibility notice; no specific budget items, proposals, or discussion topics are listed.

• Meeting location: High School Theater, 47 Nashua Road
• Meeting time: 7:00 PM
• Accessibility accommodation notice provided

At the March 9, 2022 Budgetary Town Meeting, voters approved the town operating budget of $36,853,791 as amended, and approved a $1,394,808 capital reserve fund appropriation. A proposed amendment to add $600,000 for six additional firefighters/EMTs failed 29-33, and a $90,000 overtime amendment also failed initially but a subsequent motion to fund it from Unassigned Fund Balance passed. Voters also passed a motion to allow the use of $138,242 in unallocated reserves for two new positions (Director of Strategic Initiatives and Police Accreditation Manager).

• Approved $1,394,808 capital reserve fund appropriation (motion passed)
• Approved $36,853,791 town operating budget as amended (motion passed)
• Rejected $600,000 amendment for six additional firefighters/EMTs (29-33)
• Rejected $90,000 overtime amendment for two firefighters (motion failed)
• Approved $90,000 increase to Unassigned Fund Balance to fund fire overtime (motion passed)
• Approved motion to allow use of $138,242 for Director of Strategic Initiatives and Police Accreditation Manager (motion passed)

Planning Board

There is no agenda available for this meeting. The record directs viewers to the meeting minutes for information.

Energy Commission

The Bedford Energy Commission will hear a presentation from the Community Power Coalition NH (CPCNH) about community power programs, and discuss old and new business including solar projects, municipal aggregation, and electric vehicle charging stations. The meeting is scheduled for February 24, 2022, at 7:00 PM in the Town Meeting Room.

• Guest presentation by CPCNH on community power programs
• Discussion of solar projects, including school projects and Town Pool PV shade/shelter
• Municipal aggregation cost analysis and presentation
• Opportunity for car charging stations, potentially 100% paid for by federal plan
• Zoning adjustments on the March ballot pending voter approval

The Bedford Energy Commission met on February 24, 2022, and heard a presentation from Phillip Stephenson about Community Power options, including the Community Power Coalition of NH (CPCNH). No formal decisions were made regarding community power; the commission only discussed the topic and considered next steps, such as presenting to the Town Council. The commission approved the January 27, 2022 minutes as amended (5-0-1).

• Approved January 27, 2022 minutes as amended (5-0-1, Thomas abstained)
• Discussed Community Power presentation, no action taken
• Noted next steps: present to Town Council after reorganization on March 14

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is holding a public hearing to consider an update to the Hazard Mitigation Plan, followed by regular business including approval of minutes from the January 26 meetings and reports from the town manager and councilors. The agenda is largely procedural, with no other substantive items listed.

• Public hearing on Hazard Mitigation Plan update
• Approval of minutes from January 26, 2022 public and non-public sessions
• Town Manager Report
• Councilor comments and committee updates

The Bedford Town Council voted unanimously to adopt the 2021 Hazard Mitigation Plan update, which helps the town qualify for disaster funding and identifies projects for the Capital Improvement Plan. The council also approved the minutes from the January 26, 2022 public and non-public sessions. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included public comments on a zoning amendment and a town manager report.

• Adopted 2021 Hazard Mitigation Plan update (6-0)
• Approved minutes of January 26, 2022 Public Session (6-0)
• Approved minutes of January 26, 2022 Non-Public Session (5-0-1, Thomas abstained)

Highway Safety Committee

The Bedford Heights Highway Safety Committee is meeting to discuss a request to reduce the speed limit from 30 mph to 25 mph in the vicinity of Presidential/Kennedy and Hamilton. The agenda also includes routine items such as approval of minutes, correspondence, and subcommittee reports.

• Request to reduce speed limit from 30 mph to 25 mph near Presidential/Kennedy and Hamilton
• Approval of minutes from October 26, 2021
• Subcommittee reports
• Correspondence and communications

The Bedford Highway Safety Committee voted to recommend to the Town Council reducing the speed limit from 30 mph to 25 mph in the vicinity of Presidential, Kennedy, and Hamilton, based on resident testimony about speeding and a petition with 44 of 48 homes supporting the change. The motion passed unanimously. The committee also acknowledged the departure of two long-serving members and the appointment of Ken Peterson as a full resident member.

• Recommended to Town Council to reduce speed limit from 30 mph to 25 mph near Presidential/Kennedy/Hamilton (passed unanimously)
• Approved minutes from October 26, 2021 meeting (passed)
• Acknowledged departure of Kelleigh Murphy and Madonna Lovett Repeta from committee
• Announced Ken Peterson appointed as full resident member by Town Council on January 26, 2022

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Conservation Commission is holding an informal workshop to discuss general conservation planning issues. The body will review protocols for naming properties and the creation of informational signs.

• Development of criteria and protocol for naming Conservation Areas
• Approval of names for unnamed properties
• Development of a list and review of templates for informational signs at Conservation Areas

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved the Bedford Historical Society's request to relocate a historical mower from the Pulpit Rock trails to the farming exhibit at the BHS museum, with support from the conservation easement holder and the State Office of Historic Resources. The Commission recommended BHS place an interpretive marker at the original mower location. The Commission also approved criteria for naming conservation areas (with modifications) and a list of newly proposed property names, and requested staff develop a policy for naming or re-naming areas after individuals. Staff was also asked to draft property guidelines and sign standards for conservation area signs.

• Approved the Bedford Historical Society's request to relocate a historical mower to the BHS museum
• Recommended BHS place an interpretive marker at the mower's original location
• Approved criteria for naming conservation areas with modifications
• Approved the list of newly proposed property names
• Requested staff develop a policy for naming or re-naming conservation areas after an individual
• Requested staff draft property guidelines and sign standards for conservation area signs

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a rehearing on New Hope Christian Fellowship's administrative appeal of a cease and desist order issued by the Building Code Official. The order was issued for hosting gatherings without a Certificate of Occupancy, in violation of local and international building codes. The meeting will also include approval of prior minutes and other routine business.

• Rehearing for New Hope Christian Fellowship's appeal of cease and desist order at 445 Rte 101
• Cease and desist order issued October 15, 2021 for gatherings without Certificate of Occupancy
• Violation of Bedford Building Construction Ordinance Section 92-10 and International Building Code Section 111.1
• Property is zoned R&A (Residential and Agricultural)
• Approval of minutes from December 21, 2021 meeting

The Bedford Zoning Board denied a request for rehearing from New Hope Christian Fellowship regarding an administrative appeal of a cease and desist order issued on October 15, 2021. The order was for hosting gatherings without a Certificate of Occupancy, violating building codes. The board voted 3-0 to deny the rehearing, upholding the original decision. The meeting also included unanimous approval of the previous meeting's minutes.

• Approved minutes of January 18, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Denied request for rehearing for New Hope Christian Fellowship (3-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board is reviewing several development requests, including a 10-lot cluster subdivision and an elderly housing project. Other items include a lot line adjustment, a change of use for a personal service establishment, and architectural approval for the Market & Main mixed-use development.

• 10-lot Cluster Residential Subdivision at 72 New Boston Road and Roblin Road
• Lot Line Adjustment and Consolidation on Olde Bedford Way (Lots 10-50-5, 13-40-1 & 13-40-2)
• Nine-unit single-family age-restricted development at 18 Olde Bedford Way
• Change of use from restaurant to personal service establishment at 28 South River Road
• Final architectural approval for six buildings at 125 South River Road (Market & Main)

The Bedford Planning Board granted final approval for the Cara Meadows cluster subdivision, a 10-lot residential development at 72 New Boston Road and Roblin Road, with 30 conditions including school bus turnaround adequacy. The board also approved a lot line adjustment and consolidation for Carnevale Spa Associates, a nine-unit age-restricted housing development at 18 Olde Bedford Way, a change of use at 28 South River Road, and final architectural approval for six buildings in the Market & Main development. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Cara Meadows 10-lot cluster subdivision with 30 conditions (unanimous)
• Granted two waivers for Cara Meadows: reduced centerline radius and shared driveways (unanimous)
• Approved lot line adjustment and consolidation for Carnevale Spa Associates (unanimous)
• Approved nine-unit age-restricted housing site plan at 18 Olde Bedford Way with 26 conditions (unanimous)
• Granted two waivers for the age-restricted housing: wider entrance road and reduced curve radius (unanimous)
• Approved change of use from restaurant to personal service at 28 South River Road (unanimous)
• Approved final architectural design for six Market & Main buildings with 4 conditions (unanimous)

Poles and Wires Committee

The Bedford Poles and Wires Committee will hold a public meeting to consider two continued applications: Verizon Wireless's request to install small cell equipment on an existing utility pole near 187-189 South River Road, and Eversource and Consolidated Communications' request for post-approval of utility pole and wire installations on several roads. No new business is listed. The meeting will also include approval of minutes from the January 13, 2022 meeting.

• Verizon Wireless small cell equipment on utility pole adjacent to 187-189 South River Road (Lots 22-22 & 22-87)
• Eversource and Consolidated Communications utility pole/wire replacement on Carriage Lane, Newbury Lane, McAfee Farm Road, Joppa Hill Road (Route 101 to N Amherst Road)
• Approval of minutes from January 13, 2022 meeting

The Poles and Wires Committee approved Eversource and Consolidated Communications' post-approval request for utility pole and wire installation/replacement on Carriage Lane, Newbury Lane, McAfee Farm Road, and Joppa Hill Road, subject to all work being completed within six months. The committee granted four waivers (first-class mail notification, stamped plans, before/after photos, and 150-foot pole spacing) for this application only. Eversource declined to disclose project costs, citing competitive reasons. The Verizon small cell application was postponed to March 10, 2022.

• Approved Eversource/Consolidated Communications pole and wire project with six-month completion condition (all in favor)
• Granted waiver for first-class mail notification instead of certified mail (all in favor)
• Granted waiver for stamped engineering/surveyor plans (all in favor)
• Granted waiver for before/after photos of new poles (all in favor)
• Granted waiver for 150-foot pole spacing requirement (all in favor)
• Postponed Verizon small cell application to March 10, 2022 (all in favor)
• Approved January 13, 2022 meeting minutes (all in favor)

Telecommunications Subcommittee

The Bedford Heights Telecommunications Subcommittee is meeting to receive a presentation from Comcast and discuss pending legislation related to telecommunications. The agenda also includes setting future meeting dates and approving the minutes from the October 1, 2021 meeting. This is a regular working session with no final decisions listed.

• Presentation by Comcast
• Discussion of pending legislation
• Consideration of future meeting dates and times
• Approval of minutes – October 1, 2021

The Bedford Telecommunications Committee heard a presentation from Comcast on its network and plans to deliver multi-gig upload/download speeds within 18-24 months. The committee discussed state legislation, including SB247, which saw no action, and SB395, which was recommended by a Senate committee. Future meetings were set for the fourth Friday of the month at 9:00 AM.

• Heard Comcast presentation on network and multi-gig upgrade plans
• Discussed SB247, no action taken by Senate committee
• Noted SB395 recommended by Senate committee for broadband matching grants
• Agreed future meetings on fourth Friday at 9:00 AM

Energy Commission

The Bedford Energy Commission is meeting to discuss old and new business, including solar projects, charging station updates, and potential March 2022 ballot initiatives. The agenda includes a presentation from the Community Power Coalition NH and discussion of municipal aggregation. Items are mostly discussion items, with no final votes scheduled except approval of minutes.

• Discussion of solar projects at school and town pool
• Charging station updates
• Discussion of March 2022 ballot zoning adjustments
• Community Power Coalition NH presentation
• Municipal aggregation cost analysis and presentation

The Bedford Energy Commission met on January 27, 2022, but took no formal votes due to lack of quorum for the minutes approval and no substantive decisions. Members discussed the school budget and warrants, solar projects at the Transfer Station, and recycling costs. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Adjourned meeting at 7:27 PM (unanimous)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold a second public hearing on the proposed 2022 budget and consider several contract awards, including road work and vehicle purchases. They will also discuss scheduling a hazard mitigation plan hearing and possibly releasing a legal opinion on charter changes.

• Second public hearing on proposed 2022 budget
• 2022 Roads Program update and contract extension award
• Bid awards for two six-wheel cab & chassis dump trucks, two six-wheel equipment, and one mechanic service truck with plow
• Action on request to release legal opinion regarding Town Charter modification
• Appointment to Highway Safety Committee

The Town Council approved the 2022 operating budget and capital reserve fund, forwarding them to the March 9 Budgetary Town Meeting. The budget includes a $0.01 tax rate reduction to $4.05, achieved by moving funds for two new positions into unallocated reserve and cutting other costs. The Council also awarded contracts for road work, dump trucks, and a mechanic's truck, and accepted two state grants for water infrastructure.

• Approved 2022 operating budget of $36,853,791 (6-0)
• Approved 2022 Capital Reserve Fund of $1,394,808 (6-0)
• Moved $138,247 for Director of Strategic Initiatives and CALEA Manager into Unallocated Reserve (6-0)
• Approved detective and two firefighter positions; denied HR assistant and Town Clerk hour increase (6-0)
• Authorized advancing 2022 Roads Program with Continental Paving and Busby Construction (6-0)
• Awarded Contract #19-2021 to Allegiance Trucks for $200,000 (6-0)
• Awarded Contract #20-2021 to H.P. Fairfield for $254,722 (6-0)
• Awarded Contract #18-2021 to Key Ford for $100,289 (6-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission is reviewing two dredge and fill permits for construction projects. The body will also discuss conservation area maintenance, naming, and programming.

• Dredge and Fill Permit for 1,312 sq. ft. of wetland fill for a private road at 18 Olde Bedford Way
• NH DOT Project 43138 permit to rehabilitate the Bowman Brook culvert under NH Route 114
• Clean-up at Hockman Conservation Area
• Naming of Conservation Areas and the Marston Property
• Eagle Scout Projects at Van Loan Preserve and Ash Bog

The Conservation Commission voted unanimously not to object to two dredge and fill permits: one for a private road to access a 9-unit elderly housing development at 18 Olde Bedford Way, and one for NH DOT's culvert rehabilitation under Route 114. They also approved spending $1,214.57 from conservation funds to clean up the Hockman Conservation Area, and discussed a logo contest and naming of conservation areas.

• Approved not objecting to Carnevale Spa dredge and fill permit for 1,312 sq ft wetland fill (unanimous)
• Approved not objecting to NH DOT culvert rehabilitation permit under Route 114 (unanimous)
• Approved $1,214.57 expenditure for Hockman Conservation Area cleanup (unanimous)
• Discussed logo contest and naming of conservation areas (no formal vote)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct public hearings regarding proposed zoning amendments and adjustments to School and Recreation impact fees. The board will also review site plans and traffic studies for several commercial properties.

• Second public hearing on proposed zoning amendments
• Traffic study and off-site improvement plan for mixed-use development at 125 South River Road
• Site plan amendment and screening waiver for dumpsters at 10 Iron Horse Drive
• Site plan approval to convert 10,300 SF of office space to commercial recreation at 21 Commerce Park North
• Public hearing on Land Development Control Regulations Article 120 regarding School and Recreation fee amounts

The Bedford Planning Board voted unanimously to place two proposed zoning amendments on the 2022 Town Ballot: one establishing standards for solar energy systems and another allowing detached accessory apartments in the Residential & Agricultural District with a Conditional Use Permit. The Board also voted unanimously to support a citizens' petition amendment limiting medical clinics in the Performance Zone to 20,000 square feet and two stories, which will appear on the ballot regardless of the Board's recommendation. Additionally, the Board approved the final traffic study for the Market & Main development, approved a site plan amendment for dumpster relocations at 10 Iron Horse Drive, approved a change of use to commercial recreation at 21 Commerce Park North, and adopted updated school and recreation impact fees.

• Approved sending zoning amendments for solar and detached accessory apartments to Town Ballot (unanimous)
• Voted to support citizens' petition limiting medical clinics in Performance Zone to 20,000 SF and 2 stories (unanimous)
• Accepted final traffic study for Market & Main development, satisfying Condition #10 (unanimous)
• Granted waiver and site plan amendment for dumpster relocations at 10 Iron Horse Drive (unanimous)
• Approved change of use to commercial recreation at 21 Commerce Park North (unanimous)
• Adopted updated school and recreation impact fees per Article 120 (unanimous)

BCTV-WBNH Board of Overseers

The Board of Overseers will meet to review reports from the BCTV-WBNH Manager and the WBNH Radio Program Director. The body will also consider the approval of minutes from the June 16, 2021 meeting.

• Approval of June 16, 2021 meeting minutes
• BCTV-WBNH Manager’s Report
• WBNH Radio Program Director’s Report

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a variance request from Allan and Judith MacLellan to build a ground-mounted solar array closer to the side setback than allowed at 41 North Amherst Road. The board will also approve minutes from the previous meeting. No other old or new business is listed.

• Variance request for solar array at 41 North Amherst Road, Lot 20-64-4, zoned R&A
• Proposed solar array would be 18.76 feet from side setback, 25 feet required
• Public hearing scheduled for January 18, 2022 at 7:00 PM

Poles and Wires Committee

The Bedford Poles and Wires Committee will hold a public meeting to discuss old and new business. The Verizon Wireless small cell application for South River Road has been postponed to February 10, 2022. New business includes a request from Eversource and Consolidated Communications for post-approval of utility pole and wire installations on several roads. The committee will also approve minutes from the November 18, 2021 meeting.

• Verizon Wireless small cell equipment request at 187-189 South River Road postponed to Feb 10, 2022
• Eversource and Consolidated Communications request for post-approval of utility pole and wire replacements on Carriage Lane, Newbury Lane, McAfee Farm Road, and Joppa Hill Road
• Approval of minutes from November 18, 2021 meeting

The Committee voted unanimously to continue the Eversource and Consolidated Communications application for new utility poles and wires on Carriage Lane, Newbury Lane, McAfee Farm Road, and Joppa Hill Road to the February 10, 2022 meeting. The postponement allows time for field inspections of specific poles and for discussions between the applicant and Town staff on coordinated communication and waiver requests. The Committee also approved the November 18, 2021 minutes and adjourned.

• Continued Eversource/Consolidated Communications pole application to Feb. 10, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved November 18, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 10:21 a.m. (unanimous)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold the first public hearing on the proposed 2022 budget and discuss amending the budget approval process. The council will also receive an update from the NH PFAS Commission, consider an appointment to the Conservation Commission, and accept a resignation creating a vacancy.

• First public hearing on proposed 2022 budget
• Discussion of amending the budget approval process
• Update from NH PFAS Commission – Second Interim Report
• Appointment to Conservation Commission
• Acceptance of resignation of Councilor Murphy and declaring a vacancy

The Bedford Town Council accepted Councilor Murphy's resignation and declared a vacancy, appointed Gregory Handy to the Conservation Commission, and held the first public hearing on the 2022 budget. The Council also discussed but did not vote on a proposal to change the budget approval process to official ballot (SB2), which would require a Charter Revision process. No final decisions were made on the budget or the ballot question.

• Accepted Councilor Murphy's resignation (6-0)
• Declared a vacancy on the Town Council (6-0)
• Appointed Gregory Handy to the Conservation Commission, term expiring 2023 (6-0)
• Opened and closed first public hearing on 2022 budget (6-0)
• Approved minutes of Nov 13, 2021 Budget Workshop (6-0)
• Approved minutes of Dec 15, 2021 Public Session (6-0)
• Approved minutes of Dec 15, 2021 Non-Public Session (5-0-1, Thomas abstained)
• Moved into non-public session for property discussion (6-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider a request for architectural modifications and a sign waiver at 18 Kilton Road. The Board will also conduct its first public hearing regarding proposed zoning amendments.

• Site Plan Amendment for Group I Realty, Inc. at 18 Kilton Road (Ira Lexus)
• Signage waiver request for signs greater than 32 square feet
• First public hearing on proposed zoning amendments

The Bedford Planning Board approved a site plan amendment and sign waiver for Group I Realty at 18 Kilton Road (Ira Lexus), allowing architectural modifications and larger building signage. The board also held public hearings on three proposed zoning amendments, amending the solar zoning proposal to increase height limits to 20 feet and add glare prevention language. No final action was taken on the zoning amendments, which will be continued to the January 24, 2022 meeting.

• Approved sign waiver for three building signs (31+/- sq ft IRA Lexus, 11.58 sq ft service, 49 sq ft logo) (unanimous)
• Approved site plan amendment for architectural modifications per plans by Clear Architectural Design and Independence Engineering (unanimous)
• Amended proposed Zoning Amendment #1 (Solar) to increase max height to 20 feet and add glare prevention wording (unanimous)
• Approved reposting of amended Zoning Amendment #1 (Solar) (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing on zoning amendments to January 24, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of December 20, 2021 meeting (Newberry abstained)
• Motion to require masks at meetings failed (voice vote)

Historic District Commission

The Bedford Historic District Commission will hold a public meeting to review two applications: a minor addition to an accessory storage shed at 62 Bedford Center Road and a roof-mounted solar array at 23 Church Road. The commission will also discuss a proposed zoning amendment on solar energy systems and potential changes to its regulations. The meeting includes standard procedural items such as approval of minutes and member comments.

• Minor addition to accessory storage shed at 62 Bedford Center Road (Lot 13-62, Zoned R&A)
• Roof-mounted solar array at 23 Church Road (Lot 14-53, Zoned R&A)
• Discussion of Zoning Amendment No. 1 – Solar Energy Systems
• Discussion of potential changes to Historic District Commission Regulations

The Bedford Historic District Commission unanimously approved two applications: a minor addition to an accessory storage shed at 62 Bedford Center Road and a roof-mounted solar array at 23 Church Road. Both approvals are subject to conditions requiring completion within two years and submission of photos. The commission also discussed potential updates to regulations for solar energy systems in the Historic District, but no formal action was taken on that item.

• Approved minor addition to accessory storage shed at 62 Bedford Center Road (unanimous)
• Approved roof-mounted solar array at 23 Church Road (unanimous)
• Approved November 2, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous, Radke abstained)