Bedford Heights public meetings in 2025

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will review a request to temporarily fill a portion of an intermittent stream for a utility crossing. The body will also receive updates on the Acorn Acquisition and RTP Grant Acceptance.

• Review of Trendezza, LLC request to fill 68 square feet of intermittent stream at 54 Rundlett Hill Road
• Update on Acorn Acquisition status
• Update on RTP Grant Acceptance
• Non-public session regarding the acquisition, sale, or lease of real or personal property

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the November 25, 2025 meeting. Chair Killian appointed Erin Crowley and Diana Szumiesz as voting members for the evening. No other actions were voted on during the session.

• Approved November 25, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Erin Crowley and Diana Szumiesz as voting members for this meeting

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission will discuss the status, budget, and schedule of the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility. Members will also review a new rate structure for Community Power to determine the program's launch. The meeting includes updates on school project planning and the C-PACER program.

• Chubbuck Road Solar Facility status, bonding, and budget
• Community Power new rate structure review
• C-PACER Program information
• School projects progress and system upgrades
• Climate Pollution Reduction Grant updates

The commission approved the minutes of the November 20, 2025 meeting after correcting the date, with a vote of 4 yea, 0 nay, and 1 abstention. A motion to adjourn the December 18 meeting was also passed. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved November 20, 2025 minutes (4-0-1)
• Motion to adjourn passed

Town Council

The Bedford Heights Town Council will consider accepting a $24,800 NH Trails Bureau grant to build a viewing platform at the Pulpit Rock Conservation Area. The council will also certify a petitioned zoning amendment and discuss potential zoning changes from the Planning Board. Additional items include actions on collective bargaining agreements for the fire and police unions, awarding a fire department medical equipment contract, and reviewing 2026 budget decisions.

• Accept $24,800 NH Trails Bureau Recreational Trails Program Grant for a viewing platform at Pulpit Rock Conservation Area
• Certification of a petitioned zoning amendment
• Action on the Bedford Professional Firefighters Association (Local 3639) collective bargaining agreement
• Award of the Fire Department medical equipment contract
• Review of 2026 budget decisions and related warrant articles

The council voted 7-0 to accept a $24,800 Recreational Trails Program grant for a viewing platform at the Pulpit Rock Conservation Area and authorized the Town Manager to complete the grant agreement. They also voted 7-0 to forward a citizen‑petition with 51 signatures to amend the Historic District boundary to the Planning Board and Historic District Commission for review.

• Approved $24,800 Recreational Trails Program grant for Pulpit Rock viewing platform (7-0)
• Authorized Town Manager to finalize grant agreement (7-0)
• Forwarded historic district boundary amendment petition (51 signatures) to Planning Board (7-0)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold a public hearing to accept a $24,800 grant from the NH Trails Bureau for constructing a viewing platform at the Pulpit Rock Conservation Area.

• Public hearing for NH Trails Bureau grant ($24,800)
• Construction of viewing platform at Pulpit Rock Conservation Area

The Bedford Town Council voted to accept a $24,800 Recreational Trails Program grant to fund a viewing platform at the Pulpit Rock Conservation Area. The council also authorized the Town Manager to finalize any required grant agreements. The motion passed unanimously, 7‑0.

• Approved acceptance of $24,800 Recreational Trails Program grant for viewing platform at Pulpit Rock Conservation Area (7-0)
• Authorized Town Manager to complete required grant agreements (7-0)

BCTV-WBNH Board of Overseers

The BCTV‑WBNH Board of Overseers Subcommittee will meet on Dec. 17, 2025 to review action items related to creating the "Friends of BCTV‑WBNH" non‑profit organization. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• Review of action items regarding the formation of the "Friends of BCTV‑WBNH" non‑profit

The sub‑committee reviewed a draft of the Supporters of BCTV‑WBNH bylaws and agreed on minor changes. A motion by Bob Thomas to transfer the remaining non‑profit formation tasks to the participants and remove the task from the sub‑committee was seconded by Julio Nunez and passed unanimously. The participants scheduled their next meeting for December 30, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. at BCTV.

• Minor bylaws changes agreed; Bob Thomas to update and distribute revised copy
• Motion to transfer non‑profit formation tasks to participants passed unanimously
• Task removed from Sub‑Committee as a result of the motion
• Non‑profit participants set meeting for Dec 30, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. at BCTV

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board will hear an appeal regarding retaining walls at 16 Suzanne Drive and a variance request for a porch at 28 Westview Road. The meeting will also include the approval of minutes from November 18, 2025.

• Appeal of retaining wall decision at 16 Suzanne Drive
• Variance request for porch at 28 Westview Road
• Approval of November 18, 2025 Zoning Board minutes
• Miller and Brown applicants for wall appeal
• Andrew Vincent applicant for porch variance

The Bedford Zoning Board unanimously approved the December 16, 2025 meeting minutes. The board also voted unanimously to hold nonpublic input for the variance request on 28 Westview Road. No final decision on the variance was recorded; further deliberation is pending.

• Approved meeting minutes (All in Favor)
• Moved to nonpublic input for variance deliberation (All in Favor)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will consider three permit requests: a conditional use permit for streambank work at Manchester Country Club, a home occupation permit for a wholesale car dealership office, and a site‑plan approval for exterior changes to a 3‑unit multifamily building. The Board will also read and post the proposed 2026 zoning amendments and announce the public hearing dates of January 5 and January 12, 2026. Minutes from the December 1, 2025 meeting will be approved.

• Conditional Use Permit request for streambank stabilization at Manchester Country Club, 180 South River Road, Lot 22‑52, Zoned PZ
• Home Occupation Permit request for a wholesale car dealership office at 62 Palomino Road, Lot 11‑24‑15, Zoned GR
• Site‑Plan approval request for exterior modifications to an existing 3‑unit multifamily development at 61 Plummer Road, Lot 13‑1‑1, Zoned GR
• Reading and posting of proposed 2026 zoning amendments and announcement of public hearing dates: Jan 5 2026 and Jan 12 2026
• Approval of minutes from the December 1, 2025 meeting

The Bedford Planning Board accepted the agenda as read with a unanimous vote. The board then approved a Conditional Use Permit for Manchester Country Club, Lot 22-52, to permit stream‑buffer disturbance and restoration work, subject to post‑construction reporting and buffer‑marking conditions. The motion was seconded and carried unanimously. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Accepted agenda as read (unanimous)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Manchester Country Club, Lot 22-52 (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will review updates on the Legacy Skateboard Park Project and the Riley Field Fieldhouse Project. The body will also discuss renaming Swenson South Field after Michael Bernard.

• Legacy Skateboard Park Project update
• Riley Field Fieldhouse Project
• Proposed renaming of Swenson South Field after Michael Bernard

The Parks & Recreation Commission accepted a motion to recommend that Bedford Town Council rename Swenson South field as Lt. Michael Bernard Field. No vote tally was recorded. The meeting also included updates on the Legacy Skateboard Park and Riley Fieldhouse projects, but no formal actions were taken on those items.

• Accepted motion to recommend renaming Swenson South field to Lt. Michael Bernard Field (no vote recorded)
• No formal action taken on Legacy Skateboard Park update
• No formal action taken on Riley Fieldhouse funding request

Trustees of the Trust Funds

The Bedford Trustees of the Trust Funds will meet to acknowledge prior minutes, confirm no withdrawals from BCOCA funds, and review quarterly investment performance. The agenda includes a discussion on potential new candidates for the board.

• Review quarterly investment performance
• Confirm no withdrawals from BCOCA funds
• Discuss possible new candidates for Trustees

BCTV-WBNH Board of Overseers

The BCTV-WBNH Board of Overseers Subcommittee will meet to discuss the formation of a non-profit organization called “Friends of BCTV-WBNH”.

• Discussion regarding the formation of “Friends of BCTV-WBNH” Non-profit

The sub‑committee discussed creating a Friends of BCTV‑WBNH 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Bob Thomas, Dick Rawlings and Julio Nunez volunteered to serve on its board of officers, and Harry Kozlowski offered to serve as a non‑voting member. The group agreed on action steps to file for corporation status, obtain a tax ID, and open a bank account, and scheduled the next meeting for Dec 17 2025.

• Bob Thomas, Dick Rawlings, and Julio Nunez volunteered to serve on the Board of Officers (no vote recorded)
• Harry Kozlowski offered to serve as a non‑voting member (no vote recorded)
• Committee agreed to pursue filing for corporation, tax ID, and 501(c)(3) status (no vote recorded)
• Committee set next sub‑committee meeting for Dec 17 2025 at 5 p.m. (no vote recorded)

Historic District Commission

The Commission will receive a presentation on draft design guidelines from consultant Chris Skelly of Skelly Preservation Services. The body will also address the amended Historic District Ordinance and CAMP Grant programming.

• Draft Design Guidelines presentation by Chris Skelly
• Amended Historic District Ordinance
• CAMP Grant programming and dates
• Administrative approvals

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review a site‑plan request for a single‑story, 150,000‑sq‑ft commercial building at 308 South River Road, Lot 24‑98‑19, zoned PZ. It will also consider a conditional use permit and site plan for a 21‑unit cottage‑court housing development off Constitution Drive, Lot 13‑72, zoned OF. Additionally, the board will discuss draft zoning amendments for 2026.

• Site‑plan approval request for a single‑story, 150,000 sq ft commercial building at 308 South River Road, Lot 24‑98‑19 (Zoned PZ) – applicant Robert Golub and owner Bedford RLG Properties LLC
• Conditional Use Permit and site‑plan request for a 21‑unit Cottage Court Housing Development off Constitution Drive, Lot 13‑72 (Zoned OF) – applicant West Keene Street, LLC
• Discussion of 2026 Draft Zoning Amendments

The Planning Board appointed Chris Bandazian as a voting member for this meeting. The Board then unanimously approved the agenda as read. No other substantive actions were decided at this session.

• Appointed Chris Bandazian as a voting member for the meeting (by Chair)
• Approved agenda as read (all in favor)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will consider a request for a Conditional Use Permit regarding stream buffer disturbance on Chandler Brook. The body will also discuss a submittal policy, trail projects, and the Acorn acquisition.

• Conditional Use Permit request for streambank stabilization at 180 South River Road (Manchester Country Club)
• Amended Submittal Policy
• Trail Projects Work Plan
• Acorn Acquisition
• Joppa Hill CE Amendments

The commission approved the minutes from the October 28, 2025 workshop by a unanimous vote. Ms. Diana Szumiesz was appointed as a voting member for the evening. A request from Manchester Associates for a Conditional Use Permit to stabilize Chandler Brook was presented and discussed, but no recommendation or vote was recorded.

• Approved October 28, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Diana Szumiesz as voting member for this meeting
• Discussed Manchester Associates streambank stabilization request – no decision recorded

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission will review the status of the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility, covering bonding, scope, budget, and schedule. It will discuss the launch of the Community Power program, which depends on a new rate period decision expected by the end of December 2025. Additional updates include next steps for the C‑PACER program, school project progress, and several grant‑related items.

• Chubbuck Road Solar Facility – bonding, progress, scope, budget, schedule
• Community Power launch – pending new rate period decision
• C‑PACER Program – next steps
• Master Plan/Display Monitor at Transfer Station – on hold
• Grant Funding for NH Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) program – discussion

The commission voted 7‑yea to 0‑nay to approve the minutes from the October 23, 2025 meeting. A motion to adjourn the November 20, 2025 meeting was also passed. The remainder of the agenda consisted of informational updates on the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility, Community Power launch, C‑PACER program, and other projects, with no further actions taken.

• Approved October 23, 2025 minutes (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Town Council

The Bedford Heights Town Council will consider awarding a contract to purchase police vehicles and a separate bid for an ambulance. Council members will review decisions from the 2026 budget workshop and continue budget discussions, including a presentation linking the ballot box to the tax bill. A public hearing will address updates to the Rate and Fee Schedule, and the council will discuss facilities survey results.

• Award of Police vehicle purchase contract
• Award of the ambulance purchase bid
• Review of 2026 budget workshop decisions and continuation of budget discussions
• Public hearing on updates to the Rate and Fee Schedule
• Facilities Survey Results

The Bedford Town Council adopted updates to the fee schedule and Transfer Station rates (6‑0). It awarded a $147,495 contract for three police vehicles to Grappone Ford (6‑0) and a $384,609 ambulance purchase to Sugarloaf Ambulance/Rescue Vehicles (6‑0). The council also approved multiple budget line changes, including increases for council miscellaneous and recreation intern funding, and decreases for property insurance, planning donations, and fire uniform allowances.

• Approved fee schedule and Transfer Station rates changes (6-0)
• Awarded police vehicle contract to Grappone Ford for $147,495 (6-0)
• Awarded ambulance purchase to Sugarloaf Ambulance/Rescue Vehicles for $384,609 (6-0)
• Increased Town Council Miscellaneous line by $2,000 to $4,500 (4-2) [Strand, Greazzo nay]
• Increased Recreation Administrative budget by $5,000 for part‑time intern (4-2) [Bemiss, Radke nay]
• Decreased property insurance line by $14,600 (6-0)
• Decreased planning donations line by $500 (6-0)
• Increased planning budget by $5,000 for educational expense reimbursements (6-0)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is holding a public hearing to receive testimony regarding proposed updates to the Rate & Fee Schedule.

• Public hearing on Rate & Fee Schedule updates

The council approved updates to the rate and fee schedule, including raising the historic district abutter notice fee to $2, increasing the dog replacement tag fee to $1.50, making scrap metal disposal free, removing “metal” from the bulky items definition, and adding a definition for scrap metal. The motion was moved by Councilor Levesque, seconded by Councilor Greazzo, and passed unanimously with a 6‑0 vote. No other actions were taken.

• Approved fee schedule and Transfer Station Rates & Rules changes (6-0)

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment meets on November 18, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. in the Town Meeting Room. It will decide on a variance request to permanently impact 2,128 sq ft and temporarily impact 270 sq ft of wetlands for a medical office building at 265 and 269 South River Road, Zone PZ. The board will also hear an appeal concerning permitting and construction of retaining walls at 16 Suzzane Drive, Zone RA. The meeting includes routine items such as approval of October 21, 2025 minutes.

• Variance request to fill 2,128 sq ft of wetlands (permanent) and 270 sq ft (temporary) for a medical office at 265/269 South River Road, Zone PZ
• Appeal of administrative decision on retaining walls at 16 Suzzane Drive, Zone RA
• Approval of minutes from the October 21, 2025 meeting

The Bedford Zoning Board approved the minutes from the October 21, 2025 meeting with all members voting in favor. Chair Morin appointed Marc Snyder and Joe Fahey to vote on the variance request later that evening. No vote outcome was recorded for the 265 SRR LLC variance request during this meeting.

• Approved October 21, 2025 minutes (All in Favor)
• Appointed Marc Snyder and Joe Fahey to vote on the variance request

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider sign waiver requests for two businesses and a site plan for building demolition and parking expansion. The board will also discuss draft zoning amendments for 2026.

• Sign waiver request for Genesis dealership at 213 South River Road (up to 72.08 sq. ft. wall signs and 97.44 sq. ft. ground signs)
• Sign waiver request for pylon sign modifications at 26 South River Road
• Site plan approval for demolition and additional parking at 41 & 45 South River Road
• Discussion of 2026 Draft Zoning Amendments

The Planning Board voted to accept the agenda as read, with all members in favor. No other actions were voted on or decided during this meeting. The sign waiver request for the Genesis dealership was discussed but no decision was recorded.

• Accepted agenda as read (unanimous vote)

Water & Sewer Advisory Committee

The Bedford Heights Water & Sewer Advisory Committee will approve minutes from October 10, 2024 and June 12, 2025. It will discuss a proposed upgrade to the siphon station. The committee will review updates to the financial model, including the master plan, BOD and TSS updates, and flow metering plans for 2026. Finally, it will set the date for the next meeting.

• Approval of minutes – October 10, 2024 and June 12, 2025
• Siphon station upgrade plan
• Financial model update – master plan
• Financial model update – BOD and TSS
• Flow metering plan for 2026

The Water & Sewer Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the October 10, 2024 meeting by a 4‑0‑1 vote (four approvals, one abstention). It also approved the minutes from the June 12, 2025 meeting by a 3‑0‑2 vote (three approvals, two abstentions). No other actions were formally decided at this meeting.

• Approved October 10, 2024 minutes (4 approve, 0 deny, 1 abstain)
• Approved June 12, 2025 minutes (3 approve, 0 deny, 2 abstain)

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will consider a request from David Chaisson to excavate approximately 4.5 × 35 feet for a new stonewall and driveway expansion at 311 Wallace Road, Lot 20‑66. The commission will also review proposed amendments to the Historic District Ordinance and continue discussions on certificates of approval, administrative approvals, exemptions, and tree regulations. Old business includes an update on design guidelines and CAMP grant programming.

• Request for a certificate of approval to excavate ~4.5’ × 35’ for a stonewall and driveway expansion at 311 Wallace Road, Lot 20‑66
• Proposed amendments to the Historic District Ordinance
• Continued discussion of Certificates of Approval, Administrative Approvals, and Exemptions
• Continued discussion of proposed tree regulations
• Update on status of Design Guidelines (old business)

The commission voted unanimously to approve the applicant’s request to construct a dry‑stacked stone wall on the north side of the driveway at 311 Wallace Road, Lot 20‑66, with conditions to submit photos, complete the work within one year, and remove all stockpiled materials. The commission also approved amendments to the Historic District Ordinance, moving the district description into the ordinance, revising the list of activities that require a certificate of approval, and delegating procedural details to the regulations. The amendments establish a one‑year extension limit for project completion and set a penalty of $275 per day for non‑compliance as referenced in the town’s zoning ordinance.

• Approved stone wall request at 311 Wallace Rd (unanimous)
• Adopted amendment moving district description into the ordinance
• Revised ordinance to require a certificate of approval for construction, alteration, movement, or demolition
• Moved application procedure language from ordinance to regulations
• Set one‑year maximum extension for project completion
• Specified $275 per day penalty for violations per Zoning Ordinance 275.87

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will review three pending site‑plan applications: a sign‑waiver for the Genesis dealership at 213 South River Road, a 150,000‑sq‑ft commercial building at 308 South River Road, and a 3,500‑sq‑ft addition with daycare at 24 Tirrell Hill Road. The board will also approve minutes from the October meetings. No other business is listed.

• Performance Zone Sign Waiver for Genesis dealership – up to 72.08 sq ft wall signs and 97.44 sq ft ground signs at 213 South River Road, Lot 22‑28 (Zoned PZ)
• Site‑plan approval for a 150,000 sq ft commercial building with 36 loading bays and 275 parking spaces at 308 South River Road, Lot 24‑98‑19 (Zoned PZ)
• Site‑plan approval for a 3,500 sq ft addition and daycare use at Bedford Montessori School, 24 Tirrell Hill Road, Lot 1‑67 (Zoned R&A)

The Planning Board unanimously accepted the agenda as read. Two applications were postponed: TT of Willow, LLC’s performance‑zone sign waiver was moved to the November 17 meeting, and Robert Golub’s site‑plan request for 308 South River Road was moved to the December 1 meeting. No other substantive actions were recorded.

• Accepted agenda as read (unanimous vote)
• Postponed TT of Willow performance‑zone sign waiver to Nov 17
• Postponed Robert Golub site‑plan application to Dec 1

Town Council

The Bedford Heights Town Council will hold a budget workshop to discuss the upcoming fiscal year. Council members will review budget items for each department, including BCTV, Fire, Police, Planning, and others. No specific motions or approvals are listed on the agenda.

• Budget review – BCTV
• Budget review – Fire Department
• Budget review – Police Department
• Budget review – Planning Department
• Budget review – Department of Public Works (DPW)

The council voted to approve transferring funds so the police department can replace its tasers this year. The town manager funded a part‑time records clerk position for the police department but did not fund a victim‑advocate position. Other budget items, such as ambulance revenue handling and fire department staffing, were discussed but no formal decisions were recorded.

• Approved transfer of funds for police taser replacement
• Funded part‑time police records clerk
• Did not fund police victim‑advocate position

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will conduct an informal workshop to review local ordinances and conservation initiatives. No public testimony will be heard during this session.

• Review of Year 1 of Stream Protection Ordinance
• Review of the Bedford Wetland Ordinance
• Request for conservation funds for a stream survey for Riddle Brook Bridge replacement at Van Loan Preserve
• Discussion of Joppa Farm Conservation Area Holstein cow sign

The commission voted 5-0 to authorize up to $5,000 for a stream survey needed for the NH DES permit for the Riddle Brook bridge replacement. They directed staff to obtain a cost estimate for a new Holstein Cow sign at Joppа Hill Conservation Area and to gather data on wetland buffer widths and possible grant funding. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved $5,000 stream survey for Riddle Brook bridge (5-0)
• Directed staff to obtain cost estimate for new Holstein Cow sign
• Requested staff to seek data on wetland buffer width effectiveness
• Requested staff to investigate grant opportunities for wetland data
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission will discuss the status, budget, and schedule of the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility. Members will also review the CPCNH Cost Sharing Agreement and the C-PACER program presentation. The meeting includes updates on school project planning and various energy grants.

• Chubbuck Road Solar Facility status, bonding, and budget
• CPCNH Cost Sharing Agreement and Complete Service Bundle
• C-PACER Program presentation by NHBFA
• School projects progress and planning updates
• Climate Pollution Reduction Grant and NH Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) program

The commission approved the minutes from the September 25, 2025 meeting with a vote of 6 yeas, 0 nays and 2 abstentions. Members received updates on the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility, including panel delivery delays and monitoring plans. The launch of the Community Power program was placed on hold until February/March 2026, and the council took a wait‑and‑see approach to the C‑PACER financing program. No other actions were voted on.

• Approved September 25, 2025 minutes (6‑yea, 0‑nay, 2‑abstain)
• Motion to adjourn passed (motion by McLaughlin, seconded by Foote)

Town Council

The council will hold a public hearing on a petition to discontinue a portion of Rundlett Hill Road. In new business, they will receive a library annual update, discuss a possible 2026 ballot warrant to rebuild the Bedford Skateboard Park, hear a presentation on the State’s Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy and Resiliency (C‑PACER) program, review facilities survey results, and consider the Town Manager’s budget submission.

• Petition for discontinuance of a portion of Rundlett Hill Road (public hearing)
• Library annual update
• Discussion of potential 2026 ballot warrant for rebuilding Bedford Skateboard Park
• Presentation on the State’s Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy and Resiliency (C‑PACER) program
• Submission of the Town Manager’s budget

The Bedford Town Council held a roll‑call vote on whether Councilor Michael Strand could continue serving and join the meeting. All six present members voted aye, allowing him to remain on the council and participate. No other substantive actions or approvals were recorded in this meeting.

• Allowed Councilor Michael Strand to remain on council and join meeting (6‑0)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold a public hearing on October 22, 2025 at 6:30 PM in the Bedford Meeting Room. The hearing will solicit public testimony regarding the discontinuance of a portion of Rundlett Hill Road. The segment considered is about 120 feet long and is located north of the intersection of Rundlett Hill Road and Worthley Road.

• Public hearing on discontinuance of ~120‑ft segment of Rundlett Hill Road north of the Rundlett Hill and Worthley Road intersection

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will consider four variance requests. These include requests to build structures closer to wetlands or setbacks than allowed and a request to permit a daycare facility in a residential zone.

• Variance for 1,038 sq. ft. barn at 40 Barr Farm Road (45.8 ft from wetland; 50 ft required)
• Variance for 480 sq. ft. shed at 40 Barr Farm Road (38 ft from wetland; 50 ft required)
• Variance for 476 sq. ft. home addition at 28 Essex Road (20.7 ft from side setback; 25 ft required)
• Variance for daycare facility at 24 Tirrell Hill Road in R&A zone

The Board voted 5‑0 to approve the minutes from the September 16, 2025 meeting. No vote or final decision was recorded on the two variance requests for 40 Barr Farm Road; the discussion remained open.

• Approved September 16, 2025 minutes (5-0)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will consider five applications for permits and site plans. Items include a home‑occupation permit for a hair salon, a lot subdivision, a sign‑waiver for a car dealership, a time‑extension for a warehouse site plan, and a new site‑plan for a fitness facility. The board will also approve minutes from previous meetings and handle routine communications.

• Home Occupation Permit for expansion of a hair salon at 157 Nashua Road, Lot 32-19 (Zoned R&A)
• Subdivision of one residential lot into two at 61 Plummer Road, Lot 13-1-1 (Zoned GR)
• Performance Zone Sign Waiver for Genesis dealership at 213 South River Road, Lot 22-28 (up to 72.08 sq ft wall signs, 97.44 sq ft ground signs, Zoned PZ)
• Time‑extension request for a previously approved site plan for a 17,012 sq ft warehouse at 451 South River Road, Lot 36-6-1 (Zoned PZ)
• Site Plan approval for Flight House Gym, a 30,000 sq ft, two‑story fitness facility at 125 South River Road, Lot 12‑33 (Zoned PZ)

The board approved the agenda as presented, with all members voting in favor. No vote or decision was recorded for the Flight House Gym site plan or the home‑occupation permit request. Public comments were heard regarding the salon relocation request.

• Accepted agenda as read (all in favor)

BCTV-WBNH Board of Overseers

The Board will approve minutes from the April 3, 2025 meeting and discuss the "Friends of BCTV‑WBNH" group. The primary focus is a discussion of the BCTV‑WBNH 2026 Proposed Budget. Additional items include an underwriter update, the manager’s report with the WBNH radio program, and a director’s report outlining 2026 meeting dates.

• Approve minutes from the April 3, 2025 meeting
• Discuss "Friends of BCTV‑WBNH"
• Discuss BCTV‑WBNH 2026 Proposed Budget
• Underwriter Update discussion
• BCTV‑WBNH Manager’s Report & WBNH Radio Program

The Board approved the April 3, 2025 meeting minutes with all members in favor and two abstentions. They removed Kathleen Bemiss from the Friends of BCTV‑WBNH sub‑committee and added Chairman Bob Thomas, creating a new member list. A motion to adjourn was passed unanimously. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved April 3, 2025 minutes (all in favor, 2 abstentions)
• Replaced Kathleen Bemiss with Bob Thomas on Friends sub‑committee
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Town Council

The Town Council will meet to discuss new business and review reports. The primary decision item involves the approval of a cost sharing and complete service bundle from the Community Power Coalition of NH.

• Approval of Community Power Coalition of NH cost sharing & complete service bundle
• Update on the Facilities Survey

Council members discussed safety concerns at the Benchmark Human Services residential home and the town's limited authority over the state‑contracted facility. They also reviewed the Community Power Coalition of NH cost‑sharing agreement and related policies, noting that current electricity rates are higher than the default supplier and that no launch decision can be made yet. No motions were voted on, approved, denied, or tabled during the meeting.

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will hold an informal workshop on October 7, 2025. Commissioners will discuss a range of topics related to the historic district, such as the status of design guidelines, possible changes to the ordinance and regulations, tree regulations, and the district boundary. Additional items include the abutter notification fee and expanded administrative approvals. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Status of the Design Guidelines
• Potential changes to the Historic District Ordinance & Regulations
• Tree regulations
• Historic District Abutter Notification Fee
• Review of the Historic District Boundary

The Historic District Commission directed staff to keep the $25 application fee and charge $2 for abutter notifications. It limited the certificate of approval requirement to activities visible from the public way, with other activities needing only administrative approval. The commission approved creating an approved paint‑color palette, requiring a certificate for any other colors. It asked staff to draft new tree‑removal regulations covering buffering, line‑setbacks, rear‑yard removal, size criteria, and possible size increases.

• Set abutter notification fee at $2 and retain $25 application fee
• Limit certificate of approval to activities visible from the public way; other activities get administrative approval
• Instruct staff to research alternative definitions for “public view” terminology
• Approve development of an approved paint‑color palette; non‑palette colors require a certificate
• Task staff with drafting tree‑removal regulations covering buffering, line setbacks, rear‑yard removal, size criteria, and possible size increases

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider approval of a site plan for a single‑story, 150,000 sq ft commercial building with 36 loading bays and 275 parking spaces at 308 South River Road. A postponed site‑plan request for the Flight House Gym, a 30,000 sq ft fitness facility at 125 South River Road, will be noted for future consideration. The board will also hold conceptual discussions on a 12‑unit townhouse project at 9 Sunset Lane and a proposed gas station, convenience store, and carwash off South River Road. Minutes from the September 8, 2025 meeting will be approved.

• Site‑plan approval request for 150,000 sq ft commercial building at 308 South River Road, Lot 24‑98‑19, Zoned PZ
• Site‑plan request for Flight House Gym (30,000 sq ft) at 125 South River Road, Lot 12‑33, Zoned PZ (postponed to Oct 20)
• Conceptual discussion of 12‑unit townhouse development with 10% workforce rentals at 9 Sunset Lane, Lots 24‑98‑10, Zoned PZ
• Conceptual discussion of proposed gas station, convenience store, and carwash at Lot 35‑3‑1 off South River Road, Zoned PZ
• Approval of minutes from the September 8, 2025 Planning Board meeting

The Bedford Planning Board unanimously approved the agenda as read. The Board appointed Chris Bandazian, Chris Swiniarski, and Logan Johnson as voting members. The Flight House Gym site‑plan application was postponed to the October 20, 2025 meeting. No vote was taken on the Robert Golub commercial building site‑plan, which remains under review.

• Accepted agenda as read (unanimous vote)
• Appointed Chris Bandazian, Chris Swiniarski, and Logan Johnson as voting members
• Postponed Flight House Gym site‑plan to Oct 20, 2025
• Continued discussion of Robert Golub commercial building site‑plan; no decision

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will hold an informal workshop to discuss proposed amendments to the Bedford Land Development Control Regulations and the Bedford Zoning Ordinance. No public comments will be solicited, but residents may attend. The meeting will also allow board members to raise any other planning topics.

• Discussion of proposed amendments to the Bedford Land Development Control Regulations
• Discussion of proposed amendments to the Bedford Zoning Ordinance
• Open floor for any other topics or comments from board members

The Board discussed a regional impact notice for an elderly and workforce housing project, proposed changes to land development control regulations, zoning ordinance updates, and community‑engagement ideas, but no motions were adopted. The only vote was a motion to adjourn, which passed unanimously. The next Planning Board meeting is set for October 6, 2025.

• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission will review the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility project, covering bonding, progress, scope, budget, schedule, and projected breakeven. It will also examine how to demonstrate the facility's impact and benefits. The commission will discuss Community Power policies, noting the launch is on hold until the new rate period in February 2026. Additional items include updates on old business such as the transfer station display monitor and grant funding for charging infrastructure.

• Chubbuck Road Solar Facility – status, bonding, budget, schedule, impact analysis
• Community Power – review CPCNH coalition policies, launch on hold until Feb 2026
• Master Plan/Display Monitor at Transfer Station – on hold
• NH Saves program – discussion
• Grant Funding for NH Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) program

The commission approved the August 28, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0-1). It voted to recommend that the Town Council adopt the Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire cost‑sharing agreement, energy portfolio risk management, retail rates, financial reserves, and data security policies, and to appoint Town Manager Rick Sawyer as the signing representative (7-0-0). The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved August 28, 2025 minutes (5 yea, 0 nay, 1 abstain)
• Recommended Town Council adopt Community Power policies and appoint Town Manager to sign (7 yea, 0 nay, 0 abstain)
• Motion to adjourn passed

Town Council

The Bedford Heights Town Council will consider awarding contracts for voting machines, fire gear, and traffic signals, approve a sidewalk development agreement, and set 2026 meeting dates and wage ranges.

• Award of voting machines contract to VotingWorks
• Approval of sidewalk construction on Ridgewood Road
• Approval of 2026 Employee Compensation Wage Ranges
• Award of 2026 mowing and landscape maintenance contract
• Acceptance of $100 from Bedford Martial Arts Academy

The council voted 7-0 to approve the purchase and use of VotingWorks VxSuite voting machines, including seven tabulators, a laptop and a printer. The council also approved a $199,727.15 contract with Bergeron Protective Clothing to provide 55 sets of fire‑department protective gear and authorized the Town Manager to sign the agreement. Both actions were recorded as motions that passed.

• Approved VotingWorks VxSuite purchase (7-0 vote)
• Approved $199,727.15 fire gear contract (motion passed)

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Heights Conservation Commission will consider three variance applications that seek to reduce the required 50‑foot setback from a wetland for a barn, a shed, and a pool. Additional agenda items include a rules of procedure amendment, a violation update, and reports on the Joppa Hill Integrated Plant Management Plan and related CE amendments. The meeting also covers updates on prior projects, public outreach, and subcommittee reports.

• Jeremy Chad Laird – variance to build a 24’ × 42’ barn 45.8 ft from a wetland edge at 40 Barr Farm Road, Lot 2‑23‑14
• Jeremy Chad Laird – after‑the‑fact variance to build a shed 39.9 ft from a wetland edge at the same location
• Naylor Family 2024 Revocable Trust – variance to build a pool 32.2 ft from a wetland edge at 112 McAllister Road, Lot 2‑14
• Rules of Procedure Amendment
• Violation Update

The Commission approved the July 22, 2025 regular and nonpublic meeting minutes. It then unanimously voted to recommend a variance allowing a new barn 45.8 ft from a wetland and an after‑the‑fact variance for a 20 × 24 ft shed 39.9 ft from the wetland, plus a two‑foot drainage stone trench, at 40 Barr Farm Road. No other variances were decided.

• Approved July 22, 2025 regular meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved July 22, 2025 nonpublic meeting minutes (Councilor Carter abstained)
• Recommended variance for barn at 45.8 ft from wetland (unanimous)
• Recommended variance for shed at 39.9 ft from wetland (unanimous)
• Recommended two‑foot drainage stone trench with pipe (unanimous)

Trustees of the Trust Funds

The Trustees of the Trust Funds will meet to review the Carbonneau Scholarship trust dismantling directive and the status of BCOCA funds. The body will also conduct a quarterly review with investment advisors and discuss potential new candidates for Trustees.

• Review of Carbonneau Scholarship directive to dismantle the Trust after final distribution
• Confirmation of a lock on BCOCA funds and verification of no withdrawals
• Quarterly review with investment advisors
• Review of Trustee website accuracy and email address formats
• Discussion of new candidates for Trustees of the Trust Funds

The trustees approved the minutes from the March 11, 2025 meeting. They reaffirmed that no withdrawals have been made from the BCOCA funds and that the funds will not be distributed until fully reconstituted. They also confirmed the next trustees meeting for December 9, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.

• Approved March 11, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Reaffirmed policy: no BCOCA fund withdrawals until fully reconstituted
• Scheduled next meeting for Dec 9, 2025 at 10:00 am (unanimous)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will meet to consider two variance requests regarding the placement of sheds. Both applicants are seeking permission to build structures closer to property lines than current zoning ordinances allow.

• Variance request for a 16 x 10 foot shed 0.3 feet from the rear property line at 5 Galloway Lane
• Variance request for a 16 x 10 foot shed and 4 foot overhang 5.7 feet from the side property line at 66 Rundlett Hill Road

The Zoning Board approved the minutes from the August 19, 2025 meeting with a 3‑0 vote, two members abstaining. A variance application to place a 16 × 10‑foot shed at 5 Galloway Lane was presented and discussed, but the minutes contain no vote or decision on that request.

• Approved August 19, 2025 minutes (3-0)

Town Council

The Bedford Heights Town Council will discuss several credit and exemption proposals, including a Veteran’s Tax Credit and an Elderly Exemption. Council members will review the Capital Improvement Program and vehicle replacement schedules, consider zoning issues, and examine the feasibility of adding a second floor or extension to the Town Office Building. They will also consider whether to pursue land acquisition as an alternative or addition to the SR location and address the bidding process.

• Veteran’s Tax Credit proposal
• Elderly Exemption proposal
• Review of CIP/Vehicle replacement schedules and funding options
• Zoning discussion
• Feasibility study for adding a second floor/extension to the Town Office Building

The council held a retreat on September 10, 2025 to discuss possible changes to elderly exemption asset limits and to review a consultant's work on historic district guidelines. Council members asked questions and exchanged viewpoints, but no votes or official actions were taken. The meeting was informational and did not result in any approved, denied, or tabled measures.

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Bedford Parks and Recreation Commission will open the meeting and hear a Legacy Skateboard Park update presented by Dave Gilbert. Commissioners will vote to approve the minutes from the June 19, 2025 meeting. The board will set the date and location for its next meeting on December 9, 2025, and then adjourn.

• Legacy Skateboard Park update (presentation by Dave Gilbert)
• Approval of June 19, 2025 meeting minutes
• Set date and location for next meeting (December 9, 2025)

The Parks & Recreation Commission voted 3‑1 to recommend that the Town Council place a warrant article for rebuilding the Legacy Skateboard Park on the March 2026 ballot. A prior motion to simply discuss the issue before the Town Council failed 1‑3. The commission also approved a tree donation for Benedictine Park and adopted the June 19, 2025 minutes.

• Motion to discuss skate park rebuild before Town Council failed (1‑3)
• Motion to recommend skate park rebuild warrant article passed (3‑1)
• Motion to recommend acceptance of Scarlet Fire Dogwood tree donation passed (all in favor)
• Motion to approve June 19, 2025 minutes passed (3‑1, Ms. Salmon abstained)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting passed (all in favor)

Planning Board

The Bedford, NH Planning Board will review the proposed 2026 Capital Improvement Plan and hear five new site-plan or lot-line-adjustment requests, including a 150,000 sq ft speculative warehouse at 308 South River Road and a 30,000 sq ft fitness facility at 125 South River Road.

• Review proposed 2026 Capital Improvement Plan
• Robert Golub/Bedford RLG Properties LLC – 150,000 sq ft speculative warehouse at 308 South River Road (postponed to Oct 6)
• 429 & 435 Joppa Hill Road LLC – Lot line adjustment at 429 & 435 Joppa Hill Road
• Munson & Associates/ER Bedford LLC – One-year time extension for Bowman Gardens 62-unit senior living at 125 South River Road
• Lyophilization Services of NE/PPCI Pharma – Site plan change of use and exterior improvements at 19 Harvey Road

The Bedford Planning Board voted to accept the agenda as read, with all members in favor. Two site‑plan applications – the Robert Golub commercial building and the Flight House Gym – were postponed to the October 6, 2025 meeting at the request of the applicants. The 2026 Capital Improvement Plan was presented for comment, and no action was taken by the Board.

• Accepted agenda as read (all in favor)
• Postponed Robert Golub site‑plan to Oct 6, 2025
• Postponed Flight House Gym site‑plan to Oct 6, 2025
• No action taken on 2026 Capital Improvement Plan

Historic District Commission

The Bedford, NH Historic District Commission will meet to decide on a proposed increase in abutter fees and discuss updates to the Historic District Design Guidelines, including survey results, tree regulations, and review activities. The commission will also review options for a CAMP Grant and approve administrative actions.

• Request to approve increase in abutter fees
• Historic District Design Guidelines update (survey results, tree regulations, review activities)
• CAMP Grant options review
• Admin approvals

The commission voted 4-0 to reorder agenda items 2c and 2d. A motion to raise the abutter mailing fee to $5 was introduced and then withdrawn. No vote was taken on the request for the Town Council to absorb the fee.

• Reordered agenda items 2c and 2d (vote 4-0)
• Motion to increase abutter mailing fee to $5 withdrawn

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission will review the status of the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility, including its budget and schedule. Members will also receive an update on Bedford Community Power, which is on hold until February 2026.

• Status of Chubbuck Road Solar Facility bonding, scope, budget, and schedule
• Update on Bedford Community Power launch status
• Progress report on school projects planning and system upgrades
• Discussion of Town Hall Energy Audit
• Grant funding for NH Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) program

The commission approved the July 24, 2025 meeting minutes by an 8‑0 vote. The launch of the community power program was placed on hold until CPCNH rates are lower than Eversource’s rates, not before March 2026. A groundbreaking ceremony was held for the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility. The next commission meeting is scheduled for September 25, 2025.

• Approved July 24, 2025 minutes (8‑0)
• Postponed community power launch until rates are lower than Eversource (no vote)
• Motion to adjourn passed (no vote recorded)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board is holding a public site walk to view a 150,000 square foot commercial building proposed for 308 South River Road in the Performance Zone. The building would accommodate warehousing, light manufacturing, or manufacturing uses, with 39 loading bays and 275 parking spaces.

• Proposed 150,000 sq ft commercial building at 308 South River Road
• Speculative use options: warehousing, light manufacturing, or manufacturing
• 39 loading bays and 275 parking spaces planned
• Site walk open to public at 5:30 PM on August 28

The Bedford Planning Board met on August 28, 2025 for a site walk at 308 South River Road, Lot 24-98-19. Board members and the applicant’s representatives reviewed the proposed 150,000‑sq‑ft commercial building, loading bays, parking and site improvements. No formal actions, approvals, or denials were taken during the walk. The meeting concluded at 6:25 p.m.

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will meet on August 19, 2025, to review six variance requests from property owners seeking relief from side-yard, front-yard, rear-yard, and wetland setback rules. All items are new business; no minutes or old business are listed.

• Variance for 11-foot home addition at 402 Boynton St (Lot 45-3)
• Variance for 10’ x 22’ porch at 38 Plummer Road (Lot 45-92)
• Variance for 8-foot deck at 65 Sebbins Pond Road (Lot 25-43)
• Variance for deck 30 feet from Sebbins Pond at 65 Sebbins Pond Road (Lot 25-43)
• Variance for cooler addition and dumpster enclosure at 137 Route 101 (Lot 20-8)

The Bedford Zoning Board met on August 19, 2025 and approved the minutes from the July 15, 2025 meeting. The motion to approve was made by Michael Reopel, seconded by Bob MacPherson, and passed unanimously with a 3‑0 vote; two members abstained. No other applications or variances were decided during this meeting.

• Approved July 15, 2025 Zoning Board minutes (3-0, two abstentions)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold a public hearing on a proposal for the Conservation Commission to spend up to $575,000 from the Conservation Fund to purchase about 70.2 acres of undeveloped land off New Boston Road. The council will also discuss updates to the Rate and Fee Schedule, hear a presentation on South River Road improvements, and consider releasing a portion of captured assessed value from the Tax Increment Financing District.

• $575,000 Conservation Fund purchase of ~70.2 acres off New Boston Road for Bedford Conservation Commission
• Updates to the Rate and Fee Schedule
• NHDOT presentation of South River Road improvements from Hawthorne Drive to East Point Drive
• Action to release a portion of captured assessed value from the Tax Increment Financing District
• Winter Maintenance Memorandum of Understanding with Bedford School District

The Bedford Town Council held an interview on August 13, 2025 for a vacancy on the Highway Safety Committee and Southern NH Planning Commission. Candidate Ken Kash, a retired veteran, expressed willingness to serve. No votes, approvals, or other decisions were recorded in the minutes.

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold a public hearing on a proposal to authorize the Bedford Conservation Commission to spend up to $575,000 from the Conservation Fund to purchase approximately 70.2 acres of undeveloped land off New Boston Road. The Council will also consider updates to the Rate and Fee Schedule and hear presentations on South River Road improvements, the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, and a Winter Maintenance Memorandum of Understanding with the Bedford School District.

• Authorization of $575,000 for Bedford Conservation Commission land purchase off New Boston Road
• Updates to the Rate and Fee Schedule
• NHDOT presentation on South River Road improvements from Hawthorne Drive to East Point Drive
• Consideration of a Winter Maintenance Memorandum of Understanding with Bedford School District
• Action to release a portion of captured assessed value from the Tax Increment Financing District

The Town Council voted 5-0 to authorize the Town Manager to purchase about 70.2 acres of undeveloped land off New Boston Road for conservation. It also voted 5-0 to accept a donation of the Piccola Easement for permanent trail access and to authorize the manager to complete the paperwork. A separate motion to table the proposed updates to the town’s fee schedule was passed 6-0, delaying those changes until the next meeting.

• Approved purchase of ~70.2 acres for conservation (5-0)
• Accepted donation of Piccola Easement for trail access (5-0)
• Tabled fee schedule amendments until next meeting (6-0)

Planning Board

The Bedford, NH Planning Board will review site plans for a new 30,000 sq. ft. fitness facility, a 3,400 sq. ft. garage with office and yoga studio, and a 3,534 sq. ft. school addition. No old business or continued hearings are scheduled.

• Site Plan approval for Flight House Gym (30,000 sq. ft.) at 125 South River Road
• Site Plan Amendment for 3,400 sq. ft. garage, 1,600 sq. ft. office, and 4,000 sq. ft. yoga studio at 137 Bedford Center Road
• Conceptual Review for 3,534 sq. ft. school addition at 24 Tirrell Hill Road

The Bedford Planning Board voted to accept the agenda as read, with all members in favor. The Flight House Gym site‑plan application was postponed to the September 8 meeting at the applicant’s request. No other motions were decided at this meeting.

• Accepted agenda as read (unanimous)
• Postponed Flight House Gym site‑plan application to Sept 8 (per applicant request)

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission will discuss the budget, schedule, and bonding for the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility. Members will also review school system upgrades and various energy grants.

• Status of Chubbuck Road Solar Facility bonding, scope, budget, and schedule
• School projects progress and systems upgrades
• CPCNH Launch (on hold until February 2026)
• Climate Pollution Reduction Grant
• NH Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) program grant funding

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the June 26, 2025 meeting, with six votes in favor, none against, and one abstention. The meeting was then formally adjourned at 7:32 PM.

• Approved June 26, 2025 minutes (6 yea, 0 nay, 1 abstain)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Highway Safety Committee

The Highway Safety Committee is meeting to conduct routine business and address new items. The primary new business item involves the St. Anselm’s College Athletic Complex on Rundlett Hill Rd.

• Discussion of St. Anselm’s College Athletic Complex on Rundlett Hill Rd

The committee voted to hold off on permanent “No Parking” signs on Rundlett Hill Road and instead require St. Anselm’s College to monitor parking during events, erect temporary barriers and signs, and tow vehicles if needed. An amendment adding these enforcement measures was also approved. The motion to send a request for enforcement authority to the Town Council was noted, and the April 22, 2025 minutes were approved.

• Approved April 22, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed, Chief Fraitzl abstained)
• Approved motion to hold off permanent “No Parking” signs; all in favor
• Approved amendment requiring St. Anselm’s to monitor parking, install temporary barriers and signs, and tow vehicles if necessary; all in favor
• Noted that a motion will be sent to the Town Council to allow enforcement during certain events
• Adjourned meeting at 7:41 a.m. (all in favor)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will review a request for an after-the-fact variance for a deck and staircase at 65 Sebbins Pond Drive. The body will also consider a request for an Eagle Scout kiosk and funding for trail mowing.

• Request to construct a kiosk at the Marston-Dunlap Conservation Area for an Eagle Scout project
• Variance request for a 12.5' x 12' deck, staircase, and landing pad within 30 feet of Sebbins Pond at 65 Sebbins Pond Drive
• Request to use conservation funds to mow trails in the 'Old Fields' at Joppa Hill Conservation Area

The Bedford Conservation Commission approved the minutes from the June 24 and May 27, 2025 meetings, with a few abstentions. It also unanimously approved Bradley Bourcier’s request to construct a kiosk at the Marston‑Dunlap Conservation Area and directed staff to determine the final location.

• Approved June 24, 2025 regular meeting minutes (Vice Chair abstained)
• Approved June 24, 2025 nonpublic meeting minutes (Vice Chair abstained)
• Approved May 27, 2025 nonpublic meeting minutes as originally presented (Councilor Bemiss abstained)
• Approved Bradley Bourcier’s kiosk project at Marston‑Dunlap Conservation Area; vote unanimous

Town Council

The Town Council will vote on awarding bids for new dump trucks and equipment. The body is also reviewing a Payment in Lieu of Taxes agreement and a winter maintenance memorandum.

• Award of bid 2025-03 for (2) six-wheel cab & chassis (dump trucks)
• Award of bid 2025-04 for (2) six wheeled body, plow and sander
• Payment in Lieu of Taxes agreement with Dartmouth Hitchcock Clinic
• Acceptance of $2,000 from Bedford Education Foundation for graduation media costs
• Winter Maintenance Memorandum of Understanding with the Bedford School District

The Bedford Town Council approved Contract #03-2025 with Allegiance Trucks for two dump trucks at $274,000 and Contract #04-2025 with H.P. Fairfield to outfit the trucks for $249,700. It also approved a payment‑in‑lieu‑of‑taxes agreement with Dartmouth Hitchcock Clinic and accepted a $2,000 donation from the Bedford Education Foundation for graduation costs. The council voted to table the proposed Winter Maintenance Memorandum of Understanding with the Bedford School District.

• Approved Contract #03-2025 with Allegiance Trucks, $274,000 total (6-0)
• Approved Contract #04-2025 with H.P. Fairfield, $249,700 total (6-0)
• Approved payment‑in‑lieu‑of‑taxes agreement with Dartmouth Hitchcock Clinic (6-0)
• Accepted $2,000 donation from Bedford Education Foundation for graduation coverage (6-0)
• Tabled Winter Maintenance MOU with Bedford School District (6-0)

Zoning Board

The Town of Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hear requests for variances and a special exception. The board is deciding on land use changes for residential and commercial properties.

• Variance request for a detached accessory dwelling unit in the front yard at 90 Joppa Hill Road
• Special Exception request for a 3,400 sq ft garage, 1,600 sq ft office, and 4,000 sq ft yoga studio at 137 Bedford Center Road
• Variance request to allow 3 dwelling units to remain on a newly configured lot at 61 Plummer Road
• Variance request to expand living space for a two-family building and a single residential unit at 61 Plummer Road

The Board approved the minutes from the June 17, 2025 meeting. The motion was made by Marc Snyder, seconded by Alex Kellermann, and passed with four votes in favor and one abstention (Dave Gilbert). The variance request for 90 Joppa Hill Road was presented and discussed, but no vote or decision was recorded.

• Approved June 17, 2025 Zoning Board minutes (4‑0, 1 abstention)
• Variance request for 90 Joppa Hill Road discussed, no vote taken

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider requests for signage waivers, site plan approvals for commercial buildings, and amendments to a workforce housing project. The board will also hold a public hearing regarding multifamily parking requirements and application fees.

• Request to reduce affordable units from 25% to 10% and waive impact fees for Riverside Landing at 66 Hawthorne Drive
• Site plan approval for a 150,000 square foot commercial building at 308 South River Road
• Sign waiver for Mercedes-Benz Dealership to allow 241.87 sq. ft. of wall signs at 5A East Point Drive
• Conceptual discussion for a 21-unit Cottage Court Housing Development off Constitution Drive
• Public hearing for amendments to Land Development Control Regulations Section 322.2 regarding multifamily parking and board fees

The Planning Board accepted the agenda as read with all members in favor. The site‑plan request for Flight House Gym was postponed to the August 11 meeting. A motion was made to grant a sign waiver for the Mercedes‑Benz dealership allowing 133.87 sq ft of wall signs and a 30.21 sq ft monument sign, but the minutes do not record a vote outcome. No other business was acted upon.

• Accepted agenda as read (unanimous vote)
• Postponed Flight House Gym site‑plan application to August 11 meeting
• Motion to grant sign waiver for Mercedes‑Benz dealership presented (outcome not recorded)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding proposed changes to land development regulations. The board will also discuss and adopt a new application fee schedule.

• Proposed reduction of multifamily residential parking from 2 spaces per unit to 1.5 spaces per unit
• Proposed removal of the requirement for covered parking
• Adoption of a new Planning Board application fee schedule

The Planning Board voted unanimously to accept the agenda as read. No old business was considered. New business included a request from Group 1 Automotive for a Performance Zone sign waiver to allow up to 133.87 sq ft of wall signs for the Mercedes‑Benz dealership at 5A East Point Drive. A motion to grant the waiver was made, but the minutes do not record the vote outcome.

• Accepted agenda as read (unanimous vote)
• Motion to grant signage waiver for Mercedes‑Benz dealership presented (vote outcome not recorded)

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission will discuss the status, budget, and schedule of the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility. Members will also receive updates on community power rate setting and school system upgrades.

• Status of Chubbuck Road Solar Facility project scope, budget, and schedule
• CPCNH updates regarding rate setting and Board of Directors
• Progress report on school systems upgrades
• Updates on Climate Pollution Reduction Grant
• Status of Town Hall Energy Audit

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the May 22, 2025 meeting. The motion passed with seven votes in favor, none against, and one abstention (Carolyn Mahoney). The meeting was then adjourned by a motion of Chris Bandazian. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Approved May 22, 2025 minutes (7 yea, 0 nay, 1 abstain)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Town Council

The Town Council will consider several administrative approvals, including a grant for highway traffic enforcement and documents for a voter-approved water fund. The body will also discuss voting machines and park facility improvements.

• Acceptance of a $9,400 NH Department of Safety grant for highway traffic enforcement
• Authorization for Clean Water State Revolving Fund documents for the Sebbins Pond Watershed Management Plan
• Approval of a Civil Forfeiture Warrant for unlicensed dogs
• Approval of an interdepartmental transfer to the General Assistance budget
• Discussion of park facility improvements

The council heard a report from Town Clerk Sally Kellar on the two voting‑tabulation machines under consideration, VotingWorks and LHS Image‑Cast. Councilors asked about timelines, costs, customer service, reconciliation features, and security. No recommendation or vote was made, leaving the decision pending.

• No recommendation made on voting machine selection

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing to discuss spending up to $575,000 from the Conservation Fund. The funds would be used to purchase 70.2 acres of undeveloped land and an access easement.

• Proposed expenditure of up to $575,000 from the Conservation Fund
• Purchase of approximately 70.2 acres from Kathryn M. Acorn (Tax Map 2, Lots 7 and 28)
• Purchase of an access easement from Rebecca G. Acorn (Tax Map 2, Lot 13)
• Authorization of funds for surveys, environmental reports, title review, and deed recordings

The Bedford Conservation Commission approved the minutes from the January 28, 2025 meeting (4‑0), the non‑public May 27, 2025 meeting (4‑0), the May 27, 2025 regular meeting (motion carried after one abstention), and the corrected non‑public May 27, 2025 minutes (motion carried). The commission also appointed Ms. Szumiesz as a voting member for the evening.

• Approved January 28, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved nonpublic May 27, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved May 27, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried, one abstention)
• Approved corrected nonpublic May 27, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Appointed Ms. Szumiesz as a voting member

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding the use of Conservation Fund money to buy 70.2 acres of land and an access easement. The body will also review a variance request for a gas station and discuss grant funding for land costs and vegetation management.

• Public hearing on spending up to $575,000 for 70.2 acres of land off New Boston Road (Tax Map 2, Lots 7 and 28) and an access easement (Lot 13)
• Variance request for 173 Route 101 to demolish a building, construct an addition, and install a dumpster enclosure within a 50-foot wetland setback
• Request for Moose Plate Grant funding for Acorn land closing costs
• Request for Moose Plate Grant funding for an Integrated Vegetation Management Plan for Joppa Hill Farm
• Update on accessible picnic table and ribbon cutting at Marston-Dunlap CA

The Bedford Conservation Commission appointed Ms. Szumiesz as a voting member. The commission approved the January 28, 2025 meeting minutes (4‑0), the January 28, 2025 nonpublic minutes (4‑0), the May 27, 2025 meeting minutes, the May 27, 2025 nonpublic minutes, and the corrected May 27, 2025 nonpublic minutes. All motions carried.

• Appointed Ms. Szumiesz as a voting member
• Approved January 28, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved January 28, 2025 nonpublic minutes (4-0)
• Approved May 27, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved May 27, 2025 nonpublic minutes (motion carried)
• Approved corrected May 27, 2025 nonpublic minutes (motion carried)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission will meet to approve the Fall 2025 Field Use Schedule and the April 8, 2025 minutes. Members will also discuss nominations for Chairman and Vice Chairman and receive an update on the Legacy Skateboard Park.

• Approval of Fall 2025 Field Use Schedule
• Legacy Skateboard Park update
• Nominations for Chairman and Vice Chairman
• Discussion regarding 275th Winterfest - The Bedford Mom comments

The commission elected Diane Phelps as chairwoman and Mr. Hawkes as vice chair, both unanimously. They set regular commission meetings for Tuesdays at 7 PM, also unanimously. They approved the 2025 Fall Field Use Schedule and the April 8, 2025 minutes, with Howard Sobolov abstaining on the minutes.

• Diane Phelps elected Chairwoman (unanimous)
• Mr. Hawkes elected Vice Chairman (unanimous)
• Schedule commission meetings at 7 PM on Tuesdays (unanimous)
• Approve 2025 Fall Field Use Schedule (unanimous)
• Approve April 8, 2025 minutes (all in favor, Howard Sobolov abstaining)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Zoning Board

The Town of Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will consider four variance requests regarding property setbacks and wetland filling. The board will also discuss updates to the Zoning Board Fee Schedule.

• Request to fill a 4,158 square foot wetland for a 150,000 square foot warehouse at 308 South River Road
• Request for a triangular stage 5 feet from the side property line at 155 Route 101
• Request for a detached garage 7.8 feet from the side property line at 247 Pulpit Road
• Request for a home addition 18 feet from the side property line at 14 Pheasant Run
• Zoning Board Fee Schedule Update

The Board approved the minutes from the May 20, 2025 meeting with all five members voting in favor and one member abstaining. Chair Morin also appointed Joe Fahey as a voting member for the remainder of the meeting. No other variances or proposals were decided at this session.

• Approved May 20, 2025 Zoning Board minutes (5‑0, 1 abstention)
• Appointed Joe Fahey as a voting member

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider site plan approvals and amendments for several commercial and institutional developments. The board will also review a request for a residential accessory apartment and elect its officers.

• Site plan for a new track and field athletic complex off Rundlett Hill Road
• Conditional Use Permit for a detached accessory apartment at 19 Beaver Lane
• Time extension for a 41,486 SF electric car maintenance facility at South River Road and Technology Drive
• Site Plan Amendment for Toyota and Mercedes-Benz dealerships at 5A East Point Drive and South River Road

The Bedford Planning Board voted to accept three new applications as complete and to adopt the agenda as read, with all members in favor. The board also appointed Chris Swiniarski and Chris Bandazian as voting members for the meeting. Mr. Swiniarski recused himself from the Saint Benedict/ Saint Anselm site‑plan discussion. No other actions or approvals were decided at this meeting.

• Accepted three new applications as complete (unanimous)
• Adopted the agenda as read (unanimous)
• Appointed Chris Swiniarski and Chris Bandazian as voting members
• Recused Chris Swiniarski from the Saint Benedict/ Saint Anselm site‑plan application

Water & Sewer Advisory Committee

The Water & Sewer Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss updating the sewer master plan. The body will also discuss updating sewer regulations to include design standards.

• Discussion on updating the sewer master plan
• Proposed sewer regulation updates regarding grease traps, garbage disposals, BOD, private system inspections, and flow metering

The Water & Sewer Advisory Committee discussed the outdated 2008 sewer master plan and, after consensus, decided to move forward with a study and budgeting for an update in the next fiscal year. A motion was made to delay approval of the October 10, 2024 meeting minutes, though the outcome was not recorded. The committee also reviewed possible updates to sewer design standards, but no formal decision was taken.

• Motion to delay approval of Oct 10, 2024 minutes (outcome not recorded)
• Committee reached consensus to proceed with updating the 2008 sewer master plan and add the study to next year's budget

Town Council

The Town Council will discuss the authorization to apply for a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant and provide an update on the Solar Bond sale. The body is also considering the acceptance of unanticipated revenue for town maintenance and repairs.

• Authorization to apply for an $800,000 Land and Water Conservation Fund grant for the Skateboard Park
• Acceptance of $1,785 in unanticipated revenue from The Bedford Women’s Club for benches, a table, maintenance, power tools, and bridge repairs
• Solar Bond sale update and authorization
• Acceptance of the Joppa Hill Road Conservation Area Committee report
• Discussion of park facility improvements

The council voted 7-0 to accept a $1,785 donation from the Bedford Women’s Club and to spend the funds on an ADA‑compliant picnic table and trail‑maintenance materials. The motion was moved by Councilor Carter and seconded by Councilor Bemiss. The meeting also included the presentation of the Boston Post Cane to William (Bill) F. Morin Sr. and discussion of the Joppa Hill Conservation Area.

• Accepted $1,785 Bedford Women’s Club donation for accessible picnic table (7‑0)
• Presented Boston Post Cane to William F. Morin Sr.

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will consider a request for a certificate of approval to install roof-mounted solar panels. The body will also discuss the Design Guidelines Project and CAMP Grant options.

• Request for roof-mounted solar panels at 60 Pinecrest Drive
• Design Guidelines Project
• CAMP Grant Options

The commission unanimously accepted the meeting agenda. It then approved the applicant's request to install roof‑mounted solar panels on the south side of the roof at 60 Pinecrest Drive, Lot 20‑10‑31, with conditions requiring a building permit, completion within two years, and submission of photos. All votes were unanimous.

• Accepted agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved roof‑mounted solar panels at 60 Pinecrest Drive, subject to permit and timing conditions (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review requests regarding a 54-unit elderly housing development at 227 Wallace Road. The board will also elect its officers and liaisons.

• Request to reduce affordable housing units from 25% to 10% at Riddle Brook Acres (227 Wallace Road)
• One-year time extension request for site plan conditions at Riddle Brook Acres
• One-year time extension request for lot merger and lot line adjustment at 227 Wallace Road
• Continued hearing for Saint Anselm College track and field complex off Rundlett Hill Road (requested continuance to June 16)

The Bedford Planning Board unanimously accepted the agenda. It approved a one‑year extension for the previously approved lot consolidation and lot line adjustment for the Dumas Trust properties. It also approved a one‑year extension for the previously approved site plan of the 54‑unit senior‑housing development. Both motions passed with unanimous votes.

• Accepted agenda as read (unanimous)
• Approved one‑year extension for lot consolidation and lot line adjustment (unanimous)
• Approved one‑year extension for senior‑housing site plan (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Heights Conservation Commission will meet to decide on wetland-fill permit requests for two warehouse developments and accept a charitable gift. The meeting will also review past projects, discuss grant opportunities, and elect officers.

• Variance request to fill 4,158 sq ft of wetland for 150,000 sq ft warehouse at 308 South River Road
• NHDES permit amendment to increase wetland fill from 1,328 sq ft to 1,604 sq ft for access road redesign at 5 A East Point Drive
• Acceptance of charitable gift from Bedford Women’s Club
• Presentation of Ravine Trail assessment results
• Election of officers

The commission voted to accept the April 22, 2025 meeting minutes, with Councilor Carter and Jim Murray abstaining and the motion carrying. Jim Murray was designated as a regular member. Erin Crowley and Diana Szumiesz were appointed as voting members for the evening.

• Approved April 22, 2025 minutes (abstentions: Carter, Murray)
• Designated Jim Murray as a regular member
• Appointed Erin Crowley as a voting member
• Appointed Diana Szumiesz as a voting member

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission will elect a Chair and Vice Chair for the 2025-2026 term. Members will discuss the status of the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility and provide updates on community power and school system upgrades.

• Election of 2025-2026 Chair and Vice Chair
• Status update on Chubbuck Road Solar Facility project scope, budget, and schedule
• CPCNH updates regarding PUC required changes to EAP
• Progress report on school systems upgrades and Portfolio Manager
• Discussion on Climate Pollution Reduction Grant and NH Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) program funding

The commission elected John Russell as chair and Chris Bandazian as vice chair. The March 27, 2025 minutes were approved with one abstention. The commission approved the Public Utilities Commission‑required updates to the Electric Aggregation Plan, allowing it to be resubmitted to the Town Council. No other actions were taken on pending projects.

• Elected John Russell as Chair (7 yea, 0 nay, 0 abstain)
• Elected Chris Bandazian as Vice Chair (7 yea, 0 nay, 0 abstain)
• Approved March 27, 2025 minutes (6 yea, 0 nay, 1 abstain)
• Approved PUC‑required changes to the Electric Aggregation Plan (7 yea, 0 nay, 0 abstain)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold two public hearings to accept unanticipated revenue grants totaling $62,000. The first grant of $50,000 from The Archibald Foundation will fund maintenance, redesign, and renovation of the Skateboard Park. The second grant of $12,000 from the NH Department of Safety will support EMS training for the Warm Zone Rescue Task Force Concepts.

• $50,000 grant from The Archibald Foundation for Skateboard Park maintenance and renovation
• $12,000 grant from NH Department of Safety for EMS Warm Zone Rescue Task Force training

The Bedford Town Council voted 6-0 to accept a $50,000 donation from the Archibald Foundation and authorize its use for design, maintenance, and construction of the skate park. The Council also voted 6-0 to accept a $12,000 state grant for EMS Warm Zone Rescue training and authorized the Town Manager and Fire Chief to execute the paperwork. A proclamation designating May 15‑25 as Bedford’s 275th‑anniversary celebration was adopted.

• Accepted $50,000 Archibald Foundation donation for skate park design, maintenance, construction (6-0)
• Authorized expenditure of the $50,000 donation for skate park projects (6-0)
• Accepted $12,000 NH Department of Safety grant for EMS Warm Zone Rescue training (6-0)
• Authorized Town Manager and Fire Chief to execute grant documentation (6-0)
• Adopted proclamation designating May 15‑25, 2025 as Bedford’s 275th‑anniversary celebration

Town Council

The Bedford Heights Town Council will meet to accept two unanticipated grants totaling $62,000—$50,000 for maintenance and renovation of the Skateboard Park and $12,000 for EMS Warm Zone Rescue Task Force training. The meeting also includes a proclamation for Bedford’s 275th birthday, updates on wastewater and stormwater programs, and discussions on park improvements.

• Accept $50,000 grant from The Archibald Foundation for Skateboard Park maintenance and renovation
• $12,000 grant from NH Department of Safety for EMS Warm Zone Rescue Task Force training
• Proclamation for Bedford’s 275th Birthday
• Update on Wastewater and Stormwater Asset Management Program
• Discussion of park facility improvements

The Bedford Town Council voted 6‑0 to accept a $50,000 donation from The Archibald Foundation and to authorize its use for design, maintenance, and construction of the Skateboard Park. The council also voted 6‑0 to accept a $12,000 state grant for EMS Warm Zone Rescue training and authorized the Town Manager and Fire Chief to complete the paperwork. A proclamation was adopted designating May 15‑25, 2025 as Bedford’s 275th Anniversary Celebration.

• Accepted $50,000 Archibald Foundation donation for Skateboard Park; authorized expenditure (6-0)
• Accepted $12,000 EMS Warm Zone Training grant; authorized Town Manager and Fire Chief to execute documentation (6-0)
• Adopted proclamation designating May 15‑25, 2025 as Bedford’s 275th Anniversary Celebration

Cemetery Trustees

The Bedford Heights Cemetery Trustees will meet to review past meeting minutes, welcome a new trustee, and discuss workflow and cemetery operations. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Welcome new Trustee Alain Espinoza
• Discussion of workflow and cemetery operations

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will consider several variance requests regarding property use and construction setbacks. The board will also address a continued hearing for a commercial-to-residential conversion.

• Variance request for 414-416 Donald Street to convert commercial space to residential use
• Variance request for a garage setback at 51 Barnside Drive
• Variance request for a garage setback at 25 Butterfield Lane
• Variance request for a detached accessory dwelling unit in the front yard at 19 Beaver Lane
• Withdrawn variance request for a fine art retail studio at 7 Holbrook Road

The Zoning Board approved the minutes from the April 15, 2025 meeting with a 4‑0 vote, Chair Morin abstaining. Chair Morin also appointed Marc Snyder as a voting member for the evening. No other variances or proposals were decided at this meeting.

• Approved April 15, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0, Chair abstained)
• Appointed Marc Snyder as a voting member

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will hold an informal workshop to discuss general community planning topics. Key items include an update from the Southern New Hampshire Planning Commission, proposed changes to the Bedford Land Development Control Regulations, and discussion of application fees. The board will not solicit public comments, but the meeting is open to the public.

• Update from the Southern New Hampshire Planning Commission
• Discussion of proposed changes to Bedford Land Development Control Regulations
• Discussion of application fees

The Board approved all proposed fee changes, adjusting the conceptual review fee to $125. It expressed support for reducing multi‑family parking requirements and removing covered‑parking requirements for those projects, noting that formal action will require a public hearing. The motion to adjourn was approved unanimously.

• Approved revised planning board fee schedule (conceptual review fee $125)
• Motion to adjourn passed (all in favor)

Historic District Commission

The Town of Bedford Historic District Commission will meet to consider requests for land clearing and site alterations. The commission will also elect officers and discuss the CAMP Grant.

• Request to clearcut over 1,500 square feet at 42 Ministerial Road
• Request for grading, site alteration, tree clearing, and shed demolition at 137 Bedford Center Road
• Election of officers
• Discussion of CAMP Grant
• Introduction of Design Guidelines consultant Chris Skelly

The Historic District Commission voted unanimously to issue a Certificate of Approval for a clear‑cut of more than 1,500 square feet at 42 Ministerial Road, Lot 14‑47‑02. The approval is conditioned on the applicant planting at least five hardwood trees and completing the landscaping within two years, with photos of the finished work to be submitted. The agenda was also accepted unanimously earlier in the meeting.

• Accepted agenda as presented (All in Favor – Unanimous)
• Issued after‑the‑fact Certificate of Approval for clear‑cut at 42 Ministerial Rd (All in Favor – Unanimous)
• Required planting of at least 5 hardwood trees in the cleared area (All in Favor – Unanimous)
• Mandated completion of landscaping within two years of approval (All in Favor – Unanimous)
• Required applicant to submit photos of completed landscaping and hardwood trees (All in Favor – Unanimous)

Town Council

The Town Council will consider a request from the Bedford Men's Club to waive demolition debris disposal fees for improvements to the dugouts at Hawkins Field. The agenda also includes an appointment to the Conservation Commission, a discussion of a facilities survey or education program, and a presentation of the Top Dog award by the Town Clerk. Public comments are invited, and the council will approve minutes from previous meetings.

• Request to waive demolition debris disposal fees for dugout improvements at Hawkins Field
• Appointment to the Conservation Commission
• Discussion of a facilities survey or education program
• Town Clerk presentation of the Top Dog award
• Approval of meeting minutes from April 16, 23, and April 23 non-public session

The Town Council approved a waiver of the $136.90 tipping fees for the Bedford Men’s Club dugout improvements, passing the motion 7‑0. Council also appointed Kate Kelley as an alternate on the Conservation Commission, with a vote of 7‑0. Additionally, the Council approved the Retreat Minutes (6‑0‑1), the April 23 Public Session Minutes (6‑0‑1), and the April 23 Nonpublic Session Minutes (4‑0‑3).

• Waived demolition debris tipping fees ($136.90) for Bedford Men’s Club project (7-0)
• Appointed Kate Kelley as alternate on Conservation Commission, term to 2027 (7-0)
• Approved April 16 Retreat Minutes (6-0-1)
• Approved April 23 Public Session Minutes (6-0-1)
• Approved April 23 Nonpublic Session Minutes (4-0-3)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will continue a hearing on a track and field complex and consider site plan amendments for a veterinary clinic and a coffee shop commissary. The board will also hold conceptual discussions regarding a 21-unit housing development and a new gas station.

• Site Plan approval for a track and field athletic complex off Rundlett Hill Road
• Site Plan amendment for a veterinary clinic at 13 South River Road
• Site Plan amendment for a coffee shop commissary at 66 Hawthorne Drive
• Conceptual discussion for a 21-unit Cottage Court Housing Development off Constitution Drive
• Conceptual discussion for a gas station and convenience store off South River Road

The Bedford Planning Board voted to accept the agenda as read, with all members in favor. No other motions or approvals were recorded during this meeting. The board proceeded to hear a presentation on a site‑plan application, but no decision was made on that item.

• Accepted agenda as read (all in favor)

Trustees of the Trust Funds

Trustees Peterson and Callaghan, with financial advisor Corey Boucher, gave a 30‑minute presentation of the 2024 calendar/fiscal year financial results. They reported a $17,715 (14.1%) total return on $142,584 invested and a CIP interest earnings of $241,038, leaving the CIP balance at $9,633,602. A memo on the Bedford Center Old Cemetery Association funds was read, noting the target sum of $21,850. No formal decisions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

Town Council

The Town Council will hold a regular meeting with public comments. New business includes awarding electronic permitting software and authorizing InvestNH funds, meeting with the Trustees of the Trust Funds, appointing Alternate Library Trustees, approving revised policies for BCTV-WBNH, and accepting a bench donation for Benedictine Park.

• Award of electronic permitting software for Building and Planning Department with authorization of InvestNH funds
• Meeting with the Trustees of the Trust Funds
• Appointment of Alternate Library Trustees
• Approval of revised BCTV-WBNH Policies and Procedures
• Acceptance of bench donation for Benedictine Park under NH RSA 31:95-e

The council interviewed Sue Thomas for the Town Treasurer position but took no action. A public comment suggested adding directional signs at the Gault‑Meetinghouse roundabout, with no decision taken. Trustees of the Trust Funds presented investment performance and policy updates, but no votes or approvals were recorded. The meeting was otherwise procedural.

Highway Safety Committee

The agenda is largely procedural, with items including approval of minutes from March 2024, an organizational meeting, subcommittee reports, and new or unfinished business. No specific proposals, contracts, or public hearings are listed.

• Approval of minutes from March 26, 2024
• Organizational meeting to set committee structure
• Subcommittee reports to be presented
• New business and unfinished business to be discussed

The Highway Safety Committee approved the March 26, 2024 meeting minutes. A motion to keep Jeff Foote as Chair and Daniel Douidi as Vice Chair was passed. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Approved March 26, 2024 minutes (motion passed; Gail Levesque and Ted Kitsis abstained)
• Retained Jeff Foote as Chair and Daniel Douidi as Vice Chair (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission is meeting for a regular session that includes approval of minutes from prior meetings, election of officers, and discussion of administrative items such as public outreach, the mission statement, National Trails Day, and a revised submittal policy. No dredge and fill applications are on the agenda, and no major decisions or public hearings are scheduled.

• Election of officers for the Commission
• Discussion of public outreach about Conservation Commission activities
• Review and possible revision of the Mission Statement and Motto
• Planning for June 7, 2025 National Trails Day
• Revised Submittal Policy and Commission Application

The commission approved the February 25 and March 25 2025 meeting minutes, both regular and non‑public, with the chair abstaining on some votes and unanimous approval on others. After discussion, members reached consensus to post Commission updates on the Town of Bedford Facebook page rather than creating a separate page. The chair volunteered to prepare three months of content on a shared drive by the May meeting.

• Approved February 25, 2025 meeting minutes (Chair abstained, motion carried)
• Approved March 25, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved February 25, 2025 nonpublic minutes (Chair abstained, motion carried)
• Approved March 25, 2025 nonpublic minutes (unanimous)
• Decided to use the Town of Bedford Facebook page for Commission updates (consensus)
• Chair pledged to post three months of content to a shared drive by the May meeting

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a non-binding discussion regarding a proposed solar array at the former landfill. The board will also review site plan requests for a vehicle storage garage and office space use changes.

• Proposed ground-mounted solar array at 77 Chubbuck Road
• Re-approval of site plan for 4,000 SF vehicle storage garage at 209 Route 101 and 137 Bedford Center Road
• Site Plan amendment for 61,000 sq. ft office building at 10 Corporate Drive to include medical and professional office space
• Site Plan amendments for Wholistic Pet Warehouse at 341 Route 101

The Planning Board appointed Logan Johnson as a voting member. The Board then unanimously accepted the agenda as read. No other actions were decided; the solar array proposal was discussed but not voted on.

• Appointed Logan Johnson as voting member (unanimous)
• Accepted agenda as read (unanimous)

Supervisors of the Checklist

The Supervisors of the Checklist will meet to approve additions, deletions, and changes to the voter checklist. This is a routine procedural meeting for voter registration maintenance.

• Approval of additions to the voter checklist
• Approval of deletions from the voter checklist
• Changes of name and address for registered voters

Town Council

The Town Council will discuss facilities management, budget transparency, and general town operations. The meeting is structured as a retreat to review specific studies and financial processes.

• Discussion of the Harriman Study and Facilities Committee
• Review of Transfer Station and Swap Shop
• Budget discussions regarding Capital Reserves and General Fund Balance
• Review of the bidding process and spending
• Personnel discussions on longevity, the handbook, and overtime/merit adjustments

Council members reviewed the Harriman Study and debated three options for the Facilities Committee: continue it this year, pause it, or restructure it. They considered using an online survey to gauge public preference and discussed updating the town website with facility information. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hear five new business items, including a variance for an inground pool within 42.8 feet of a wetland (50-foot setback required), a variance to convert commercial space to residential at 414-416 Donald Street, and a special exception and two variances for construction of a 4,000-square-foot garage and stormwater pond at 137 Bedford Center Road for Millennium Running. No old business or continued hearings are scheduled. The board will also approve minutes from March 18, 2025.

• Variance request to allow inground pool within 42.8 feet of wetland at 22 Green Meadow Lane (50-foot setback required)
• Variance to expand nonconforming use to convert commercial space to residential at 414-416 Donald Street
• Special exception for 4,000-square-foot garage at 137 Bedford Center Road (Millennium Running)
• Variance to allow stormwater pond and floodplain mitigation on separate lot from primary use at 137 Bedford Center Road
• Variance to allow stormwater pond and floodplain mitigation in separate zone from primary use at same address

The Zoning Board unanimously approved the minutes from the March 18, 2025 meeting. The board then unanimously moved to nonpublic input for deliberation on a variance request to build an inground pool at 22 Green Meadow Lane. No final decision on the variance was recorded in these minutes.

• Approved March 18, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Moved to nonpublic deliberation on pool variance request (unanimous)

Town Council

The Town Council will meet to discuss budget revisions and updates to the Department of Public Works pavement contract. The body will also review reports on community power aggregation and the Educational Farm at Joppa Hill.

• Approval of 2025 budget revisions
• Amendment of 2024-2025 pavement contract to include 2025 TIF District work
• Update on Community Power Aggregation
• Annual Report for the Educational Farm at Joppa Hill
• Review of TC Rules of Procedure, Code of Conduct, and Media Policies

The Bedford Town Council held interviews for openings on the Planning Board, Parks & Recreation Commission, Conservation Commission, Historic District Commission, Cemetery Trustees, and other bodies. No votes, appointments, or other formal actions were taken during the meeting. The session was purely an interview process.

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold a regular meeting on April 9, 2025, at 6:30 PM in the Town Meeting Room. Key items on the agenda include approval of 2025 budget revisions, an update and amendment of the 2024-2025 pavement contract to include TIF District work, and reaffirming or amending council procedures and policies. The council will also hear presentations on the Educational Farm at Joppa Hill and Community Power Aggregation.

• Approval of 2025 budget revisions
• Amendment of 2024-2025 pavement contract to include 2025 TIF District pavement work
• Presentation of the Educational Farm at Joppa Hill Annual Report
• Update on Community Power Aggregation
• Reaffirming/amending Council Rules of Procedure, Code of Conduct, Town Media Policy, Social Media Use Policy

The council voted to approve a $400,000 warrant article that funds paving projects. The approval was confirmed despite earlier discussion about a larger $500,000 cut. No other substantive motions were adopted at this meeting.

• Approved $400,000 paving warrant article (passed)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Bedford Parks and Recreation Commission will discuss the Legacy Skateboard Park update, consider approving the Spring 2025 Field Use Schedule, and review a proposed lineup for Bedford's 275th Anniversary. They will also approve minutes from September 2024 and set the next meeting date.

• Legacy Skateboard Park update (Dave Gilbert)
• Approval of Spring 2025 Field Use Schedule
• Proposed Bedford's 275th Anniversary Line-up
• Approval of minutes from September 30, 2024
• Next meeting set for Tuesday, June 10, 2025

The Parks & Recreation Commission formally approved the Spring 2025 field use schedule. The meeting also included an update on the town-owned skateboard park, with a design cost estimate of $700,000 and discussion of possible funding options. Commissioners discussed maintenance responsibilities and the possibility of separating the skate park warrant from the Little League fields.

• Approved Spring 2025 Field Use Schedule

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider several Conditional Use Permits for detached accessory apartments and two lot line adjustments. The board will also review a conceptual site plan for a new fitness facility. These decisions affect land use and zoning compliance for residential and commercial properties.

• Conditional Use Permit for detached accessory apartment at 19 Beaver Lane
• Conditional Use Permit for accessory apartment in garage at 4 West Wind Drive
• Conditional Use Permit for accessory apartment in garage at 19 South Hills Drive
• Lot Line Adjustments at 446 Joppa Hill Road/5 Parker Lane and 236 & 264 North Amherst Road
• Conceptual site plan review for a 30,000 sq. ft. Flight House Gym at 125 South River Road

The Bedford Planning Board granted Conditional Use Permits for detached accessory apartments at 19 Beaver Lane and 4 West Wind Drive. Both approvals were unanimous. Each permit was approved with conditions requiring a building permit, an NHDES‑approved septic design, and payment of school and recreation impact fees.

• Approved Conditional Use Permit for detached ADU at 19 Beaver Lane (unanimous)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for detached ADU at 4 West Wind Drive (unanimous)

BCTV-WBNH Board of Overseers

The Board will discuss the impact of the March 11, 2025 Town Election results on the 2025 budget. They will also review a proposed procedure for implementing a Radio Spots program and discuss the 'Friends of BCTV-WBNH' concept. Additionally, the Board will approve minutes from the previous meeting and be reminded of the May 15 open house celebrating the 275th anniversary.

• Approval of minutes from October 28, 2024
• Reminder of BCTV-WBNH Open House on Thursday May 15, 2025 (275th Anniversary celebration)
• Discussion of Town Election 3-11-25 results and impact on 2025 budget
• Review of proposed outline/procedure for implementing a Radio Spots program
• Discussion of 'Friends of BCTV-WBNH'

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will vote on a certificate of approval to replace original wood windows with modern ones of the same size and style at 11 Ministerial Road. They will also approve minutes from March 4, 2025, discuss a CLG Grant update, and handle admin approvals.

• Request by Geoffrey & Linda Ashley to replace original wood windows with modern windows at 11 Ministerial Road, Lot 14-9

The commission unanimously approved the request to replace the wood windows at 11 Ministerial Road, Lot 14‑9 with new aluminum‑clad windows. The approval includes conditions that all work be finished within two years, photos of the completed work be submitted, and that windows installed within the two‑year period need no further review if they meet the original specifications. The motion passed with a unanimous vote.

• Accepted agenda as stated – unanimous vote
• Approved March 4, 2025 minutes – unanimous vote
• Approved February 4, 2025 minutes with corrections – 3 affirmative, 2 abstentions (Ms. Bemiss, Ms. Levesque)
• Approved window replacement request (aluminum‑clad) at 11 Ministerial Rd, Lot 14‑9 – unanimous vote

Energy Commission

The Bedford Energy Commission will meet to discuss next steps for the Bedford Community Power program, which was approved by voters and the NH Public Utilities Commission. They will also hear updates on the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility project, including progress, scope, budget, and schedule, as well as school energy system upgrades and other ongoing initiatives.

• Bedford Community Power Plan approved by NH Public Utilities Commission
• Chubbuck Road Solar Facility status update on progress, budget, and schedule
• School projects progress with systems upgrades and Portfolio Manager
• Climate Pollution Reduction Grant and NH Charging and Fueling Infrastructure grant program
• Town Hall Energy Audit and Transfer Station Master Plan

The commission voted 7-0 to approve the February 27, 2025 minutes. The Bedford Community Power Plan was noted as approved by the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission, and updates were given on the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility with no changes to scope, budget, or schedule. Member Chuck Nettleship announced his step down, and no new actions were taken on pending items.

• Approved February 27, 2025 minutes (7 yea, 0 nay, 0 abstain)
• Motion to adjourn passed (unanimous)

Facilities Subcommittee

The Bedford Facilities Committee will hold a regular meeting with discussions on old business, including an update on the retrofit/reconstruction of 55 Constitution Drive and space needs for other buildings. The agenda also includes public comment, approval of minutes, and scheduling of future meetings. No new business items are listed beyond general old business updates.

• Update on Alternate Sites and Retrofit/Reconstruction of 55 Constitution Drive
• Update on space needs of other buildings/departments
• Public comment period
• Approval of minutes from February 11, 2024 Facilities Committee meeting
• Moment of silence for Michael Bernard

The Facilities Committee voted not to approve Warrant Article 3, receiving roughly 40 % support. Committee members discussed the failed fire‑station proposal and other facility needs. Chairwoman Bemiss said the committee will forward its report to the Town Council for further direction at the next council meeting.

• Warrant Article 3 not approved
• Committee will submit facilities report to Town Council

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Conservation Commission will hold an informal workshop to discuss several topics, including a presentation by the Energy Commission Vice Chair, the commission's mission statement and motto, results of the March 11 election, and a Pulpit Rock Subcommittee report requesting expenditure of funds. A non-public session is scheduled to consider potential acquisition, sale, or lease of real or personal property.

• Presentation by Chris Bandazian, Vice Chair of the Energy Commission
• Discussion of the Conservation Commission's Mission Statement and Motto
• Results of the March 11, 2025 Election and next steps
• Pulpit Rock Subcommittee Report and Request for Expenditure of Funds
• Non-Public Session per RSA 91-A:3, II(d) for property acquisition, sale, or lease

The Bedford Conservation Commission unanimously approved a request to spend up to $4,000 from the Conservation Fund to hire Conservation Trail Services for an assessment of the Ravine Trail in the Pulpit Rock Conservation Area. Members were asked to return to the next meeting with rewritten suggestions for the commission’s Mission Statement. The commission entered a nonpublic session, voted unanimously to keep its minutes unsealed, and adjourned.

• Approved up to $4,000 from the Conservation Fund for a Ravine Trail assessment (unanimous)
• Tasked members to submit rewritten Mission Statement suggestions by next meeting
• Entered a nonpublic session at 8:18 p.m. (unanimous)
• Voted not to seal the minutes of the nonpublic session (unanimous)
• Exited the nonpublic session at 8:50 p.m. (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting at 8:51 p.m. (unanimous)

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will consider two variance requests to allow detached accessory apartments in front yards, where such structures are normally required to be in side or rear yards. One request involves 19 Beaver Lane (postponed from February), the other involves 4 West Wind Drive. Both properties are zoned R&A.

• Variance request by Katie & Tyler Geery Family Trust/Dianne Bonfiglio for 19 Beaver Lane to build a detached accessory apartment in the front yard
• Variance request by Elizabeth Soukup for 4 West Wind Drive to convert an existing front-yard garage into a detached accessory apartment
• Both requests seek relief from Article III Section 275-21.J.(2)(h) of the zoning code
• Meeting also includes approval of minutes from February 18, 2025

The Bedford Zoning Board unanimously approved two variances allowing detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in front yards where they are normally restricted to side or rear yards. The first, at 19 Beaver Lane, permits a new ADU above a garage; the second, at 4 West Wind Drive, allows an ADU in an existing garage. Both decisions were 5-0.

• Approved variance for ADU at 19 Beaver Lane (5-0)
• Approved variance for ADU at 4 West Wind Drive (5-0)
• Approved minutes of February 18, 2025 meeting (3-0, two abstentions)

Town Council

The Town Council will hold an organizational meeting including oaths of office, election of chair and vice chair, and board assignments. They will then discuss and decide on awarding construction bids for the Greenfield Parkway and Beals Road bridges, as well as a pool repair. The Council will also hold discussions with the NH Municipal Association executive director and the Bedford Delegation.

• Award of Greenfield Parkway Bridge construction bid
• Award of Beals Road Bridge construction bid
• Award of Pool repair bid
• Discussion with Margaret Byrnes, Executive Director of the NH Municipal Association
• Discussion with the Bedford Delegation

The Bedford Town Council approved three construction contracts: $1,544,972.88 for the Greenfield Parkway Bridge, $2,273,858 for the Beals Road Bridge, and $175,000 for pool repairs. All votes were 6-0. The council also elected Lori Radke as Chair and Phil Greazzo as Vice Chair, and discussed state legislation with NHMA and the local delegation.

• Awarded Greenfield Parkway Bridge contract to EVROKS Corp. for $1,544,972.88 (6-0)
• Awarded Beals Road Bridge contract to Neil H. Daniels Inc. for $2,273,858 (6-0)
• Awarded pool repair contract to Triad Associates for $175,000 (6-0)
• Elected Lori Radke as Chair (5-0, Greazzo abstained)
• Elected Phil Greazzo as Vice Chair (5-0-1, Greazzo abstained)
• Approved minutes of Feb 12, Feb 3, and Mar 10 sessions (5-0-1, Levesque abstained)

Trustees of the Trust Funds

The Trustees of the Trust Funds will hold an annual organizational meeting to elect officers and review duties. They will discuss confirming a change in the investment policy window from 1–5 years to 1–7 years, coordinating a rewrite of investment policies, and implementing a lock on BCOCA funds until restored to original amount. A quarterly review with investment advisors is also scheduled.

• Annual organizational election of officers and review of duties
• Confirm investment policy window change to a 1–7 year period (from 1–5 years)
• Coordinate rewrite of two investment policies
• Discuss creating a 'lock' on BCOCA funds until reconstituted to original amount
• Quarterly review with investment advisor(s)

The Bedford Trustees of the Trust Funds held their annual organizational meeting, re-electing trustees and officers. They reviewed investment policies, confirmed the BCOCA funds remain locked until restored, and received a financial advisor's portfolio review. No formal votes were taken; actions were confirmations and administrative updates.

• Re-elected Mac McMahan to one-year term and Ryan Callaghan to three-year term
• Elected Kenneth Peterson as Chair, Ryan Callaghan as Treasurer, Mac McMahan as Cemetery Liaison
• Confirmed investment policy window changed to 1-7 years
• Confirmed rewrite of two investment policies and Funds Withdrawal Form
• Confirmed BCOCA funds locked until restored to original amount
• Reviewed Annual Schedule of Events and BCOCA funds Memo for Record

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will hold a continued public hearing on a lot line adjustment between lots 27-17-1 and 27-19, and a subdivision of lot 27-17-1 into two residential lots. The application, by Hakan Onan and Bedford Bluffs, Inc., is located at 7 Hamilton Way and 57 Nashua Road in the R&A zone. No new business or concept proposals are scheduled. The board will also approve minutes from the February 10, 2025 meeting.

• Continued public hearing for lot line adjustment and subdivision of lot 27-17-1 into two residential lots, at 7 Hamilton Way and 57 Nashua Road, R&A zoning.
• Approval of minutes from the February 10, 2025 meeting.

The Bedford Planning Board approved a lot line adjustment and subdivision at 7 Hamilton Way and 57 Nashua Road, granting waivers for driveway requirements and allowing a relocated shared driveway. The approval includes conditions prohibiting blasting and requiring fire department review of the driveway. The board also approved the minutes from the February 10, 2025 meeting.

• Granted waivers to Sections 218.1.5, 231.1.14, and Appendix A, Section 2(b) for driveway relocation (all in favor)
• Approved lot line adjustment and subdivision of Lot 27-17-1 into two residential lots (all in favor)
• Condition: No blasting; all ledge removal by hammering
• Condition: Driveway relocation must be approved by Bedford Fire Department
• Approved minutes of February 10, 2025 meeting (all in favor)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will meet to confirm the appointment of a Fire Chief. The agenda includes roll call, pledge of allegiance, and then the confirmation vote. No other business is listed; the meeting will adjourn after the vote.

• Confirmation of the appointment of Fire Chief

The Town Council unanimously confirmed the appointment of Frank Fraitzl as Fire Chief, effective April 14, 2025. The appointment was made by Town Manager Rick Sawyer following a formal selection process that included interviews with three panels. Fraitzl, a longtime Bedford resident, brings 18 years of fire chief experience from other municipalities.

• Confirmed Frank Fraitzl as Fire Chief effective April 14, 2025 (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:37 PM (7-0)

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission is holding a workshop instead of a regular meeting. The session will feature a presentation from the NH Division of Historical Resources.

• Presentation titled 'Architectural Styles of New Hampshire' by the NH Division of Historical Resources

The Bedford Historic District Commission held a workshop on March 4, 2025, featuring a presentation by Amy Dixon and Brandee Loughlin from the NH Division of Historical and Cultural Resources on Architectural Styles in New Hampshire. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational only, with questions and thanks from attendees. The meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m.

Supervisors of the Checklist

The Supervisors of the Checklist will meet to approve additions, deletions, and changes of name and address for the voter checklist. This is the final opportunity to register to vote before the March 11th election.

• Approval of additions, deletions, and name/address changes to the Checklist

Energy Commission

The Energy Commission is meeting to discuss messaging for the March 11 Community Power Warrant Article 15 and the status of the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility. The body will also review school project system upgrades and a $15M grant for the NH Charging and Fueling Infrastructure program.

• Community Power Warrant Article 15 messaging for March 11
• Status, timelines, and funding for Chubbuck Road Solar Facility
• School project systems upgrades and portfolio manager report
• $15M Grant Funding for NH Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) program
• Town Hall Energy Audit and Climate Pollution Reduction Grant updates

The Bedford Energy Commission met on February 27, 2025, and approved the January 23, 2025 minutes (8-0). The main discussion focused on the upcoming March 11 vote on Community Power (Warrant Article 15), with a resident speaking in opposition and members clarifying the program's opt-out nature and rate guarantees. The Commission also received updates on the Chubbuck Road solar facility, noting the permit application has been filed and construction is targeted for end of 2025, though funding uncertainties remain.

• Approved January 23, 2025 meeting minutes (8-0)
• Discussed Community Power article for March 11 vote; no formal action taken
• Heard public comment from Mark Dell'Orfano opposing Community Power
• Noted solar facility permit application filed; no formal action
• Scheduled next meeting for March 27, 2025

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will consider a variance request to build an inground pool within 42.8 feet of a wetland where 50 feet is required at 22 Greenmeadow Lane. The commission also will review a Dredge and Fill application from Eversource for a Wetland Fill Permit by Notification. Other business includes a request for expenditure of Conservation Funds, updates on the Stream Protection Ordinance, and public outreach activities.

• Variance request from Kevin Geoffrion for pool setback waiver at 22 Greenmeadow Lane (Lot 37-16-11)
• Eversource Line 3151 and 322 Wetland Fill Permit by Notification
• Request for expenditure of Conservation Funds
• Stream Protection Ordinance update and outreach plan
• Non-public session under RSA 91-A:3, II(d) for property acquisition discussions

The Bedford Conservation Commission unanimously recommended approval of a variance for an inground pool at 22 Greenmeadow Lane, allowing construction within 42.8 feet of a wetland where 50 feet is required. The Commission also unanimously authorized an additional $4,500 from the Conservation Fund for the Marston Dunlap Conservation Area parking lot, bringing the total commitment to $16,200. Minutes from the January 28 meeting were deferred due to lack of quorum. Discussions on public outreach and mission statement changes were held without formal action.

• Recommended approval of pool variance at 22 Greenmeadow Lane (unanimous)
• Authorized additional $4,500 for Marston Dunlap parking lot (unanimous)
• Deferred approval of January 28 minutes to next meeting
• Entered nonpublic session for property acquisition discussion (unanimous)

Zoning Board

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a variance request to allow construction of a detached accessory dwelling unit in the front yard, where the ordinance requires side or rear yard placement. The board will also consider approval of the January 21, 2025 minutes.

• Public hearing on Katie and Tyler Geery Family Trust/Dianne Bonfiglio variance request at 19 Beaver Lane, Lot 31-19-5, Zoned R&A

The Bedford Zoning Board met on February 18, 2025, with a quorum of three members. The only new business item, a variance request for a detached accessory dwelling unit at 19 Beaver Lane, was tabled to the March 18 meeting at the applicant's request. The board approved the minutes from the January 21 meeting and adjourned.

• Approved minutes of January 21, 2025 meeting (3-0)
• Tabled variance request for ADU at 19 Beaver Lane to March 18, 2025

Town Council

The Town Council will review 2024 assessment ratios and consider a recommendation to skip a statistical update in 2025. The body will also award a bid for mowing and landscape maintenance.

• Review of 2024 assessment ratios and recommendation against a 2025 statistical update
• Award of Bid 2024-12 for mowing and landscape maintenance
• Discussion of pending legislation

The Bedford Town Council voted 7-0 to postpone the next town-wide revaluation and statistical update until the 2026 tax year, based on the assessor's recommendation that the current median ratio of 91.8% is acceptable. The Council also awarded the mowing and landscape maintenance contract for 2025 to Knott's Landcare for $142,500 (6-1), despite concerns about the low bid. Additionally, the Council discussed pending state legislation affecting local zoning and housing, and heard from Senator Denise Riciardi about the need to oppose certain bills.

• Postponed next revaluation and statistical update to 2026 tax year (7-0)
• Awarded mowing and landscape maintenance contract to Knott's Landcare for $142,500 (6-1)
• Approved minutes of January 22 and February 3, 2025, with correction (7-0)

Facilities Subcommittee

The Facilities Committee will review educational materials for the proposed Fire Station at 300 SRR, receive updates on alternative sites and the retrofit of 55 Constitution Drive, and hear a presentation on impact fees. No votes are scheduled; the meeting focuses on discussion and updates.

• Discussion of educational outreach for the proposed Fire Station at 300 SRR
• Update on alternate sites and retrofit/reconstruction of 55 Constitution Drive
• Presentation on impact fees by Rick Sawyer

The Facilities Committee voted 9-0 to recommend that the Town Council consider an impact fee analysis for 2025. The committee also discussed options for addressing space needs at the Safety Complex, including a potential retrofit of 55 Constitution Drive, an addition to the Town Offices, and short-term leasing. No final decisions were made on those options, pending a consultant presentation and the March 11 vote on the proposed Fire Station.

• Recommended impact fee analysis for 2025 (9-0)
• Approved December 4, 2024 minutes (9-0)
• Adjourned at 8:09 p.m. (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Bedford Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a lot line adjustment between two lots and a subdivision creating two residential lots on Hamilton Way and Nashua Road. The board will also review architectural plans for minor building changes and site improvements at the Dartmouth Hitchcock medical office on South River Road. No old business or concept proposals are scheduled. The meeting will include approval of previous minutes.

• Lot line adjustment between lots 27-17-1 and 27-19 and subdivision of lot 27-17-1 into two residential lots at 7 Hamilton Way and 57 Nashua Road, zoned R&A
• Architectural review for updates and minor building changes to the existing medical office building, including site and landscaping improvements at 25 South River Road, Lot 46-53, zoned PZ
• Approval of minutes from January 27, 2025

The Bedford Planning Board tabled a request by Hakan Onan for a lot line adjustment and two-lot subdivision at 7 Hamilton Way and 57 Nashua Road. The board voted unanimously to continue the application to March 10, 2025, after extensive discussion about the applicant's request for a waiver from the town's driveway sight-distance requirement. The board also granted final approval for exterior renovations to the Dartmouth Hitchcock medical office building at 25 South River Road.

• Tabled lot line adjustment and subdivision at 7 Hamilton Way and 57 Nashua Road to March 10 (unanimous)
• Approved site plan amendment for exterior renovations at 25 South River Road (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of January 27, 2025 meeting (unanimous)

Historic District Commission

The Bedford Historic District Commission will consider a certificate of approval for a new 14' x 32' shed/garage at 22 Church Road, and review a reconstructed stone wall at 15 Chandler Road related to a drainage ditch project. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes.

• Certificate of approval for new shed/garage at 22 Church Road (Lot 20-59) by owners Susannah Kopcho and Rita Sohlich
• Review of reconstructed stone wall at 15 Chandler Road (Lot 14-2-1) for a drainage ditch in the road right-of-way, requested by the Department of Public Works
• Approval of minutes from January 7, 2024

The Bedford Historic District Commission unanimously approved a certificate of approval for a new 14x32 foot shed/garage at 22 Church Road, with conditions including completion within two years and a building permit. The commission also reviewed a reconstructed stone wall at 15 Chandler Road related to a drainage ditch project, and members expressed general satisfaction, allowing DPW to proceed. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved 14x32 ft shed/garage at 22 Church Road (unanimous)
• Approved January 7, 2025 minutes (unanimous, with two abstentions)
• Accepted agenda with reordering (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 7:22 pm (unanimous)

Deliberative Session

The Town of Bedford will hold a Deliberative Session to discuss the 2025 Municipal Warrant. Voters will debate proposals including a new fire substation, parks improvements, and multiple zoning amendments before a final vote on March 11.

• Appropriate $8,935,000 for a fire substation at 300 South River Road
• Appropriate $3,226,000 for improvements to Swenson Field, Nashua Road Complex, and Skateboard Park
• Appropriate $100,000 for a Sebbins Pond watershed management plan
• Zoning amendments to update workforce and senior housing density and affordability
• Proposed Stream Protection Ordinance creating 50-foot buffers for 10 named streams

The Town of Bedford held its first Deliberative Session to review warrant articles for the March 11, 2025 ballot. No articles were voted on; the session was for discussion and potential amendment. All articles will appear on the ballot as written, including the $8.9 million South River Road fire substation, a $3.2 million parks and recreation bond, and a $38.9 million operating budget. Motions to reduce funding for the fire substation and parks article failed.

• Motion to reduce Article 3 (fire substation) to $0 failed (34-181)
• Motion to reduce Article 4 (parks & rec) by $2,132,555 failed
• Motion to reduce Article 4 by $800,000 and strike skatepark failed
• Article 3 will appear on ballot as written
• Article 4 will appear on ballot as written
• Article 5 (Sebbins Pond plan) will appear on ballot as written
• Article 6 (operating budget) will appear on ballot as written
• All other articles will appear on ballot as written

Town Council

This is a brief procedural meeting. The Council will consider its own recommendations on warrant articles as amended during the Deliberative Session. No specific articles or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.

• Consideration of Town Council recommendations on warrant articles amended at Deliberative Session

The Bedford Town Council voted 5-2 to recommend Article 4, which supports recreation improvements, after the Little League offered $100,000 in support. The meeting was brief and adjourned immediately after the vote.

• Recommended Article 4 for recreation improvements (5-2)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:02 PM (7-0)

BCTV-WBNH Board of Overseers

The BCTV-WBNH Board of Overseers will discuss operational items including a completed underwriter slot sale, an outline for implementing radio spot programming, and a proposed "Friends of BCTV-WBNH" group. A BHS student will present her IB Global Politics project relating to the station. The board will also approve minutes from October 2024.

• Student Lillian Clark presents her IB Global Politics Course Engagement Project and its relation to BCTV-WBNH
• Review of sub-committee action items: 5th underwriter program slot sale completed
• Discussion of outline/procedure for implementing radio spots program
• Discussion: 'Friends of BCTV-WBNH' group
• Approval of minutes from October 28, 2024 meeting

Conservation Commission

The Bedford Conservation Commission will hold a regular meeting on January 28, 2025, with items including a request to modify the Joppa Hill Farm Holstein Cow sign, public outreach on conservation activities, updates on permits and projects, a stream protection ordinance update, and a donation request from the Bedford Women's Club. The meeting also includes a non-public session to discuss potential real estate acquisition.

• Request to Modify the Joppa Hill Farm Holstein Cow Sign
• Stream Protection Ordinance Update and Outreach Plan
• Donation Request to the Bedford Women's Club
• Non-Public Session for consideration of real or personal property acquisition (RSA 91-A:3, II(d))
• Updates on Marston Dunlap Parking Area Construction and CE survey with Camp Young Judea

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved a motion to clean the Holstein cow sign at the Joppa Hill Conservation Area and replace the text 'Joppa Hill Farm' with 'Joppa Hill Conservation Area' to comply with a trademark request from a private farm. The board also discussed public outreach initiatives, including a potential social media presence and a subcommittee to draft a communication plan, but took no formal action. Updates were provided on various projects, including the Marston Dunlap parking area construction and the Stream Protection Ordinance outreach, but no other decisions were made.

• Approved motion to clean and update the Joppa Hill Farm sign to read 'Joppa Hill Conservation Area' (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from November 26, 2024 meeting (unanimous, chair abstained)
• Approved December 2, 2024 site walk minutes with addition of Vice Chair Donovan's name (unanimous, chair and Carter abstained)
• Moved into nonpublic session per RSA 91-A:3, II(d) for property acquisition discussion (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider several land use requests, including a new veterinary clinic and a paint store. Two other applications for a home occupation permit and an accessory apartment have been postponed.

• Proposed 9,000 sq. ft. veterinary clinic at 250 South River Road
• Architectural review of a 4,036 sq. ft. paint store at 26 & 28 South River Road
• Sign waiver for a 32 sq. ft. wall sign for Evviva Trattoria at 5 Colby Court
• Postponed home occupation permit for a hair salon at 157 Nashua Road
• Postponed conditional use permit for an accessory apartment at 19 Beaver Lane

The Bedford Planning Board approved three applications: a Performance Zone sign waiver for a second wall sign at Evviva Trattoria, an amended site plan for a Sherwin-Williams paint store, and a new site plan for a 9,000 sq. ft. veterinary clinic. All approvals included specific conditions, such as prohibiting a monument sign for the restaurant and requiring landscaping updates for the paint store. Two other applications were postponed at the applicants' request.

• Approved sign waiver for second 32 sq. ft. wall sign at Evviva Trattoria (6-1)
• Approved site plan amendment for Sherwin-Williams paint store at 26 & 28 South River Road (6-1)
• Approved site plan for Granite Veterinary Emergency, Trauma & Specialty at 250 South River Road (unanimous)
• Approved setback waiver for paint store (6-1)
• Approved landscape buffer waiver for veterinary clinic (unanimous)
• Postponed Home Occupation Permit for hair salon at 157 Nashua Road
• Postponed Conditional Use Permit for accessory apartment at 19 Beaver Lane
• Approved minutes of January 13, 2025 meeting

Energy Commission

The Bedford Energy Commission will discuss proposed community power rates for February to July 2025 and next steps for a March vote on a Bedford Community Power warrant article. The agenda also includes updates on the solar facility at the Transfer Station, progress on school energy projects, and a $15 million grant opportunity for charging and fueling infrastructure. Additionally, the commission will consider changing the November and December 2025 meeting dates.

• Proposed community power rates for February–July 2025
• $15 million NH Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) grant program
• Update on solar facility and master plan at Transfer Station
• School projects progress: systems upgrades and Portfolio Manager
• Change of November and December 2025 meeting dates (Nov 27 to Nov 20, Dec 25 to Dec 18)

The Bedford Energy Commission discussed the upcoming Community Power warrant article, noting that the launch would be delayed until August due to rate parity with Eversource. They also reviewed the solar facility redesign, which will reduce panel count and cost, and discussed the impact of federal funding pauses on IRA/IIJA projects. The commission approved minutes and changed meeting dates for November and December 2025.

• Approved December 19, 2024 minutes (4-0-1)
• Changed November 2025 meeting to Nov 20 and December 2025 meeting to Dec 18 (5-0)

Town Council

The Town Council will hold public hearings on three proposed bonds for infrastructure and environmental management. The body will also take final action on the proposed 2025 Budget and warrant articles.

• Proposed $8.235 million South River Road Fire Substation bond
• Proposed $3.226 million Parks and Recreation Improvements & Related Infrastructure bond
• Proposed $100,000 Sebbins Pond Watershed Management Plan bond
• Final action on the proposed 2025 Budget and warrant articles
• Appointment to the Conservation Commission

The Town Council held public hearings and voted to move all proposed warrant articles to the March 11 ballot, including an $8.935 million fire substation bond, a $3.226 million parks and recreation bond, and a $100,000 watershed plan. The Council recommended approval of the fire substation (6-1) and watershed plan (7-0), but did not recommend the parks bond (4-3). The Council also approved $14,000 for the Stevens Buswell Community Center from Invest NH funds and moved $10,000 within the budget to cemeteries.

• Moved $8.935M fire substation bond to ballot, recommended 6-1
• Moved $3.226M parks and recreation bond to ballot, not recommended 4-3
• Moved $100K Sebbins Pond watershed plan to ballot, recommended 7-0
• Approved $14K for Stevens Buswell Community Center from Invest NH funds (7-0)
• Moved $10K from field maintenance to cemeteries line (7-0)
• Moved 2025 municipal budget to ballot, recommended 6-1
• Moved Beals Road Bridge article to ballot as amended to $3M, recommended 7-0
• Appointed Brian Labrie to Conservation Commission (6-0)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will conduct public hearings on three proposed bonds: $8.235 million for a South River Road Fire Substation, $3.226 million for Parks and Recreation improvements, and $100,000 for the Sebbins Pond Watershed Management Plan. A hearing on any petitioned warrant articles is also scheduled.

• Public hearing on $8.235 million South River Road Fire Substation bond
• Public hearing on $3.226 million Parks and Recreation Improvements & Related Infrastructure bond
• Public hearing on $100,000 Sebbins Pond Watershed Management Plan bond
• Public hearing on any petitioned warrant articles

The Town Council voted unanimously to send all warrant articles to the March 11 ballot, including an $8.935 million fire substation bond (recommended 6-1) and a $3.226 million parks bond (not recommended 4-3). The Council also approved a $14,000 grant to the Stevens Buswell Community Center from Invest NH funds and moved $10,000 within the budget to cemeteries.

• Moved $8.935M fire substation bond to ballot (7-0), recommended 6-1
• Moved $3.226M parks bond to ballot (7-0), not recommended 4-3
• Moved $100K Sebbins Pond watershed plan bond to ballot (7-0), recommended 7-0
• Approved $14K to Stevens Buswell Community Center from Invest NH funds (7-0)
• Moved $10K from field maintenance to cemeteries (7-0)
• Moved 2025 operating budget to ballot (7-0), recommended 6-1
• Moved Beals Road Bridge bond to ballot as amended to $3M (7-0), recommended 7-0
• Appointed Brian Labrie to Conservation Commission (6-0)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will hear a continued request from the Order of St. Benedict to fill 12,122 square feet of wetland permanently for a track and field complex. They will also consider a variance for a detached garage setback at 22 Church Road. A proposal to reduce affordable units in an elderly housing development has been postponed to March.

• Continued hearing: Variance to fill 12,122 sq ft wetland for Saint Anselm College athletic complex at Rundlett Hill Road and Worthley Road
• New variance request: Build garage/shed 7.8 ft from side property line (25 ft required) at 22 Church Road
• Postponed: Request to reduce required affordable units from 25% to 10% for elderly housing at 227 Wallace Road
• Approval of December 17, 2024 meeting minutes

The Bedford Zoning Board of Adjustment granted a variance to the Order of St. Benedict of NH to permanently fill 12,122 square feet and temporarily fill 587 square feet of wetlands for a track and field complex at Saint Anselm College. The board also unanimously approved a variance for a 14x32 foot shed at 22 Church Road, allowing it within 7.8 feet of the side property line where 25 feet is required. A request for a variance to reduce affordable housing units at 227 Wallace Road was postponed to the March 18, 2025 meeting at the applicant's request.

• Granted wetland variance to St. Anselm College for athletic complex (unanimous)
• Granted shed setback variance at 22 Church Road (5-0)
• Postponed affordable housing variance request at 227 Wallace Road to March 18, 2025
• Approved minutes from December 17, 2024 meeting (unanimous)

Supervisors of the Checklist

The Supervisors of the Checklist will meet to approve additions, deletions, name and address changes, and other updates to the official voter checklist. This is a routine administrative meeting open to the public.

• Approval of additions, deletions, and name/address changes to the Checklist

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct a public hearing regarding proposed 2025 zoning amendments. The board will also review several permit and subdivision requests for residential and commercial properties.

• Public hearing on proposed 2025 zoning amendments
• Home Occupation Permit request for a hair salon at 157 Nashua Road
• Conditional Use Permit request for a detached accessory apartment at 386 Wallace Road
• Subdivision request to split one commercial lot into two at 209 Route 101 and Bedford Center Road
• Condominium Subdivision request for two land units at 264 South River Road

The Bedford Planning Board voted unanimously to place all four proposed 2025 zoning amendments on the March 11 town ballot. The amendments address workforce and senior housing, dimensional standards in the General Residential Zone, cottage court housing, and a stream protection ordinance. The board also approved a conditional use permit for a detached accessory apartment at 386 Wallace Road (5-2), and approved two subdivisions: one at 209 Route 101 and one at 264 South River Road.

• Approved placing all four 2025 zoning amendments on the March ballot (unanimous)
• Approved conditional use permit for detached accessory apartment at 386 Wallace Road (5-2)
• Approved subdivision of 209 Route 101 into two commercial lots (unanimous)
• Approved condominium subdivision at 264 South River Road (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of December 2 and December 16, 2024 meetings

Town Council

The Town Council will hold public hearings regarding the proposed 2025 Budget and the acceptance of $15,000 in grant funds. The body will also consider contracts for bridge construction management and a permanent access easement at 300 South River Road.

• Public hearing on proposed 2025 Budget and warrant articles
• Acceptance of $15,000 grant for Historic District Design Guidelines
• Acceptance of $7,000 grant for Historic District Commission training
• Construction management contract awards for Greenfield Parkway Bridge and Beals Road Bridge
• Proposed 6,216 square foot permanent access easement at 300 South River Road

The Town Council held a public hearing on the proposed 2025 budget and 12 related warrant articles, including bonds for a new fire substation, parks improvements, and bridge replacements. After discussion, the Council voted 7-0 to table action on the budget and all articles until its January 22 meeting. The Council also approved two grants for historic district work, granted waivers for a baseball fieldhouse project, approved an access easement, and moved a Community Power warrant article to the March ballot.

• Tabled action on 2025 budget and all warrant articles until Jan. 22 (7-0)
• Approved $15,000 grant for HDC design guidelines and $7,000 training grant (7-0)
• Granted waivers for sign height, permit fees, and debris disposal for Twarog Fieldhouse (7-0)
• Approved 6,216 sq ft access easement to Lincoln Property Company for $21,500 (7-0)
• Awarded $182,512 construction engineering contract for Greenfield Parkway Bridge (7-0)
• Awarded $259,269 construction engineering contract for Beals Road Bridge (7-0)
• Moved Community Power warrant article to March ballot (7-0)
• Approved minutes of Dec. 11 public and non-public sessions (7-0)

Town Council

The Town Council is conducting a public hearing to receive comments on the proposed 2025 municipal budget and associated warrant articles. This is part of a larger budget process including future hearings on bonds and notes, a deliberative session, and an official ballot session.

• Public hearing on 2025 proposed municipal budget and warrant articles
• Public hearings on three proposed 2025 warrant articles requiring bonds or notes (Jan 22)
• Deliberative Session on 2025 Town Budget and warrant articles (Feb 3)
• Official Ballot Session for officer elections, zoning amendments, and bonds (March 11)

The Bedford Town Council held a public hearing on the proposed 2025 budget and 12 warrant articles, then voted unanimously to table further action on all of them until the January 22 meeting. The council also approved several other items, including accepting two historic district grants, granting waivers for the Twarog Fieldhouse project, approving a $21,500 easement for Lincoln Property Company, and awarding construction management contracts for two bridge replacements. The council moved the Community Power warrant article to the March ballot.

• Tabled budget and all warrant articles until Jan. 22 meeting (7-0)
• Approved $15,000 and $7,000 grants for Historic District Commission (7-0)
• Granted waivers for sign height, permit fees, and disposal fees for Twarog Fieldhouse (7-0)
• Approved $21,500 easement to Lincoln Property Company (7-0)
• Awarded $182,512 contract to Hoyle, Tanner for Greenfield Parkway Bridge (7-0)
• Awarded $259,269 contract to Hoyle, Tanner for Beals Road Bridge (7-0)
• Moved Community Power warrant article to March ballot (7-0)
• Approved minutes of Dec. 11, 2024 meetings (7-0)

Historic District Commission

The Bedford Historic District Commission will hold a non-binding pre-application discussion on the renovation and expansion of a gas station at 137 Route 101, and consider a certificate of approval for a new 16' x 32' shed at 22 Church Road. The commission will also receive updates on a CLG Grant and plans for the town's 275th anniversary celebration.

• Request for certificate of approval for a new 16' x 32' shed at 22 Church Road (Lot 20-59) by owners Susannah Kopcho and Rita Sohlich.
• Non-binding pre-application discussion of renovation and expansion of the gas service station building at 137 Route 101 (Lot 20-8) by Net Lease Realty I Inc. and RPM Fuels, LLC.
• Update on Certified Local Government (CLG) Grant.
• Discussion of 275th Anniversary Celebration.

The Bedford Historic District Commission voted unanimously to table a certificate of approval request for a 16' x 32' shed at 22 Church Road until the February 4 meeting, pending the outcome of a Zoning Board of Appeals variance request. The commission also held a non-binding pre-application discussion with the owners of the Mobil gas station at 137 Route 101 about a proposed renovation and expansion, offering design guidance but taking no formal action.

• Tabled shed application at 22 Church Road to Feb 4 pending ZBA variance (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved Oct 1, 2024 minutes (unanimous, Tefft abstained)
• Held pre-application discussion for gas station renovation at 137 Route 101 (no vote)