Concerns regarding local land use and planning regulations dominated the recent government meeting, as residents voiced apprehensions about a property owned by Mr. Hilt in Ashland. One resident, who has a long history with the land, raised issues about a newly installed culvert, questioning whether proper permits were obtained from the New Hampshire wetlands board. The absence of records for the culvert installation raised alarms about potential environmental impacts.

Further scrutiny was directed at Mr. Hilt's property, where planning board minutes revealed multiple violations, including the lack of a site plan for his enterprise. A cease and desist order was issued earlier this year, and although a site plan was submitted shortly thereafter, it was not prepared by a licensed land surveyor, which is a requirement in the town. The resident expressed concern over the lack of visibility into the property, noting that the code enforcement officer would not be able to monitor activities without regular inspections.

Another resident, Nancy Komai, inquired about the progress on outstanding items from previous meetings, specifically regarding drainage studies and erosion controls. The board confirmed that updated plans had been received, addressing some of the community's concerns.

The discussion also touched on the need for clear regulations regarding sound levels and parking plans, with residents urging the board to maintain the integrity of the site plan process. They emphasized the importance of setting definitive standards to avoid future complications and ensure compliance with local regulations.

As the meeting progressed, residents called for rigorous scrutiny of Mr. Hilt's application, insisting that all necessary exemptions and requirements be met before any approvals are granted. The board acknowledged the concerns but reiterated their responsibility to evaluate the application based on its merits. The dialogue highlighted the community's commitment to preserving local land use standards while navigating the complexities of development.