Merrimack honors oldest resident with Boston Post Cane award

During a recent Merrimack town council meeting, Jane Burnham was honored as the oldest living resident, receiving the prestigious Boston Post Cane. The recognition included a certificate and a replica of the cane, presented by the town council and town manager on August 15, 2024. Burnham expressed her gratitude for the honor.

The meeting also featured a review of the Merrimack Zoning Board of Adjustments' activities over the past year, presented by Chair Patrick Dwyer. Since July 2023, the board has held 13 meetings, granting 26 variances and four special exceptions. Notable approvals included a drive-thru restaurant and an elderly housing development, while a request for an elderly housing project serviced by septic systems was denied.

Dwyer explained the differences between variances and special exceptions, emphasizing that variances provide relief from zoning requirements, while special exceptions allow for uses not typically permitted in certain zones. He noted that the board is fully staffed and thanked outgoing member Brian Dono for his service.

The council also held a public hearing regarding amendments to the Flood Hazard Conservation District of the zoning ordinance, aimed at maintaining compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program. Planning and Zoning Administrator Casey Wolf Smith outlined the proposed changes, which primarily involve clerical updates and new definitions. The council voted to place the amendments on the consent agenda for adoption on September 12, 2024, with the option to revisit any significant changes if necessary.