Portsmouth residents are raising concerns over potential noise disruptions from a proposed project that could impact their community. During the Town Council meeting on December 9, 2024, local resident Joe Forgione voiced strong objections to the project's location near residential areas, citing noise and disruption as significant issues. He emphasized that similar projects in other states have mandated industrial sites to avoid residential disturbances.

Forgione questioned whether the town had sought an independent engineering assessment of the project's noise impact, suggesting that relying solely on the developer's data could lead to biased conclusions. He urged the council to ensure that any noise abatement measures would be robust and financially supported, expressing skepticism about the developer's commitment to minimizing disruptions for residents.

The discussion highlighted the tension between development costs and community well-being, with Forgione arguing that the project's financial motivations could compromise the quality of life for local residents. He called for the council to reconsider its support for the project, advocating for a more respectful approach to community concerns.

In response, council members acknowledged the importance of public input and indicated that the facility's siting board would consider residents' concerns in their decision-making process. The meeting underscored the ongoing dialogue between Portsmouth's leadership and its citizens regarding development projects and their implications for the community. As the council moves forward, the emphasis on balancing development needs with resident welfare remains a critical focus.