Zoning board discusses warehousing changes impacting Nashua area developments

During the Hooksett Zoning Board of Adjustment meeting on May 13, 2025, significant discussions centered around recent changes to zoning ordinances and their implications for local development, particularly concerning warehousing.

The meeting highlighted a key issue regarding an application for a large warehouse building that had been submitted prior to a zoning ordinance amendment that now permits such developments. Board members expressed confusion about the timeline of the application and the new regulations, which were voted in March 2025. The discussion revealed that the applicants had initially filed their request before the ordinance change, leading to questions about whether the board needed to vote on the application at all.

One board member noted that the size of the proposed warehouse was substantial, comparing it to a large retail mall and emphasizing the trend of constructing large warehouses near highways. This reflects a broader pattern in the region where towns are increasingly accommodating such developments due to their proximity to major transportation routes.

As the conversation progressed, it became clear that the board might not need to take further action on the application, as the new ordinance allows for warehousing without restrictions on building size. The board considered the possibility of the applicants withdrawing their request and resubmitting it under the new regulations, which would streamline the process.

The board also encouraged community members present at the meeting to voice their concerns at the upcoming planning board sessions, indicating that while the zoning changes have made warehousing permissible, there would still be opportunities for public input during the planning phase.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the evolving landscape of Hooksett's zoning regulations and the implications for future development. With the recent changes, the board anticipates a shift in how large-scale projects are approached, reflecting the community's growing needs and the challenges of balancing development with local concerns. The next steps will involve further discussions at the planning board level, where residents can continue to engage in the decision-making process.