Hope House Holdings proposes transitional housing for families in downtown Wolfeboro

The Wolfeboro Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA) convened on August 4, 2025, to discuss a significant proposal for a transitional housing project aimed at assisting homeless families. The meeting focused on a request for a variance to allow the use of a large building in the Commercial C-1 Central Business District for this purpose.

The building, noted as one of the largest in the district, is proposed to house up to seven families on its third floor, with additional office and meeting space on the second floor. Proponents of the project argued that providing transitional housing aligns with the public interest, as it addresses the urgent need for support services in the community. They emphasized that the project would not alter the essential character of the neighborhood, which is a mix of residential and commercial uses.

Key points raised during the meeting included the building's compliance with safety regulations, including being a fully sprinkled structure, and the presence of 24-hour on-site management to ensure the well-being of residents. The applicant highlighted that the previous operation of a similar program, Hope House, had been successful for six years, providing a stable environment for families in need.

Concerns were voiced by some community members regarding potential noise and disturbances from residents. However, the new management team assured the board that they would implement strict guidelines for resident behavior and maintain a supportive environment.

The board discussed the criteria for granting the variance, including whether the proposal would cause unnecessary hardship or diminish property values in the area. Supporters of the project argued that the building's size and location make it uniquely suited for this type of use, and that the benefits to the community far outweigh any potential drawbacks.

The meeting concluded with a call for further public input and a commitment from the board to consider the proposal carefully. The outcome of this variance request could significantly impact the availability of transitional housing in Wolfeboro, addressing a critical need for families facing homelessness in the region.