Council Approves $764,880 Budget Proposal for Parks and Recreation Department

The Hooksett Town Council's recent budget review meeting highlighted a significant $764,880 proposal for the Parks and Recreation Cemetery, marking a 4.38% increase over last year. This increase, amounting to $32,113, is primarily driven by the need to replace a zero-turn mower, which alone accounts for over half of the budget hike at $18,500.

During the meeting, council members discussed various aspects of the budget, including the restoration of paving lines, which is a key focus for the Department of Public Works (DPW). A notable $50,000 of the budget is earmarked for this purpose, reflecting the town's commitment to maintaining its infrastructure. Additionally, the DPW's professional services budget has increased to $80,500, with funds allocated for roadway maintenance, including line striping and guardrail repairs.

The council also addressed rising costs for materials, particularly for salt and sand, which saw an $8,000 increase. This adjustment aims to ensure the town can adequately prepare for winter conditions.

In a lighter moment, a council member learned about the need for a professional trapper to manage beaver-related issues affecting culverts, underscoring the diverse challenges the town faces in maintaining its infrastructure.

As the council continues to refine the budget, the focus remains on balancing necessary improvements with fiscal responsibility, ensuring that Hooksett's services and facilities meet the community's needs. The next steps will involve finalizing the budget and addressing any remaining questions from council members.