In a recent workshop held by the Hooksett Planning Board, discussions centered on economic development initiatives and the importance of community engagement in local governance. The meeting highlighted the role of the Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC) in addressing the town's economic growth and the potential renewal of tax incentives that are set to expire in 2026.

One of the key topics was the evaluation of Economic Revitalization Zones (ERZs) and the commercial industrial exemption program. These programs are designed to encourage development by offering tax incentives to businesses. The committee discussed the need to assess the utilization of these incentives, as only a few businesses have taken advantage of them since their inception. The Planning Board emphasized the importance of outreach to ensure that local businesses are aware of these opportunities and can benefit from them.

The committee also considered the potential for extending the commercial industrial exemption from five to seven years, which could provide additional support for businesses looking to expand. This proposal aims to enhance the attractiveness of Hooksett as a destination for new businesses and to stimulate economic activity in underutilized areas.

Another significant point of discussion was the need for better coordination among various town boards, including the Heritage Commission and the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Advisory Committee. The Planning Board recognized that overlapping responsibilities among these groups could lead to more effective economic development strategies if they collaborated more closely.

Community engagement emerged as a critical theme during the meeting. Board members expressed a desire to recruit more residents to participate in local governance, particularly on boards that currently face vacancies. They acknowledged that many residents may be unaware of how easy it is to get involved and contribute to the town's development.

The workshop concluded with a commitment to enhance outreach efforts, including a follow-up session on TIFs and the potential for joint meetings with EDAC to inform residents about economic development initiatives. The Planning Board aims to ensure that residents are well-informed about the opportunities available to them and the impact of these initiatives on the community's future.

Overall, the discussions at the Hooksett Planning Board workshop underscored the importance of economic development and community involvement in shaping the town's growth and revitalization efforts. As the town prepares for upcoming decisions regarding tax incentives and development strategies, the engagement of residents and local businesses will be crucial in fostering a vibrant economic landscape.