Portsmouth council advances $250,000 Market Square splash pad; debate centers on process and priorities

Portsmouth City Council on Feb. 10 advanced an ordinance that would authorize up to $250,000 to help install splash-pad equipment at Market Square Park, moving the measure to a second reading after an extended public-comment period and council debate.

The ordinance as read on the record authorizes “not more than $250,000,” with $125,000 designated as a loan from the general fund (account 101, recreation equipment/grounds line 101.1180.5374) and a $125,000 credit from the city’s public utilities department for water service; the water credit is listed in the ordinance as “to have no cash value.” The splash pad must be available to the public for free for not less than 10 years, according to the ordinance language presented at the meeting.

Why it matters: supporters say the splash pad is part of a downtown economic-development strategy to attract visitors and support local businesses. Opponents and some residents argued the city should prioritize urgent needs such as housing and raised questions about using public funds at a privately owned site.

Public testimony: several residents and local stakeholders spoke both for and against the proposal. Laurie…