Planning Board chair outlines steady project flow, vacancies and delay to master plan

Robert Best, chairman of the Merrimack Planning Board, presented the board’s annual review to the Town Council on May 22 and summarized activity since July 1, 2024. Best said the Planning Board has reviewed nine site plans (some with waivers), three subdivisions, one condominium conversion, one lot‑line adjustment and five conditional use permits, which included four home‑occupations and a detached accessory dwelling unit. He highlighted several notable projects: a new location for Merrimack Veterinary Hospital, two warehouse buildings at a former driving range site, an amended site plan for Merrimack Park Place Phase 2 and a proposed pickleball facility near the bowling alley. "The planning board has reviewed 9 site plans, with some with waivers of full site plan review, 3 subdivisions, 1 condominium conversion, 1 lot line adjustment, 5 conditional use permits," Best said. He noted two vacancies remain — one full member and one alternate — and encouraged residents to apply. Best also told the council he shared the town’s disappointment that the master plan schedule "will get kicked back a little bit further in time before we get to it." The presentation included thanks to staff, in particular Robert Price and department support. Council members asked about board membership and praised longtime volunteers. No formal action was taken; the segment was informational and the council accepted the review.