HAMPSTEAD — Council members and staff reported multiple new businesses opening on Main Street, a well-attended farmers market, and a schedule of summer community events.

Why it matters: New businesses and community events affect local economy, parking and public activity on Main Street and at Pantherplex grounds.

Town staff reported four new businesses scheduled to open: The Hibiscus Tree (a sushi and Szechuan restaurant), Roganart (a European bakery, bistro and café at the former Snickerdoodles location), and Little G's Diner (breakfast and lunch, six days a week, operated by Chris and Katie Coyle). The fourth business at 1302 North Main Street is GAH Wellness Clinic, a primary-care facility operated by a nurse practitioner. The council noted Little G's owners also operate the Bebo's Mac Shack food truck.

Community events and markets: The farmers market has been well attended despite interrupted weather; staff said organizers are improving parking flow and will temporarily relocate the market to the front of the Pantherplex building during the carnival setup. New vendors include Babe Beans (coffee van) and DC Dills (homemade pickles). Music in the Park and Train Station activities were reported, with performances scheduled into late July. The Hampstead Carnival, sponsored by the volunteer fire department, will run Aug. 4–9 at Pantherplex (1400 Panther Drive). The Hampstead Police Department will hold National Night Out on Aug. 5 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at War Memorial Park.

Ending: Staff encouraged residents to attend events and to follow posted guidelines (e.g., bulk trash pickup instructions) noted during the briefing.