State officials, municipal advocates visit Brookfield to discuss housing, ADUs and Class 6 road rules

Executive Councilor Joe Kenny, State Senator Mark McConkie and representatives of the New Hampshire Municipal Association addressed the Brookfield Town Planning Board on Aug. 11, focusing on housing, accessory dwelling unit rules and recent state actions affecting development on Class 6 roads.

The officials said housing remains the region’s top issue and urged local engagement as the Legislature and state agencies continue to change land-use rules. “It is the number 1 crisis for any employer that I speak to,” State Senator Mark McConkie said of housing, describing local efforts and statewide programs to spur development and noting the state had directed money to projects through an Invest in New Hampshire program.

Why it matters: Brookfield is updating its master plan while the state has moved to expand by-right ADU authority and lawmakers have debated bills that change how and where towns may allow development. Planning boards and residents face questions about how to reconcile local master plans and voters’ preferences with state law and new statutory requirements.

Most important facts

- Executive Councilor Joe Kenny and State Senator Mark McConkie met with the Planning Board to hear local concerns and explain state activity on housing…