Parker, the PDA representative, told the Greenland Board of Selectmen on Dec. 16 that a new cruise operator made five overnight calls to Portsmouth this year and that feedback from visitors and operators was positive. He said the increased activity suggests expanded ports of call next summer.

Parker outlined an airport wildlife-management arrangement he said dated to 1991 under which the Federal Aviation Administration coordinates with U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services to address hazards ranging from woodchucks and beavers to large birds and raptors. He said the contract funds a full-time wildlife biologist and includes mitigation techniques and training.

On land use and parking, Parker described a proposed lease between the PDA, the Department of Transportation and Jalbert Interests (the family owners of C & J Bus). He said one parcel involved is about 14.4 acres and that DOT’s terminal and nearby overflow parking are part of the arrangement. Parker said the lease sets a first-year rent payable to PDA and includes a 6% surcharge on gross revenues that would be divided between DOT and PDA. He added that the agreement still requires final action at the Governor and Council before a signed contract is in place.

Board members asked about current flight and peace-greeter activity; Parker said use has run "hot and cold" and that October and November had been busier than expected. He offered to share scheduling information if the board wanted more detail.

The report included contact information Parker cited for New Hampshire Wildlife Services (Laurie Freeman) for anyone seeking a presentation or more information. No formal board action on the lease was taken at this meeting; Parker said G&C action was expected soon.