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Hampstead Planning Board hears update on two state housing bills, asks members to review zoning
Summary
At its May 18 meeting the Hampstead Planning Board received an update on HB 1540 and SB 586 and directed members to review the town’s zoning ordinances and regulations to ensure they align with the Master Plan and pending changes to New Hampshire law and local water‑system expansion.
The Hampstead Planning Board on May 18 received an informational update on two state bills affecting local land-use rules and asked members to review the town’s zoning ordinances in light of state changes and planned water‑system expansion.
Bob Weimar, chair of the Hampstead Planning Board, explained that board authorization is required for appointments to the Capital Improvement Program committee and asked members to sign nomination paperwork so nominees can be sworn in by the Town Clerk.
Joe Guthrie, the board’s ex‑officio member, told the board that HB 1540, which would limit certain planning-board regulatory authority, and SB 586, concerning accessory dwelling units (ADUs), were likely to pass both legislative chambers and be sent to the governor. Guthrie presented the update as informational; the board did not take action on either bill at the meeting.
Weimar asked board members to review existing Zoning Ordinance language and related regulations to identify any revisions that may be needed “due to recent and proposed changes to the New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated” and because an expanding municipal water system could increase potential development density. He emphasized that any updates should be consistent with recommendations in the town’s Master Plan.
During the meeting the board approved the minutes from its April 20, 2026 meeting. Matt Johnson moved to approve the minutes; Ryan Gray seconded, and the board voted 6‑0 to adopt the minutes. Later, Gray moved to adjourn; Dale Gerry seconded and the board voted 6‑0 to adjourn.
No member comments were offered during the member‑comments portion of the agenda. The board did not take any formal action on zoning changes or the state bills at the May 18 meeting; staff or members were directed to perform the ordinance and regulation review described by the chair.
