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Henniker approves five-year utility valuation agreement amid ongoing Eversource litigation
Summary
Selectmen voted to approve a five-year agreement with Sans Souci Associates to perform utility valuations and the 2027 town-wide utility revaluation, citing the firm's litigation experience and the technical nature of utility appraisal work.
The Henniker Board of Selectmen voted Jan. 20 to accept a five-year utility evaluation and reevaluation agreement with Sans Souci Associates, authorizing the town administrator to sign the contract on the town's behalf.
Town Administrator Diane Bridal explained that the contract covers utility valuations and the 2027 town-wide utility revaluation using the methodology required by RSA 70:2-e, which was refined in the wake of Eversource litigation. Bridal said the firm will defend local-level abatements and that any defense beyond the local process would incur additional fees at the firm's hourly rates outlined in the agreement.
Board members discussed whether to re-bid the service or continue with the current contractor, noting Sans Souci's existing familiarity with Henniker's utilities and litigation history. Several selectmen recommended staying with the firm during the ongoing litigation to preserve continuity; one member said the town could revisit procurement options after the current contract term.
A motion to accept the 2026–2030 utility evaluation and reevaluation agreement with Sans Souci Associates and authorize the town administrator to sign the agreement carried unanimously.
Next steps: staff will execute the agreement and coordinate the 2027 reevaluation schedule and any local-abatement defense tasks with the firm as needed.
