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Henniker selectmen adopt revised facility‑use policy and fee schedule, keep special‑event permit process
Summary
After a third reading public hearing, the Henniker Board of Selectmen unanimously adopted a revised facility‑use policy and fee schedule that preserves the special‑event permit review for events of roughly 250+ attendees and keeps damage‑deposit procedures.
The Henniker Board of Selectmen adopted, by unanimous vote, a revised facility‑use policy and municipal building fee schedule following a third reading and public hearing.
Town administrator Diane outlined the proposed policy and fee schedule and said the town would continue to require a special‑event permit for large gatherings. Under the proposed approach a special‑event permit is required for events expected to draw about 250 or more attendees; permits must be reviewed by public safety officials (police, fire/EMS, highway) and are subject to an application fee structure that varies by timeliness and whether the applicant is nonprofit or for‑profit.
Diane said the current proposals keep resident fees low for small uses of the Angela Robinson Bandstand (four‑hour increments remain $25 for residents), reduce a prior nonresident rate from $100 to $50 for smaller bookings, and include damage deposits and special‑detail costs for police and EMS for larger events. "We want to make sure the public has access to these facilities," Diane said, "but there are some events that might be more appropriate at other venues." She also said damage deposits are in place and staff will use before‑and‑after photos and inspections to determine whether to retain a deposit to cover damage.
Selectmen discussed mechanisms to manage wear and tear at Community Park, possible additional fees for events that cause significant grounds damage, and the optics of negotiated fees. Several members said the existing special‑event permit and associated review by public safety staff will allow the board to deny events that are not a good fit for town property. Flynn moved to accept the policy and fee schedule as presented and to adopt the related amendments; the motion was seconded and passed 5‑0.
The board agreed the policy can be revisited after a year of experience and that staff should monitor the park's condition and return with recommended adjustments if needed.
