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Sanbornton planning board adds 'consecutive' to RV 120‑day rule, sends Article 4.E to ballot
Summary
After residents raised enforcement, sanitation and tax concerns about seasonal RV stays, the planning board voted to add the word “consecutive” to the proposed 120‑day limit and later voted to place Article 4.E on the town ballot.
The Town of Sanbornton Planning Board voted to add the word “consecutive” to a proposed zoning amendment limiting recreational-vehicle stays to 120 days and later voted to place the amended Article 4.E on the town ballot.
At a public hearing on Jan. 15, residents urged clearer enforcement language and higher permit fees for short-term RV stays. “People can stay in town, temporarily in RVs, without paying building tax,” said Audry Barriault, who recommended inserting “consecutive” into the 120‑day phrase to make enforcement easier. Julie Lonergan asked how septic from the campers would be managed and urged the board to table the amendment until the town establishes more parameters and housing data.
Board members discussed enforcement and town revenue concerns. Planning Board Assistant Stephen Laurin clarified that “these RVs have been allowed” under current practice and that the proposed ordinance language “allow[s] for the enforcement and permitting process of these occurrences.” Ralph Carter moved to add the word “consecutive” to Article 4.E.A; Patti Bartlett seconded and the motion passed 5-0-0. Later, Chairman Andy Sanborn moved that the board accept Article 4.E with changes and put the amendment on the ballot; Jody Slack seconded and the motion passed 4-1-0, with Lynn Martinez opposed.
Supporters and opponents framed the change differently: some committee members noted visitors can contribute to local merchants, while others emphasized potential burdens on taxpayers and sanitation concerns. Dick Gardner urged the board to seek legal assistance to draft enforceable language. The board noted that permit fee levels are set by the select board, not by the planning board, and that ordinances can be amended again in the future.
The board temporarily closed and then reopened the public hearing during the discussion. The approved amendment adding “consecutive” is now slated for voter consideration at the next town election.
