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Selectmen address bridge concerns, woodlot sale, tax-abatement request and other town business
Summary
The Stratford Selectmen reviewed resident concerns about a bridge on Potato Hill Road, agreed to seek Conservation Commission input on a proposed town woodlot sale, denied in writing a statewide education tax abatement request per NHMA guidance, and asked staff to explore transfer station phone/internet options and DRA feedback on the town's revaluation.
At their April 6 meeting the Stratford Selectmen addressed several town matters raised by residents and staff.
Bridge on Potato Hill Road: Suzanne reported that water is coming from two locations at the second bridge on Potato Hill Road (a Class VI/private segment). The Board will conduct a site visit, clarify ownership and maintenance responsibility, contact the local ATV club about possible assistance and research grant options; no motion was made.
Town woodlot: The board discussed a proposal from Town Meeting to sell the town woodlot and noted that the Conservation Commission manages the property and may oppose a sale. The board agreed to meet with the Conservation Commission to gather input before proceeding.
Elderly exemption review and revaluation: A resident requested reconsideration of the elderly property tax exemption; the board said exemption amounts and income/asset limits were updated three years ago and no changes are planned now. Separately, the board reported that its cyclical revaluation has been submitted to the New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration and the town is awaiting feedback.
Transfer station communications: The board discussed installing a phone system at the transfer station if internet service is available; if not, staff will continue using cell phones. Action assigned to staff: explore phone and internet service options.
Statewide education tax abatement request: The board reviewed a request challenging the constitutionality of the statewide education property tax and, citing guidance that a town cannot rule on constitutionality, directed staff to deny the request in writing in accordance with NHMA guidance and to notify the Town Attorney if further legal action ensues.
Fire/burn incident: Selectman Ron Scott raised an incident involving an unattended, unpermitted barn burn at the former Phillips property; the board agreed to seek clarification from the State Fire Marshal about proper protocol and to contact the property owner about compliance.
Approvals and administrative items: The board approved manifests and signed multiple documents, including minutes, abatements, license renewals, contracts and inspection reports. The manifest signature approvals noted in the record were 2-0 for dates March 9 and March 16, 2026. The board also announced a Park Ceremony scheduled for May 16 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and entered a non-public session listing Rollin Baldwin in attendance.
The meeting adjourned at 5:30 p.m.; minutes were prepared by Vanessa Toner.
