Hillsborough Planning Board approves two outdoor pickleball courts at 457 West Main Street

The Hillsborough Planning Board on May 7 unanimously approved a site-plan amendment permitting two outdoor pickleball courts at All Purpose Storage, 457 West Main Street (Map 11F Lot 20). The motion to approve the Site Plan Amendment was made by Steve Livingston and seconded by James Bailey III and carried by a unanimous vote.

Planning Director Robyn Payson told the board the application was complete and ready for acceptance. Applicant Frank Malinoski said the courts would be enclosed with removable fencing and that players would use the facility’s existing restrooms via an exterior entrance; restroom access would be limited to members.

Board members and members of the public described the courts as a community asset. "This is a great value to the community," said John Larochelle, a member of the pickleball group. "I didn’t feel like part of the community until I joined it," he added. Steve Livingston said the indoor recreational facility has provided a valuable service to the town and noted the facility offers paddles, balls and instruction for beginners.

Applicant Malinoski told the board that some events draw visitors from neighboring towns, that the operation offers local businesses advertising opportunities and that the program had been nominated for an award by the Concord Monitor. Dana Clow asked whether the courts would displace parking; Malinoski said they are using an existing paved area behind the building and would not remove parking spaces.

The board’s written Findings of Fact note the property is in the Commercial District, the owner of record is All Purpose Storage Hillsborough LLC, the application was submitted on April 14, 2025, and no waiver requests were filed. The approval is conditioned on compliance with all applicable local, state and federal laws, ordinances and regulations.

The board recorded the approval as follows: "APPROVE the application for a Site Plan Amendment submitted by All Purpose Storage LLC to change the rear parking area to two outdoor Pickleball courts. The property located at 457 West Main Street (Map 11F Lot 20). This is as submitted in the Site Plan Amendment application prepared by All Purpose Storage Hillsborough LLC and submitted 4/14/2025. This approval is subject to the following condition and in accordance with the Findings of Fact." The motion was seconded by James Bailey III and carried unanimously.

The board closed the public hearing and the meeting continued to other business before adjourning at 6:25 p.m.