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Hooksett planners discuss wetlands coordination, ERZ incentives and looming traffic fixes
Summary
Planning staff reported a wetlands measurement change on a recent site plan, asked for better coordination with the Conservation Commission, and outlined state Economic Revitalization Zone (ERZ) and commercial‑industrial tax‑exemption opportunities; board members stressed that DOT and developers must ensure intersection/rotary upgrades keep pace with multiple nearby housing and commercial projects.
Planning staff updated the board on several cross‑cutting land‑use items. Staff reported a recent finding that wetland disturbance for one site was slightly larger than earlier calculations (about 95 sq ft more than previously estimated) and reiterated the value of applicants coordinating directly with the Conservation Commission early in the review process to avoid sequencing problems in which planning comments and conservation comments cross‑cut each other.
The planner also summarized a state request to reevaluate an Economic Revitalization Zone (ERZ) district on the west side of DW Highway to determine whether underused parcels remain eligible. The board discussed whether to continue using ERZ designations and the commercial‑industrial tax exemption as tools to attract employers; staff noted one prior local exemption and advised that such incentives need careful timing and council approval.
Members raised broader transportation concerns: multiple approved or proposed large developments in the same corridor (including the Thames Road concepts and planned multifamily projects) will increase peak demand on Hackett Hill and Main Street intersections. Staff said additional coordination with DOT is underway and asked the board whether to press for contractor/developer funding and design certainty to avoid congested intersections and deferred infrastructure.
Board members asked staff to bring back concrete recommendations on ERZ boundaries and to encourage applicants with wetlands issues to consult Conservation Commission before planning action to reduce procedural friction.
