Hooksett · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hooksett public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
March zoning ballot amendments
New rules make it clear when a business swapping into an existing storefront needs full planning board review — cutting out staff guesswork. Most tenant turnovers like a pickleball shop replacing a fabric store won't trigger review unless site work, parking or lighting changes.
Fuel storage tanks proposed behind Autumn Run
A fuel-oil distributor wants to build bulk storage tanks on a 5.35-acre commercial lot, but bulk fuel storage isn't allowed anywhere in Hooksett. Neighbors questioned property values, stormwater, truck traffic, and asked for strict conditions.
Accessory dwelling unit relief requests rising
A family wants a small ADU so a son and his wife can live alongside the mother on a corner lot with tight setbacks.
Master plan follow-up and board training
It's been nearly two years since the board reviewed the master plan, and members want the master plan committee reconstituted. There's also a push for better onboarding and training materials for volunteer board members, plus fixing the rules of procedure notice section that was apparently never posted to the website.
West River Road garage setback variance
A homeowner wants a three-car garage 5 feet from his side lot line instead of the required 20 feet, because a massive hill makes the rest of the lot unbuildable. The board agreed, but told him he needs a second variance for the front setback.
Residential use in an industrial corridor
A long-time neighbor raised the tension of adding housing on Londonderry Turnpike, which has grown increasingly industrial and noisy — and where the town once made him tear down a rental house. The board noted the use variance was already granted and the appeal period passed.
Floodplain Ordinance Update and FEMA Maps
FEMA updated the floodplain maps, and Hooksett must update its ordinance to keep residents eligible for federal flood insurance. Minor map changes along the river; property owners who dispute boundaries deal directly with FEMA.