Planning Board Advances Parking Ordinance Amendment, Discusses Voter Information and Town Initiatives

Waterville Valley, NH – The Planning Board convened for its second public hearing on proposed zoning amendments, with a primary focus on amendment number seven, which addresses parking spaces, paving, lining, and delineation. The Board also discussed strategies for informing voters, updates on town operations, and the formation of new working groups.

Parking Ordinance Amendment Advances

The meeting began with a public hearing on the proposed zoning amendment concerning parking regulations. The Planning Board’s consultant explained the revised amendment, which aims to clarify requirements for new and existing parking areas. The amendment, if approved at Town Meeting, would require new open parking areas for multi-family and commercial uses to be paved and delineated. (link)

A key component of the revised amendment is a “legal non-conforming” or “grandfathering” clause. This clause would allow existing parking areas to continue operating as they are, even if they do not meet the new regulations, unless they are modified by more than 25% (e.g., increased, reduced, expanded, or rearranged). Normal upkeep, such as patching or repainting, would not count towards this 25% modification. However, if an existing parking area is used to meet requirements for a new or expanded development, it would need to comply with the new regulations. (link)

Board members raised concerns about the potential implications of the amendment, including enforcement challenges and the risk of legal disputes if the amendment were to fail at Town Meeting. A Board member highlighted that an attorney had already contacted the town regarding a separate accessory dwelling unit amendment, underscoring the potential for legal scrutiny. (link) The discussion also touched on the distinction between existing paving requirements and the new delineation requirements, with the amendment primarily clarifying the need for marked parking spaces.

With no public present for comment, the public hearing was closed. (link) Following further deliberation, the Board voted to accept the parking ordinance amendment as presented, with five members in favor and two opposed. (link)

Voter Information Sheet and Outreach

Recognizing the importance of clear communication, the Board discussed creating an explanation sheet for voters ahead of the March Town Meeting. This sheet would detail the purpose and benefits of the proposed zoning amendments. The Board plans to make this information available on the town website and through physical handouts at the post office. A working group was formed to draft the language for this voter information sheet. (link)

Town Website and Manager Search Updates

A Select Board member provided updates on several town initiatives. The town’s website is undergoing an update, with the Select Board currently evaluating proposals from current and potential new providers. The goal is to enhance user-friendliness and streamline information access. (link)

Regarding the Town Manager search, a recruiting firm has been hired, and job advertisements are going live. Screening interviews are anticipated in late January and early February, with a recommendation for finalists expected by mid-February. The aim is to extend an offer by early March. (link)

Conservation Commission Report

A Conservation Commission representative reported on ongoing projects. A significant discussion revolved around the funding for a project related to Corcoran Pond. It was clarified that previously approved funds, of which $41,000 remains, require re-approval at the upcoming Town Meeting as they have moved to the town’s fund balance. (link)

The Board also received clarification on Corcoran Pond’s regulatory status. It was noted that the pond is not protected by the state’s shoreline protection act because it is less than 10 acres. However, the state is involved with the dam and conducts water testing. Negotiations with the ski resort and Tyrell regarding water easements from the pond are ongoing. (link)

Architectural Review Working Group Proposed

A Board member proposed forming a working group to review the town’s architectural ordinances and regulations. The goal would be to ensure consistency between the zoning ordinance and site plan review regulations, update language, and potentially propose new zoning amendments for the 2027 Town Meeting. The working group would include Board members and potentially town staff from code enforcement, leveraging professional expertise to maintain the town’s aesthetic as a White Mountain National Forest village. (link)

Upcoming Meetings

Board members were reminded to keep their schedules open for potential deliberation meetings on January 14th or 15th, following a public hearing on January 13th concerning the Adventure Zone application. The next regular Planning Board meeting is scheduled for February 12th.