On the agenda: Portsmouth Agenda and Packet — Automated License Plate (Sep 28)

Portsmouth, NH City Council
Eileen Dondero Foley Council Chambers
City Hall Complex, 1 Junkins Avenue, Portsmouth, NH
Monday, September 28, 2026, at 7:00 PM
Register to participate via Zoom. A unique meeting ID and password are provided once you register. To
register, click on the link below or copy and paste into your web browser:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_8YFWxmsyRcedI7HMvzF7Mw

Anticipated Non-Public Session
6:00 p.m. – Anticipated Non-Public Session is being held in Conference Room A in accordance with RSA 91-A:3, II(l)

Page
1.

Work Session (when applicable)

2.

Public Dialogue Session (when applicable)

3.

Call to Order (7:00 pm or thereafter)

4.

Roll Call

5.

Invocation

6.

Pledge of Allegiance

7.

Acceptance of Minutes
A.

7

Minutes and Actions of September 14, 2026, City Council Meeting DRAFT
September 14, 2026 Minutes and Actions.pdf
(Sample motion – move to accept and approve the minutes of the September 14, 2026,
City Council meeting)

8.

Recognitions and Volunteer Committee Reports
A.

Proclamations
 Children's Environmental Health Day Children's Environmental Health
Day.pdf

B.

Volunteer Committee Reports
 Housing Blue Ribbon Committee (invited for Housing Action Plan Public
Information and Input Session)

19

Page 1 of 135

9.

Public Comment Session
This session shall not exceed 45 minutes; participation may be in person or via Zoom

10.

Public Hearings and Vote On Ordinances and/or Resolutions
A.

20

Public Hearing and Second Reading to amend Chapter 1, Administrative Code,
Article III, Boards, Section 1.302 (D) Appointments, Tenure, and Removal LEGAL
Notice Chapter 1 packet 9.22.26.pdf
 *PRESENTATION
 CITY COUNCIL QUESTIONS
 PUBLIC HEARING SPEAKERS
(Sample motion - move to pass second reading of the amendment to Chapter 1,
Administrative Code, Article III, Boards, Section 1.302 (D), Appointments, Tenure and
Removal, and schedule a third and final reading at the October 13, 2026, City Council
meeting)

B.

23

Third and Final Reading to amend Chapter 10, Zoning Ordinance, Article 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 10.234 - Procedures for Variances,
Special Exceptions and Appeals from Decisions of Code Official; Section 10.264 Expiration and Abandonment of Approvals and Article 10 - Environmental
Protection Standards, Section 10.1017.70 Expiration and Extension Chapter 10
ZoningOrd-Notice_Second_Reading.pdf
(Sample motion - move to pass third and final reading as presented)

C.

Third and Final Reading to amend Chapter 7, Vehicles, Traffic and Parking, Article
III, Traffic Ordinance, Section 7.330 A, No Parking, which will move parking spaces
from the west side to the east side of Fleet Street Section 7.330A no parking
(002).pdf

26

(Sample motion - move to pass third and final reading as presented)
D.

Third and Final Reading to amend Chapter 7, Vehicles, Traffic and Parking, Article
III, Traffic Ordinance, Section 7.336 A, One-Way Streets, changing Fleet Street to
one-way from Congress Street to Hanover Street with contra-flow bike lane
Section 7.336 A fleet street one-way (002).pdf

27

(Sample motion - move to pass third and final reading as presented)
11.

City Manager’s Items Which Require Action CM Report 9_28_2026.pdf

28

A.

Water Service Access Easement for Property Located at 1151 Sagamore Avenue
CBC, LLC CM Action for Water Service Access Easement for 1151 Sagamore.pdf
(Sample motion - move to authorize the City Manager to accept and record a
Water Service Access Easement Deed from 1151 Sagamore Avenue CBC, LLC in a
substantially similar form to the easement deed contained in the agenda
packet)

36

B.

Landscaping Installation and Maintenance Agreement for 145 Maplewood Avenue,

38

Page 2 of 135

LLC CM Action for Landscape License for 145 Maplewood.pdf
(Sample motion - move to authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute a
Landscaping Installation and Maintenance Agreement with 145 Maplewood Avenue,
LLC in a substantially similar form to the agreement contained in the agenda packet)
C.

Request for Release of Funds from the Lower State Street Pocket Park Trust to Pay
for Landscape and Sculpture Installation Coordination CM Action for PARC Request
for Funding.pdf

45

(Sample motion - move to approve the release of $9,500 from the Lower State Street
Pocket Park Trust to pay for landscape consulting and coordination of amenity
(sculpture) installation services)
12.

Consent Agenda
A.

Scarecrows of the Port Event Scarecrows 2026.pdf

48

B.

Active Encumbrances Active Encumbrances 9.28.26.pdf

49

(Sample motion - move to accept Consent Agenda as presented)
13.

Presentations and Written Communications
A.

*Presentation Regarding Stormwater Utility Evaluation with Raftelis Financial
Consultants, Inc

B.

Email Correspondence Email Correspondence - 9.22.26.pdf

51

(Sample motion - move to accept and place on file)
C.

92

Letter of Request from Portsmouth Housing Authority for Sewer Extension and
Reimbursement Agreement relative to the Sherburne Project 09.23.2026 PHA
SEWER EXTENSION AND REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENT.pdf
(Sample motion - move to refer the request to the Legal, FInance, and Public Works
Departments for review and report back)

14.

Mayor McEachern
A.

Acceptance of resignation
 Anne Torrez from the Bicycle & Pedestrian Blue Ribbon Committee Anne
Torrez - Resignation B&P Committee.pdf
 Freddy Patrone from the Bicycle & Pedestrian Blue Ribbon Committee
Freddy Petrone B&P Committee Resignation.pdf

100

(Sample motion - move to accept with regret the resignations of Anne Torrez and
Freddy Patrone from the Bicycle & Pedestrian Blue Ribbon Committee and send letters
thanking Anne and Freddy for their service to the City)
B.

Appointments to be Considered Appointments 9.22.26.pdf
 Alanna Lang appointment to the Behavioral Health Task Force
 Meganne Fabrega reappointment to the Library Board of Trustees
 Alice Carey reappointment to the Conservation Commission

102

Page 3 of 135

C.

15.

*Appointments to be Voted
 John Bohenko appointment to the Public Art Review Committee
 Richard Samdperil appointment to the Library Board of Trustees
 Jason Goodrich appointment from alternate to full member to the Economic
Development Commission
 Thomas Watson reappointment to the Economic Development Commission
 Anne Weidman reappointment to the Economic Development Commission
(Sample motion - move to appoint as presented)

City Council Members
A.

Assistant Mayor Kelley, Councilors Tabor and Moreau
 Housing Action Plan Housing Action Plan with table.pdf
o Report Back on September 23, 2026, Public Information and Input
Session (at Library)
o Second Public Information and Input Session (tonight)
o Planning Board Recommendation Planning Board Report Back
Housing Action Plan.pdf

107

(Sample motion - move to open the Housing Action Plan Public Information and Input
Session)
(Sample motion - move to accept the Housing Action Plan as presented)
B.

Councilors Cook and Bagley
 Natural Burial Options Natural Burials.pdf

114

(Sample motion - move that the City Council direct the City Manager to dedicate staff
time, or recommend an appropriation, to determine whether any city owned land is
suitable for natural burials, and to recommend funding in the CIP of FY2028 budget to
establish that capability, whether on City owned land or through acquisition)
C.

Councilor Cook
 Amendment to the Downtown Workforce Parking Program & Request for Report
Back
o Expansion of eligibility effective October 1, 2026, for the Downtown
Workforce Parking Program (DWPP) to all downtown workers of businesses
who previously participated in DWPP who work in hourly clerical, customer
service, administrative, and support staff positions until March 1, 2027, and
to request a report back from City staff in October on options for businesses
that are downtown that might need an off-peak solution for parking during
the workweek.
(Sample motion - move to amend the RAPP Policy eligibility effective October 1, 2026,
for the Downtown Workforce Parking Program (DWPP) to all downtown workers of
businesses who previously participated in DWPP who work in hourly clerical, customer
service, administrative, and support staff positions until March 1, 2027)
(Sample motion - move to request a report back from City staff in October on options
for businesses that are downtown that might need an off-peak solution for parking
during the workweek)
Page 4 of 135

D.

Councilor Tabor
*City Manager Evaluation

E.

Councilor Tabor
Request Report Back on April motion the City collaborate with Prescott Park Arts Festival
to plan for and initiate improvements to the park infrastructure, including a covered stage
and ancillary structures funded by the Festival, to support the long-term needs of the
organization
(Sample motion - move to request Report Back on April motion the City collaborate with
Prescott Park Arts Festival to plan for and initiate improvements to the park
infrastructure, including a covered stage and ancillary structures funded by the
Festival, to support the long-term needs of the organization)

16.

F.

Councilor Blalock
 *Gift from the Rice Family to the Portsmouth Recreation Board

G.

Councilor Moreau
 *Planning Board update regarding Heritage Commission

Approval of Grants/Donations
A.

Donation to the Sister Cities' Special Revenue Fund in honor of Eileen Dondero
Foley from Mary Carey Foley in the amount of $1,000 Donation to Sister Cities Fund
From MCF.pdf

115

(Sample motion - move to accept the donation as presented)
B.

116

Portsmouth Police Department Grant Portsmouth Police Dept Grant & Donation
Packet 9.17.26.pdf

(Sample motion - move to accept a grant in the amount of $14,868 to the Portsmouth
Police Department from the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance (JAG) Program)
C.

127

Point of Graves Cemetery Donations Point of Graves Cemetery Donations
packet.pdf

(Sample motion - move to accept with thanks donations for the Point of Graves
Cemetery Wall Replacement from Sue Kingman, Don Kingman, Alexis Hanson, Patrick
Kennedy, Frank Connard, and Rebecca Martin Connard in the amounts as presented in
the attached Gift and Donation Submission Forms)
17.

18.

City Manager’s Informational Items
A.

*Pease Development Authority Board Meeting Update

B.

Amended RAPP Policy and Maps City Council Policy 2026-01 RAPP CC Amended 9
14 2026 with Maps.pdf

C.

*Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day

D.

*Sherburne Project Update

131

Miscellaneous Business Including Business Remaining Unfinished At Previous Meeting
Page 5 of 135

19.

Adjournment (At 10:30 pm or earlier)

*Indicates verbal report with no attachments
Sally A. Kellar
City Clerk

Page 6 of 135

Draft

Portsmouth, NH City Council
Eileen Dondero Foley Council Chambers
Monday, September 14, 2026 at 7:00 PM

Minutes
1.

Non-Public Session
Councilor Blalock moved to close Non-Public Session. Seconded by Assistant Mayor
Kelley.
Motion passed 8-0.

2.

Public Dialogue Session (when applicable)

3.

Call to Order at 7:01 pm

4.

Roll Call
Present - Mayor McEachern, Assistant Mayor Kelley, Councilors Cook, Tabor, Blalock, Moreau,
Flynn, and Hopkins. Absent - Councilor Bagley

5.

Invocation
Mayor McEachern thanked Police Chief Mark Newport and Fire Chief Bill McQuillen for the 09/11
Ceremony last Friday. He also thanked Renee Plummer for her work with the 09/11 lighting project
on top of Mt. Washington.

6.

Pledge of Allegiance
Mayor McEachern led the Pledge of Allegiance.

7.

Acceptance of Minutes
A.

Minutes and Actions of August 17, 2026, City Council Meeting
Assistant Mayor Kelley moved to accept and approve the minutes and actions of August
17, 2026, City Council meeting. Seconded by Councilor Cook.
Motion passed 7-0. Councilor Tabor abstained.

8.

Recognitions and Volunteer Committee Reports
A.

Proclamations


Try New Things Day in Portsmouth - presented by Ainsley Bennett
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Mayor McEachern invited Ainsley Bennett, Mayor for the Day, to the dais to read her
proclamation


B.

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
Mayor McEachern invited Elisabeth Robinson to accept this proclamation in honor of
her son Eli.

 Direct Support Professionals' Appreciation Week
Recognition


C.

*Friends of the South End (FOSE) – Fundraising for Point of Graves Cemetery Wall
Replacement - presentations by Martin Hannssmann of FOSE, Christine Sproviero,
DPW Project Manager, and Kyle LaChance, FOSE President
Agenda Item 16.C taken out of order - the Acceptance of Donations for Point-of-Graves
Cemetery Wall Repair with Brief Presentation.
Councilor Cook moved to suspend the rules and take Item 16.C take out of order - the
Acceptance of Donations for Point-of-Graves Cemetery Wall Repair with Brief
Presentation. Seconded by Assistant Mayor Kelley.
Motion passed 8-0.
Councilor Hopkins moved to accept with thanks a donation from an anonymous
resident from the South End, of up to $240,000 for the Point of Graves Cemetery Wall
Replacement. Seconded by Assistant Mayor Kelley.
Motion passed 8-0.
Councilor Hopkins moved to accept with thanks the additional donations for the Point
of Graves Cemetery Wall Replacement from Kyle LaChance, Robert Lambert, Emily
Roesler, Lenore Leonardi, Peter Morin, Elizabeth Grady, Jolanda Fannin, Donald
Margeson, Nancy Hanssman, Jolanda Fannin in honor of Jim and Minxie Fannin,
Douglas and Mary Nelson, Boduch Family, Daniel J. Brown, Nancy Hammond, Diane
Schaefer in memory of Elisha Biard, two anonymous donations, and Geno's Chowder
and Sandwich Shop with amounts as presented in the attached memorandum.
Seconded by Assistant Mayor Kelley.
Motion passed 8-0.
Mayor McEachern thanked Suzanne Woodland for all her work on this item.

D.

Agenda Item 11.B taken out of order - Memorandum of Agreement for Portsmouth School
District Paraeducators
Councilor Blalock moved to suspend the rules and take Item 11.B out of order - the
Memorandum of Agreement for Portsmouth School District Paraeducators. Seconded
by Councilor Cook.
Motion passed 8-0.
Councilor Blalock moved to accept the Memorandum of Agreement for Portsmouth
School District Paraeducators as presented. Seconded by Councilor Tabor.
Motion passed 8-0.

E.

Agenda Item 11.A taken out of order - the Proposed Employment Agreement for Deputy
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Draft
Fire Cheif Scott Egan
Councilor Blalock moved to suspend the rules and take Item 11.A out of order - the
Proposed Employment Agreement for Deputy Fire Chief Scott Egan Seconded by
Councilor Cook.
Motion passed 8-0.
Assistant Mayor Kelley moved to accept the proposed Employment Agreement for
Deputy Fire Chief Scott Egan as presented. Seconded by Councilor Cook.
Motion passed 8-0.
9.

Public Comment Session
There were 5 speakers
Stephen Longstaffe - Fleet Street bike lane and parking
Nick Hoburt - Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR) - FLOCK cameras
Tyler Garzo - support of raising on-street parking rates for non-residents and a shuttle loop
Annie Poubeau - via Zoom - supports Fleet Street contra-flow bike lane
John McCaw, Town of Lee - Young Americans for Liberty, spoke about ALPR - FLOCK cameras

10.

Public Hearings and Vote On Ordinances and/or Resolutions
A.

First Reading to Amend Chapter 1, Administrative Code, Article III, Boards, Section 1.302
(D) Appointments, Tenure, and Removal
Councilor Tabor moved to pass first reading to Chapter 1, Article III, Boards, Section
1.302 (D) Appointments, Tenure, and Removal and schedule a public hearing and
second reading for September 28, 2026, City Council meeting. Seconded by Councilor
Blalock.
Motion passed 8-0.

B.

First Reading to Amend Chapter 10, ZONING ORDINANCE, by removing most parking
regulations from the Zoning Ordinance to the Site Plan Review Regulations (except one
and two-family dwellings) by amending: Article 2, ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT,
Section 10.240, Conditional Use Permits; Article 5A, CHARACTER-BASED ZONING, Section
10.5A44, Off-Street Parking and Loading Requirements, Section 10.5A44.20, Number of
Required Spaces; Article 5B, GATEWAY NEIGHBORHOOD MIXED USE DISTRICTS, Section
10.5B80, Parking and Loading Requirements and Standards, Section 10.5B82, Number of
Required Spaces, Section 10.5B83, Location of Motor Vehicle Parking Facilities; Article 6,
OVERLAY DISTRICTS, Section 10.685, Parking; Article 8, SUPPLEMENTAL STANDARDS,
Section 10.815.30, Parking Requirements; Article 11, SITE DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS,
Section 10.1110, Off-Street Parking, Section 10.1112, Number of Required Spaces, Section
10.1113, Location of Vehicular Use Facilities, Section 10.1114, Design of Off-Street Parking
Facilities, Section 10.1115, Off-Street Parking Provisions in the Downtown Overlay District,
Section 10.1116, Bicycle Parking and Section 10.1120, Off-Street Loading
Councilor Moreau moved to pass first reading and schedule a public hearing and second
reading at the October 13, 2026, City Council meeting. Seconded by Councilor Flynn.
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Draft
Deputy City Attorney McCourt spoke about the motion.
Councilor Moreau moved to amend the motion relative to Section 10.232.38 to strike
the words "and loading zones". Seconded by Councilor Blalock.
Motion passed 8-0.
Councilor Moreau moved to further amend the motion to strike Section 10.244.50
relative to CONDITIONAL USE PERMITS conditions of approval and move to strike the
entire Section. Seconded by Councilor Blalock.
Motion passed 8-0.
Additional comments from Councilors Moreau, Cook, Tabor and Mayor McEachern on the
motion as amended.
A vote was taken pass first reading and schedule a public hearing and second reading
at the October 13, 2026, City Council meeting as amended.
Motion passed 8-0.
C.

First Reading to Amend Chapter 10, ZONING ORDINANCE, CITY OF PORTSMOUTH ZONING
MAP to be amended to change the district boundary of the Historic District by adding and
removing the following parcels pursuant to Chapter 10, Article 4, Zoning and District Use
Regulations, Section 10.421, District Location and Boundaries, Section 10.421.10
Councilor Cook mentioned this motion brings the map in line with Middle Street District.
The goal is to remove properties that are not on Middle Street.
Councilor Blalock and Councilor Moreau spoke in favor of this motion.
Councilor Hopkins moved to pass first reading and schedule a public hearing and
second reading at the October 13, 2026, City Council meeting. Seconded by Assistant
Mayor Kelley.
Motion passed 8-0.

D.

Public Hearing and Second Reading to Amend Chapter 10, Zoning Ordinance, Article 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 10.234 - Procedures for Variances, Special
Exceptions and Appeals from Decisions of Code Official; Section 10.264 - Expiration and
Abandonment of Approvals and Article 10 - Environmental Protection Standards, Section
10.1017.70 Expiration and Extension


PRESENTATION
Peter Stith, Assistant Director of Planning and Sustainability, gave a brief
presentation about Section 10.234.50 (BOA Notice), 10.246 (Conditional Use Permits),
10.246 (Conditional Use Permits) and Section 10.1017.70 (Wetland CUPs).



CITY COUNCIL QUESTIONS
Mayor McEachern - Can we describe the proactive nature of signing-up for projects?
Is there anything on the website to easily see the progress of projects on Boards and
Commissions? Should we also include areas of town for notices?
Councilor Tabor - If I am a neighbor, how am I notified of a project? Currently, direct
abutters are notified.
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 PUBLIC HEARING SPEAKERS - no public hearing speakers
Councilor Cook moved to pass second reading and schedule a third and final reading to
amend Chapter 10, Zoning Ordinance, Article 2 - Administration and Enforcement,
Section 10.234 - Procedures for Variances, Special Exceptions and Appeals from
Decisions of Code Official; Section 10.264 - Expiration and Abandonment of Approvals
and Article 10 - Environmental Protection Standards, Section 10.1017.70 Expiration and
Extension for September 28, 2026, City Council meeting. Seconded by Councilor
Moreau.
Councilor Cook thanked those involved in putting together this motion.
Motion passed 8-0.
E.

Public Hearing and Second Reading to Amend Chapter 7, Vehicles, Traffic and Parking,
Article III, Traffic Ordinance, Section 7.330 A, No Parking, which will move parking spaces
from the west side to the east side of Fleet Street as presented


PRESENTATION
Eric Eby, DPW Traffic Engineer, and Dave Desfosses, DPW Project Manager explained
contraflow bike lane, sidewalks, and overall concept plan. ADA compliance was
addressed.



CITY COUNCIL QUESTIONS
Councilor Moreau asked how we will prevent people from illegally parking in the bike
lane. It was explained there will be clear signage.
Councilor Hopkins asked about the cross section of the bike lanes and why brick was
used in one section and asphalt in another section. Mr. Desfosses explained that
different materials are being discussed to clearly mark lanes.
Councilor Blalock adsked for clear signage.
Councilor Cook asked about time frame and clear marking of parking spaces. Mr.
Desfosses explained timeframe to potentially be late Fall and early Spring.



PUBLIC HEARING SPEAKERS
Matt Flynn - in support of this motion.
Arthur Carakatsane - spoke about residents of Portwalk as they relate to Fleet Street
and Vaughan Mall pedestrian access.
Tyler Garzo - spoke in favor of this motion but would like the slightly wider lane in
one section to be explained.

Councilor Blalock moved to pass second reading and schedule a third and final reading
to Amend Chapter 7, Vehicles, Traffic and Parking, Article III, Traffic Ordinance, Section
7.330 A, No Parking, which will move parking spaces from the west side to the east side
of Fleet Street as presented for September 28, 2026, City Council meeting. Seconded by
Councilor Moreau.
Motion passed 8-0.
F.

Public Hearing and Second Reading to amend Chapter 7, Vehicles, Traffic and Parking,
Article III, Traffic Ordinance, Section 7.336 A, One-Way Streets, changing Fleet Street to
one-way from Congress Street to Hanover Street with a contra-flow bike lane as
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Draft
presented



PRESENTATION - see 10.E presentation
CITY COUNCIL QUESTIONS
Councilor Moreau addressed Mr. Garzo's aforementioned question about lane width.
The slightly wider lane is due to the corner turning lane.
Councilor Cook talked about the safety of bikers travelling through town.

 PUBLIC HEARING SPEAKERS - no public hearing speakers
Councilor Flynn moved to pass second reading and schedule a third and final reading to
amend Chapter 7, Vehicles, Traffic and Parking, Article III, Traffic Ordinance, Section
7.336 A, One-Way Streets, changing Fleet Street to one-way from Congress Street to
Hanover Street with a contra-flow bike lane as presented for September 28, 2026, City
Council meeting. Seconded by Councilor Hopkins.
Motion passed 8-0.
11.

City Manager’s Items Which Require Action
A.

Approval of 2027 City Council Meeting Calendar
Councilor Moreau moved to approve the 2027 City Council meeting calendar as
presented. Seconded by Councilor Flynn.
Motion passed 8-0.

12.

Consent Agenda
A.

Community Event Request from Millennium Running for New Castle 10K on April 25, 2026

B.

Community Event Request from Seacoast Paddleboard Club for Halloween Costume
Paddle on October 25, 2026

C.

Community Event Request for Pro Portsmouth Events:

D.

 First Night Portsmouth 2027 - December 31, 2026
 Children’s Day - May 2, 2027
 50th Annual Market Square Day Festival & 10K Road Race - June 12, 2027
 24th Annual Summer in the Street - July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, August 7 of 2027
Active City Encumbrances Report
Councilor Hopkins moved to adopt the Consent Agenda as presented. Seconded by
Assistant Mayor Kelley.
Motion passed 8-0.

13.

Presentations and Written Communications
A.

Petition for Discontinuation of Abandoned Portion of Cornwall Street; RSA 231:43
Councilor Cook moved to request the Planning Board for a Report Back and schedule a
public hearing to consider the discontinuance to coincide with receipt of the Report
Back. Seconded by Assistant Mayor Kelley.
Motion passed 7-0. (Councilor Flynn stepped out)

B.

Email Correspondence
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Councilor Blalock moved to accept and place on file. Seconded by Councilor Moreau.
Motion passed 7-0. (Councilor Flynn stepped out)
14.

Mayor McEachern
A.

Acceptance of resignation - Anna Howard from the Economic Development Commission
effective October 1, 2026.
Councilor Hopkins moved to accept with regret the resignation of Anna Howard from
the Economic Development Commission and send a letter thanking Anna for her service
to the City. Seconded by Councilor Moreau.
Motion passed 7-0 (Councilor Flynn stepped out)

B.

Appointments to be Considered




C.

John Bohenko appointment to the Public Art Review Committee
Richard Samdperil appointment to the Library Board of the Trustees
Jason Goodrich appointment to the Economic Development Commission as a
regular member
 Thomas Watson reappointment to the Economic Development Commission
 Andrew Ward reappointment to the Economic Development Commission
 Anne Weidman reappointment to the Economic Development Commission
*Appointments to be Voted
 John (Jack) Holzman to the Board of Adjustment
Assistant Mayor Kelley moved to appoint John Holzman to the Board of Adjustment.
Seconded by Councilor Cook.
Motion passed 8-0.

D.

*CIP Citizen Request Subcommittee - Appointment of Council Members
Mayor McEachern appointed Councilors Tabor, Blalock, and Moreau to this committee

E.

*Status of Former Recreation Area Under the I-95 Bridge
Assistant Mayor Kelley moved to request a report back to address the former recreation
area under the I-95 bridge. Seconded by Councilor Moreau.
Councilor Blalock and Councilor Hopkins spoke about the need for this area to be
addressed and to see if this can be a better used space for the Atlantic Heights
Community. Councilor Cook would like to see this space enhanced with public art.
Motion passed 8-0.
A brief recess was taken at 8:49 p.m. The meeting resumed at 9:02 p.m.

15.

City Council Members
Councilor Moreau moved to suspend the rules and bring Item 17.C out of order the
Report Back on Parking Ecosystem (Downtown Workforce, RAPP, Parrott Avenue,
Parrott Avenue Lot, ParkMobile fees and Locations of Free Parking) Seconded by
Councilor Hopkins.
Motion passed 8-0.
Carl Weber, Deputy City Manager, gave a report back presentation on Downtown
Workforce parking, RAPP, Parrott Avenue, Parrott Avenue Lot, Park Mobile Fees and
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Draft
Locations of Free Parking.
Councilor Cook moved to suspend the rules and take items 15.B, 15.E, 15.F and 15.C out
of order. Seconded by Assistant Mayor Kelley.
Motion passed 8-0.
A.

Agenda Item 15.B Assistant Mayor Kelley, Councilor Cook, Councilor Flynn, and Councilor
Hopkins


Amendment to City Council Policy 2026-01 Resident Access Parking Program
(RAPP) Pilot to include the following amendments:
o Remove the 35 cent transaction fee from the Downtown Workforce Parking
Program (DWPP) on Parrott Avenue.
o Increase the number of hours per sticker from 10 to 12 for the DWPP at the
Foundry Garage.
o Increase the number of monthly DWPP stickers from 20 to 26.
o Clarify who qualifies for the DWPP, with the following proposed definition:
 The DWPP was created to support small business owners and
employees of restaurant, hospitality, retail and personal service
businesses located downtown.
Councilor Hopkins, Assistant Mayor Kelley, and Councilors Blalock, Moreau and Flynn
spoke.
Councilor Cook moved to adopt the amended City Council Policy 2026-01 Resident
Access Parking Program (RAPP) pilot as presented. Seconded by Councilor Kelley.
Motion passed 8-0.
B.

Agenda Item 15.E Councilors Cook and Flynn


Amend RAPP Policy to include Parrott Avenue Lot for Resident and Downtown
Workforce Parking only
Councilor Cook moved to amend the RAPP Policy to limit parking in the Parrott Avenue
Lot to Resident and Downtown Workforce Parking only, with a small number of parking
spaces set aside for Portsmouth District Court defendants. Seconded by Councilor
Flynn.
Councilors Blalock, Moreau, Hopkins, Mayor McEachern and Assistant Mayor Kelley all
spoke.
Councilor Moreau moved to amend the motion to charge no fee. Seconded by Councilor
Hopkins.
Motion passed 8-0.
Councilor Moreau moved to pass the motion as amended. Seconded by Councilor
Hopkins.
Motion passed 8-0.
C.

Agenda Item 15.F Councilor Blalock
 Remove Parrott Avenue from RAPP Policy
Councilor Blalock moved to amend the RAPP Policy by removing the section of Parrott
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Avenue from Roger Street to Richards Avenue. Seconded by Councilor Flynn.
Councilor Moreau is in favor of this motion.
Councilor Cook is not in favor if this change.
The gavel was passed to Assistant Mayor Kelley. Mayor McEachern spoke about camper
vans along Parrott Avenue. The regulation of camper vans should be a separate topic and
not a part of the RAPP program.
Councilor Hopkins is hesitant in supporting this motion at this time. She is concerned
about library and school staff parking. A list of employees will be given to parking
enforcement.
Councilor Blalock spoke in favor of his motion as it relates to recreation programs.
Assistant Mayor Kelley asked if we monitor parking usage at the Connie Bean Recreation
Center. Mr. Weber explained that they can try to bring more data back on that area.
Councilor Blalock moved to amend the motion to have free parking for 4 hours.
Seconded by Assistant Mayor Kelley.
Councilor Tabor opposes this motion and would like to continue the RAPP pilot for more
data collection.
Assistant Mayor Kelley believes we need more time to collect data now that school is back
in session.
Councilor Moreau also believes we need to get more data to make more concrete
decisions.
Councilor Hopkins supports the statements from Assistant Mayor Kelley and Councilor
Moreau.
Councilor Cook would like a few more weeks of data before we change parking on Parrott
Avenue.
Motion passed 7-1 (Mayor McEachern)
There was a roll call vote on the motion as amended.
On a roll call vote, motion passed 5-3.
Assistant Mayor Kelley - YES Councilor Cook - NO, Councilor Tabor - YES, Councilor Blalock
- YES, Councilor Moreau - NO, Councilor Flynn - YES, Councilor Hopkins - NO, Mayor
McEachern - YES
D.

Agenda Item 15.C Assistant Mayor Kelley, Councilor Cook, Councilor Flynn, and Councilor
Hopkins
 Maintain the existing resident rate for on-street and lot parking
Councilor Flynn moved to maintain the existing parking fees for on-street and lot
parking for residents for FY2027: $1.25 per hour for first 3 hours and $2.25 per hour
thereafter pursuant to Chapter 1, Administrative Code, Article XVI, Adoption of Fees,
Section 1.1601, Procedure. Seconded by Councilor Cook.
Motion passed 8-0.
Page
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Draft
E.

*Assistant Mayor Kelley
 Motion to set parking fees for on-street and lot parking
Assistant Mayor Kelley moved to [change the existing nonresident parking rate from $2
per hour for first 3 hours and $5 per hour thereafter] to parking fees for on-street and
lot parking for FY27: $3 per hour for first 3 hours and $6 per hour thereafter pursuant to
Chapter 1, Administrative Code, Article XVI, Adoption of Fees, Section 1.1601,
Procedure. Seconded by Councilor Moreau.
Councilor Cook was not originally in favor of this motion, but with all the changes made,
she now favors this motion.
Assistant Mayor Kelley agrees with Councilor Cook's statements, and this now matches
our policy.
Councilor Moreau and Hopkins spoke in favor of this motion.
Councilor Tabor commented demand is out stripping supply. We need other long-term
solutions in order to increase inventory. We need a way to fund future options. He talked
about short term solutions and long-term problems. He is in favor of this motion.
Assistant Mayor Kelley moved to amend the motion with an effective date of October
1, 2026, Seconded by Councilor Hopkins.
Motion Passed 8-0.

F.

Councilor Tabor


Municipal Solar Generation Plan
Councilor Tabor explained the costs and savings initially and over time. The location
of the solar array will make good use of the land, on Jones Avenue, that is of no
public benefit at this time.
Councilor Moreau asked if maintenance costs were included.
Mayor McEachern asked if there are any tax credits if the plan could be in service in
2027. Councilor Tabor does not believe we would be able to get the tax credit this
quickly. Councilor Tabors number and benefits do not include a tax credit at this
time.
Councilor Flynn suggested a work session after the report back.
Councilor Cook thanked those involved for all the hard work put into this plan.

Councilor Tabor moved the Council request a plan for solar generation on City land and
buildings incorporating DPW recommendations, including both near-term, smaller,
high-ROI projects and also including a solar array project at the Jones Avenue landfill
site as a $4.1 million item in the Capital Improvement Plan, carrying forward and
refining the current CIP element BI-27-PW-52: Solar Arrays and Potential Power
Generation, and furthering Jones Avenue as a City Council goal for this term, with a
report back at the October 13, 2026 City Council meeting. Seconded by Councilor Cook.
Motion passed 8-0.
Councilor Moreau moved to continue the meeting past 10:30 p.m. Seconded by
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Draft
Councilor Cook.
Motion passed 7-1. (Assistant Mayor Kelley)
G.

Councilor Bagley - This item was not taken-up.
 Parking Fees and Management
(Sample motion - move that the City Council maintain the hourly rate at the High
Hanover Parking Facility at an amount equal to or lower than the on-street parking
rates as set forth in Parking Principle #7)

H.

Councilor Flynn
 *Status Update on the Sherburne School Project
Councilor Flynn, Assistant Mayor Kelley, and the Housing Committee to be invited to this
presentation and update.
Coucilor Flynn moved to request that City staff, in coordination with the Portsmouth
Housing Authority, provide the City Council with a status update on the Sherburne
School project. The update should include current progress, anticipated timelines, key
milestones, and any recent developments or challenges that may affect next steps. This
information will help the Council and the community understand where the project
stands and how it is moving forward. Seconded by Councilor Blalock.
Motion passed 8-0.

I.

Councilor Hopkins
 *Establish a Shuttle Loop Working Group
Councilor Hopkins moved to establish a Shuttle Loop and Public Transit Working Group,
as outlined in the attached memo, to serve as the task force called for in the 2026-2027
City Council Goals. This time bound working group will consolidate existing studies,
plans, and data on expanding public transit in Portsmouth, and report back to the City
Council by January 29, 2027, with either a recommended pilot scope or a consultantready design scope. Seconded by Councilor Cook.
Assistant Mayor Kelley asked what will happen if the report back considers other options
in addition to what is described in the motion. She is in favor of a working group. If we
have a shuttle loop, where will we tell people to park?
Councilor Hopkins would like the working group to look at the data already collected. It
will be a bonus if a consultant is not needed. She is looking for an output that will
generate action. Looking at data, is there anything that will work for Portsmouth? Would a
shuttle loop assist with housing or public health?
Mayor McEachern would like to see if we can spend money on doing something instead of
spending money on researching an idea. It will be interesting to see if something can be
presented that will improve the quality of life for our residents. He is in favor of this group
before the budget process is in full swing.
Councilor Blalock does not want to see efforts wasted. He is not confident there is a
perfect solution. He also asked where the loop may include. He feels it is an unrealistic
feel-good idea. He also spoke about his experiences using shuttle loops. In order for this
to work, we would need a change of behavior.
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Draft
Councilor Tabor is in favor of this working group. Councilor Hopkins has laid out the
deliverables with a solid timeline. There has been no past success because NH funds
public transportation less than any other state. Because the state allows parking money
to be used for transportation as legal use, there is a funding mechanism that is not
burdening the taxpayer.
Councilor Cook mentioned the need of this working group as it relates to greenhouse gas
emissions and City parking issues.
Motion passed 7-1 (Councilor Blalock)
16.

Approval of Grants/Donations
A.

Donation to the Senior Activity Center Luncheon Fund - $500 from Karen Parnes
Councilor Tabor moved to accept the donation in the amount of $500 as presented.
Seconded by Assistant Mayor Kelley.
Motion passed 8-0.

B.

Donation of a Granite Bench at Four Tree Island
Councilor Moreau moved to accept the donation of a granite bench as presented.
Seconded by Councilor Flynn.
Motion passed 8-0.

17.

City Manager’s Informational Items
A.

*Pease Development Authority Board Meeting Update
The 2025 Annual Report and Economic Impact Study were shared with the Council. The
air traffic control tower is back in operation.

B.

*Upcoming Mechanic Street Pump Station Feasibility Study Public Input Meeting
There will be a meeting, Monday, September 21, 2026, at 6:20 p.m. at City Hall, Conference
Room A.

C.

*Next Portsmouth Room Art Exhibit -Light Falls - There will be a welcome reception before
the September 28, 2026, City Council Meeting.

18.

Miscellaneous Business Including Business Remaining Unfinished At Previous Meeting

19.

Adjournment
Councilor Moreau moved to Adjourn at 10:58 p.m. Seconded by Councilor Blalock.
Motion passed 8-0.

Page
Page18
12ofof135
12

@132QEnunu'I@hamher?
(?it? £5111
iBnrtgmuutI), 332misatmagbtre
Q
aim of Children’s Environmental Health (CEH) Day is to raise awareness
whereas: The
about the

importance of clean air and water, safe food and consumer products,
healthy environments, and stable climates to children’s health and development;
and

@herea?:

CEH Day was created by the Children’s Environmental Health Network and
celebrated for the first time on October 13, 2016. It is observed on the second
Thursday in October as a means to celebrate the progress of the children’s
environmental health movement and create a strong network of child health
advocates; and

Day is a national effort supported by individuals, non-pro?t organizations,
whereas: CEH
agencies. Its goal is encourage individuals and organizations
and
government

to

to raise awareness

and understanding of children’s environmental health issues,
seek improved protections for all children, and perform acts of sustainability or
environmental health wellness; and

together, we can safeguard the health, safety, and well-being of our most precious
whereas: resource:
children.
Now, therefore, I, Deaglan McEachern, Mayor of the City of Portsmouth, on behalf of the
members of the City Council and the citizens of Portsmouth, do hereby proclaim October 8,
2026, as:

QEnhtrunmentaI ?zalth 1351
QEIJtIiJan’s

19

and encourage everyone in Portsmouth to observe this day by raising awareness and taking part
in environmental health and stewardship activities that create a healthier environment for
children.

Given under my hand and the
Seal of the City of Portsmouth,
on this 28th day
M2
0

,

7%

eaglan

cEacherr.

of Portsmouth

Page 19 of 135

Page 20 of 135

ORDINANCE #
THE CITY OF PORTSMOUTH ORDAINS
That Chapter 1, Article III, Section 1.302 (D) – Appointments, Tenure and Removal of the
Ordinances of the City of Portsmouth be amended as follows (deletions from existing
language stricken; additions to existing language bolded; remaining language unchanged
from existing):
Section l.302:

APPOINTMENTS, TENURE AND REMOVAL

A.
All appointees to Boards shall serve for the term appointed or until a
successor shall have been appointed and qualified. Appointments for
unexpired terms shall be for the remainder of that term or until a successor
shall have been appointed and qualified.
B.
At the first meeting of the Board, Commission, or Authority in January
of each year, the committee shall elect a Chair, unless a procedure is
otherwise specified in the enabling section of the ordinance. Records of
attendance shall be kept by the Chair of Boards and Commissions appointed
by the City Council. The attendance records of Boards and Commissions
shall be reported to the City Council on an annual basis. If a member notifies
the Chair of the Board or Commission prior to a meeting that he/she/they will
not be able to attend the meeting due to sickness, vacation or out of town
business travel, such absence will be considered an excused absence and
so noted in the minutes of the meeting and the attendance sent to the
Council. The City Council shall declare vacant the office of any member who
has unexcused absences from more than one-third of the regularly
scheduled meetings of the board or commission in any calendar year.
C.
In the case of appointees who must be removed pursuant to State
Statute, the Chair of the Board or Commission shall notify the City Council in
writing of any members in violation of the previous paragraph and such
violation may be found by the City Council to be neglect of duty and may be
grounds for dismissal.
D.
Every member of a board, commission or committee of the City,
whose term is to expire, shall receive a notice from the City Clerk sixty (60)
days prior to the expiration of his or her term. A copy of the notice shall be
sent to the City Council. Public notice of the upcoming vacancy shall be
advertised in the local newspaper.

Page 21 of 135

D.
The City Clerk shall provide reasonable notice to board,
commission and committee members of upcoming expiring terms. The
City Clerk shall provide reasonable notice to the public of existing
vacancies and expiring terms through the City’s website or other
municipal communication tools that are or may become available.
E.
Eligibility for appointment to Municipal Boards shall be limited to residents of
the City of Portsmouth. Any individual who is a resident of the City at the time of
appointment to a Municipal Board shall become ineligible to remain on that
Municipal Board in the event that the individual shall discontinue residency in the
City. (Adopted 9/22/97)
The City Clerk shall properly alphabetize and/or re-number the ordinances as necessary in
accordance with this amendment.
All ordinances or parts of ordinances inconsistent herewith are hereby deleted.
This ordinance shall take effect upon its passage.
APPROVED:
__________________________
Deaglan McEachern, Mayor
ADOPTED BY COUNCIL:
_____________________________
Sally Kellar, City Clerk

Page 22 of 135

ORDINANCE #0 -26
THE CITY OF PORTSMOUTH ORDAINS

That Chapter 10, ZONING ORDINANCE, be amended as follows:
Article 2- Administration and Enforcement, Section 10.234 –
Procedures for Variances, Special Exceptions and Appeals from
Decisions of the Code Official; Section 10.246 Expiration and
Abandonment of Approvals and Article 10 – Environmental
Protection Standards, Section 10.1017.70 Expiration and Extension be
amended as follows (deletions from existing language stricken;
additions to existing language bolded; remaining language unchanged
from existing):
10.234

Procedures for Variances, Special Exceptions and Appeals from
Decisions of the Code Official
10.234.50

Section 10.240
10.246
10.246.10

In any case in which the Board of Adjustment is required to give notice of
a public hearing, such notice shall be provided in accordance with the
provisions of State law., all persons owning property within 300 feet of
the property involved in the appeal or request shall be given notice in the
manner set forth by State law, provided that failure to give notice beyond
statutory requirement shall not give rise to any right of appeal or protest.
The requirements of this paragraph shall not apply in Character Districts 4
and 5 (CD4 and CD5) and the Downtown Overlay District.

Conditional Use Permits
Expiration and Abandonment of Approvals
Except as otherwise allowed in this section, A a conditional use permit
shall expire unless a building permit is obtained within a period of one
year from the date granted, unless otherwise stated in the conditions of
approval. The Board may, for good cause shown, extend such period by as
much as one year if such extension is requested and acted upon prior to the
expiration date. No other extensions may be requested.
Where a conditional use permit is approved in conjunction with a site plan,
the conditional use permit shall remain valid for the duration of the
associated site plan approval, including any extensions granted under the
Site Plan Review Regulations. Additional extensions beyond the initial
one-year extension may be granted only when concurrent with a Planning
Board extension of the associated site plan approval.
For any conditional use permit not approved in conjunction with a site plan
under Article 10, the Planning & Sustainability Director may, for good
cause shown, grant the first extension of up to one (1) year, provided the
request is submitted prior to the expiration date. Any subsequent extension

Page 23 of 135

shall require approval following a public hearing by the Planning Board
and shall not exceed one (1) additional year.

10.1017.70

Expiration and Extension

10.1017.71

A conditional use permit shall expire one year after the date of approval by
the Planning Board unless a building permit is issued prior to that date.

10.1017.72

Extensions of a Wetland Conditional Use Permit may be granted in
accordance with Section 10.246.10. The Planning Board may grant a
one-year extension of a conditional use permit if the applicant submits a
written request to the Planning Board prior to the expiration date. Any
other extension may be granted only after a new public hearing on the
reconsideration of the application.

The City Clerk shall properly alphabetize and/or re-number the ordinances as
necessary in accordance with this amendment.
All ordinances or parts of ordinances inconsistent herewith are
hereby deleted. This ordinance shall take effect upon its passage.
APPROVED:

Deaglan McEachern, Mayor

Page 24 of 135

ADOPTED BY COUNCIL:

Sally Kellar, City Clerk

Page 25 of 135

ORDINANCE #

THE CITY OF PORTSMOUTH ORDAINS

That the Ordinances of the City of Portsmouth, Chapter 7, VEHICLES, TRAFFIC
and PARKING, Article III, TRAFFIC ORDINANCE, Section 7.330 A, NO PARKING, be
amended by adding a portion of Fleet Street as follows (deletions from existing
language stricken; additions to existing language bolded; remaining language
unchanged from existing):
CHAPTER 7 VEHICLES, TRAFFIC and PARKING
ARTICLE III: TRAFFIC ORDINANCE
Section 7.330: NO PARKING
A.

Unless otherwise designated by ordinance, parking shall be prohibited at all times
in the following described streets and locations:

42.

Fleet Street
a.
Easterly side from Court Street to Hanover Congress Street.
b.
Westerly side from State to Court Street and the parking space nearest
Hanover Street, provided that trucks may load or unload in said parking
space.
c.
Westerly side, from Congress Street to a point 135 feet in a northerly
direction Hanover Street.

The City Clerk shall properly alphabetize and/or re-number the ordinances as necessary
in accordance with this amendment.
All ordinances or parts of ordinances inconsistent herewith are hereby deleted.
This ordinance shall take effect upon its effective date.
APPROVED:

Deaglan McEachern, Mayor
ADOPTED BY COUNCIL:
_
Sally A. Kellar, City Clerk

Page 26 of 135

ORDINANCE #

THE CITY OF PORTSMOUTH ORDAINS

That the Ordinances of the City of Portsmouth, Chapter 7, VEHICLES, TRAFFIC
and PARKING, Article III, TRAFFIC ORDINANCE, Section 7.336 A, ONE-WAY
STREETS, be amended by adding a portion of Fleet Street as follows (deletions from
existing language stricken; additions to existing language bolded; remaining language
unchanged from existing):
CHAPTER 7 VEHICLES, TRAFFIC and PARKING
ARTICLE III: TRAFFIC ORDINANCE
Section 7.336: ONE-WAY STREETS
A. Vehicular traffic shall move only in the indicated directions on the following streets:
11. Fleet Street: northerly from Congress Street to Hanover Street. Bicycle
operators may ride in the opposite direction within the marked contra-flow bike
lane.

The City Clerk shall properly alphabetize and/or re-number the ordinances as necessary
in accordance with this amendment.
All ordinances or parts of ordinances inconsistent herewith are hereby deleted.
This ordinance shall take effect upon its effective date.
APPROVED:

Deaglan McEachern, Mayor
ADOPTED BY COUNCIL:

_
Sally A. Kellar, City Clerk

Page 27 of 135

CITY OF PORTSMOUTH

Karen S. Conard
City Manager

Municipal Complex
1 Junkins Avenue
Portsmouth, New Hampshire 03801
[email protected]
(603) 610-7201

Date: September 25, 2026
To:

Honorable Mayor McEachern and City Council Members

From: Karen S. Conard, City Manager
Re:

City Manager’s Comments on City Council Agenda of September 28, 2026

10. Public Hearings and Vote on Ordinances and/or
Resolutions:
A. Public Hearing and Second Reading to Amend Chapter 1, Administrative Code, Article
III, Boards, Section 1.302 (D) Appointments, Tenure, and Removal:
At its meeting of September 14, 2026, the City Council passed first reading of an amendment
to Administrative Code, Chapter 1, Article III, Section 1.302 (D) which currently requires the
City Clerk’s office to publish notice of Board, Committee and Commission vacancies in a
newspaper. The amendment consists of a minor update to the Administrative Code to remove
the newspaper publication requirement (vacancies are identified on the City’s website) and
rework notice provisions to be more flexible. Staff will provide a brief presentation for the
public hearing.
This amendment is consistent with efforts over the past several years to update the City’s
ordinances to remove old processes and institute new ones. The procurement ordinance update
is one similar example. After the procurement ordinance change and the implementation of
new processes the City saved money on publishing costs and administrative staff time. The
new technology deployed has delivered more bidders and better pricing in several areas.
I recommend that the City Council move to pass second reading of the amendment to Chapter
1, Article III, Section 1.302 (D), Appointments, Tenure and Removal, and schedule a third and
final reading.
B. Third and Final Reading to Amend Chapter 10, Zoning Ordinance, Article 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 10.234 - Procedures for Variances, Special
Exceptions and Appeals from Decisions of Code Official; Section 10.264 - Expiration and
Abandonment of Approvals and Article 10 - Environmental Protection Standards,
Section 10.1017.70 Expiration and Extension:
The Planning Board, at its meeting of July 16, 2026, voted to recommend that the City Council
hold first reading on amendments to Article 2 of the Portsmouth Zoning Ordinance.

Page 28 of 135

CM Report 9_28_2026

The amendments address public notice requirements for land use applications and the
expiration and extension provisions for Conditional Use Permits (CUPs).
The City Council held first reading on August 24, 2026, and held a public hearing and second
reading on September 14, 2026.
1. Public Notice Requirements for Board of Adjustment Applications
The amendments to Section 10.234.50 revises language regarding public hearing notices for
variances, special exceptions, and appeals before the Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA). The
amendments remove local notification requirements that exceed state law and provide that
notice shall be given in accordance with New Hampshire law.
In 2024, the New Hampshire Legislature amended RSA 672:3 to provide a more precise and
uniform definition of an "abutter." The amendment clarified which properties located across a
street or stream from a project site qualify as abutters for notification purposes and established
a consistent statewide methodology for making that determination. By relying on the statutory
definition, the City ensures that its notification procedures remain consistent with current state
law while eliminating the need to maintain separate local notification standards. The change
also reduces the number of notices required for many applications, thereby decreasing
administrative processing time for staff and lowering mailing costs for applicants.
The amendment is not intended to reduce public access to information regarding pending land
use applications. In the fall of 2025, the City created an electronic subscription system to
receive agendas and meeting packets for the Planning Board, Zoning Board of Adjustment,
Historic District Commission, Conservation Commission, and City Council. This service
notifies interested individuals when meeting materials are posted regardless of their proximity
to a particular project. To date, the following individuals have subscribed to the service: City
Council: 78, Planning Board: 65, HDC: 53, BOA: 57, TAC: 53, and Conservation
Commission: 60.
2. Conditional Use Permit Expiration and Extension Provisions
The amendments to Section 10.246 and Section 10.1017.70 deal with the expiration and
extension of Conditional Use Permits. Under the current ordinance, a CUP generally expires
if a building permit is not obtained within one year, with the Planning Board authorized to
grant a single one-year extension. No additional extensions are presently permitted.
The proposed amendment would:
•

•

Allow a CUP approved in conjunction with a site plan application to remain valid for
the duration of the associated site plan approval, including any extensions granted
under the Site Plan Review Regulations.
Establish a process for stand-alone CUPs not associated with site plan approval,
allowing the Planning & Sustainability Director to grant an initial extension of up to
one year for good cause shown if requested prior to expiration.
Page | 2

Page 29 of 135

CM Report 9_28_2026

•

Require any subsequent extension of a stand-alone CUP to be approved by the Planning
Board following a public hearing, with each additional extension limited to one year.

The purpose of these changes is to better coordinate CUP approvals with the lifecycle of site
plan approvals, thereby avoiding situations where a CUP may expire while a related site plan
approval remains active. The amendment also provides greater administrative flexibility to
address project delays while ensuring continued Planning Board oversight for longer-term
extensions.
I recommend that the City Council move to pass third and final reading as presented.
C. Third and Final Reading to Amend Chapter 7, Vehicles, Traffic and Parking, Article III,
Traffic Ordinance, Section 7.330 A, No Parking, which will Move Parking Spaces from
the West Side to the East Side of Fleet Street as Presented:
The Parking and Traffic Safety Committee recommended that the Council approve a staff
recommendation to change the traffic flow on Fleet Street to one-way from Congress Street to
Hanover Street, switch the eight parking spaces from the west side to the east side of Fleet
Street and create a contra-flow bike lane from Hanover Street to Congress Street. Prior to
accepting these recommendations, the Council received a report back from staff on the Fleet
Street Section 1 Reconstruction on July 13, 2026.
During the report back, staff explained that changing the traffic flow on Fleet Street to oneway from Congress Street to Hanover Street will allow for wider sidewalks while keeping onstreet parking spaces. Staff also relayed that the 18-foot pavement width will meet minimum
requirements of the Fire Department for emergency vehicle use, while also allowing for the
provision of a 6-foot-wide marked and signed contra-flow bike lane from Hanover Street to
Congress Street.
Staff further explained that, with the introduction of a contra-flow bike lane, the parking spaces
should be relocated from the west side of Fleet Street to the east side. Although the parking
spaces are not required to be moved to accommodate the contra-flow bike lane, relocating them
would provide significant safety and operational benefits for both motorists and bicyclists.
With parking on the right-hand side of Fleet Street, vehicles would not need to cross the bike
lane to enter the spaces, drivers would parallel park on the customary right-hand side of the
road, vehicle doors would not open into the bike lane, and drivers would not exit parking spaces
blindly into oncoming bicycle traffic traveling in the contra-flow bike lane. The relocation can
be accommodated on the east side of Fleet Street with the closing of the Gilley’s parking lot
and construction of new sidewalk and curbing along the Gilley’s site frontage. Relocating the
eight parking spaces to the east side of Fleet Street would also provide a larger turning radius
and better alignment with the ticket gate for vehicles entering the Hanover Garage. The oneway traffic flow would also eliminate the blocking of both travel lanes on Fleet Street by
vehicles waiting to turn left into the Hanover Garage entrance.

Page | 3

Page 30 of 135

CM Report 9_28_2026

After the report back, Council voted, based upon the recommendation of the Parking and
Traffic Safety Committee, to schedule a first reading on August 17th of the ordinances
necessary to effectuate these changes for the Fleet Street Section 1 Reconstruction.
At the August 6, 2026, Parking and Traffic Safety Committee meeting, the Committee voted
to recommend approval of the two proposed ordinance amendments, which are required to
effectuate these changes.
I recommend that the City Council move to pass third and final reading as presented.
D. Third and Final Reading to Amend Chapter 7, Vehicles, Traffic and Parking, Article III,
Traffic Ordinance, Section 7.336 A, One-Way Streets, changing Fleet Street to One-Way
from Congress Street to Hanover Street with a Contra-Flow Bike Lane as Presented:
Please see prior comments under Item C.
I recommend that the City Council move to pass third and final reading as presented.

11. City Manager’s Items Which Require Action:
A. Water Service Access Easement for Property Located at 1151 Sagamore Avenue CBC,
LLC:
At its regularly scheduled meeting on Thursday, April 16, 2026, the Planning Board granted
Site Plan Review approval for the demolition of the existing structure and the construction of
four (4) standalone, single-family condominium structures, together with associated site
improvements, at 1151 Sagamore Avenue. As part of the Site Plan approval, the Planning
Board recommended that the City Council accept a Water Service Access Easement over the
parcel. The Easement will permit City staff to enter the property to detect leaks and operate
valves in an emergency.
Approval was granted to 1151 Sagamore Avenue CBC, LLC. The applicant has provided the
enclosed deed which conforms with the City’s ordinary form for water service access
easements. The Legal and Planning and Sustainability Departments have reviewed the deed
for form and recommend acceptance.
I recommend that the City Council move to authorize the City Manager to accept and record
a Water Service Access Easement Deed from 1151 Sagamore Avenue CBC, LLC, in a
substantially similar form to the easement deed contained in the agenda packet.
B. Landscaping Installation and Maintenance Agreement for 145 Maplewood Avenue:
At its regularly scheduled meeting on May 16, 2019, the Planning Board granted Subdivision
and Site Plan approval, along with a Conditional Use Permit, for construction of a four-story
office building and related site improvements at 145 Maplewood Avenue. The building has
since been completed. In connection with the property owner’s request for final project
closeout, the Department of Planning and Sustainability recently reviewed the project for
Page | 4

Page 31 of 135

CM Report 9_28_2026

compliance and discovered that the Planning Board had recommended granting the property
owner a license to install and maintain landscaping, including planters, within the adjacent
right-of-way. This Landscape License was never addressed when the project started, however
Development Compliance Planner Vincent Hayes identified this requirement within his final
compliance report.
A draft Landscape License and a drawing depicting the landscape area to be maintained by the
property owner are enclosed. The Legal Department has reviewed the Landscape License for
form and recommends that the City Council grant a License in a substantially similar form.
I recommend that the City Council move to authorize the City Manager to negotiate and
execute a Landscaping Installation and Maintenance Agreement with 145 Maplewood Avenue,
LLC in a substantially similar form to the agreement contained in the agenda packet.
C. Request for Release of Funds from the Lower State Street Pocket Park Trust to Pay for
Landscape and Sculpture Installation Coordination:
The Public Art Review Committee (PARC) previously recommended acceptance of a plan to
revitalize the Jay Smith pocket park, as well as upgrade the amenity of a sculpture (bust) in
honor of Jay Smith who was a catalyst in purchasing the park and giving it to the City of
Portsmouth as a gift.
PARC received a briefing from Landscape Artist Terrence Parker about the plans for the
rehabilitation of the pocket park on Lower State Street that was donated to the City by Jay
Smith. Terrence noted the goal is to create a more visible space for the public to enjoy. PARC
members are pleased that the park is receiving attention and will be maintained by the City
going forward.
PARC members appreciated the plan to replace the current head which did not represent a
known person with a bronze sculpture depicting Jay Smith to be created by local (South
Berwick, ME) artist Carl Aichele. While not within PARC’s authority, members commented
positively on plans to remove lilac bushes that have obscured the park as well as bushes that
are not in good condition and replace them with more appropriate plantings. Small plaques that
recognize Jay Smith and Kate Crowell will be relocated within the park, recognizing Crowell
for her work in maintaining the park.
The proposed installation will require coordination between the Public Works Department and
the landscape artist Terrence Parker, the details which have been reviewed and agreed upon.
The new bust is complete and is the key amenity to be placed in the park as allowed by the
Lower State Street Pocket Park Trust.
As a City park, the Public Works Department has the responsibility for maintenance as well as
oversight of improvements which this request will facilitate. The Trustees of Trust Funds
require approval by City Council to accompany a request to release these funds in the amount
of $9,500.
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CM Report 9_28_2026

I recommend that the City Council move to approve the release of $9,500 from the Lower State
Street Pocket Park Trust to pay for landscape consulting and coordination of amenity
(sculpture) installation services.

13. Presentations and Written Communications:
A. Presentation Regarding Stormwater Utility Evaluation with Raftelis Financial
Consultants, Inc:
The City has contracted with Raftelis Financial Consultants, Inc. to lead the comprehensive
evaluation of a Stormwater Enterprise Utility, a process centered on developing fair funding
and equitable solutions for sustainable management of the City’s stormwater infrastructure.
Members of the Raftelis team will be with us at the City Council meeting to be introduced to
the City Council and public.
Portsmouth's stormwater system is currently funded through a 50/50 split between the General
Fund and Sewer Funds — a model that is increasingly difficult to sustain given the costs of
complying with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency MS4 permit requirements and the
Great Bay Total Nitrogen general permit. This funding structure also does not align cost with
impact; single-family homes make up roughly 70% of the City's parcels but account for only
about 15% of total impervious area, meaning the properties delivering the least stormwater
runoff to the system currently bear a disproportionate share of the cost. A dedicated Stormwater
Enterprise Utility, funded through a fee based on each property's impervious cover, would
allow costs to be distributed more equitably while securing a sustainable, dedicated revenue
source for infrastructure maintenance and regulatory compliance.
Raftelis will provide the City Council and the community with the data, policy frameworks,
rate models, and operational structures necessary to make an informed decision regarding
formal adoption of a Stormwater Enterprise Utility.
Raftelis is part of the largest water, wastewater, and stormwater consulting practice in the
country, with a dedicated stormwater team of more than 20 specialists. The firm brings
technical and strategic expertise to our evaluation process, having successfully implemented
over 75 stormwater utilities nationwide including providing rate setting, data maintenance, and
implementation support to help the Boston Water and Sewer Commission successfully launch
its stormwater fee in 2024.
Raftelis will serve as a partner, working alongside City staff to review our existing feasibility
data and integrating our capital improvement needs into updated multi-year financial forecast
models. By supporting our finance and public works teams, Raftelis will help us establish
stormwater program revenue requirements and evaluate the rate impacts of different
operational levels of service. Based on this financial foundation, Raftelis will assist the City in
evaluating several rate structure alternatives, focusing on simplified tiering for single-family
residential properties and Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU) increments for non-residential
parcels with the goal of bringing greater fairness to the collection of revenues for stormwater
Page | 6

Page 33 of 135

CM Report 9_28_2026

projects. They will also collaborate directly with our staff to design policies for fee credits and
incentives.
To build public trust in advance of any City Council decision, the Raftelis team will support
our internal public outreach efforts by conducting in-depth interviews with community
stakeholders and deploying a digital public survey to evaluate baseline awareness. Using these
findings, they will help us develop an accessible messaging plan, explainer videos, fact sheets,
and facilitate community open houses. On the technology front, Raftelis will assist our IT and
GIS departments in developing a public-facing GIS web application where property owners
can view their digitized impervious area footprint and calculate fee estimates. Furthermore,
they will aid our staff in building an online appeals and abatement process integrated into this
property viewer. Finally, the consultant team will work closely with City legal staff to draft a
comprehensive utility ordinance, credit policies, and fee resolutions that ensure compliance
with New Hampshire law.
The engagement of Raftelis is supported through budgeted stormwater funds. We look forward
to presenting initial findings, rate scenarios, and public engagement updates to the City Council
as milestones are completed.

15. Approval of Grants/Donations:
A. Donation to the Sister Cities' Special Revenue Fund in Honor of Eileen Dondero Foley
from Mary Carey Foley in the amount of $1,000:
Mary Coley Foley has made a $1,000 donation to the Sister Cities’ Special Revenue Fund in
honor of Eileen Dondero. That donation form is enclosed.
I recommend that the City Council move to accept the donation as presented.
B. Portsmouth Police Department Grant:
Enclosed please find a grant in the amount of $14,868 from the Edward Byrne Memorial
Justice Assistance (JAG) Program to fund the upgrade of police rifles for the Police
Department.
I recommend that the City Council move to accept a grant in the amount of $14,868 to the
Portsmouth Police Department from the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance (JAG)
Program.
C. Point of Graves Cemetery Donations:
Enclosed please find donation submissions for the Point of Graves Cemetery from Sue and
Don Kingman in the amount of $100, Alexis Hanlon in the amount of $200, Patricia Kennedy
in the amount of $300, and Frank Connard and Rebecca Martin Connard in the amount of
$1,000.

Page | 7

Page 34 of 135

CM Report 9_28_2026

I recommend that the City Council move to accept with thanks donations for the Point of
Graves Cemetery Wall Replacement from Sue Kingman, Don Kingman, Alexis Hanson, Patrick
Kennedy, Frank Connard, and Rebecca Martin Connard in the amounts as presented in the
attached Gift and Donation Submission Forms.

17. City Manager’s Informational Items:
A. Pease Development Authority Board Meeting Update:
I will give a verbal update on the September 15, 2026, Pease Development Authority Board
Meeting.
B. Amended RAPP Policy and Maps:
The enclosed RAPP Policy and maps reflect the amendments made to the Policy at the
September 14, 2026, City Council meeting.
C. Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day:
The Department of Public Works will hold its semiannual Household Hazardous Waste
Collection Day on Saturday, October 24, 2026 at the Public Works facility at 680 Peverly Hill
Road. Residents of Portsmouth, New Castle, Greenland, and Newington are encouraged to
bring household chemicals for safe disposal between 8 am and 12 noon.
Household hazardous waste collection helps safely dispose of items that can harm residents'
health, the environment, and drinking water supplies.
D. Sherburne Project Update:
Representatives from the Portsmouth Housing Authority plan to present an update on the
Sherburne Project in person at this evening’s meeting.

Page | 8

Page 35 of 135

ACCESS EASEMENT FOR WATER SERVICES
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that 1151 Sagamore Avenue CBC, LLC, a
Massachusetts limited liability company with an address of 76 State Street, Newburyport, MA
01950, for consideration received, grants to the City of Portsmouth, a municipal body politic
having a mailing address of 1 Junkins Avenue, Portsmouth, County of Rockingham and State of
New Hampshire 03801, with QUITCLAIM COVENANTS an easement over, below, along, and
across the premises described herein, located at 1151 Sagamore Avenue, City of Portsmouth,
County of Rockingham, State of New Hampshire, (Tax Assessor's Map No. 224 Lot 19), and
being more particularly described as follows:
A certain lot of land with the buildings thereon, situate on the Westerly side of Sagamore Avenue
in Portsmouth, in the County of Rockingham and State of New Hampshire, bounded and described
as follows, viz:
Beginning at the Northeasterly corner of the within described land at a stone in the Westerly
sideline of Sagamore Avenue and thence running in a Southwesterly direction on a line with the
stone wall by land now or formerly of Junkins et al three hundred (300) feet; thence turning and
running Southeasterly in a line parallel with Sagamore Avenue, still by other and now formerly of
Junkins et al one hundred (100) feet; thence turning and running in a Northeasterly direction on a
line parallel with the first mentioned line three hundred (300) feet to Sagamore A venue, still by
other land now or formerly of Junkins et al; thence turning and running in a Northwesterly
direction by said Sagamore Avenue one hundred (100) feet to the point of beginning.
Meaning and intending to convey an easement over the premises conveyed to the within grantor by
Deed of Michelle Firmbach Nadeau dated July 10, 2025, and recorded in the Rockingham County
Registry of Deeds at Book 6633, Page 1720.
Purpose and Rights: The Grantee shall have a perpetual, permanent uninterrupted and
unobstructed nonexclusive easement for the purpose of enabling the City of Portsmouth to access
private water infrastructure including mains, water shutoffs, and valves for the limited purpose of
leak detection and similar infrastructure inspection services and for access to valves for purposes
of turning on and shutting off municipal water service. Grantee shall have no responsibility for
installation, maintenance, operation, or replacement of the water infrastructure.

Page 36 of 135

Retained Rights: Grantor retains the right to freely use and enjoy its interest in the easement area
insofar as the exercise thereof does not interfere with the purpose of this instrument.
Easement To Run With Land: All rights and privileges, obligations and liabilities created by this
instrument shall inure to the benefit of, and be binding upon, the heirs, devises, administrators,
executor, successors and assignees of the Grantee and of the Grantor, the parties hereto and all
subsequent owners of the Premises and shall run with the land.
This is an exempt transfer per R.S.A. 78-B:2(I).
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this document on the _____ day of
________________ , 20__.
1151 Sagamore Avenue CBC, LLC
By: CBC Financial LLC, its manager
Witness:

By:
Name: David Kennedy, Manager of CBC
Financial LLC

STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE
COUNTY OF
Personally appeared the above-named __________________, in his/her capacity of
__________________ and acknowledged the foregoing instrument to be his/her free act and deed
executed for the purposes contained therein.
Notary Public/Justice of the Peace
My commission expires:

Page 37 of 135

LANDSCAPING INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
THIS LANDSCAPING INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
(“Agreement”) is made as of the ____ day of ____________, 2026 by and between the CITY OF
PORTSMOUTH, NEW HAMPSHIRE a municipal corporation with a principal place of business at 1
Junkins Avenue, Portsmouth, New Hampshire 03801 (“City”), and 145 MAPLEWOOD AVENUE, LLC,
a New Hampshire limited liability company having an address at 210 Commerce Way, Suite 300,
Portsmouth, New Hampshire 03801 (“145MW”).
WITNESSETH THAT
WHEREAS, 145MW has constructed an office building on certain property adjacent to Raynes
Avenue and Vaughan Street and located at 145 Maplewood Avenue, Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and now
identified on the City of Portsmouth tax maps as Tax Map 124, Lot 8-1 (the “Project”).
WHEREAS, the Project included the installation and maintenance of plantings and other
landscaping in the portions of the Raynes Avenue and Vaughan Street rights of way adjacent to the Project
(the “Adjacent Streets”) shown as “City ROW area for Landscape Maintenance by Owner of 145
Maplewood” on that certain plan entitled “Landscape Planting Plan, Proposed Office Building, RW Norfolk
Holdings, LLC, Portsmouth, New Hampshire” dated September 27, 2019, as revised through December 15,
2020, prepared by Allen & Major Associates, Inc.
WHEREAS, it is recognized by the City and 145MW that it is desirable to determine and agree on
the responsibilities of the parties with respect to such maintenance of landscaping within the Adjacent
Streets.
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants, agreements and promises contained
herein and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby
acknowledged, the City and 145MW agree as follows:
AGREEMENT
1.

Permitted Activities: The City hereby grants a license to 145MW during the term of this Agreement
to enter onto and utilize the Adjacent Streets for the purpose of constructing, installing, preparing,
planting, maintaining, repairing and replacing the Landscaping described in Section 3(a)(i) of this
Agreement, including all uses, rights and privileges that are incidental or ancillary thereto.

2.

Term: The term of this Agreement shall commence on the date of mutual execution of this
Agreement (the “Commencement Date”) and continue through the first of the following to occur:

1

Page 38 of 135

a.

The City and 145MW mutually agree to terminate this Agreement on a date certain, and
on terms mutually agreeable; or

b.

The City, by and through its City Manager, determines that it is in the City’s interest to
terminate this Agreement, and provides written notice of the same to 145MW at least six
(6) months prior to the effective date of termination.

Upon termination of this Agreement for any reason, 145MW shall have no obligations hereunder
from and after the date of such termination, unless expressly stated otherwise in this Agreement.
3.

Maintenance:
a.

Maintenance shall be divided between the parties as follows:
i.
145MW has installed bricks, raised planting beds, and landscaping within the
Adjacent Streets as shown on and in accordance with the landscaping plan(s)
approved by the City Planning Board pursuant to its site plan review for the
Project, as amended (the “Landscaping”), and shall maintain and replace such
Landscaping as needed. For purposes of this Agreement, “as needed” shall mean
when (1) any plantings die or become diseased beyond reasonable recovery, are
materially damaged, or otherwise fail to meet the intended function and appearance
shown on the approved Landscaping plans, and/or (2) any bricks, raised planting
beds, edging, or other hardscape components installed by 145MW become
materially cracked, displaced, settled, heaved, spalled, or otherwise materially
deteriorated or create a tripping hazard, drainage issue, or other unsafe condition.
145MW shall be responsible for the cost of such maintenance, repair, and
replacement, provided that (A) any material change in species, size, or layout from
the approved Landscaping plans shall require the City’s prior written approval
(which may be given by the Director of Planning and Sustainability), and (B) upon
written notice from the City identifying any condition requiring maintenance,
repair, or replacement, 145MW shall commence corrective action within thirty
(30) days (weather and seasonal constraints permitting) and diligently pursue
completion.

ii.

4.

The City shall be responsible for all maintenance of all roadways, pavements,
crosswalks, sidewalks and any hardscapes in the Adjacent Streets shown on the
said landscaping plans (except for the bricks and raised planting beds described in
Section 3(a)(i) above), in accord with ordinary City policies governing street
maintenance. In the event that the activities described in this section by the City,
or their agents, result in damage to the Landscaping, then the City shall repair the
Landscaping.

b.

Subject to the provisions described in this Agreement, the City may choose to maintain the
Landscaping in the event 145MW fails to do so, provided that the City shall first give
145MW written notice of and a reasonable opportunity to cure any such purported failure.

c.

145MW shall bear the cost and expense of all obligations required under Section 3(a)(i)
hereof and the reasonable costs incurred by the City with respect to Section 3(b). The City
shall bear the cost and expense of all obligations required under Section 3(a)(ii).

Personal Liability: No trustee, director, officer, shareholder, member, manager, agent or employee
of 145MW shall have any personal liability hereunder.

2

Page 39 of 135

5.

Assignment; Successors: The rights, obligations, and responsibilities created by this License shall
run with the land and shall bind and benefit the parties hereto and their respective successors and
assigns, including all subsequent owners of the Property, until termination of this License in
accordance with its terms.

6.

Notice: Any notice required to be given under this Agreement shall be in writing, sent by hand, by
certified mail, return receipt requested, or by commercial overnight delivery, and addressed as
follows:
If to the City:

City of Portsmouth
Attn: City Attorney
1 Junkins Avenue
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Attn: Legal Department

If to 145MW:

145 Maplewood Avenue, LLC
210 Commerce Way, Suite 300
Portsmouth, NH 03801

or such other substitute addresses as subsequently provided by either party to the other pursuant to
this paragraph.
7.

Governing Law; Counterparts; Integration; Amendments: This Agreement shall be governed and
construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New Hampshire, as amended from time to
time, without regard to principles of conflicts of laws. This Agreement may be executed in
counterparts, which together, shall constitute but one original. This Agreement contains the entire
agreement between the parties relating to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all oral
statements and prior writing with respect thereto and may not be terminated or amended except as
provided herein. This Agreement may be amended only in a writing executed by the parties.

8.

Indemnification: To the fullest extent permitted by law, 145MW shall indemnify, defend (with
counsel reasonably acceptable to the City), and hold harmless the City and its elected and appointed
officials, officers, employees, agents, boards, and volunteers (collectively, the “City Indemnitees”)
from and against any and all claims, demands, causes of action, suits, damages, losses, liabilities,
fines, penalties, judgments, costs and expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs)
arising out of or relating to (a) the exercise by 145MW or its contractors, agents, employees,
invitees, or permittees of the rights granted under this Agreement, (b) the installation, maintenance,
repair, replacement, or condition of the Landscaping, including the bricks and raised planting beds,
and/or (c) any negligent act, error, omission, or willful misconduct of 145MW or its contractors,
agents, employees, invitees, or permittees, in each case to the extent caused by 145MW. The
obligations of this paragraph shall survive termination or expiration of this Agreement.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, 145MW shall not be required to indemnify a City Indemnitee to
the extent a claim is finally determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to have been caused by
the negligence or willful misconduct of such City Indemnitee.

9.

Insurance: 145MW and its successors and assigns shall carry and maintain general liability
insurance of not less than One Million Dollars ($1,000,000.00) per occurrence per person and
Two Million Dollars ($2,000,000.00) in the aggregate, or in such other amounts as are reasonably
approved by the City, with respect to the Easements, naming the City and its successors and
assigns, as an additional named insured thereunder, with any such policy to provide that the same

3

Page 40 of 135

may not be cancelled or not renewed unless the insurance company shall have provided the
named insureds, their successors and assigns, with ten (10) days prior written notice. 145MW
shall deliver a certificate of insurance and evidence of payment of the insurance premium to the
City upon the execution of this Agreement and upon any renewals or updates.
10.

Waiver. The failure by a party at any time to require performance of any provision of this
Agreement shall not constitute a waiver of such provision and shall not affect the right of such party
to require performance at a later time.

[remainder of page intentionally left blank]

4

Page 41 of 135

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the day and year first above
written.
145 MAPLEWOOD AVENUE, LLC
By: Schleicher & Stebbins Hotels L.L.C.,
its Manager
By:
Name: Jennifer Stebbins Thomas
Title: Manager
STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE
COUNTY OF
The foregoing instrument acknowledged before me on this ___ day of ___________________,
2026 by Jennifer Stebbins Thomas, the Manager of Schleicher & Stebbins Hotels L.L.C., the Manager of
145 Maplewood Avenue, LLC, a limited liability company, on behalf of the limited liability company.
Before me,
_______________________________________
Justice of the Peace/Notary Public
My commission expires:
Name: __________________________________
[print]

5

Page 42 of 135

CITY OF PORTSMOUTH
________________________
Witness

By:
Karen Conard, City Manager
As authorized by vote of the City Council on
_________.

STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE
COUNTY OF ROCKINGHAM, SS.
On this day of
, 2026, before me,
, the undersigned officer, personally appeared Karen Conard, who acknowledged herself to be the
City Manager, of the City of Portsmouth, a municipal corporation, and that she, as such City Manager,
being authorized so to do, executed the foregoing instrument for the purposes therein contained, by signing
the name of the municipal corporation by herself as the City Manager.
In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and official seal.
Notary Public
Printed Name:
My Commission Expires:

6

Page 43 of 135

Newington

Legend

PROPOSED SIDEWALK EASEMENT

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PROPOSED SIDEWALK EASEMENT

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Proposed Easements

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Map prepared by Portsmouth Department of Public Works

±

Page4/8/2026
44 of 135
Printed:

June 16, 2026
Peter Rice, Director of Public Works
680 Peverly Hill Road
Portsmouth, NH 03801
RE: Landscape Architectural Services for Lower State Street Park
Hello Peter,
As you know I was contacted by friends of Jay Smith to renovate the park at Lower State
Street that I have been formerly referring to as the Jay Smith Garden.
The design service fee in this proposal is for design services going forward and includes
amending the site plan as needed, coordinating the various aspects of the design and the
various players involved, selecting and detailing sculptural aspects proposed, and
attending meetings and discussions with the groups in charge of the space and the funds.
Those meetings will be determined by city staff.
Based on the information we have discussed to date TFLA is submitting the following
proposal for landscape architectural services for the work yet to commence. Our purpose
herein is to summarize the anticipated scope of services and scope of work for the project
from this date forward.
Please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments on this proposal. I look
forward to working with you and the city staff on this project.
Respectfully,

Terrence Parker, Landscape Architect

Page 45 of 135

Scope of Work_________________________________________
The Scope of Work is based on conversations with the city arborist, concerned citizens,
friends of Jay Smith and grounded in past design experience. TFLA will collaborate with
the DPW and respond quickly to changes in direction. The below Scope of Work can be
augmented to include additional items or areas of interest as necessary.
It is expected that terrafirma landscape architecture will use the site survey information
developed by TFLA and the city tax map. The tasks below will be based on the use of the
information developed in creating the existing conditions plan.
The landscape architect will be involved in the following tasks associated with the Scope
of Work for this project:
Task

Description

1

Meet with various city staff to communicate the proposed plans as
needed to implement proposed plans.
Fee: $1,250.00

2

Meet with various contractors, sculptors, foundry personnel, and friends
of Jay Smith to coordinate the work.
Fee: $1,000.00

3

Visit DPW stone yard or other stone yard to find a suitable base stone for
the bust of Jay Smith.
Fee: $300.00

4

Amend Construction Plans as needed. Develop details to be approved by
the DPW for the installation of Jay Smith bust.
Fee: $1,200.00

5

Observe construction implementation and assist sculptor in mounting Jay
Smith bust to plinth stone.
Fee: $1,250.00

Total fee for the above Construction Detailing: $5,000.00
Respectfully,

Terrence Parker, Registered Landscape Architect

Page 46 of 135

Page 47 of 135

September 15, 2026
City Council
1 Junkins Avenue
Portsmouth New Hamphsire 03801
Dear Portsmouth City Council,
Happy Fall! I am connecting to request your approval to put our Scarecrow of the Port friends up in
Portsmouth for the 2026 | 18th season.
As in the past years, the scarecrows will be placed in designated locations throughout Portsmouth to
continue the tradition the community enjoys every year.
We are planning to put up the 26 scarecrows in downtown and 4 at Pease.
With your approval, we would like to put the scarecrows in Portsmouth, Sunday October 4th and take
them down, Sunday November 1st. The Scarecrows of the Port volunteers will be responsible for the
placement and removal of the Scarecrows.
We recognize with the dates being during the weekend, the DPW will not be able to help us. We
appreciate the City of Portsmouth’s time and support over the years during the week; however, we have
found weekends are easier for us to recruit more volunteers.
The COI insurance will be provided along with a document for Scarecrow of the Port locations.
Thank you for your continued support, we are beyond grateful for all you do to keep our scarecrow friends
hanging out in Portsmouth capturing many smiles.
With gratitude,

Laurie A. Mantegari
Scarecrows of the Port Volunteer

Page 48 of 135

City of
Portsmouth
Department of Public Works
Request for inclusion on a City Council Agenda
TO:

Karen Conard, City Manager

CC:

Carl Weber, Deputy City Manager
Sally Kellar, City Clerk
Jessica Griffin, Asst. to the City Manager

FROM:

Peter Rice, Director of Public Works

DATE:

9/18/2026

AGENDA ITEM:

Active City Encumbrances Report

REQUESTED MEETING DATE:

9/28/2026

RECOMMENDED BY:

Peter Rice, Director of Public Works

STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
On December 8, 2025, the City Council approved an amendment to Chapter 6 which
consolidated all references to licenses and permits for encumbering City property into one
ordinance. The ordinance provides that the City Manager will provide the City Council with
monthly written reports for all permits for temporary encumbrances. The Council’s acceptance
of the report constitutes its acceptance and endorsement of the permits listed. The attached
Active City Encumbrances Report should be included under the Consent Agenda for acceptance
by the Council.
Proposed Motion: Move to accept the Active City Encumbrances Report as presented.

Page 49 of 135

Active Encumbrance Permits
Record #

Encumbrance
Requested

Applicant Name

Start Date

Completion
Date

ENCM-26-60

30-Day

409 Franklin Pierce HWY
LLC

24 Market St

8/31/2026

9/29/2026

Replace wood siding. Using walk-thorugh
staging.

ENCM-26-62

30-Day

Cedar Run LLC

53 Tanner St

9/28/2026

9/28/2026

Residential tree pruning with chipper truck.

ENCM-26-63

30-Day

Ricci Construction LLC

134 Pleasant St/Parrot Ave Lot

10/5/2026

10/23/2026

Storm Drain connection and excavation in
parking area.

ENCM-26-64

30-Day

J. Carnes and Son Roofing

760 State St

9/22/2026

9/22/2026

Partial roof and gutter replacement.

Address

Work Detail

Page 50 of 135

a Outlook
City Council Website Contact Form
From City of Portsmouth <webformsubmission@portsmouthnhgov)

Date Wed 9/9/2026 9:59 PM
To

Webform Submission <webformsubmission®portsmouthnh.gov>

Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <ccclerk@portsmouthnhgovx City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <kconard@portsmouthnhgov); Nathan D. Lunney
<[email protected]>; Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell@ponsmouthnh,gov>
-

Submitted on Wed, 09/09/2026

-

-

21:58

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Adam
Last Name
Marcionek

Email

Subject
Housing Action Plan
Address
Portsmouth , New Hampshire. 03801
Message
I'm writing to voice support for Gerald Duffys oped regarding the upcoming Housing Action Plan. It is
my belief that the State government and private developers are not going to solve the housing crisis
for us. The city should enact Gerald's suggestion of a task force whose sole purpose is finding city
owned land to build affordable housing. We have plenty of examples of success using this model. Link:
https://www.seacoastonline.com/story/opinion/columns/guest/2026/09/09/lets-talk-real—housingpolicy-for-portsmouth-nh-duffy/Bl663360007/

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Date Sat 9/19/2026 6:39 PM
To

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Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <[email protected]>; City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <[email protected]>; Nathan D. Lunney
<[email protected]>; Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell®portsmouthnhgov>
-

Submitted on Sat, 09/19/2026

-

-

18:38

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Anne
Last Name
Romney

Email

Subject
Adult Day Care Program
Address
Portsmouth, New Hampshire. 03801
Message
Hi Councilors,
ljust learned that there is no longer an Adult Day Care program and the Senior Center and was very
disappointed to hear that. I heard it from attendees at a Veterans Conference today at the Community
Center. I was there at a table for the Alzheimer's Association where I've volunteered as a community
educator and support group facilitator for the past 16 years. My father and many others I know have
suffered from this disease which also has a huge impact on the caregivers who NEED a break. This type
of program is so helpful to both people living with the disease and those doing 24/7 care. I am
wondering what it would take for this type of program to be reinstated. The need is huge and growing
all the time. Thank you for your consideration of this and any thoughts you may have. Anne

Please indicate if you would like your comment
City Council meeting.

to be part of the public record for the upcoming

Page 52 of 135

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Date Fri 9/11/2026 12:20 PM
To

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Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <[email protected]>; City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <[email protected]>; Nathan D. Lunney
<[email protected]>; Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell®ponsmouthnhgov>
-

Submitted on Fri, 09/11/2026

-

-

12:19

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Arthur
Last Name
SCOTTI

Email

Subject
Affordable and workforce housing
Address
Portsmouth, New Hampshire. 03801
Message
As a renter, and as a retail shopper and supporter who tries to buy local, please make housing more
affordable for the people who serve us and for seniors. Enact whatever policies in divorce public lands
to increasing partnerships with nonpro?ts to make housing permanently affordable for new units
going up. Thank you.

Please indicate if you would like your comment
City Council meeting.
Yes

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Date Fri 9/11/2026 10:30 AM
To

Webform Submission <webformsubmission®portsmouthnhgov)

Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <ccclerk@portsmouthnhgovx City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <[email protected]>; Nathan D. Lunney
<[email protected]>; Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell®ponsmouthnhgov>
-

Submitted on Fri, 09/11/2026

-

-

10:30

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Bnana
Last Name
Bruinooge

Email

Subject
in favor of supporting bike lanes
Address

—

Dover, New Hampshire. 03820

Message
I am a local to the seacoast and am in favor of supporting safe bike lanes. It is especially important as I
am also a pedestrian who was hit by a car on lslington street.

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Date Mon 9/14/2026 9:47 AM
To

Webform Submission <webformsubmission®portsmouthnhgov)

Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <[email protected]>; City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <kconard@portsmouthnhgov); Nathan D. Lunney
<[email protected]>; Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell@ponsmouthnh,gov>
-

Submitted on Mon, 09/14/2026

-

-

09:47

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Caleb
Last Name
Ginsberg

Email

Subject
Fleet Street Bike Lane
Address
Portsmouth, New Hampshire. 03801
Message
Hello Council Members,
I'm writing in support of the proposed contra-flow bike lane on one block of Fleet St in downtown
Portsmouth. As a regular bike commuter in town, the addition of a designated and clearly marked bike
lane in the heart of downtown would be a strong upgrade for the cycling community, further
encourage non-motor vehicle travel downtown (reducing congestion), and generally serve as a safety
enhancement for all (giving cyclists an option to avoid the busy Congress/Maplewood/lslington
intersection).

Thanks for your consideration.

Best.
Page 56 of 135

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Date Wed 9/16/2026 3:59 PM
To

Webform Submission <webformsubmission®portsmouthnhgov>

Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <ccclerk@portsmouthnhgovx City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <kconard@portsmouthnhgov); Nathan D. Lunney
<[email protected]>; Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell@ponsmouthnh,gov>
-

Submitted on Wed, 09/16/2026

-

-

15:59

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Craig
Last Name
Willever

Email

Subject
Speeding and large truck traffic on Jones Ave
Address
Portsmouth, New Hampshire. 03801
Message
As a resident on Jones Ave for over 40yrs. I am concerned about the increase in speeding on the
street. I am also concerned about the Large out of town scrap 18 wheel trucks that do not abide by the
speed limit.The neighborhood is changing with younger families with children and pets. I usually walk
Jones Ave everyday and notice vehicles exceeding the speed limit. I also noticed beer cans along my
route. Jones Ave. does not have curbs or sidewalks, and the speed limit should be lowered and
enforced to accommodate a safer environment for pedestrians.

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City Council meeting.
Yes

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From City of Portsmouth <webformsubmission@portsmouthnhgow

Date Mon 9/14/2026 3:25 PM
To

Webform Submission <webformsubmission®portsmouthnhgov)

Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <ccclerk@portsmouthnhgovx City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <[email protected]>; Nathan D. Lunney
<[email protected]>; Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell®portsmouthnhgov>
-

-

Submitted on Mon, 09/14/2026

-

15:25

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Daniel
Last Name
Katsekas

Email

Subject

9/14/26 City Counsil Meeting
Address

lortsmoutl,
Lampshire.
Hew
03801

Message
Hello,

Thank you all for your efforts in serving Portsmouth and its community. I graduated UNH in '06, and
knew I would move back eventually. I took my time, but it is a pleasure to finally live in Portsmouth.
I'm writing in support of the revitalization of a park with dog access under the bridge in the Atlantic
Heights neighborhood. Though I'm sure there was a reason the park is not maintained currently, I was
not privy to that discussion, so can't speak to any changing particulars,

Whatever the reason, I would urge a reconsidering, Atlantic Heights is geographically dispersed from
any off leash areas Portsmouth has to offer, and is teeming with puppies and people. I've found
Portsmouth to be the least dog friendly place I've lived, including previous residences in Manchester,
Page 59 of 135

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From City of Portsmouth <webformsubmission@portsmouthnhgow

Date Thu 9/10/2026 10:41 AM
To

Webform Submission <webformsubmission®portsmouthnhgov)

Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <ccclerk@portsmouthnhgovx City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <[email protected]>; Nathan D. Lunney
<[email protected]>; Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell®ponsmouthnhgov>
-

-

Submitted on Thu, 09/10/2026

-

10:41

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Effie
Last Name
Malley

Email

Subject
Draft housing action plan needs permanently affordable workforce housing on city land
-

Address
Portsmouth, New Hampshire. 03801-4533
Message
Hello, I thank you all for your work on housing for Portsmouth. It's great we have the draft housing
action plan; however, I want to be sure the City makes building permanently affordable workforce
housing on city-owned land a standing practice. The city council could also name the first site. It is
wonderful we have Ruth Grif?n Place and will soon have Sherburne School, but we need to build many
more units.

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Yes

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Date Sun 9/13/2026 6:56 PM
To

Webform Submission <webformsubmission®portsmouthnhgov)

Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <[email protected]>; City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <[email protected]>; Nathan D. Lunney
<[email protected]>; Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell®portsmouthnhgov>
-

Submitted on Sun, 09/13/2026

-

-

18:56

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Elizabeth
Last Name
Mooney

Email

Subject
Request Proactive and Expeditious Solicitation of a Pharmacy for unused space at former RiteAid at
1303 Woodbury Avenue
Address
Portsmouth, New Hampshire. 03801
Message
Dear City Councilors: Convenient MD Primary Care will soon occupy about 2/3 of the roughly 11,000square foot former RiteAid at the corner of Woodbury Avenue and Market Street, a high-traffic area
with hundreds of new housing units under construction or in planning nearby. We need a pharmacy!!!
The remaining space includes a drive-through, a high priority for pharmacies looking for new sites, as I
understand it.
RiteAidfailed as a national pharmacy chain for reasons that had nothing to do with this prime
location, which, as an added benefit, will soon have a primary care practice next door,
Furthermore, pharmacies are rethinking their unsuccessful expansion into retail convenience stores
because of too much competition in that space. Even the behemoth CVS is starting to openjust
pharmacies without the retail merchandise that shoppers can easily get elsewhere nearby. We do not
need more retail! Heaven help us! We do need a pharmacy, and we do need more competition in the
Page 62 of 135

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From City of Portsmouth <webformsubmission@portsmouthnhgow

Date Sat 9/12/2026 8:09 PM
To

Webform Submission <webformsubmission®portsmouthnhgov)

Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <[email protected]>; City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <[email protected]>; Nathan D. Lunney
<[email protected]>; Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell®ponsmouthnhgov>
-

Submitted on Sat, 09/12/2026

-

-

20:09

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Eric
Last Name
Leaver

Email

Subject
Support for Fleet St contraflow bicycle lane (14-Sep Item 10.F public hearing)
Address
Dover, New Hampshire. 03820

Message

construction of a contraflow bike lane along Fleet St between Hanover and Congress. When I
bike in Portsmouth, I frequently ride this block. I usually get my bike to/from Portsmouth via the
COAST bus, which has its terminal at the Hanover garage. Most of my rides to/from that terminal then
include this block of Fleet St because it's more mellow than Maplewood or Market St. I'd hate to see
this block get converted to strictly one-way and force me to bike on more dangerous streets.
| support

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Date Sun 9/13/2026 1:02 PM
To

Webform Submission <webformsubmission®portsmouthnhgov)

Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <ccclerk@portsmouthnhgovx City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <[email protected]>; Nathan D. Lunney
<[email protected]>; Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell®ponsmouthnhgov>
-

Submitted on Sun, 09/13/2026

-

-

13:02

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Gerald
Last Name
Duffy

Email

Subject
Let's move on solar. ..
Address
Portsmouth, New Hampshire. 03801
Message
Dear Mayor McEachern, Assistant Mayor Kelley,and Councilors:
I'm writing this as a free man with choices, but I wouldn't want to face my wife and sustainability
advocate, EffieMalley, if I didn't add my voice to this initiative. I'm asking you to support Councilor
Tabor's motion under item 15D on Monday's agenda: a municipal solar generation plan built on
DPW's recommendations, with the Jones Avenue landfill array carried fonNard as a $4.1 million CIP
item and a report back on October 13.

Importantly, the vote appropriates nothing, but it does lay out a prioritized set of options
from
rooftops to the treatment plants to Jones Avenue
in front of you before the FV28CIP cycle begins.
It also resolves a CIP element that currently assumes a power purchase agreement, which APEXfound
is the ownership model delivering the least value to the City. On APEX's figures, Jones Avenue pays for
Page 65 of 135
—

—

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From City of Portsmouth <webformsubmission@portsmouthnhgow

Date Sun 9/13/202611:S2 AM
To

Webform Submission <webformsubmission®portsmouthnhgov)

Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <ccclerk@portsmouthnhgovx City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <[email protected]>; Nathan D. Lunney
<[email protected]>; Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell®ponsmouthnhgov>
-

-

Submitted on Sun, 09/13/2026

-

11:52

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Gerald
Last Name
Duffy

Email

Subject
Fleet Street traffic design

—

support contra-flow bike lane

Address
Portsmouth, New Hampshire. 03801
Message
Dear Mayor and Councilors:

the proposal to include a contra-flow bike lane in the Fleet Street traffic
redesign. The concept is well thought out, has a long history in biking infrastructure, is generally
supported by all the key departments involved, and its rationale is thoroughly documented by our
local cycling infrastructure experts
SABR. I've personally ridden in urban settings in major European
cities where this approach has been common in confined downtown streets for decades. Portsmouth's
dynamics are no different. It's a relatively small thing, but it is an important signal and confirmation
that Portsmouth understands how to make it easier for its citizens to leave the car at home. Please
vote in favor of the change, Many thanks.
| recommend you support

—

Gerald Duffy
Page 67 of 135

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Date Mon 9/14/202611:43 AM
To

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Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <ccclerk@portsmouthnhgovx City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <[email protected]>; Nathan D. Lunney
<[email protected]>; Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell®ponsmouthnhgov>
-

-

Submitted on Mon, 09/14/2026

-

11:43

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Grace
Last Name
Lessner

Email

Subject
In favor of the contra?ow

lane on Fleet Street

Address
Portsmouth, New Hampshire. 03801
Message
I am writing in favor of establishing a contraflow lane on Fleet Street when changes are established
between Hanover and Congress streets. For many bike riders such as myself, Fleet St is a valuable safer
alternative to the overly wide Maplewood Ave, and two-way bike flow is critical to having a bikefriendly downtown. Thank you for considering this innovation that will greatly benefit the safety and
well—beingof bike riders in Portsmouth.

Please indicate if you would like your comment
City Council meeting.
Yes

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Date Mon 9/14/2026 9:10 AM
To

Webform Submission <webformsubmission®portsmouthnh.gov>

Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <ccclerk@portsmouthnhgovx City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <[email protected]>; Nathan D. Lunney
Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell®ponsmouthnhgov>
<ndlunney©portsmouthnh.gov>;
-

Submitted on Mon, 09/14/2026

-

-

09:10

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Jeff
Last Name
Randa”

Email

Subject
Fleet St
Address
Portsmouth , New Hampshire. 03801
Message
Re: Fleet St. lam in support of the one way Fleet st w a contra bike lane. Is it ”giving something to the
bike folks? No, it is a reasonable use ofjust 6 ft of pavement based on the priorities of surveys
regarding parking and options. As a riderl often come from the New Franklin neighborhoods to run
errands. A dedicated lane will add to my safer riding options, allowing me access to the Middle school
and library, not to mention City Hall.
"

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Date Mon 9/14/2026 8:45 AM
To

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Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <ccclerk@portsmouthnhgovx City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <[email protected]>; Nathan D. Lunney
<[email protected]>; Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell®portsmouthnhgov>
-

Submitted on Mon, 09/14/2026

-

-

08:45

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Jonathan
Last Name
Sandberg

Email

Subject
Bicycle Contraflow Lane on Fleet Street
Address
Portsmouth, New Hampshire. 03801
Message
Dear Mayor and Members of the City Council,
I am writing to urge you to support the inclusion of a bicycle contra?ow
upgrade project.

lane in the Fleet Street

Fleet Street provides an important connection for people traveling by bicycle between Maplewood
Avenue and destinations south of downtown. From Maplewood, the most direct and comfortable
route is to turn left onto Hanover Street and then right onto Fleet Street, continuing across Congress,
State, Court, and Parrott streets,
Without a contraflow lane, people on bicycles would instead have to climb the hill past the parking
garage and merge with traffic on Market Street. That alternative is longer, more dif?cult, and—most
Page 71 of 135

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From City of Portsmouth <[email protected]>

Date Wed 9/16/2026 3:31 PM
To

Webform Submission <webformsubmission®portsmouthnh.gov>

Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <ccclerk@portsmouthnhgovx City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <[email protected]>; Nathan D. Lunney
<[email protected]>; Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell®ponsmouthnhgov>
-

Submitted on Wed, 09/16/2026

-

-

15:31

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Josh
Last Name
Schaer

Email

Subject
Jones Ave Traffic Study
Address
Portsmouth , New Hampshire. 03801
Message
City Counselors, my neighbor Mike McGovern has requested a traffic study on Jones Av due to the
high volume of speeding cars that are often driving in safely down Jones Ave. Please support this
study to help keep our street safe so that our children are safe in the neighborhood. We appreciate
your support

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City Council meeting.
Yes

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Date Sun 9/13/2026 9:24 AM
To

Webform Submission <webformsubmission®portsmouthnh.gov>

Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <ccclerk@portsmouthnhgovx City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <kconard@portsmouthnhgov); Nathan D. Lunney
<[email protected]>; Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell@ponsmouthnh,gov>
-

Submitted on Sun, 09/13/2026

-

-

09:24

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Karen
Last Name
Jacoby

Email

Subject
Support of Fleet St changes between Hanover and Congress
Address
Portsmouth, New Hampshire. 03801-5035
Message
I regularly bike downtown to go to meetings and do my errands. I often bike from Daniel Street up
Congress Street, but rather than proceed to Maplewood Avenue which can be congested for a bike, I
choose to turn on Fleet Street to get to Court Street. I understand that changes are proposed for Fleet
Street and I would be in favor of one way car traffic, parking moved to the east side, and a contra?ow
bike lane. These changes would make biking safer in our City! I hope that you will support this change.
Thank you for your consideration of my comments.

Please indicate if you would like your comment
City Council meeting.
Yes

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Date Fri 9/18/2026 9:32 PM
To

Webform Submission <webformsubmission®portsmouthnhgov)

Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <ccclerk@portsmouthnhgovx City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <[email protected]>; Nathan D. Lunney
<[email protected]>; Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell®portsmouthnhgov>
-

Submitted on Fri, 09/18/2026

-

-

21:31

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Matthew
Last Name
Roginski

Email

Subject
Jones Ave Concerns
Address
Portsmouth, New Hampshire. 03801
Message
Dear Mayor and City Councilors,
My name is Matt Roginski,and | live on Jones Avenue.
I am writing to express my family's concern about pedestrian and traffic safety conditions on Jones
Ave and to respectfully request that the City begin a formal evaluation of the roadway through Public
Works and the Parking 8LTrafficSafety Committee.
Jones Ave is a narrow residential street with no sidewalk, yet it serves several very different uses. We
have a large healthcare facility at 188 Jones Ave, the Elks Lodge at the end of the road, and the scrapmetal operation at 246 Jones Ave.

Page 76 of 135

Page 77 of 135

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Date Wed 9/9/2026 6:17 PM
To

Webform Submission <webformsubmission®portsmouthnh.gov>

Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <[email protected]>; City Council Shr <[email protected]>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Canard <[email protected]>; Nathan D. Lunney
Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell®portsmouthnhgov>
<ndlunney©portsmouthnh.gov>;
-

Submitted on Wed, 09/09/2026

-

-

18:17

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Michael
Last Name
Casino

Email

Subject
Fleet Street project
Address
Bow St
Portsmouth
Message
Councilors,
I would like to offer my perspective on the proposed plans to change a section of fleet street to one
way. I think we would be making a very big mistake in taking this action for the following reasons.

Fleet Street is the only street in the urban core that allows traffic to move from one side of the
downtown to the other with two-way traffic. That is not an insignificant fact, For the most part, streets
in the downtown operate primarilywith one-way flow that feed into intersections that often back up
with a lot of traffic. These intersections include Congress 8LMaplewood, Market Square, and the multiarrned beast of Market, Bow, and Penhollow, the latter of which also has five pedestrian crosswalks
and needs to be avoided by any means during the summer tourist season. We can also add to this list
the Chapel St State Street intersection that can be blocked by bridge raisings every half hour in the
summer with very long delays.
Page 79 of 135

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Date Wed 9/16/2026 3:22 PM
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Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <ccclerk@portsmouthnhgovx City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <[email protected]>; Nathan D. Lunney
<[email protected]>; Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell®ponsmouthnhgov>
-

Submitted on Wed, 09/16/2026

-

-

15:21

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Michael
Last Name
McGovern

Email

Subject
Jones Avenue Traffic Study
Address
Portsmouth, New Hampshire. 03801
Message
Hi City Council,

Hope all is well! Reaching out to let you know that lam in touch with EricEbyfrom the city regarding a
request for a traffic study on Jones Avenue. He has been super responsive and let me know the city
will be conducting a study in the coming weeks. Good stuff. That's all I can ask for! He has provided
prompt responses and explained how the city will go about it.
I wanted to put it on your radar because our street feels it is a serious safety concern for the children
and families in the neighborhood. This is NOT related to MAC, but more so the regular cars that often
speed up/down to/from Elksand the Cedar Health facility.
Our main ask is that there are speed limit signs posted and ideally speed bumps in certain areas

Page 81 of 135

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City Council Website Contact Form
From City of Portsmouth <[email protected]>

Date Mon 9/14/2026 12:38 PM
To

Webform Submission <webformsubmission®portsmouthnhgov)

Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <ccclerk@portsmouthnhgovx City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <[email protected]>; Nathan D. Lunney
<[email protected]>; Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell®portsmouthnhgov>
-

Submitted on Mon, 09/14/2026

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-

12:38

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Nicole
Last Name
LaPierre

Email

Subject
361 Hanover Street
Address
Portsmouth, New Hampshire. 03801
Message
September 14, 2026
Dear Council members,
In the Islington Creek neighborhood, there used to be a beautiful open space by the creek where one
could watch the sunset turn a sweet golden orange. There were tracks, a small brick artist studio
building. It was vast, urban but yet open. It was a space where nature and industry met but the land
was wide enough to clearly see North MillPond.
Back behind the old Heineman building to the north, there was a public garden. It was beautiful. It was
a true example of community, Every plot claimed. It thrived and then....
It became a parking garage. Then nothing grew. Flowers and vegetables became concrete blocks.
Page 83 of 135

Page 84 of 135

3

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City Council Website Contact Form
From City of Portsmouth <webformsubmission@portsmouthnhgow

Date Wed 9/9/2026 6:19 PM
To

Webform Submission <webformsubmission®portsmouthnhgov)

Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <ccclerk@portsmouthnhgovx City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <[email protected]>; Nathan D. Lunney
<[email protected]>; Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell®ponsmouthnhgov>
-

Submitted on Wed, 09/09/2026

-

-

18:18

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Rebecca
Last Name
Evans

Email

Subject
Housing Plan
Address
Portsmouth, New Hampshire. 03801
Message

the Housing Action Plan and ask for one addition before it's adopted. Make it the city's
standing practice to build permanently affordable workforce housing on land the city already owns
the approach chosen for the Sherburne School and name the first site.
| support

—

—

As a single working mother in the area for over 15 years, it's becoming less and less affordable to keep
my son in the school system he's grown up in from Dondero to now the middle school and hopefully
high school. Rents are insane and should be stabilized or have more workforce housing available for
those who have been here for years.

Please include this comment in the public record,
Please indicate if you would like your comment

to be part of the public record for the upcoming

Page 85 of 135

Page 86 of 135

?x Outlook
City Council Website Contact Form
From City of Portsmouth <webformsubmission@portsmouthnhgow

Date Wed 9/9/2026 1:29 PM
To

Webform Submission <webformsubmission®portsmouthnhgov)

Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <ccclerk@portsmouthnhgovx City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <[email protected]>; Nathan D. Lunney
<[email protected]>; Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell®ponsmouthnhgov>
-

Submitted on Wed, 09/09/2026

-

-

13:28

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Robin
Last Name
Schnell

Email

Subject
Permanently Affordable Workforce Housing
Address
PORTSMOUTH, New Hampshire. 03801-5143

Message
More than anything, Portsmouth needs permanently affordable workforce housing. We know what
works from Ruth Lewin Griffin Place, and we know that to make it affordable it needs to be on city
owned land. the parcel near Commerce way is near other housing, making it good for mass transit.
More density makes the ares more attractive for food retail, and that area already has mixed income
level families. Make it bike and pedestrian-friendly! Solar panels, too? Small dog park? Exercise trail?

Please indicate if you would like your comment
City Council meeting.
Yes

to be part of the public record for the upcoming

(Empty)

Page 87 of 135

3

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City Council Website Contact Form
From City of Portsmouth <webformsubmission@portsmouthnhgov)

Date Mon 9/14/2026 10:02 AM
To

Webform Submission <webformsubmission®portsmouthnhgov)

Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <ccclerk@portsmouthnhgovx City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <[email protected]>; Nathan D. Lunney
<[email protected]>; Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell@ponsmouthnh,gov>
-

Submitted on Mon, 09/14/2026

-

-

10:02

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Sheri
Last Name
Nadeau

Email

Subject
Fleet St Contraflow
Address
Portsmouth, New Hampshire. 03801
Message
Hello, I am sending this email in favor of the Fleet St contra-?ow

Please indicate if you would like your comment
City Council meeting.
Yes

bike lane.

to be part of the public record for the upcoming

(Empty)

*subject

-

Subject

Page 88 of 135

«

Outlook

City Council Website Contact Form
From City of Portsmouth <webformsubmission@portsmouthnhgov)

Date Thu 9/17/2026135 PM
To

Webform Submission <webformsubmission®portsmouthnh.gov>

Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <ccclerk@portsmouthnhgovx City Council Shr <ccemai|@portsmouthnh.gov>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Conard <kconard@portsmouthnhgov); Nathan D. Lunney
<[email protected]>; Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell@ponsmouthnh,gov>
-

-

Submitted on Thu, 09/17/2026

-

13:35

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Ted
Last Name
Jankowski

Email

Subject
Let's test the air quality around Pike Industries and our new fields
Address
Portsmouth, New Hampshire. 03801
Message
Hi Please read the linked OpEd and please let us know if you will support testing. Let's get these
fields tested right away right now is the highest level of seasonal use. Thank you for your service and
let me know if you have any questions.
https://www.seacoastonline.com/opinion/
Ted Jankowski
-

-

Please indicate if you would like your comment
City Council meeting.
Yes

to be part of the public record for the upcoming

Page 89 of 135

m Outlook
City Council Website Contact Form
From City of Portsmouth (webformsubmission@portsmouthnhgov)

Date Sun 9/13/2026 8:23 PM
To

Webform Submission <webformsubmission®portsmouthnh.gov>

Cc

City Council Clerk Shr <[email protected]>; City Council Shr <[email protected]>; Carl
E. Weber <[email protected]>,' Karen S. Canard <[email protected]>; Nathan D. Lunney
Susan G. Morrell <sgmorrell®ponsmouthnhgov>
<ndlunney©portsmouthnh.gov>;
-

Submitted on Sun, 09/13/2026

-

-

20:23

Submitted by: Anonymous
Submitted values are:

First Name
Thomas
Last Name
Nies

Email

Subject
Proposed Amendments to Chapter 10, Zoning Ordinance

-

First Reading

Address
Portsmouth, New Hampshire. 03801
Message
I have two comments regarding the proposed changes to Chapter 10 of the Zoning Ordinance that
would move most parking requirements to the Site Plan Review regulations.
First, I question whether this action is appropriate. As is abundantly clear, parking is a very contentious
issue in Portsmouth. By moving most parking requirements to the Site Plan Review regulations, the
responsibility for making policy changes is turned over to the Planning Board. This board only has one
elected representative and arguably is not responsive to the concerns of the public. While I am sure
some view this as a feature and not a bug, I do not agree.
Second, this proposal is incomplete and as drafted will create an inconsistency in the Zoning
Ordinance. As a condition of granting a Special Exception, Section 10,232.28 of the current ordinance
allows the Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA) to require off-street parking in excess of the

Page 90 of 135

Page 91 of 135

September 23, 2026
Dear Members of the Portsmouth City Council,
Please find the attached proposal from the Portsmouth Housing Authority for a sewer agreement
to support the construction of 90 homes at the Sherburne School site. The proposed agreement
would provide a practical framework for financing the sewer improvements necessary to advance
this important housing development. Under the arrangement, Portsmouth Housing Authority
would submit documentation of eligible sewer improvement costs to the City for reimbursement.
Portsmouth Housing Authority would then repay those costs over a 40-year period through a
sewer charge.
Please let us know if you have any questions or require additional information as you review the
proposal in advance of the City Council meeting. We would be pleased to provide any further
details or supporting documentation that may be helpful.
Sincerely,

_________________________________________
Craig W. Welch
Executive Director

Page 92 of 135

CITY OF PORTSMOUTH
SEWER EXTENSION AND REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENT
This SEWER EXTENSION AND REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is
made and entered into as of the ____ day of ______, 202_ (the “Effective Date”), by and between
the CITY OF PORTSMOUTH, NEW HAMPSHIRE, a municipal corporation organized under the
laws of the State of New Hampshire, with an address of 1 Junkins Avenue, Portsmouth, New
Hampshire 03801 (the “Municipality” or the “City”), and the PORTSMOUTH HOUSING
AUTHORITY, a public body corporate and politic organized under the laws of the State of New
Hampshire, with an address of 245 Middle Street, Portsmouth, New Hampshire 03833, and its
successors and permitted assigns (the “Developer”). The Municipality and the Developer are
referred to herein individually as a “Party” and collectively as the “Parties.”
RECITALS
WHEREAS, the City owns a certain parcel of land, with improvements thereon, situated
at 35 Sherburne Road, Portsmouth, New Hampshire, including the building that was the former
site of the Robert J. Lister Academy (the “Property”), and has leased the Property to the Developer
pursuant to a certain Ground Lease between the City, as Lessor, and the Developer, as Lessee (as
amended from time to time, the “Ground Lease”);
WHEREAS, the Developer intends to redevelop the Property into a multifamily rental
apartment complex comprised of workforce housing, to be developed in two phases consisting of
the construction of new buildings and the redevelopment of the former Robert J. Lister Academy
building (collectively, the “Project”);
WHEREAS, the Project requires the construction of certain off-site sanitary sewer and
water improvements in order to provide adequate sanitary sewer and water service to the Project,
as more particularly described on Exhibit A attached hereto (collectively, the “Improvements”);
WHEREAS, the Parties acknowledge and agree that the City has a substantial interest in
financing and constructing, or causing the construction of, the Improvements, and that the
Improvements will not only benefit the Project but will also benefit the City's water and sewer
system capacity as a whole;
WHEREAS, New Hampshire law authorizes the City, for the defraying of the cost of
construction of newly constructed sewer systems, to establish a scale of rents to be called “sewer
rents” and to prescribe the manner and time of payment thereof, and to assess upon persons whose
lands receive special benefit their just share of the expense of constructing the same;
WHEREAS, the Parties intend that the Developer reimburse the City for the cost of the
Improvements through monthly infrastructure reimbursement charges payable in addition to the
ordinary water and sewer usage charges applicable to the Project; and
WHEREAS, the Parties desire to set forth the terms and conditions governing the payment
and construction of the Improvements and the Developer's reimbursement of the costs thereof.

1
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NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements set forth herein,
and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby
acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:
ARTICLE 1. DEFINITIONS
1.1 “Estimated Cost” means One Million Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars
($1,250,000), the Parties' good-faith estimate of the total cost of the Improvements as of the
Effective Date.
1.2 “Recoverable Cost” means the actual, documented total cost incurred by the
Developer to construct, or cause the construction of, the Improvements, including hard and soft
costs, engineering, permitting, and financing costs; provided that the Recoverable Cost shall not
exceed the Estimated Cost except as the Parties may agree in writing pursuant to Section 2.3.
1.3 “Infrastructure Reimbursement Charge” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.1.
1.4 “Repayment Term” means the period of forty (40) years commencing on the date the
Infrastructure Reimbursement Charge is first billed to the Developer, as provided in Section 3.3.
1.5 Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the meanings given to them in
the Ground Lease.
ARTICLE 2. FINANCING AND CONSTRUCTION OF THE IMPROVEMENTS
2.1 Construction by the Developer. The Developer shall finance and construct, or cause to
be constructed, the off-site sanitary sewer and water Improvements necessary to provide sanitary
sewer and water service to the Project, substantially as described on Exhibit A. The Developer
shall have control over the design, procurement, and construction of the Improvements, and shall
cause the Improvements to be constructed in a good and workmanlike manner and in compliance
with applicable governmental requirements.
2.2 Estimated Cost. The Estimated Cost of the Improvements is One Million Two Hundred
Fifty Thousand Dollars ($1,250,000).
2.3 Reconciliation and Reimbursement of Actual Cost. Upon completion of the
Improvements, the Developer shall determine the Recoverable Cost and provide the City with a
written statement thereof, together with reasonable supporting documentation. The City shall
reimburse the Developer for the Recoverable Cost within 30 days of receiving the written
statement. If the Recoverable Cost differs from the Estimated Cost, the Infrastructure
Reimbursement Charge and the aggregate amount to be recovered under this Agreement shall be
adjusted to equal the Recoverable Cost, and the City shall deliver to the Developer a revised
payment schedule under Section 3.3. In no event shall the Recoverable Cost exceed the Estimated
Cost without the prior written agreement of both parties.
2.4 Ownership. The Improvements shall be and remain the property of the City and shall
constitute a part of the City's municipal water and sewer systems.

2
Page 94 of 135

ARTICLE 3. REIMBURSEMENT OBLIGATION; INFRASTRUCTURE REIMBURSEMENT
CHARGE
3.1 Reimbursement Obligation. The Developer shall reimburse the City for the
Recoverable Cost of the Improvements through a monthly charge (the “Infrastructure
Reimbursement Charge”), payable in addition to, and separately from, the ordinary water and
sewer usage charges applicable to the Project. The Infrastructure Reimbursement Charge is
imposed, and shall be construed, as an infrastructure charge, a special sewer charge, and a
connection/capacity charge, established as a sewer rent and water rate to defray the cost of
construction of newly constructed sewer and water infrastructure.
3.2 Amount. The Infrastructure Reimbursement Charge shall be Five Thousand Two
Hundred Eight and 33/100 Dollars ($5,208.33) per month, which amount is calculated to recover
the Estimated Cost of $1,250,000 in equal monthly installments, without interest, during the
Repayment Term. The Infrastructure Reimbursement Charge shall be subject to adjustment upon
reconciliation of the Recoverable Cost pursuant to Section 2.3.
3.3 Repayment Term; Continuation Until Full Recovery. The Developer shall pay the
Infrastructure Reimbursement Charge monthly during the Repayment Term of forty (40) years,
commencing on the date the charge is first billed. First billing will occur twenty (20) years after
the Project receives the first Certificate of Occupancy. Notwithstanding the stated Repayment
Term, the Infrastructure Reimbursement Charge shall continue to be assessed and payable until
the City has recovered the full Estimated Cost of $1,250,000 (or the Recoverable Cost, if adjusted
pursuant to Section 2.3), together with any interest and charges accrued on delinquent amounts as
provided in Article 6.
3.4 In Addition to Usage Charges. The Infrastructure Reimbursement Charge is in addition
to, and shall not be credited against, the ordinary water and sewer usage charges, rates, fees, and
assessments otherwise applicable to the Project.
ARTICLE 4. BILLING AND COLLECTION
4.1 Billing. The City shall bill the Infrastructure Reimbursement Charge to the Developer
on a monthly basis. The City may combine the Infrastructure Reimbursement Charge in a single
bill with the ordinary water and sewer usage charges and other municipal service charges
applicable to the Project, provided that the Infrastructure Reimbursement Charge is separately
stated.
4.2 Payment. Each Infrastructure Reimbursement Charge shall be due and payable in
accordance with the payment terms stated on the bill. Charges not paid when due shall bear interest
and be subject to collection as provided in Article 6. The Developer may prepay the reimbursement
at any time.
ARTICLE 5. COVENANT RUNNING WITH THE LAND; SURVIVAL
5.1 Survival of Sale or Transfer. The obligation to pay the Infrastructure Reimbursement
Charge shall survive, and shall not be extinguished, diminished, or discharged by, any sale,
conveyance, assignment, lease, sublease, or other transfer of the Property or any interest therein.

3
Page 95 of 135

No transfer of the Property shall relieve the transferor of charges accrued prior to the transfer, and
the transferee shall be liable for charges accruing from and after the transfer.
5.2 Notice of Agreement. The Parties shall execute, and the City may record, a notice or
memorandum of this Agreement in the Rockingham County Registry of Deeds to provide record
notice of the covenant and obligations set forth herein to future owners of the Property.
ARTICLE 6. DEFAULT; MUNICIPAL LIEN RIGHTS
6.1 Default. The Developer shall be in default under this Agreement if any Infrastructure
Reimbursement Charge is not paid when due and such nonpayment continues for thirty (30) days
after written notice from the City.
6.2 Interest. In the City’s discretion, interest on overdue Infrastructure Reimbursement
Charges shall be assessed in accordance with RSA 76:13, as provided under RSA 149-I:11.
6.3 Municipal Lien. For unpaid Infrastructure Reimbursement Charges, the City shall have,
and may enforce, all liens and collection remedies available to a municipality for the collection of
sewer and water charges.
ARTICLE 7. TERM
7.1 Term. This Agreement shall commence on the Effective Date and shall continue until
the City has recovered the full Estimated Cost of $1,250,000 (or the Recoverable Cost, if adjusted
pursuant to Section 2.3), together with all accrued interest and charges, at which time the
Infrastructure Reimbursement Charge shall cease and this Agreement shall terminate, except for
those provisions that by their terms survive termination.
ARTICLE 8. GENERAL PROVISIONS
8.1 Notices. All notices under this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be sent by
registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested, or by recognized overnight
courier, to the Parties at the addresses set forth above, or to such other address as a Party may
designate by notice given in accordance with this Section.
8.2 Assignment. The Developer may not assign this Agreement except in connection with
a transfer of the Property, and any such assignment shall not relieve the Developer of obligations
accrued prior to the assignment. The obligations of this Agreement shall run with the land and bind
all successors and future owners as provided in Article 5.
8.3 Amendment. This Agreement may be amended only by a written instrument executed
by both Parties.
8.4 Governing Law and Venue. This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed in
accordance with, the laws of the State of New Hampshire, without regard to its conflict-of-laws
principles. The Parties agree that the exclusive venue for any action arising out of or relating to
this Agreement shall be the state courts of competent jurisdiction sitting in Rockingham County,
New Hampshire.

4
Page 96 of 135

8.5 Dispute Resolution. The Parties shall endeavor in good faith to resolve any dispute
arising under this Agreement through negotiation and, if the Parties agree, non-binding mediation,
before commencing litigation. This Section shall not limit either Party's right to seek injunctive or
other equitable relief or, in the case of the City, to exercise its lien and collection remedies under
Article 6.
8.6 Severability. If any provision of this Agreement is held to be invalid or unenforceable,
the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect, and the invalid or unenforceable
provision shall be deemed modified to the minimum extent necessary to make it valid and
enforceable.
8.7 Entire Agreement. This Agreement, together with the Ground Lease and the Exhibits
attached hereto, constitutes the entire agreement between the Parties with respect to the subject
matter hereof and supersedes all prior and contemporaneous agreements and understandings,
whether written or oral, with respect thereto.
8.8 Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, each of which shall be
deemed an original and all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
Signatures delivered electronically or by other reliable means shall be deemed original signatures.
Signature Pages Follow

5
Page 97 of 135

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have caused this Agreement to be executed by their duly
authorized representatives as of the Effective Date.
CITY OF PORTSMOUTH, NEW HAMPSHIRE
By: ______________________________
Name: ____________________________
Title: _____________________________, its duly authorized ______________________

PORTSMOUTH HOUSING AUTHORITY
By: ______________________________
Name: Craig Welch
Title: its duly authorized Executive Director
STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE
COUNTY OF ROCKINGHAM, SS.
On this ____ day of ______, 20, before me, the undersigned notary public, personally appeared
______________________, duly authorized ______________________ of the City of
Portsmouth, New Hampshire, known to me or satisfactorily proven to be the person whose name
is subscribed to the foregoing instrument, and acknowledged that he/she executed the same as the
free act and deed of the City of Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
Notary Public/Justice of the Peace My commission expires: __________
STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE
COUNTY OF ROCKINGHAM, SS.
On this ____ day of ______, 20, before me, the undersigned notary public, personally appeared
Craig Welch, duly authorized Executive Director of the Portsmouth Housing Authority, known to
me or satisfactorily proven to be the person whose name is subscribed to the foregoing instrument,
and acknowledged that he executed the same as the free act and deed of the Portsmouth Housing
Authority.
Notary Public/Justice of the Peace My commission expires: __________

6
Page 98 of 135

EXHIBIT A
Description of the Improvements
This project consists of a 90-unit apartment, a potentially, a 29-unit apartment and the conversion
of part of Sherburn School into an 8- unit apartment. The units are serviced by gravity sewers.
Proposed onsite sewer improvements consists of 790 linear feet of 8” SDR 35 gravity sewer main
and 2 proposed sewer manholes. Proposed offsite improvements include 1,350 lf of slip lining
existing sewer pipes, 1,1110 lf of proposed 12” SDR 35 gravity sewer mains, 170 lf of proposed
8” SDR 35 gravity sewer mains, and 7 proposed sewer manholes, all as more comprehensively
detailed in a certain Application for Sewer Connection Permit submitted to the New Hampshire
Department of Environmental Services and the City of Portsmouth on or about May 8, 2026.
See Offsite Sewer Plan Set, titled “Offsite Sewer Improvement Plans, Proposed Housing
Development, 35 Sherburne Road, Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Owned by the City of
Portsmouth, Prepared for PHA Housing Development LTD”, dated January last revised May 8,
2026.
[[Insert specifications and estimated cost breakdown or site to info submitted separately.
Estimated Cost: $1,250,000.]]
EXHIBIT B
Description of the Property
[Insert legal description of the Property at 35 Sherburne Road, Portsmouth, NH]

7
Page 99 of 135

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Page 105 of 135

CITY OF PORTSMOUTH, N.H.
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
REAPPOINTMENT APPLICATION
Instructions: Please print or type and complete all information

Conservation Commission
Committee: _________________________________________
Alice Carey
Name:______________________________________________
Please confirm or update your contact information below:
Street Address: x No Change  Updated: _____________________________________
Mailing Address: x No Change  Updated:_____________________________________
Telephone Number: 
x No Change  Updated: _________________________________
x No Change  Updated:______________________________________
Email Address: 
Eligibility and Availability
x Yes  No
Do you remain a resident of Portsmouth? 
x No  Yes: __________________________________
Changes to meeting availability? 
Continued Service
x Yes  No
Do you wish to be considered for reappoin tment? 
x No
Interested in other boards if not reappointed?  Yes 
Acknowledgment
By signing, you certify the above is accurate and understand that:
(1) Reappointment is at the discretion of the Mayor and City Council;
(2) Review and acknowledgment of th e Volunteer Handbook is mandatory (information
will be emailed to you and can be found on the City Clerk’s webpage); and
(3) The taking of the Oath of Office and signing of the oath book at the City Clerk’s
office is required
after appointment.
q
Signature: _________________________

9/10/2026
Date: ___________________________

Submit to: City Clerk's Office, 1 Junkins Avenue, Portsmouth, NH 03801
5/7/2026

Page 106 of 135

HOUSING ACTION PLAN
July 2026

DRAFT
The Housing Committee presented its recommendations to the City Council
on July 13, 2026. The Council referred the matter to the Planning Board for
further review. It is anticipated that the Planning Board will discuss the
recommendations at its August 20, 2026 meeting.

Ruth Lewin Griffin Place Below Market Rate Housing Complex

Page 107 of 135

In This Plan
Over the past decade, the City of Portsmouth has
taken a consistent and proactive approach to
understanding and addressing local housing needs.
This effort has included a combination of planning
studies, public engagement, zoning ordinance and
map updates, and policy initiatives aimed at
increasing housing opportunities, improving
affordability, and supporting long-term
community stability.

A strong foundation for this work was established through a series of housing-related
studies and reports. Beginning with the Housing Committee Final Report and City
Council Housing Policy in 2016, the City has continued to build on its understanding of
local housing conditions through ongoing research and analysis. This includes the
"Places to Live" study circle dialogue in 2024, an Inclusionary Zoning Analysis
completed the same year, and earlier efforts such as the Portsmouth Market Study
(2022) and Housing Development Trends analysis (2020).

Page 108 of 135

An image of Market Square in Portsmouth with the North Church and
Congress Street
Housing has been the top priority of both the current City Council and the prior Council.
The 2026–2027 City Council set a clear goal of increasing housing supply for all income
levels, reducing costs, simplifying the development process, and expanding below
market-rate housing options. This Council also directed the creation of this Housing
Action Plan and a comprehensive update of the zoning ordinance.
This direction builds on the goals of the 2024–2025 City Council, which emphasized
expanding housing choices, increasing below market-rate housing, and advancing
zoning changes to support housing development. That Council also supported
initiatives such as the Housing Navigator program, the Housing Blue Ribbon Committee,
and the establishment of a Below Market Rate Housing Trust Fund.
Over the past two years, residents and community advocates devoted substantial time
and expertise to housing in Portsmouth, offering comment and producing research,
analytical tools, and a proposed framework of actions brought to the Council and the
Housing Committee. That work informed the Council's February 2026 direction to create
this Housing Action Plan, and much of it is reflected in the actions that follow. The City
welcomes this kind of engagement — addressing Portsmouth's housing challenges will
continue to require the knowledge, energy, and participation of community members.

Page 109 of 135

Zoning Changes
Key point: The City has made a number of updates to its zoning ordinance to better accommodate
housing development. Portsmouth maintains a zoning framework that is regularly reviewed and
amended, with updates adopted as recently as 2025 and 2026. Recent amendments have directly
addressed housing-related barriers, including updates to accessory dwelling unit (ADU) regulations
to comply with state law, modifications to off-street parking requirements, and the introduction of
new housing types such as co-living.

Earlier zoning initiatives during this period also helped establish the framework for more
flexible land use. The adoption and expansion of the Gateway zoning districts and
creation of the Gateway Neighborhood Overlay District have supported redevelopment
and encouraged a broader range of housing types in appropriate locations. These
efforts have established important groundwork for the current Housing Action Plan.

Housing Production Incentives
Key point: In addition to regulatory updates, the City has explored and advanced a range of policy
approaches to support housing production. City Council and Housing Committee discussions have
focused on strategies such as allowing conversion of single-family homes into multiple units,
expanding mixed-use zoning, and reducing parking-related barriers. The City has also explored
financial tools, including the continued use of the Housing Trust Fund and other funding or incentive
programs to support housing development.

As a result of these combined efforts, Portsmouth has built a strong foundation for
continued progress. The City has not only studied housing issues extensively, but has
also taken concrete steps to update regulations, test new approaches, and support
development in practice. This body of work directly informs the Housing Action Plan
and the recommendations that follow, providing a more coordinated framework for
moving forward together with the ongoing Master Plan update.

Master Plan Integration
Key point: This Housing Action Plan is intended to support and help implement the broader goals of
the Master Plan. Many of the recommended actions, particularly those related to zoning and land
use, will be advanced through the Master Plan update and subsequent changes to the City's zoning
regulations. By linking these efforts, the City can ensure that its housing policies are coordinated,
consistent, and grounded in a long-term vision for the community.

At its core, the plan makes it easier to create housing, with a specific focus on
expanding below market-rate options. Key strategies include allowing more multi-family

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housing, reducing requirements such as lot size and setbacks, and making it easier to
convert large single-family homes into multiple units — supporting new housing in areas
that are already developed, rather than relying solely on new growth areas.
The plan also emphasizes better use of underutilized properties, including
redevelopment of older commercial and office buildings into housing, and a wider range
of housing types, such as smaller homes, clustered housing, workforce housing, and
live/work units, to serve residents at different stages of life and income levels. Financial
tools and programs round out the plan, including the Housing Trust Fund, in-lieu
payment options, and homebuyer assistance programs, along with a continued
commitment to preserving existing below market-rate housing, expanding senior
housing options, and complying with workforce housing requirements. Each action in
the plan includes clear steps, a responsible party, and a timeframe, providing a roadmap
the City can track over time.

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Priority Action

Description

Key Implementation Steps

Lead

Timeframe Metrics

Milestone

1

Expand the use and geographic applicability of RSA 79-E tax
relief incentives to encourage redevelopment and housing
production in underutilized areas.

Expand tax relief incentives to support
redevelopment and housing construction
in underutilized areas.

City Council adoption of Housing
Opportunity Zones Citywide

Planning/Assessor/City Council

0-9 mo

Projects

Program used

2

Conduct a comprehensive zoning review to identify barriers to
housing development and prioritize necessary regulatory
reforms.

Review Zoning Ordinance; recommend
changes

City Staff/Consultant/Planning
Board/City Council

1-2 yr

Zoning amendments to
remove barriers

Amended Zoning
Ordinance

3

Amend zoning regulations to allow the conversion of commercial
and office buildings into residential units.

Review Zoning Ordinance; recommend
changes, Zoning Ordinance amended

Planning Staff/Planning Board/City
Council

0-6 mo

Amendments to allow
conversions

Amended Zoning
Ordinance

4

Expand zoning provisions to allow and encourage cottage
housing and clustered small-lot residential development.

Review existing Zoning Districts and
revisions to Zoning Ordinance

Planning/Planning Board/City Council

6-12 mo

5

Establish an in-lieu fee program allowing developers to
contribute financially toward affordable housing in place of onsite unit provision.
Continue to waive fees for below market rate housing projects
for nonprofit entities

Identify regulatory barriers and
prioritize zoning reforms in line with the
Master Plan. Create a more user-friendly
document.
Allow office/commercial to residential
conversion to increase housing supply
without new land consumption.
Identify zoning districts and
neighborhoods suitable for small
clustered housing options.
Allow a payment in-lieu of fee to the
Housing Trust Fund.

Recommend changes to Zoning Ordinance,
Zoning Ordinance amended

Planning/Planning Board/City Council

0-6 mo

Amended Zoning
Ordinance and Zoning
Map
Payments received

Waive fees as requested for nonprofits
for below market rate housing projects

Continue past practice of waiving fees

City Council

Ongoing

Rezone Office Research (OR) and General Business (GB) districts
to allow mixed-use and residential development.

Identify parcels zoned GB or OR and
propose new zoning district
designations.

Identify parcels; Amend Zoning Map

Planning/Planning Board/City Council

0-6 mo

Zoning district changes
to permit small
clustered housing
Identify amendments to
Zoning Ordinance and
Fee Schedule
Below market rate
housing projects by
nonprofit entities
Revise zoning map

Expand multi-family zoning.

Expand areas allowing multi-family
housing to increase supply. Change
single-family districts to allow multifamily housing.

Review Zoning Ordinance; recommend
changes

City Staff/Consultant/Planning
Board/City Council

1-2 yr

Zoning Ordinance and
Zoning Map
amendments

Amended Zoning
Ordinance and Zoning
Map

Review dimensional zoning standards.

Reduce minimum lot sizes, frontage
requirements, yards (setbacks), etc. to
provide more housing opportunities

Review Zoning Ordinance; recommend
changes

Planning/Consultant/Planning Board/City
Council

1-2 yr

Conforming lots

Amended Zoning
Ordinance

Allow conversion of existing single-family homes into multiple
dwelling units.
Deploy and expand the City’s Housing Trust Fund to support
affordable and workforce housing development.
Develop and implement programs to assist homebuyers in
accessing homeownership opportunities.
Plan and designate outlying areas for new residential
neighborhood development to accommodate long-term housing
demand.
Simplify and update Form-Based Code provisions to improve
usability and encourage more below market rate housing.
Adjust Building height requirements.

Allow large homes to be converted into
multiple units.
Fund housing development through local
resources.
Support homebuyers to expand
ownership access.
Plan new residential growth areas for
future housing demand based on Master
Plan.
Simplify Form-Based Code.

Review Zoning Ordinance; recommend
changes, amend Zoning Ordinance
Allocate funds; track

Planning/Planning Board/City Council

1-2 yr

Units

Planning/Finance/Housing Trustees

Ongoing

Units funded

Amended Zoning
Ordinance
Projects completed

Launch program; partner lenders

1-3 yr

Programs created

Programs active

Identify areas from Master Plan; recommend
Zoning Map changes

City Council/Community
Development/Housing Committee
Planning/Consultant/Planning Board/City
Council

1-2 yr

Zoning Map
amendments

Amended Zoning Map

Review and revise code; Recommend Zoning
Ordinance changes
Amend zoning

Planning/Consultant/Planning Board/City
Council
Planning/City Council

1-2 yr
1-2 yr

Zoning Ordinance
amendments
Units

More below market
rate housing
Projects built

Review Zoning Ordinance; Recommend
Zoning Ordinance changes
Inventory; Provide funding/opportunities to
extend terms of existing below market rate
housing
Review Programs

Planning/Planning Board/City Council

1-2 yr

Units

Planning/Housing Trust Fund/Trustees

Ongoing

Units

Increase in live/work
units
No loss

Community Development/City Council

2-5 yr

Available Programs and
Services

Increase in Senior
housing and assistance

Review RSA against Zoning Ordinance

Planning/Legal/Planning Board/City
Council

1 yr

Adopted amendments
to be consistent with
RSA

Amended Zoning
Ordinance to be
consistent with State
law

6
7

Allow live/work units.
Preserve existing below market rate housing
Create more senior housing.

Create/strengthen a workforce housing ordinance (RSA 674:5861).

Increase height limits to add density
where appropriate.
Allow flexible housing with workspace
integration.
Protect existing affordable housing from
loss.
Expand housing for older residents.
Comprehensive strategy for senior
housing: independent living, assisted
living, memory care, aging-in-place
support.
Adopt or strengthen local workforce
housing ordinance consistent with NH
RSA 674:58-61.

Requested Fees
Waived
Projects proposed and
constructed after map
amendments

Page 112 of 135

City of Portsmouth
Planning & Sustainability

Memorandum
TO: Karen Conard, City Manager
FROM: Peter Stith, AICP, Assistant Planning Director
DATE: September 22, 2026
SUBJECT: Planning Board Recommendation regarding referral of Housing Action Plan

Pursuant to the City Council's referral, the Planning Board reviewed the proposed
Housing Action Plan at its September 17, 2026 meeting. The Board discussed several of
the implementation items identified in the plan, including housing types and strategies
such as co-living, co-housing, cottage housing, single-room rentals, manufactured
housing, and the potential use of RSA 79-E tax incentives as a housing tool. The Board
also noted the role the Planning Board will play in implementing many of the plan's
recommendations.
Following discussion, the Planning Board voted to recommend that the City Council
accept and adopt the Housing Action Plan as presented, with one member voting in
opposition.
Recommended Action: Move to adopt the Housing Action Plan as presented.

Page 113 of 135

Councilor Cook and Bagley – Natural Burial Options

The city does not own or manage any cemetery with active burials, as reported to the
Council in December 2025. Residents are currently directed to three private cemeteries,
two of which are denominational, and staff has reported that the third is running out of
room. RSA 289:2 provides that every municipality shall provide or may enter into
agreements with adjacent municipalities or nonprofit entities to provide one or more
suitable cemeteries. Natural burial is the most cost effective and ecologically sound burial
choice by most measures, requiring no vault, no embalming and no monument foundation,
and it would be available to any Portsmouth resident. The city recently catalogued its
parcels for the land use committee, so much of the groundwork is already done. This
responds to a citizen request submitted by John and Skye Maher.

Page 114 of 135

Gift and Donation Submission Form
Donations received by the City of Portsmouth must be accepted by the City Council. Please
complete this form and submit it to the City Manager for inclusion on an upcoming agenda.
Date:

9/23/2026

Department/Contact
Person:

Sister Cities' Committee]

Donation Amount:

$1,000

Are Funds to be directed to a particular department,
provide detail below:
Yes

—

Christine Friese

program or fund?

—

If yes, please

City of Portsmouth New Hampshire Sister Cities Tmst (Fund)

Is there a particular purpose intended with this donation:

Other infonnation/Special

Conditions:

This donation is made in honor of Eileen Dondero Foley.

Donor Information
First & Last Name:

Mary Carey Foley

Business Name:
Address':
Phone‘:
Email”:

Please note that gins/donations to individual employees with a value of $100 or more are not
permitted Information with an asterisk (‘) indicates it willnot be publicly distributed

Page 115 of 135

PORTSMOUTH POLICE COMMISSION
MEMORANDUM

DATE:
T O:
FROM:
R E:

SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
KAREN CONARD, CITY MANAGER
ALBERT “BUZZ” SCHERR, PORTSMOUTH POLICE COMMISSION CHAIR
MARK D. NEWPORT, CHIEF OF POLICE
GRANTS & DONATION

__________________________________________________________________
At the Police Commission meeting on September 15, 2026, the Board of Police Commissioners
approved and accepted the following grant and donation:
a. A $14,868 grant award from the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance (JAG)
Program to fund the upgrade of police rifles. Of the total grant funds, $13,827 is

allocated to the Portsmouth Police Department and the remainder goes towards
Rockingham County administrative fees.

b. An unsolicited donation of a $50 Panera gift card from an anonymous citizen for the
purchase of food for officers at the Chief’s discretion.
We submit the information to you pursuant to City Policy Memorandum #94-36, for the City
Council’s consideration and approval at their September 28 meeting.
Respectfully submitted,

Jacqueline D. Burnett
Office of the Chief
copies: Board of Police Commissioners
PD Business Office

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Gift and Donation Submission Form
Donations received by the City of Portsmouth must be accepted by the City Council. Please
complete this form and submit it to the City Manager for inclusion on an upcoming agenda.

Date:

9-17-26

Department/
Contact Person:

Police Department / Chief Mark Newport

Donation Amount:

Unsolicited $50 Panera Gift Card

Are Funds to be directed to a particular department, program or fund? – If yes, please
provide detail below:

Is there a particular purpose intended with this donation:

The gift card is intended to be used to purchase food for patrol officers at
the Chief’s discretion. Likely to provide breakfast for a shift (e.g. bagels).

Other Information/Special Conditions:

Donor Information
First & Last Name:

Anonymous Donor

Business Name:

unknown

Address*:

unknown

Phone*:

Unknown

Email*:

Unknown

Please note that gifts/donations to individual employees with a value of $100 or more are not
permitted. Information with an asterisk (*) indicates it will not be publicly distributed.

Page 126 of 135

Gift and Donation Submission Form
Donations received by the City of Portsmouth must be accepted by the City Council. Please
complete this form and submit it to the City Manager for inclusion on an upcoming agenda.
Date:

9-14-2026

Department/Contact
Person:

Suzanne Woodland

Donation Amount:

$100

Are Funds to be directed to a particular department, program or fund? – If yes, please
provide detail below:
City of Portsmouth General Fund-DPW

Is there a particular purpose intended with this donation:
Point of Graves Cemetery Wall Replacement Project

Other information/Special Conditions:

Donor Information
First & Last Name:

Sue and Don Kingman

Business Name:
Address*:
Phone*:
Email*:
Please note that gifts/donations to individual employees with a value of $100 or more are not
permitted. Information with an asterisk (*) indicates it will not be publicly distributed.

Page 127 of 135

Gift and Donation Submission Form
Donations received by the City of Portsmouth must be accepted by the City Council. Please
complete this form and submit it to the City Manager for inclusion on an upcoming agenda.
Date:

9-14-2026

Department/Contact
Person:

Suzanne Woodland

Donation Amount:

$200

Are Funds to be directed to a particular department, program or fund? – If yes, please
provide detail below:
City of Portsmouth General Fund - DPW

Is there a particular purpose intended with this donation:
Point of Graves Cemetery Wall Replacement Project

Other information/Special Conditions:

Donor Information
First & Last Name:

Alexis Hanlon

Business Name:
Address*:
Phone*:
Email*:
Please note that gifts/donations to individual employees with a value of $100 or more are not
permitted. Information with an asterisk (*) indicates it will not be publicly distributed.

Page 128 of 135

Gift and Donation Submission Form
Donations received by the City of Portsmouth must be accepted by the City Council. Please
complete this form and submit it to the City Manager for inclusion on an upcoming agenda.
Date:

9-14-2026

Department/Contact
Person:

Suzanne Woodland

Donation Amount:

$300

Are Funds to be directed to a particular department, program or fund? – If yes, please
provide detail below:
City of Portsmouth General Fund - DPW

Is there a particular purpose intended with this donation:
Point of Graves Cemetery Wall Replacement Project

Other information/Special Conditions:

Donor Information
First & Last Name:

Patricia Kennedy

Business Name:
Address*:
Phone*:
Email*:
Please note that gifts/donations to individual employees with a value of $100 or more are not
permitted. Information with an asterisk (*) indicates it will not be publicly distributed.

Page 129 of 135

Gift and Donation Submission Form
Donations received by the City of Portsmouth must be accepted by the City Council. Please
complete this form and submit it to the City Manager for inclusion on an upcoming agenda.
Date:

9-14-2026

Department/Contact
Person:

Suzanne Woodland

Donation Amount:

$1,000

Are Funds to be directed to a particular department, program or fund? – If yes, please
provide detail below:
City of Portsmouth General Fund - DPW

Is there a particular purpose intended with this donation:
Point of Graves Cemetery Wall Replacement Project

Other information/Special Conditions:

Donor Information
First & Last Name:

Frank Connard and Rebecca Martin Connard

Business Name:
Address*:
Phone*:
Email*:
Please note that gifts/donations to individual employees with a value of $100 or more are not
permitted. Information with an asterisk (*) indicates it will not be publicly distributed.

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CITY COUNCIL POLICY No 2026-01

RESIDENT ACCESS PARKING PROGRAM (RAPP) PILOT – 2026

Purpose
Over the last decade, the City has implemented several pilots for Resident Neighborhood
Parking Programs to address concerns of reduced parking availability for residents of
neighborhoods located near the Downtown Business District.
Neighborhoods in proximity to the Downtown Business District are not metered.
Residents have raised concerns that nonresidents park in their neighborhoods because
parking spaces are unmetered, which creates a shortage of parking spaces for residents.
Prior pilots have been unsuccessful because they were di icult to manage and enforce.
A new Resident Access Parking Program (RAPP) Pilot- 2026 (“Program”) has been created
to address residents’ concerns and improve the operation and enforcement of the
Program.
The goals of Program are to:
*

Increase parking availability for residents by charging nonresidents for
parking in designated locations outside the Downtown Business District
(‘RAPP Zone”);

*

Provide free parking for residents and School, Recreation and Library
employees who have registered their vehicle license plates with the City’s Tax
or Parking O ice;

*

Expand the Downtown Workforce Parking Program to limited areas in the
RAPP Zone;

*

Simplify management and enforcement of the Program by using vehicle
license plate enforcement; and

*

Provide parking management data from the Program to the Council to help
inform future resident parking programs and parking availability in
neighborhoods in proximity to the Downtown Business District.

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Policy
The Program will provide free parking for residents and School, Recreation and Library
employees with vehicle license plates registered through the City’s Parking or Tax O ice in
the RAPP Zone more fully described below. Nonresidents will be charged an hourly parking
rate determined by the Fee Schedule Study Committee. The Program also expands the
Downtown Workforce Parking Program to Parrott Avenue and the Parrott Avenue Lot as more
fully defined below.
RAPP Zone
The RAPP Zone includes the following streets listed below and set forth in the attached
maps:
a.

b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.

Parrott Avenue from Rogers Street to Junkins Avenue. (This portion of Parrott
Avenue is the only street in the RAPP Zone to be used by downtown workers
registered for the DWPP)
Hanover Street (from Bridge Street to Brewster Street);
Rock Street
Pearl Street
Tanner Street
Tanner Court
Gates Street
Hancock Street
Washington (Court Street to Hancock Street)
Parrott Avenue Lot

Downtown Workforce Parking Program (DWPP)
The Downtown Workforce Parking Program (DWPP) provides reduced parking rates for
employees and owners of restaurants, retail and personal service businesses, and the
hospitality industry located downtown. The purpose of this Program is to help support small
businesses that fuel the local economy. Workers who have registered with the Parking O ice
for the DWPP may park in the following locations:
a. Parrott Avenue Parking. Eligible participants in the DWPP who park on Parrott
Avenue from Rogers Street to Junkins Avenue shall be charged the established
workforce parking rate of $0.30 per hour, with no additional transaction fee. The
portion of Parrott Avenue from Rogers Street to Richards Avenue shall remain free
parking subject to a 4 hour limit.

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b. Foundry Garage Parking. Eligible participants in the DWPP may purchase up to 26
parking stickers per month. Each sticker shall provide up to 12 hours of parking in
the Foundry Garage for a flat rate of $3.00 per sticker.
Parrott Avenue Lot
Registered residents and participants in the DWPP may park for free within the posted time
limits in the Parrott Avenue Lot. Non-residents are prohibited from parking in the Parrott
Avenue Lot during the Program.
Parking Rates in RAPP Zone
Parking Rates for the Program are set by the Fee Schedule Study Committee and hours of
enforcement are set forth in Chapter 7, Article I, Section 7.102 (C).
E ective date
The Program is e ective July 1, 2026.

_________________________________
Sally Kellar, City Clerk
Adopted by the Portsmouth City Council on June 8, 2026.
Amended by the Portsmouth City Council on September 14, 2026.
E ective date of the amendments is October 1, 2026.

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RESIDENT ACCESS PARKING PROGRAM (RAPP) PILOT MAPS – 2026
As Amended by the City Council on 9/14/2026
Effective 10/1/2026

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