Multifamily housing in the commercial district

Jan 8 · MinutesFirst mention

This was the third and final hearing on changes to the town's zoning rules for accessory dwelling units (ADUs, a small second home on the same lot). The changes are needed to follow a state law that took effect in July 2025. The law requires towns to allow detached ADUs as well as attached ones. Approval now goes to the building inspector instead of a special exception from the Zoning Board of Adjustment. A resident asked the board to keep the current one-third living area rule with a 1,400 square foot maximum, instead of a 950 square foot cap. A board member said a larger ADU would need a variance, which is hard to get. The chair said the board had debated the topic for two months and the Zoning Board chair had no concerns with the 950 square foot cap. He said changes can be made later if needed. A board member said the building inspector will use a checklist to apply the living space definitions.

Motion to send the ordinance amendments, with the 950 square foot cap and other state-required changes, to the town warrant for a vote passed. All were in favor.

Jan 8 · MinutesDecided

This was the first public hearing on a zoning change to allow multifamily housing in the commercial district. A state law taking effect in July 2026 requires it, and the town wants to comply to avoid legal challenges. All property owners in the district were notified. The proposal sets density at six units per developable acre, or eight if workforce housing is included. The first floor of these buildings would have to be used for commercial, educational, institutional or non-profit uses. The town planner said storage facilities and office space would be allowed. A board member said six units per acre may be too low to justify development costs. The planner said Brentwood talked with developers who said these densities are workable. A resident raised questions about the number of eligible parcels, infrastructure, and effects on town services, and said a 18-24 unit development does not fit Route 108. The board agreed few parcels remain in the district. The planner will add the correct state law reference (RSA 674:58-61) for workforce housing. The board also discussed ways to inform the public, and the planner will write materials for the town website and email.

Motion to add the correct RSA reference for workforce housing and send the multifamily ordinance to the warrant for a vote passed. All were in favor.

Feb 12 · MinutesDecided

The town planner gave out information on proposed changes about accessory dwelling units (ADUs, extra small homes on a lot) and multifamily housing in the Commercial District. These go to voters in March. The board agreed to post the information at the Library, Town Office and Post Office. The board agreed to hold an informational meeting on 2026-03-04 at 7:00pm at the Newfields Town Hall. The secretary will email the notice and flyer, send a reminder, and put it on the town hall sign. The planner said that as of July 1, 2026, if town zoning is not updated, state law would let developers build as much as local infrastructure supports. That could be 30-35 units per developable acre, compared with the 8 per acre proposed by the town. A member asked for a photo of a home with a detached unit for the flyer. Another member will take a photo of a home on Piscassic Road and send it to the planner. An attendee asked if the concern was that state law would require a more flexible reading, and the planner confirmed a developer could build as far as infrastructure allows.

Consensus of the board to hold an informational meeting on March 4, 2026.

May 19 · MinutesDecided

For accessory dwelling units (ADUs, small second homes on a lot), the commissioners agreed it is up to the property owner to either split off the same water line or install a separate line.

The commissioners agreed the choice belongs to the property owner. No vote count was given.