Development News for Milford, New Hampshire

Select Board Votes to Waive Right of First Refusal for Zero Elm Street Property to Facilitate Business Expansion and Lawsuit Resolution

The Select Board considered waiving the town's first right of refusal on a property located at Zero Elm Street (Map 3, Lot 76). This waiver is necessary for a proposed land swap between Hitchener Manufacturing Company Incorporated and MD's Trash Disposal. Under the proposed swap, MD's Trash Disposal would expand onto the Zero Elm Street property, while Hitchener's would expand into MD's current location. This land swap is also intended to resolve an existing lawsuit filed by Hitchener's against the town. The deadline for this transaction is August 9th. The board discussed the property's history, noting it was formerly a well site and that the town had previously retained a right of first refusal. They also discussed the benefits of waiving the right, including ending the lawsuit and facilitating the expansion of local businesses. A motion was made and seconded to waive the right of first refusal and authorize the town administrator to complete the transaction.

Town Committees Face Volunteer Shortage; Podcast and Media Efforts Aim to Boost Recruitment

The Board of Selectmen discussed volunteer recruitment for various town committees. Several committees, including the Conservation Commission, Economic Development Advisory Committee, Ethics Committee, Heritage Commission, Energy Advisory Committee, Planning Board, and Traffic Safety Committee, have open positions. Despite the need for volunteers, there appears to be limited interest, with no applications received recently. The discussion touched upon potential solutions, including utilizing the new 'Inside Milford' podcast and Granite Town Media's efforts to promote volunteerism. The Granite Town Media initiative aims to highlight volunteer roles and contributions within the town to encourage participation. There was also a mention of a specific volunteer campaign related to a New Hampshire Volunteer Grant.

First Light Fiber Agreement Approved to Enhance Radio Site Connectivity and Redundancy

The Select Board reviewed a proposed 10-year agreement with First Light Fiber Inc. to provide and maintain fiber links between Milford's three key radio sites: Federal Hill, Graham Cup, and Crown Castle, connecting to MAC Base at Town Hall. This initiative aims to create a redundant communication system to back up the existing microwave links. The need for redundancy was highlighted due to the Federal Hill tower being below the tree line, impacting microwave performance. First Light was chosen due to their existing infrastructure in town, making their bid more cost-effective as significant construction was not required. The agreement includes the installation of cameras on the towers monitored by MAC Base. Funding for the current year will come from MacBase funds, with the cost to be incorporated into the police department's budget in 2027. The town administrator was authorized to sign the agreement.

Successful Fishing Derby Held; Revolutionary War Memorial Nears Completion; Key Summer Bash Announced

The Board of Selectmen received an update on the Arcidi Fishing Derby held on Elm Street, which was described as an "awesome event" with over 2,000 trout stocked. The event saw high attendance from residents of all ages, with many participants successfully catching fish. Thanks were extended to Mr. Arcidi and all involved in organizing the derby. Separately, a report was given on the ongoing development of the Revolutionary War Memorial, with Harold Webster donating polished granite. The target completion date for the memorial is Veterans Day. Updates were also provided on town-related matters, including tax bills being mailed on May 29th with a July 1st due date, and the upcoming 2026 Key Summer Bash on June 27th, which will include a 250th birthday celebration. Additionally, Granite Town Media's new 'Inside Milford' podcast was highlighted as a way to educate the public about town contributions.