Town Council — April 20, 2026
The meeting included a failed investigation motion, a heated exchange regarding public comments on governance, and significant public testimony regarding the skate park.
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At the April 20th Londonderry Town Council meeting, several issues surfaced that highlight a disconnect between resident concerns and council action.
First, the Council addressed social media conduct. Following reports of issues regarding how officials use social media, a motion to investigate an anonymous case was brought forward. The motion failed, with the Council opting for 'social media training' rather than a formal investigation into the reported conduct.
Second, the future of the local skate park is in jeopardy. Despite a significant turnout of residents arguing for the park's importance to youth mental health and community connection, the Council agreed that the current structures must be removed by the DPW due to safety and liability concerns. While the Recreation Department will report on future options, the immediate result is the loss of a community space.
Lastly, an amendment to previous minutes revealed concerns over financial transparency. Councilman Dan Bouchard noted he had previously voted against a tax collector contract because the 11.9% pay increase was not fully disclosed at the time of the vote, as only 5% had been suggested.
Stay tuned as we continue to track these developments and the upcoming PUD ordinance public hearing on May 18th.
Public impact
Significant changes to how planned unit developments are regulated and how infrastructure costs are allocated.
The council reached a consensus to move forward with the current draft rather than sending it back for further revisions.
A public hearing for the draft ordinance is scheduled for May 18th.
Removal of current facilities due to safety and liability concerns.
The council agreed that the current unsafe structures must be removed by the DPW.
The Recreation Department will produce a report on options and potential future recreational sites.
Topics discussed
The Council discussed providing social media training for elected officials and a motion was brought to investigate an anonymous case.
The motion to move forward with the investigation failed following a roll call vote.
The Council held a proclamation to recognize National Small Business Week and a local business owner.
The proclamation was read to the Council and public.
Captain Patrick Cheetham provided an update on the success of the second annual Bring Back the Trades Skills Expo.
The event was recognized as a success; Council members discussed potential future logistics like reserving additional parking lots.
A resident expressed concern regarding potential public confusion over warrant articles related to the Meeting House and the Morrison House.
The comment was received during the public comment period.
Multiple residents spoke in support of preserving the local skate park, citing its community and mental health benefits.
A request was made for the Recreation Director to speak on the matter, which the Chair noted was on the agenda.
A resident criticized the Council for not properly administering letters related to citizen petitions.
The resident requested further clarification on why the Council did not sign the letters.
The Council conducted interviews for several candidates for the Leach Library Board of Trustees.
The Council voted to nominate Miriam Malik to the Board of Trustees.
The Council will continue interviewing remaining applicants for other positions.
The Council interviewed several candidates for various town boards and commissions.
Several candidates were successfully appointed to their respective boards.
Unfilled applications may be held over for future meetings.
The Council held a public hearing to discuss and accept unanticipated revenue from New England HIDTA for the NIBIN program.
The Council approved the acceptance of the funds following a public hearing.
The Utilities Committee provided an update on the successful launch of the town's energy aggregation program.
The Council received the status update and was briefed on how residents can opt in or out.
The committee will monitor Eversource rates following their PUC announcement in August.
A resident presented a request for skate park renovations, leading to a discussion on safety and liability.
The Council agreed that the current unsafe structures must be removed by the DPW. They discussed the possibility of a future recreational complex or a new skate park, noting that a project of this scale ($400k-$800k) would likely require a warrant article.
The Recreation Department will produce a report on options and potential future recreational sites.
The council reviewed a report from the utilities committee regarding energy and water, noting the high number of solar homes in town.
The discussion concluded with thanks to the utilities committee members.
Discussion regarding an MOU with Pillsbury Realty to address infrastructure and traffic issues caused by town growth.
The council voted 5-0 to authorize the MOU.
A corridor study for Pillsbury Road (from Route 128/Mammoth Road to the Derry line) is being planned with HTA; the scope is currently being written.
Request for funds to purchase a 3D imaging machine to replace an outdated system.
The council voted 5-0 to approve the expenditure from the police technology capital reserve fund.
Request to withdraw funds for upgrading video, audio, and live-streaming equipment in the council chambers.
The council voted 5-0 to approve the withdrawal of $33,872.76 (noted as a slight discrepancy from the $33,870.76 mentioned in the motion).
A high-level review of town revenues and expenditures for the current fiscal year.
The update was presented and discussed; no formal vote was required.
A detailed presentation on proposed revisions to the Planned Unit Development (PUD) ordinance and discussion of development agreements.
The discussion was part of a review process; no formal vote on the ordinance changes was recorded in this segment. The council reached a consensus to move forward with the new draft document.
A public hearing for the draft ordinance is scheduled for May 18th.
Review and amendment of the previous meeting's minutes and approval of the consent agenda.
The consent agenda was approved as amended.
Reports from various community organizations including Londonderry Arts Council, Beautify Londonderry, and the Old Home Day committee.
Information shared for community awareness; no formal votes taken.
The Old Home Day board is looking to recruit more members, potentially through the Rotary club.
The Town Manager addressed concerns regarding a potential revenue shortfall, clarifying the actual projected deficit.
The manager clarified the fiscal health of the town to prevent public panic.
The Town Manager outlined the schedule for upcoming strategic plan workshops, public hearings, and budget discussions.
The council was briefed on the heavy schedule for May.
Council members are encouraged to consider budget options ahead of the May 18 meeting.
Citizens expressed frustration regarding transparency, civil liberties, and the conduct of council members on social media.
The council engaged in a heated exchange; one member stated they would address social media issues through education.
Controversy & dissent
Potentially controversial issues
Skate Park Preservation vs. Safety Liability
Social Media Investigation
PUD Ordinance Revisions
Split votes
Community vs. board tension
Public comment
Decisions logged
Action items
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