City Council

Minutes were approved by the Laconia City Council on 4/28/2025. CITY OF LACONIA - CITY COUNCIL MEETING City Hall - Armand A. Bolduc City Council Chamber 7:00 P.M. 4/14/2025 - Minutes 1. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Hosmer called the meeting to order at 7:08 PM. 2. SALUTE TO THE FLAG Councilor Haynes led the salute to the flag. 3. RECORDING SECRETARY Katie Gargano, City Clerk 4. ROLL CALL Clerk Gargano called the roll of the following councilors: Councilor Cheney, Councilor Soucy, Councilor Hoffman, Councilor Haynes, Councilor Bogert, and Councilor Felch. Mayor Hosmer confirmed that all 6 councilors were in attendance and a quorum was established. 5. STAFF IN ATTENDANCE Kirk Beattie, City Manager; Glenn Smith, Finance Director 6. COUNCIL PROCLAMATION 7. ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES FROM PREVIOUS MEETINGS 7.A. City Council regular meeting minutes of March 24, 2025 Minutes of the Laconia City Council meeting of March 24, 2025 were distributed to members of the City Council on March 31, 2025. With no corrections or changes submitted to the Clerk, the minutes were accepted as distributed. 8. CONSENT & ACTION ITEMS 8.A. Reappointment to the Trustees of the Trust Funds We have received an application for reappointment from Margaret (Peggy) Selig for her term on the Trustees of the Trust Funds. Her term expired at the end of March, but she can continue to serve in her normal capacity until she is reappointed, replaced or resigns. However, the Trustees are anxious to have Ms. Selig reappointed at this time. Councilor Soucy, as Chair of the Appointments Subcommittee, has recommended the Council bypass its normal appointment process and has requested that the City Council approve Ms. Selig’s formal appointment this evening. The City Council has been provided with Ms. Selig’s application prior to this meeting.  to have Ms. Selig reappointed at this time. Councilor Soucy, as Chair of the Appointments Subcommittee, has recommended the Council bypass its normal appointment process and has requested that the City Council approve Ms. Selig’s formal appointment this evening. The City Council has been provided with Ms. Selig’s application prior to this meeting. Councilor Soucy made a motion to reappoint Margaret (Peggy) Selig to the Trustees of the Trust Funds to a three-year term which expires at the end of March, 2028, at which time she may request to be reappointed. Seconded by Councilor Cheney. Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 8.B. Temporary Traffic Order 2025-05 - Wake the Lake A request has been received to hold Wake the Lake on Lakeside Avenue on May 16 – May 18, 2025 beginning at 5:00 pm on Friday, May 16, 2025 and ending at 5:00 pm on Sunday, May 18, 2025. Actual hours of operation for the event will be as follows: Friday, May 16 – beginning at 5 pm, ending at 2 am on Saturday, May 17 Saturday, May 17 – beginning at 7 am, ending at 2 am on Sunday, May 18 Sunday, May 18 – beginning at 7 am, ending at 5 pm Section 161-4 of the City’s Code states in part that outdoor sound shall not operate past the hour of 9:00 pm Sunday through Thursday and 10:00 pm on Friday and Saturday (with the exception of Motorcycle Week). The organizer of the event is requesting that the time set forth as shown above be extended to allow bands to play until 11 pm on Friday, May 16 and Saturday, May 17. (Bands will only play until 5:00 pm on Sunday, May 18.) The Special Events Review Committee approved this event at their April 2 meeting. A map of the event is attached to the agenda as additional information. Please note that paid parking on Lakeside Avenue will not yet be in effect during this event. The organizer of the event is also requesting a waiver of all Licensing and Special Event fees associated with this event; in past years the Council has approved this waiver request. If the waiver request is not approved, the Licensing fee would be $150 and the Special Event fee would be $200. Councilor Felch made a motion to approve Temporary Traffic Order 2025-05, Wake the Lake, approve a waiver of all Licensing and Special Event fees, extend the hours of operation of sound equipment and/or loudspeakers for Wake the Lake from 10:00 pm to 11:00 pm on Friday, May 16, 2025 and Saturday, May 17, 2025, and allow alcohol consumption on City property in the designated areas only. Seconded by Councilor Hoffman Discussion: Councilor Soucy questioned the 7am start time. Event organizer Anthony Santagate told the Council it is when they are serving breakfast. Councilor Soucy also brought up a discussion that occurred last year during budget time about the Council waiving fees for business that are not non-profit. Councilor Soucy would like to make a motion to amend the motion to include the event host being required to pay the special event fee and the license fees. Councilor Felch noted that the event host is bring many people to the area which is good for the local businesses and the event organizer will be paying for a police detail during the event, among other fees Councilor Felch said by the Council waiving the $350 fees it is telling him thank you for doing what you do. Mayor Hosmer said he would split the motions. Councilor Soucy made a motion to charge the special event fee and the license fee. Seconded by Councilor Bogert. Discussion: None. The motion failed 4-2. Councilor Felch made a motion to approve Temporary Traffic Order 2025-05, Wake the Lake, approve  Councilor Soucy made a motion to charge the special event fee and the license fee. Seconded by Councilor Bogert. Discussion: None. The motion failed 4-2. Councilor Felch made a motion to approve Temporary Traffic Order 2025-05, Wake the Lake, approve a waiver of all Licensing and Special Event fees, extend the hours of operation of sound equipment and/or loudspeakers for Wake the Lake from 10:00 pm to 11:00 pm on Friday, May 16, 2025 and Saturday, May 17, 2025, and allow alcohol consumption on City property in the designated areas only. Seconded by Councilor Haynes. Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 8.C. Temporary Traffic Order 2025-06 - Biketemberfest A request has been made to hold Laconia Biketemberfest on September 12 – September 14, 2025 beginning at 5:00 pm on Friday, September 12 and ending at 5:00 pm on Sunday, September 14, 2025. Actual hours of operation for the event will be as follows: Friday, September 12 – beginning at 5 pm, ending at 2 am on Saturday, September 13 Saturday, September 13 – beginning at 7 am, ending at 2 am on Sunday, September 14 Sunday, September 14 – beginning at 7 am, ending at 5 pm Section 161-4 of the City’s Code states in part that outdoor sound shall not operate past the hour of 9:00 pm Sunday to Thursday and 10:00 pm on Friday and Saturday (with the exception of Motorcycle Week). The organizer of the event is requesting that the time for outdoor sound as shown above be extended to allow bands to play until 11 pm on Friday, September 12 and Saturday, September 13. (Bands will only play until 5:00 pm on Sunday, September 14.) The Special Events Review Committee approved this event at their April 2 meeting. A map of the event is attached to the agenda as additional information. The organizer of the event is also asking for a waiver of all licensing and special event fees associated with the event; in past years the Council has approved this waiver request. If the waiver request is not approved, the Licensing fee would be $150 and the Special Event fee would be $200 Councilor Felch made a motion to approve TTO 2025-06, Laconia Biketemberfest, approve a waiver of all licensing and special event fees associated with the event, extend the hours of operation of sound equipment and/or loudspeakers for Biketemberfest from 10:00 pm to 11:00 pm on Friday, September 12, 2025 and Saturday, September 13, 2025, and allow alcohol consumption on City Property in the designated areas only, pending Special Events Review Committee approval. Seconded by Councilor Cheney Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 8.D. Temporary Traffic Order 2025-07 - July 4th parade and festivities Laconia Parks & Recreation has submitted a request for a Temporary Traffic Order for the Laconia July 4, 2025 parade and festivities from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm. This is a recurring event with no changes other than the date. Councilor Haynes made a motion to approve Temporary Traffic Order 2025-07, July 4, 2025 parade and festivities to be held on July 4, 2025 from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm. Seconded by Councilor Felch. Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0  This is a recurring event with no changes other than the date. Councilor Haynes made a motion to approve Temporary Traffic Order 2025-07, July 4, 2025 parade and festivities to be held on July 4, 2025 from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm. Seconded by Councilor Felch. Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 9. CITIZEN COMMENTS FOR MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA Patrick Wood, Laconia Housing Authority. Mr. Wood gave an update to the City Council after they met with the county commissioners. The money they need is not in the money in the state budget passed by the house, he has reached out to the Senate, and he noted it costs 243k to stay in the Belknap County nursing home per year. So, it would be beneficial to keep these people in their homes. 10. INTERVIEWS 11. NOMINATIONS, APPOINTMENTS & ELECTIONS 12. COMMUNICATIONS 13. PUBLIC HEARINGS 13.A. Public Hearing - Ordinance 2025-221-41 - Amending Article IV: Regulations for Parking Meters, Chapter 221, Vehicles and Traffic Notice of this Public Hearing was made available in the March 13, 2025 edition of the Laconia Daily Sun, and posted at Laconia City Hall, Laconia Community Center, Laconia Public Library and the offices of the SAU. Action on this item may be taken up under Unfinished Business. Mayor Hosmer opened the Public Hearing at 8:32 PM No one from the public wished to speak. Mayor Hosmer closed the Public Hearing at 8:32 PM 13.B. Public Hearing - Resolution 2025-10 - Acceptance of a USDA Rural Development Grant (Community Project Funding) in the amount of $96,250.00 to help fund the design and construction of a critical evidence and equipment storage facility project Notice of this Public Hearing was made available in the March 26, 2025 edition of the Laconia Daily Sun, and posted at Laconia City Hall, Laconia Community Center, Laconia Public Library and the offices of the SAU. Action on this item may be taken up under Unfinished Business. Mayor Hosmer opened the Public Hearing at 8:32 PM No one from the public wished to speak. Mayor Hosmer closed the Public Hearing at 8:33 PM 13.C. Public Hearing - Petition to accept Hillcrest Drive as a public highway Notice of this Public Hearing was made available in the March 27, 2025 edition of the Laconia Daily Sun, and posted at Laconia City Hall, Laconia Community Center, Laconia Public Library and the offices of the SAU.  13.C. Public Hearing - Petition to accept Hillcrest Drive as a public highway Notice of this Public Hearing was made available in the March 27, 2025 edition of the Laconia Daily Sun, and posted at Laconia City Hall, Laconia Community Center, Laconia Public Library and the offices of the SAU. Action on this item may be taken up under Unfinished Business. Mayor Hosmer opened the Public Hearing at 8:33 PM Dennis Brough, Hillcrest Drive. He spoke in favor of making the road a city street. He hopes to see the old section of the street get some repairs. Mayor Hosmer closed the Public Hearing at 8:34 PM 13.D. Public Hearing - Petition to accept Janes Avenue as a public highway Notice of this Public Hearing was made available in the March 27, 2025 edition of the Laconia Daily Sun, and posted at Laconia City Hall, Laconia Community Center, Laconia Public Library and the offices of the SAU. Action on this item may be taken up under Unfinished Business. Mayor Hosmer opened the Public Hearing at 8:35 PM No one from the public wished to speak. Mayor Hosmer closed the Public Hearing at 8:35 PM 14. PRESENTATIONS 15. MAYOR'S REPORT Mayor Hosmer skipped his update this evening. 16. COUNCIL COMMENTS Councilor Cheney spoke about looking to start the meetings earlier, he has already spoken to the City Manager, and he is looking into it. He’d also like to see the Weirs docks prohibited from being used for commercial use. 17. COMMITTEE REPORTS 17.A. FINANCE (Soucy, Cheney and Hoffman) 17.A.i. WOW Trail Funding 17.A.ii. Downtown TIF Financing 17.B. PUBLIC SAFETY (Cheney (Chair), Soucy and Felch) 17.C. GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & ORDINANCES (Haynes, Felch, Cheney) 17.C.i. Regulation of Short Term Residential Rental Businesses 17.C.ii. Proposed Historic Overlay District 17.C.iii. Performance Zoning  17.C.i. Regulation of Short Term Residential Rental Businesses 17.C.ii. Proposed Historic Overlay District 17.C.iii. Performance Zoning 17.C.iv. Time frame for demolition permits 17.D. LAND & BUILDINGS (Bogert, Haynes, Felch) 17.D.i. Downtown parking garage 17.D.ii. Repair & maintenance of City buildings 17.D.iii. Plan for the DPW Compound 17.E. PUBLIC WORKS (Haynes (Chair), Hoffman, Soucy) 17.E.i. Retaining Wall Policy 17.E.ii. Discussion for converting from a manual to an automated solid waste curbside collection service 17.F. APPOINTMENTS (Councilors Soucy (Chair), Cheney and Haynes) 18. LIAISON REPORTS 19. CITIZENS REQUESTS TO COMMENT ON CURRENT AGENDA ITEMS Carlos Cardona of Ward 1 spoke to the council in opposition to the proposed resolution. Patrick Wood of Ward 1 passed out a copy to the council of his remarks against the proposed resolution tonight. He spoke to the council in opposition to the proposed resolution. Marcia Hayward of Ward 3 agreed with all that was said and is opposed to the proposed resolution tonight. John Sullivan, of Jane’s Ave said thank you for considering making the road Jane’s Ave a public street. Jason Sproul of Ward 3 spoke to the council in opposition to the proposed resolution. Scott Mowery of Hillcrest Drive, he spoke in favor of the City Council making Hillcrest Drive a public street. Catherine Tokarz, Ward 6 thank you to the council in their time of grief. She was hoping to see Sheriff Wright here tonight. She spoke to the council in opposition to the proposed resolution. Kathy Campbell, of Ward 4 spoke to the council in opposition to the proposed resolution. Mo Baxley, Ward 2 spoke to the council in opposition to the proposed resolution. Matt Soza, Ward 4 spoke to the council in opposition to the proposed resolution. Caroline Smith, Ward 4 she echoed what Patrick Wood said tonight, she is in opposition to the proposed resolution. 20. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT 20.A. Financial and Operational Trends Report Manager Beattie presented the financial and operation trends report to the city council. 21. NEW BUSINESS  20.A. Financial and Operational Trends Report Manager Beattie presented the financial and operation trends report to the city council. 21. NEW BUSINESS 21.A. Pumpkin Festival 2025 The City Manager has been investigating the possibility of the City of Laconia becoming the organizer of the City’s annual Pumpkin Festival and will report on his findings. Manager Beattie informed the council that a few weeks ago the city was approached by the chamber of commerce to let them know they were not interested in continuing with the event and they would like to see the city it over. Parks and Rec director Amy Lovisek, a press conference will be held next week as long as the council gives the ok. Councilor Soucy asked if TIF funds can be used for the event. Councilor Hoffman asked about the name change. Councilor Haynes stated he is in support. Councilor Soucy made a motion to approve the City of Laconia becoming the primary organizer for the Laconia Pumpkin Festival, beginning in 2025. Seconded by Councilor Felch. Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 21.B. Ordinance 2025-235-15 - Official Zoning Map Amendment This proposed amendment to the Zoning Ordinance will amend the Official Zoning Map to expand the Residential Apartment (RA) District to include 35 Blueberry Lane (Parcel #394-336-15). This parcel currently abuts the RA District and has a nonresidential use which does not conform to the uses permitted in the RA. The proposed Zoning Amendment would allow the parcel to be redeveloped in accordance with the character of the neighborhood and the City’s Master Plan. The overwhelming majority of dwelling units on Blueberry Lane belong to some form of multi-family structure. This includes apartment complexes, condominium complexes, townhomes, and an assisted living facility. The current nonresidential use as a conference center does not fit the character of a residential neighborhood, nor would it be permitted in the RA district. Furthermore, the City’s current Master Plan identifies a “pro-population growth land use strategy, with a focus on mid-market residential housing.” By expanding the RA District to this parcel, the City will provide developers with an opportunity to implement the City’s current land use strategy. The City’s Master Plan also identifies “an increasing number of people who live in other communities but work in Laconia,” and “a shrinking commercial valuation.” Opportunities to develop mid-market housing in a multi-family neighborhood that abuts a commercial hub encourages workers to move to Laconia and helps provide the workforce needed for commercial expansion. In accordance with Article XIV of the Zoning Ordinance, the Planning Board reviewed and approved this proposed amendment at its meeting on April 1, 2025. Councilor Cheney made a motion to move to waive a reading of Ordinance 2025-235-15 in its entirety and to read by title only. Seconded by Councilor Hoffman. Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 Councilor Hoffman made a motion to move a first reading of Ordinance 2025-235-15 amending Chapter 235 Zoning, Article III Districts; Zoning Map, § 235-15 Official Zoning Map and Attachment 1, Table of Zoning Map Amendments. Seconded by Councilor Haynes. Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 Councilor Haynes made a motion to move to schedule a public hearing on April 28, 2025 during the regular City Council meeting to gather input prior to adoption. Seconded by Councilor Hoffman. Discussion: None.  The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 Councilor Haynes made a motion to move to schedule a public hearing on April 28, 2025 during the regular City Council meeting to gather input prior to adoption. Seconded by Councilor Hoffman. Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 21.C. Temporary Traffic Order 2025-04 - Love Our Earth Day Love Our Earth Day is being held on May 10, 2025 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm on the Congregational Church of Laconia lawn. The event is to raise awareness and provide information to the public about our Lakes Region conservation and environmental organizations’ efforts regarding issues of local concern, and to offer suggestions for citizen participation to mitigate those issues. This event is not only free to the community, but to the participating organizations as well. Sponsorship money is being used to purchase a banner, pay for the printing of flyers, and to provide a popcorn machine. Popcorn and cookies will all be provided at no charge. The Love Our Earth Day organizers are requesting a waiver of the Special Events and Licensing fees. The Special Events fee would be $200, and the Licensing fee would be $225. Councilor Haynes made a motion to approve Temporary Traffic Order 2025-04, Love Our Earth Day, and to waive Special Events and Licensing fees in connection with this event, as presented. Seconded by Councilor Felch. Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 21.D. Request to use Impact Fee funds in an amount not to exceed $13,000 to construct a roof over the Community Room entrance at the Laconia Fire Department Central Station To determine the use of Impact Fee Funds to construct a roof over the Community Room entrance at the LFD Central Station. The entrance currently floods, causing water to enter the Community Room. The expenditure is not to exceed $13,000.00 of Impact Fee Funds. Approval of this request will reduce the amount of impact fee funds available to the Fire Department by up to $13,000.00, leaving a balance of $9,960.16 (as of February 28, 2025). Fiscal Impact: The expenditure is not to exceed $13,000 of Impact Fee funds. Councilor Cheney made a motion to move to approve the use of Impact Fee funds in an amount not to exceed $13,000.00 to construct a roof over the Community Room entrance at the Laconia Fire Department Central Station. Seconded by councilor Felch Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 21.E. Request to use Impact Fee funds in an amount not to exceed $12,000 for the Gale Memorial Library's 20-year sprinkler inspection The Laconia Public Library is requesting the use of impact fees in an amount not to exceed $12,000 for the Gale Memorial Library’s 20-year sprinkler inspection. Approval of this request will reduce the amount of impact fee funds available to the Library by up to $12,000.00, leaving a balance of $18,923.48 (as of February 28, 2025). Fiscal Impact: The expenditure is not to exceed $12,000.00 of Impact Fee Funds. Councilor Hoffman made a motion to approve the use of Impact Fee funds in an amount not to exceed $12,000.00 for the Gale Memorial Library’s 20-year sprinkler inspection. Seconded by Councilor Felch Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 21.F. Request to renew the Robert A. Hamel Community Service Recognition Award Committee  The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 21.F. Request to renew the Robert A. Hamel Community Service Recognition Award Committee In September of 2024, the Laconia City Council created a Community Service Recognition Award Committee. By unanimous vote, the award was named in honor of Robert A. Hamel, our colleague and friend, for his dedication and service to his beloved City of Laconia. The Committee is to be appointed annually by the Mayor and Council. The attached Resolution establishing the Committee was approved by the Council at their November 12, 2024 meeting. The Committee currently consists of Councilor Haynes, Councilor Felch, City Clerk Katie Gargano, Parks and Recreation Director Amy Lovisek, Matt Soza, Becky Guyer and Tara Shore. The award is to be presented annually in June. The Committee wishes to meet again to discuss a recipient of this award, and to determine a gift to be presented. Council Rules state that special committees created by the Mayor sunset at the end of each calendar year unless they are renewed. Councilor Haynes made a motion to renew the Robert A. Hamel Community Service Recognition Award Committee, as requested. Seconded by Councilor Felch Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 21.G. Resolution 2025-14 - Acceptance of a donation and installation of a flag pole from the Bank of New Hampshire The Bank of New Hampshire has generously offered to donate, install and maintain a new flagpole to replace the one currently located on the island in Veteran’s Square. The Bank has received the attached quote for the purchase and installation of the flagpole. Fiscal Impact: There is no cost to the City. Councilor Cheney made a motion to waive a reading of Resolution 2025-14 in its entirety and to read by title only. Seconded by Councilor Hoffman Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 Councilor Hoffman made a motion to move a first reading of Resolution 2025-14, Acceptance of a Donation, Installation and Maintenance of a Flagpole from Bank of New Hampshire. Seconded by Councilor Haynes Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 Councilor Haynes made a motion to schedule a Public Hearing on April 28, 2025 during the regular City Council meeting to gather public input prior to any action being taken. Seconded by Councilor Felch Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 21.H. Proposed changes to the City Council Rules of Procedure At the March 10, 2025 City Council meeting Councilor Cheney raised concerns with the language contained in the City Council Rules of Procedure. At a Government Operations and Ordinances meeting on March 27, 2025 a motion was approved to make the changes as recommended by the City Manager and bring them forth to the full Council. City Manager Beattie will present the proposed changes to the Rules of Procedure during this meeting. Discussion: Council consensus is to table this item, so they have more time to review the amendments. Councilor Cheney made a motion to table, seconded by Councilor Soucy. The motion is nondebatable. Discussion: None. By Roll Call Vote:  Discussion: Council consensus is to table this item, so they have more time to review the amendments. Councilor Cheney made a motion to table, seconded by Councilor Soucy. The motion is nondebatable. Discussion: None. By Roll Call Vote: Councilor Cheney- Yes Councilor Soucy- Yes Councilor Hoffman- Yes Councilor Haynes- Yes Councilor Bogert- Yes Councilor Felch- Yes The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 The item is tabled. 21.I. Request to approve a Collective Bargaining Agreement with the Laconia Police Commission and the Laconia Police Officers' Association The City Council met in a non-public meeting earlier this evening to review the collective bargaining agreement with the Laconia Police Commission and the Laconia Police Officers’ Association. Fiscal Impact: The first-year increase of the contract is $228,088 (which includes $123,938 for COLAs/Steps for Union personnel). $75,000 of that amount accounts for retention bonuses which expire at the end of the contract and do not carry forward into a new contract, unless negotiated as such. Councilor Cheney made a motion to move to approve the collective bargaining agreement with the Laconia Police Commission and the Laconia Police Officers’ Association, for the period from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2028. Seconded by Councilor Felch Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 21.J. Request to approve a Collective Bargaining Agreement with the Laconia Firefighters Union Local 1153 The City Council met in a non-public meeting earlier this evening to review the collective bargaining agreement between the Laconia Firefighters Union Local 1153. Fiscal Impact: The first-year increase of the contract is $219,152.13 (which includes COLA and steps) Councilor Haynes made a motion to move to approve the collective bargaining agreement with the Laconia Firefighters Union Local 1153 for the period from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2028. Seconded by Councilor Felch Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 21.K. Resolution 2025-15 - A Resolution strongly supporting cooperating with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Councilor Bogert requested that this Resolution be presented to the Council at this meeting for their discussion and consideration. Councilor Cheney move to waive a reading of Resolution 2025-15 in its entirety and to read by title only. Seconded by Councilor Felch Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 Councilor Bogert move a first reading of Resolution 2025-15 relating to strongly supporting cooperating with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Seconded by Councilor Felch Discussion: None. By Roll Call Vote:  Councilor Bogert move a first reading of Resolution 2025-15 relating to strongly supporting cooperating with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Seconded by Councilor Felch Discussion: None. By Roll Call Vote: Councilor Cheney- Yes Councilor Soucy- Yes Councilor Hoffman- No Councilor Haynes- No Councilor Bogert- Yes Councilor Felch- No The motion tied 3-3 Mayor Hosmer broke the tie by voting in favor. The motion passed with 4 in favor. 4-3 Councilor Bogert move to approve Resolution 2025-15 relating to strongly supporting cooperating with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Seconded Councilor Felch Discussion: There was a lengthy discussion amongst all the Councilors. Councilors Cheney, Soucy and Bogert spoke in favor of the resolution, Councilors Hoffman, Hayes and Felch spoke in opposition. Mayor Hosmer said his speech he had prepared where he remembered when he joined the council back in 2018, many he served with followed the rule to leave their political views at the door. He noted that the police commission and the police department are independent. And the city council has no right to direct them. Mayor Hosmer spoke about the Laconia Police Department and their accreditation, involvement and special forces. By Roll Call Vote: Councilor Cheney- Abstained Councilor Soucy- Abstained Councilor Hoffman- No Councilor Haynes- No Councilor Bogert- Yes Councilor Felch- No The motion failed. 22. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 22.A. Temporary Traffic Order 2025-03 - Lakes Region Community College Graduation - Canal Street Lakes Region Community College will be holding its graduation this year at the Colonial Theatre on Saturday, May 17th. They have requested that Canal Street be blocked off on that day from 7:30 am to 2:00 pm to allow the graduates and their family, friends, classmates and faculty to gather before and after the commencement ceremony. This request was tabled at the Council’s March 24, 2025 meeting pending notification to the affected businesses. Representatives from the College visited Canal Street businesses, as well as some businesses on Main Street, on April 4th to let them know about the event and the temporary road closure. The businesses were very appreciative of the heads up, and there have been no negative comments received by the City Manager’s office regarding the use of the street for this purpose. Councilor Soucy made a motion to take this agenda item off the table. Seconded by Councilor Cheney. Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 Councilor Cheney made a motion to approve Temporary Traffic Order 2025-03 for closure of Canal Street in connection with the Lakes Region Community College graduation, as presented. Seconded by Councilor Soucy Discussion: Councilor Felch said he spoke to some businesses, and they all seemed ok with it. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 22.B. Ordinance 2025-221-41 - Amending Article IV: Regulations for Parking Meters,  by Councilor Soucy Discussion: Councilor Felch said he spoke to some businesses, and they all seemed ok with it. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 22.B. Ordinance 2025-221-41 - Amending Article IV: Regulations for Parking Meters, Chapter 221, Vehicles and Traffic The City Council at their March 10, 2025, meeting approved the concept of using an app to pay for parking on Lakeside Ave and Endicott Rock Park. The City’s kiosk service contractor, Flowbird, was bought by the EasyPark Group. Therefore, the app that will be servicing the City’s kiosks is ParkMobile. The City, when the kiosk system was implemented, made the decision to deduct the credit card fees from the customer’s parking fee. Public Works on March 14, 2025, met with representatives from Flowbird and ParkMobile to begin planning for implementing the app. The app will deduct the credit card fees from the customer’s parking fee. The customers will pay the convenience fee. In order to determine the programming fee, ParkMobile needs information on our system from Flowbird and Public Works. During the meeting the Council provided guidance on the use of the app to extend parking time in the 2, 3 & 5-hour parking spaces on Lakeside Ave. The parking lot at Endicott Rock Park does not have a time limit. The following is the guidance: · The extension period be limited to 1 hour · Establish a fee of $3.00/hour during the extension period. Public Works, based on the Council’s guidance, prepared the attached Ordinance to implement the time limit and the new fee. The City Council previously scheduled a public hearing for the time limit extension and the new fee, and that Public Hearing was held earlier this evening. Cheney made a motion to waive a reading of Ordinance 2025-221-41 in its entirety and to read by title only. Seconded by Councilor Haynes. Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 Councilor Cheney made a motion to move a second reading of Ordinance 2025-221-41 amending Article IV: Regulations for Parking Meters, Chapter 221, Vehicles and Traffic. Seconded by Councilor Felch. Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 Councilor Hoffman made a motion to approve Ordinance 2025-221-41 amending Article IV: Regulations for Parking Meters, Chapter 221, Vehicles and Traffic Councilor Haynes. Discussion: Councilor Bogert asked if there are additional fees that the city has to pay. Public Works Director Wes Anderson confirmed no, the fees are passed along to the customer. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 22.C. Resolution 2025-10 - Acceptance of a USDA Rural Development Grant (Community Project Funding) in the amount of $96,250.00 to help fund the design and construction of a critical evidence and equipment storage facility project In February of 2022 the Laconia Police Department applied for a grant offered through Congressman Pappas’ office for US Congressional Community Funding. Recently we have been notified that our application has been approved and the grant has been awarded.  construction of a critical evidence and equipment storage facility project In February of 2022 the Laconia Police Department applied for a grant offered through Congressman Pappas’ office for US Congressional Community Funding. Recently we have been notified that our application has been approved and the grant has been awarded. This project will enable the Laconia Police Department to perform design and prep work for the construction of a Critical Evidence and Equipment Storage Facility on the Police Department property. The addition of a critical evidence and equipment storage facility would positively impact the operations of the police department by mitigating external criminal behavior on premises and ensuring that all police evidence, specialized emergency equipment, and specialized emergency vehicles are protected from the elements. This ultimately positively impacts the local community taxes from having to be used for duplicate purchases and premature repairs, as well as providing much needed protection for critical evidence in criminal investigations. This grant was included in the FY21-22 anticipated grants. The public hearing for this grant was held on July 26, 2021 as part of the public hearing for the FY 21-22 budget. Since the first Public Hearing was held several years ago, at the March 24, 2025 City Council meeting a motion was approved to schedule another Public Hearing on this matter; that Public Hearing was held earlier this evening. Councilor Cheney made a motion to waive a reading of Resolution 2025-10 in its entirety and to read by title only. Seconded by Councilor Soucy. Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 Councilor Cheney made a motion to move a second reading of Resolution 2025-10 relating to acceptance of a USDA Rural Development Grant (Community Project Funding) in the amount of $96,250.00 to help fund the design and construction of a critical evidence and equipment storage facility project. Seconded by Councilor Soucy. Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 Councilor Soucy made a motion to approve Resolution 2025-10 relating to acceptance of a USDA Rural Development Grant (Community Project Funding) in the amount of $96,250.00 to help fund the design and construction of a critical evidence and equipment storage facility project as presented and authorize the City Manager to sign all documents related to this matter. Seconded by Councilor Cheney. Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 22.D. Petition to accept Hillcrest Drive as a public highway The City received a petition to layout Hillcrest Drive as a public highway. The majority of the property owners have provided the necessary easements to accept the private sections of Hillcrest Drive as a public highway. Two property owners that abut the private sections of Hillcrest Drive have not provided easements. Copies of all easements received from the abutting property owners are attached to the agenda. Because the Planning Board has previously approved a plat for Hillcrest Drive, a road plat for Hillcrest Drive does not have to be reviewed by the Planning Board prior to coming to City Council. As part of this layout process, a plat has been prepared by the City. A copy of the plat is attached to the agenda. Pursuant to RSA 674:40 III, the layout needs only be approved by a majority vote of those Councilors present and voting at a regular or special meeting. The City is required to provide 30 days notice of the public hearing on laying out a road to accept a street as a public highway. Notices were sent by registered mail to all property owners and any mortgagors on February 12, 2025. After the public hearing, The City Council, as part of the deliberative process to determine whether to accept the road, must consider the following factors: The City is required to provide 30 days notice of the public hearing on laying out a road to accept a street as a public highway. Notices were sent by registered mail to all property owners and any mortgagors on February 12, 2025. After the public hearing, The City Council, as part of the deliberative process to determine whether to accept the road, must consider the following factors: a. Integration with the existing road system; b. Ease City’s existing traffic; c. Improvement to the convenience of traffic; d. Facilitation of transportation for school children; e. Improved accessibility to business districts and employment centers; f. Improved accessibility for fire, police and other emergency services; g. Whether it would benefit a significant portion or just a small fraction of the City’s tax base or year- round residents; h. Anticipated frequency of road use. The public interest as defined above is balanced against the burden to the City if the petition is granted. These burdens include things such as anticipated construction and on-going maintenance costs pertaining to the road itself, as well as the impact on the City’s infrastructure due to municipal growth as a result of the increased traffic on the road. The City must determine the value of the damages for “taking” the right of way for those property owners who did not provide easements, if any. A dissatisfied landowner who opposes the lay-out of the road has the right of appeal to the Superior Court if the appeal is filed within 60 days. The City determines the value of damages for those landowners opposed to the petition: · The value of the land is determined by an impartial appraiser or multiple appraisals if the landowner wants to have their own impartial appraisal done; · Reasonable efforts to negotiate with the landowner; · A written notice of the offer with the basis of the offer must be made public and served by certified mail. If the offer is accepted, transfer and the payment must be complete within 30 days absent an agreed upon extension. If the offer is not accepted, the Council can move to a “declaration of taking” under RSA 498-A:5 to the Board of Tax and Land Appeals (“BTLA”) or the Owner can appeal the amount of damages only to the BTLA. Fiscal Impact: Public Works estimate of the fiscal impact of accepting Hillcrest Drive as a public highway follows: · The cost of the return or the court action. · Increase in the annual maintenance costs until the City paves the road is estimated to be $16,000 (current year dollars) · The backlog of road projects will increase by $430,000 (current year dollars). Councilor Soucy made a motion to table this item. Seconded by Councilor Cheney. The motion is non debatable.  (current year dollars) · The backlog of road projects will increase by $430,000 (current year dollars). Councilor Soucy made a motion to table this item. Seconded by Councilor Cheney. The motion is non debatable. By Roll Call Vote: Councilor Cheney- Yes Councilor Soucy- Yes Councilor Hoffman- Yes Councilor Haynes- Yes Councilor Bogert- Yes Councilor Felch- Yes The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 The item is tabled. 22.E. Petition to accept Janes Avenue as a public highway The City received a petition to layout Janes Ave as a public highway. The majority of the property owners have provided the necessary easements to accept Janes Ave as a public highway. The owner of 49 Centenary Ave, a property that abuts Janes Ave, has not provided an easement. Copies of all easements received from the abutting property owners are attached to the agenda. The Planning Board approved the plat for Janes Avenue at their meeting on February 4, 2025. A copy of the plat is attached to the agenda. Pursuant to RSA 674:40 III, if approved by the Planning Board, the layout need only be approved by a majority vote of those Councilors present and voting at a regular or special meeting. The City is required to provide 30 days notice of the public hearing on laying out a road to accept a street as a public highway. Notices were sent by registered mail to all property owners and any mortgagors on February 4, 2025. After the public hearing, the City Council, as part of the deliberative process to determine whether to accept the road, must consider the following factors: a. Integration with the existing road system; b. Ease City’s existing traffic; c. Improvement to the convenience of traffic; d. Facilitation of transportation for school children; e. Improved accessibility to business districts and employment centers; f. Improved accessibility for fire, police and other emergency services; g. Whether it would benefit a significant portion or just a small fraction of the City’s tax base or year- round residents; h. Anticipated frequency of road use. The public interest as defined above is balanced against the burden to the City if the petition is granted. These burdens include things such as anticipated construction and on-going maintenance costs pertaining to the road itself, as well as the impact on the City’s infrastructure due to municipal growth as a result of the increased traffic on the road. The City must determine the value of the damages for “taking” the right of way for those property owners who did not provide easements, if any.  granted. These burdens include things such as anticipated construction and on-going maintenance costs pertaining to the road itself, as well as the impact on the City’s infrastructure due to municipal growth as a result of the increased traffic on the road. The City must determine the value of the damages for “taking” the right of way for those property owners who did not provide easements, if any. A dissatisfied landowner who opposes the lay-out of the road has the right of appeal to the Superior Court if the appeal is filed within 60 days. The City determines the value of damages for those landowners opposed to the Petition: · The value of the land is determined by an impartial appraiser or multiple appraisals if the landowner wants to have their own impartial appraisal done; · Reasonable efforts to negotiate with the landowner; · A written notice of the offer with the basis of the offer must be made public and served by certified mail. If the offer is accepted, transfer and the payment must be completed within 30 days absent an agreed upon extension. If the offer is not accepted, the Council can move to a “declaration of taking” under RSA 498-A:5 to the Board of Tax and Land Appeals (“BTLA”) or the Owner can appeal the amount of damages only to the BTLA. Fiscal Impact: Public Works estimate of the fiscal impact of accepting Janes Ave as a public highway follows: · The cost of the return or the court action. · Increase in the annual maintenance costs until the City paves the road is estimated to be $7,500 (current dollars) · The backlog of road projects will increase by $24,000 (current dollars). Councilor Soucy made a motion to table this item. Seconded by Councilor Cheney. The motion is non debatable. By Roll Call Vote: Councilor Cheney- Yes Councilor Soucy- Yes Councilor Hoffman- Yes Councilor Haynes- Yes Councilor Bogert- Yes Councilor Felch- Yes The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 The item is tabled. 22.F. Resolution 2025-11 - Request release of parking kiosk reserve funds to purchase additional upgrade kits The parking kiosks were installed on Lakeside Ave and Endicott Rock Park’s parking lot in 2017. The systems will be eight years old when we activate them for the summer of 2025. The kiosks are computer-controlled and the number of problems with the systems is increasing which increases the time Public Works crews spend trouble shooting and repairing the systems. Our vendor has an upgrade package for our existing kiosks. The package replaces the computer and monitor systems in the kiosks. The City Council on October 28, 2024, approved the use of $10,000 from the Parking Kiosk reserve account to purchase 2 upgrade kits. This was approved by vote, but not with a Resolution. The City Council on February 10, 2025, approved Resolution 2025-03, transferring $32,000 from the  upgrade package for our existing kiosks. The package replaces the computer and monitor systems in the kiosks. The City Council on October 28, 2024, approved the use of $10,000 from the Parking Kiosk reserve account to purchase 2 upgrade kits. This was approved by vote, but not with a Resolution. The City Council on February 10, 2025, approved Resolution 2025-03, transferring $32,000 from the LED Streetlight Reserve Account to the Parking Kiosk Reserve Account. The Trustees of the Trust Fund agreed to the transfer at their February 3, 2025, meeting and supported the use of funds to upgrade the kiosks. At the City Council meeting on March 10, 2025 a motion was approved to table this agenda item. Public Works requests that the City Council approve Resolution 2025-11 authorizing the release of an amount not to exceed $33,000 from the Parking Kiosk Reserve Account to purchase 8 upgrade kits. This includes the 2 kits approved in October and an additional 6 units. If approved, 10 of 15 parking kiosks will be upgraded before the start of the tourist season. Public Works recommends that the City Council approve the request as it will minimize the time staff spends maintaining the systems and it will improve customer service in these parking areas. Fiscal Impact: The estimated amount of funds remaining in the Parking Kiosk Reserve Account will be $18,672.46. Councilor Felch made a motion to take this agenda item off the table. Seconded by Councilor Soucy. Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 Councilor Hoffman the City Council schedule a Public Hearing on April 28, 2025 during the regular City Council meeting to gather public input prior to any action being taken. Seconded by Councilor Haynes Discussion: None. The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 23. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 23.A. Master Plan 23.B. Milfoil Treatment funding requests 23.C. Sewer & Water Master Plan 23.D. Single Stream Recycling/Concord Co-op/Solid Waste disposal cost reductions 23.E. Strategic Planning/Goal Setting 23.F. WOW Trail 23.G. Weirs Beach Restoration Project 23.H. Fair St/Court St traffic problems and accidents 24. Any other business that may come before the Council 25. NON-PUBLIC SESSION (According to RSA 91-A:3, II) Councilor Felch made a motion to go into nonpublic session according to RSA 91-A:3, II (d) Consideration of the acquisition, sale or lease of real or personal property which, if discussed in public, would likely benefit a party or parties whose interests are adverse to those of the general community. Seconded by Councilor Hoffman. Discussion: None.  Councilor Felch made a motion to go into nonpublic session according to RSA 91-A:3, II (d) Consideration of the acquisition, sale or lease of real or personal property which, if discussed in public, would likely benefit a party or parties whose interests are adverse to those of the general community. Seconded by Councilor Hoffman. Discussion: None. By Roll Call Vote: Councilor Cheney- Yes Councilor Soucy- Yes Councilor Hoffman- Yes Councilor Haynes- Yes Councilor Bogert- Yes Councilor Felch- Yes The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 The nonpublic session began at 9:07 PM. Councilor Cheney made a motion to return to public session. Seconded by Councilor Felch Discussion: None. By Roll Call Vote: Councilor Cheney- Yes Councilor Soucy- Yes Councilor Hoffman- Yes Councilor Haynes- Yes Councilor Bogert- Yes Councilor Felch- Yes The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 The public session reconvened at 9:13 PM. Councilor Felch made a motion to seal the minutes for 6 Months, seconded by Councilor Hoffman. Discussion: None. By Roll Call Vote: Councilor Cheney- Yes Councilor Soucy- Yes Councilor Hoffman- Yes Councilor Haynes- Yes Councilor Bogert- Yes Councilor Felch- Yes The motion passed with all in favor. 6-0 26. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Hosmer adjourned the meeting at 9:13 PM. Respectfully Submitted, Katie Gargano, City Clerk