Committee Summary for House Committee on Housing (01/13/2026)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HR30 00:08:23.280 - 8:04:00 AM	Public Hearing	finding that planning, zoning, and related regulations have been and should continue to be the responsibility of municipal government.	Turcotte, Len(R)[B]2025
HB1098 01:44:33.280 - 9:40:10 AM	Public Hearing	relative to municipalities denying building or occupancy permits for property adjacent to class VI roads under certain circumstances.	Parshall, Lucius(D)[F]2025
HB1006 02:08:37.840 - 10:04:14 AM	Public Hearing	relative to on-site parking requirements for accessory dwelling units.	Preece, David(D)[CT]2025
HB1007 02:32:39.439 - 10:28:16 AM	Public Hearing	relative to manufactured housing.	Turcotte, Len(R)[B]2025
HR30 04:06:52.640 - 12:02:29 PM	Executive Session	finding that planning, zoning, and related regulations have been and should continue to be the responsibility of municipal government.	Turcotte, Len(R)[B]2025
HB1098 04:10:14.399 - 12:05:51 PM	Executive Session	relative to municipalities denying building or occupancy permits for property adjacent to class VI roads under certain circumstances.	Parshall, Lucius(D)[F]2025
HB1006 04:12:29.840 - 12:08:06 PM	Executive Session	relative to on-site parking requirements for accessory dwelling units.	Preece, David(D)[CT]2025
HB1008 04:14:36.640 - 12:10:13 PM	Public Hearing	relative to modifying innovative land use controls, requirements, and appeals.	Preece, David(D)[CT]2025
HB1009 04:29:20.239 - 12:24:57 PM	Public Hearing	relative to municipal parking requirements for residential units.	Preece, David(D)[CT]2025
HB1009 04:41:36.958 - 12:37:13 PM	Executive Session	relative to municipal parking requirements for residential units.	Preece, David(D)[CT]2025
HB1010 04:44:41.360 - 12:40:18 PM	Public Hearing	relative to residential development on commercially zoned land.	Kuttab, Katelyn(R)[B]2025
HB1010 05:34:40.320 - 1:30:17 PM	Executive Session	relative to residential development on commercially zoned land.	Kuttab, Katelyn(R)[B]2025
HB1012 05:37:42.878 - 1:33:19 PM	Public Hearing	repealing accessory dwelling units and detached accessory dwelling units.	Turcotte, Len(R)[B]2025
HB1012 06:01:40.558 - 1:57:17 PM	Executive Session	repealing accessory dwelling units and detached accessory dwelling units.	Turcotte, Len(R)[B]2025
HB1016 06:03:57.520 - 1:59:34 PM	Public Hearing	eliminating the requirement that municipalities allow for manufactured housing development opportunities.	Turcotte, Len(R)[B]2025
HB1016 06:31:28.958 - 2:27:05 PM	Executive Session	eliminating the requirement that municipalities allow for manufactured housing development opportunities.	Turcotte, Len(R)[B]2025
HB1017 06:36:01.280 - 2:31:38 PM	Public Hearing	relative to accessory dwelling units and workforce housing.	Preece, David(D)[CT]2025

HR30: Representative Len Turkot, representing Bington and Strafford Support00:08:23.280 - 8:04:00 AM; Representative Turkot introduces HR30, reading its full text into the record to emphasize the original intent of the Standard Zoning Enabling Act of 1924 as an enabling law for municipalities to zone as they choose, without state mandates. He argues for local decision-making over state-imposed zoning, using analogies like federal overreach and examples from diverse NH towns. He notes no constituent requests for recent state zoning changes and highlights that municipalities can already adjust zoning via warrant articles. During Q&A, he discusses how state laws like HB577 on detached ADUs infringe on neighbors' property rights by allowing rentals in single-family areas, contrasting this with local control where communities decide. He supports towns setting their own lot sizes, even if he personally opposed one, and commits to clarifying if municipalities can zone beyond health, safety, and welfare standards.
HR30: Representative David Priest Support00:24:11.840 - 8:19:48 AM; Representative Priest strongly supports HR30, emphasizing that local control is foundational to New Hampshire's democracy. He argues that towns are self-governing entities better equipped to understand local needs than a distant legislature. He stresses that the Standard Zoning Enabling Act empowers municipalities, not overrides them, and RSA 672:1 confirms planning and zoning as tools for communities to manage growth and protect property values. He criticizes state overrides disguised as property rights, which benefit developers at the expense of community rights, transferring power from voters to outside interests. HR30 affirms that decisions should be made locally to preserve community character without blocking housing or development.
HR30: Representative David Priest Support00:24:11.840 - 8:19:48 AM; Representative Priest concludes his testimony in support of HR30, emphasizing the tradition of town meeting, local boards, and community-based planning over one-size-fits-all state mandates. He requests the committee vote ought to pass HR30.
HR30: Ivy Van, Certified Planner Oppose00:29:50.640 - 8:25:27 AM; Ivy Van, a certified planner, argues against HR30, highlighting the statewide housing crisis affecting young people, seniors, and businesses. She explains that local zoning often restricts housing choice, with most land zoned for large single-family lots unnecessary for health and safety. She notes the difficulty for individual towns to change zoning without neighboring towns doing the same, leading to exclusionary practices. Van opposes state architectural standards but supports state intervention to ensure housing availability, comparing it to regulations on septic systems and burning. She references the Euclid decision on zoning for health and safety, criticizing current exclusionary use.
HR30: Patricia Vigio, Raymond Resident and Local Government Member Support00:42:33.280 - 8:38:10 AM; Patricia Vigio strongly supports local control via HR30, disagreeing with state-level mandates that she sees as a 'Massachusetts mindset' forcing multifamily housing near transit and congesting areas. She values New Hampshire's variety and freedom to drive, noting her town of Raymond has zoning for all types including conservation subdivisions, elderly housing, and ADUs, approved by voters. Vigio highlights legal costs from lawsuits against local zoning, the need for collaboration between state and local governments, and gaps in processes causing costly issues for health, safety, and welfare. She urges stopping 'moving the target' on housing goals and accepting NIMBY preferences.
HR30: Matt Mayberry, New Hampshire Homebuilders Association Oppose00:50:30.720 - 8:46:07 AM; Matt Mayberry opposes HR30, calling it political theater that will be weaponized against the legislature to add red tape to permitting. He asserts zoning is a state police power under the NH Constitution, and the resolution will confuse the building community on whether housing warrants statewide attention. Mayberry notes state actions like streamlining permits have reduced costs and time, promoting housing without impeding property rights.
HR30: Randy Marman, Raymond Select Board Member Support00:56:10.880 - 8:51:47 AM; Randy Marman supports HR30, sharing experiences driving through NH towns and valuing the choice between city and country living. As a Raymond select board member, she argues her town exemplifies balanced development with high-density, single-family, and sprawling lots. Marman opposes blanket laws turning rural areas urban, citing infrastructure costs and examples like Dover becoming like Portsmouth. She discusses her son's housing search, noting high costs despite reforms, and emphasizes job creation over more building. Marman defines welfare as preserving NH's unique rural and urban choices.
HR30: Nick Taylor, Director of Housing Action New Hampshire Oppose01:05:42.240 - 9:01:19 AM; Nick Taylor opposes HR30, representing a pro-housing advocacy group including shelters, lenders, and developers. He praises the committee's bipartisan problem-solving on housing last year and cites UNH and St. Anselm polls showing strong public support for state encouragement of local land use changes, ADUs, and homes near jobs. Taylor argues the status quo fails, with high income needed for median home or rent, and urges rejecting the resolution to continue addressing the crisis the voters elected them to solve.
HR30: Representative Kerwin Information Only01:09:04.000 - 9:04:41 AM; Representative Kerwin provides brief testimony on HB 1098, noting a $400 million shortfall in NH's transportation plan and local flooding issues in Marble. He links this to SB 281's zoning changes straining local infrastructure like water, sewer, and roads, shifting costs to towns. Kerwin opposes one-size-fits-all zoning eroding local authority and voter-approved ordinances, calling it contrary to NH's live free or die ideals.
HR30: Representative Parall Support01:09:04.000 - 9:04:41 AM; Representative Parall supports HB 1098, relative to denying building permits on class 6 roads under certain circumstances. He stresses public safety, fiscal responsibility, and local decision-making, as class 6 roads are unmaintained and often impassable. The bill allows municipalities to review via planning board before issuing permits, protects from maintenance liability, and requires deed notices. Parall emphasizes emergency access for fire, ambulance, and utilities.
HR30: Representative David Priest Support01:13:43.280 - 9:09:20 AM; Representative Priest supports HB 1098, drawing on 44 years as a planner and AICP member. He explains the bill establishes a process for municipalities to decide on building permits along class 6 roads after planning board review, ensuring democratic input, no forced maintenance, and deed notices for disclosure. Priest underscores safety for emergency and utility access year-round.
HR30: Representative Gruber Support01:19:03.920 - 9:14:40 AM; Representative Gruber supports HB 1098, sharing a personal story of a medical emergency on a maintained town road where responders arrived quickly, contrasting with impassable class 6 roads nearby. As a civil engineer with local government experience, he highlights health and safety risks for residents and responders if building is allowed without town maintenance. Gruber notes the bill restores prior statute language giving select boards review options without radical changes.
HR30: Matt Mayberry, New Hampshire Homebuilders Association Oppose01:22:56.239 - 9:18:33 AM; Matt Mayberry opposes HB 1098, arguing current law streamlines waivers for housing options on class 6 roads. He calls the bill hypocritical, as selectmen approve building but disclaim liability via deed restrictions. Mayberry suggests amending to allow building with private deed restrictions acknowledging no town responsibility, criticizing irony in seeking state intervention after opposing it elsewhere.
HR30: Brody Deay, New Hampshire Municipal Association Information Only01:26:11.440 - 9:21:48 AM; Brody Deay from NHMA supports aspects of prior law for balance between property rights and public safety on class 6 roads, which are unmaintained and impassable. He flags concerns with new law removing requirements for property owners to maintain roads for emergency access. Deay proposes compromise: allow by-right building but require private covenants for road upkeep to standards ensuring passability, avoiding municipal costs while addressing safety.
HR30: N Grace, Business and Industry Association Oppose01:38:46.880 - 9:34:23 AM; N Grace opposes HB 1098, clarifying class 6 roads are town-owned, unlike private roads with maintenance agreements. She notes last year's law shifted authority to land use boards via variances or frontage requirements, not select boards. Grace argues zoning boards are better for site-specific decisions, and towns retain regulatory tools like frontage rules. She references NHMA training and DBEA guidance confirming towns' ongoing authority.
HB1098: Mark Funk, Selectman and Health Officer, Roxbury Support01:44:33.280 - 9:40:10 AM; Mark Funk, a long-serving selectman and health officer in Roxbury, the third smallest town in New Hampshire with 200 residents, detailed the challenges of managing town functions without specialized staff. He highlighted issues with class 6 roads, including inaccessible properties with squatters and drug activity, where emergency services cannot reach due to poor road conditions. Funk noted that ATVs and heavy vehicles have destroyed these roads, posing fire and medical emergency risks. He spearheaded the town's hazard mitigation plan, which expressed concerns over recent state law changes limiting local control on building along class 6 roads. Emphasizing the selectboard's responsibility for resident safety and town protection, he urged support for the bill to restore local zoning authority, as the town lacks capacity to monitor or maintain such developments.
HB1098: Chris Norwood, New Hampshire Association of Realtors Oppose01:50:52.400 - 9:46:29 AM; Chris Norwood, representing the New Hampshire Association of Realtors and its 7,000 members, recommended that the committee find HB 1098 inexpedient to legislate (ITL). He noted that the new law from Senate Bill 281, passed on voice votes last year, has not yet taken effect and urged allowing time to observe its outcomes before nullifying it. Norwood pointed out that residences have existed on class 6 roads for years without issues and expressed concern over municipalities already attempting to circumvent the upcoming law by requiring frontage on class 5 roads.
HB1098: Patricia Burgio, Chair of Selectmen, Raymond Support01:52:52.639 - 9:48:29 AM; Patricia Burgio, chair of the board of selectmen in Raymond, supported HB 1098 but cautioned about the broad consequences of recent legislation on local towns. She described ongoing litigation related to class 6 roads, including a case involving multiple culverts that could damage town infrastructure if they fail, costing over $800,000 in repairs. Burgio emphasized that towns evaluate building proposals on class 6 roads case-by-case for safety, health, and financial feasibility, not to deny development but to protect taxpayers from burdens like legal costs and emergency access issues. She advocated for collaboration between state and local levels to address unique town-specific problems, offering to provide examples of costs and litigation to illustrate the impacts.
HB1098: Representative Priest, Prime Sponsor Support02:04:35.040 - 10:00:12 AM; Representative Priest, the prime sponsor of HB 1006, introduced the bill to restore clarity, fairness, and local control in parking requirements for accessory dwelling units (ADUs). He explained that ADUs support aging in place, family care, and affordable housing without altering neighborhood character. The bill addresses issues with current law allowing off-site parking without municipal approval, leading to unenforceable agreements and strained neighborhood parking. HB 1006 requires on-site parking or municipal approval for off-site options, balancing flexibility with accountability and respecting local knowledge of zoning and parking realities. He requested committee support for the bill.
HB1006: Prime Sponsor (unnamed) Support02:08:37.840 - 10:04:14 AM; The prime sponsor explains the need for municipalities to verify off-site parking locations to ensure safety, accessibility, and no hidden impacts like traffic hazards, access issues, or visibility problems. They provide an example from their Manchester neighborhood where redevelopment into multi-unit homes strains on-site and on-street parking, creating hazards.
HB1006: Brody Dea, New Hampshire Municipal Association Support02:11:11.760 - 10:06:48 AM; Brody Dea supports the bill, describing it as a simple update allowing municipalities to require one on-site or legally dedicated off-site parking spot for ADUs, with municipal approval via building permits or planning board. This verifies adequate parking to prevent blocking fire access, spillover to streets, or disputes over private/public spaces. He clarifies approval is by municipal officials, not voters, and addresses dense area concerns to avoid distant or illegitimate off-site parking.
HB1006: Ivy Van Oppose02:16:26.560 - 10:12:03 AM; Ivy Van opposes the bill, arguing towns are poor at managing parking and that additional restrictions on private property owners harm housing affordability. She advocates eliminating mandated parking requirements at legislative levels, as they raise costs, promote sprawl, and hinder vertical development. She notes pre-zoning dense developments couldn't be rebuilt today due to parking rules, using Keene as an example of car-free downtown living.
HB1006: Matt Mayberry, New Hampshire Homebuilders Association Oppose02:18:52.080 - 10:14:29 AM; Matt Mayberry urges opposition, stating the bill shifts parking designation from private owners to municipalities, potentially allowing onerous conditions without parameters on approval criteria like landscaping or fencing. Currently, owners can choose on- or off-site parking; the bill risks denial or confusion in the building community without clear guidelines.
HB1006: Chris Norwood, New Hampshire Association of Realtors Oppose02:21:00.160 - 10:16:37 AM; Chris Norwood opposes, highlighting the bill's grant of final discretion to municipalities, which could deny ADUs unfairly. He recalls past excessive parking mandates (2-4 spaces) before current limits and argues property owners ensure parking for rentability, making municipal veto unnecessary.
HB1006: Patricia Brillio Support02:21:57.040 - 10:17:34 AM; Patricia Brillio supports balancing property rights with accountability to prevent disputes requiring police intervention and town costs. She emphasizes New Hampshire's car-dependent culture for work and freedom, rejecting car elimination. In Q&A, she argues against state-level parking proof at registration due to process burdens, favoring municipal recording for ADUs.
HB1006: Rainey Marryman Support02:27:46.800 - 10:23:23 AM; Rainey Marryman supports, arguing state-level decisions can't grasp local intricacies; municipalities know streets and needs better. She shares a near-accident from illegal parking, stresses property rights end where they impact others' welfare, and notes dense areas may not need cars while others do, allowing local tailoring over broad state rules.
HB1006: Nick Taylor, Director of Housing Action Oppose02:30:55.600 - 10:26:32 AM; Nick Taylor opposes, clarifying 'legally dedicated off-site location' is already municipality-defined, allowing records of parking spots without approval/denial authority. Existing law enables verification and adjudication without the bill's changes.
HB1007: Representative Len Turkut, Towns of Bington and Straford Support02:32:39.439 - 10:28:16 AM; Rep. Turkut supports, opposing one-size-fits-all state mandates on towns. The bill makes minor changes: 'sole discretion' to 'reasonable efforts'; reduces regulations to match conventional single-family housing; 'reasonable and realistic opportunities' to 'reasonable opportunities'; and extends temporary occupancy post-disaster from 12 months to 30 days after certificate issuance, making it less restrictive in some cases.
HB1007: Representative David Priest Support02:35:21.680 - 10:30:58 AM; Rep. Priest supports, calling it a modernization for fair, practical affordable housing amid shortages. It ensures good faith municipal efforts to allow manufactured housing under same rules as stick-built homes, without imposing density or unsafe development. It replaces vague directives with reasonable standards, preventing exclusion while retaining local flexibility; urges Ought to Pass.
HB1007: Kimberly Kapp, Gosstown Support02:41:45.520 - 10:37:22 AM; Kimberly Kapp supports, addressing stigma against manufactured housing, which meets HUD codes nearing stick-built standards (2x6, Energy Star). It provides unsubsidized affordable options for low-moderate income workers, preventing homelessness; weakening laws excludes essential workers. She shares personal homeownership story and notes communities self-protect via lot values.
HB1007: Elizabeth War Oppose02:46:29.439 - 10:42:06 AM; Elizabeth War opposes, sharing as long-term NH residents unable to afford condo retirement, choosing manufactured home for aging in place. They value its one-story affordability and quality; bill risks limiting choices in 'Live Free or Die' state, unlike variable stick-built construction delayed by weather.
HB1007: Pamela Rothgabber Oppose02:48:52.000 - 10:44:29 AM; Pamela Rothgabber opposes, crediting manufactured home for single-parent affordability (cash purchase, low fees/maintenance, accessible). It enabled her children's education/business success; contrasts with expensive condos. With 40,000 homes needed, bill barriers harm affordable ownership; urges opposition.
HB1007: Brody Dea, New Hampshire Municipal Association Support02:51:05.520 - 10:46:42 AM; Brody Dea supports, clarifying bill doesn't ban manufactured housing but removes majority-land mandate, allowing flexibility for infrastructure-aligned placement (e.g., near water/sewer). It promotes desired housing like single-family for youth (per poll: 80% prefer), balancing low-income needs without arbitrary quotas; aligns with historical law.
HB1007: Karen Susi, New Hampshire Manufactured Housing Association Oppose03:00:58.240 - 10:56:35 AM; Karen Susi opposes the bill, calling it discriminatory and exclusionary. She argues that changing the requirement from providing a 'reasonable and realistic opportunity' for manufactured housing to merely a 'reasonable effort' allows towns to hold meetings without guaranteeing results, as seen in past zoning cases. She also questions the reduction from one year to 30 days for placing a manufactured home on a site after fire damage or natural disaster, deeming it impractical.
HB1007: N. Grace, BIA Oppose03:02:05.840 - 10:57:42 AM; N. Grace registers opposition to the bill, referencing prior testimony and offering to answer questions without elaborating further.
HB1007: Diane Willie, Dover, NH Oppose03:03:00.640 - 10:58:37 AM; Diane Willie, a retired nurse from Dover who has lived on the Seacoast for 27 years, shares her personal story of facing a financial crisis in 2017 and rising apartment costs, leading her to purchase a manufactured home a year and a half ago as her only affordable one-story option. She praises its insulation, low utility bills, and community benefits for aging residents. Without this option, she would have had to leave New Hampshire for a cheaper state like Mississippi, away from her community and friends. She opposes reducing such housing options.
HB1007: Abby Bronson, New Hampshire Community Loan Fund Oppose03:05:40.479 - 11:01:17 AM; Abby Bronson opposes HB 1007, stating it limits affordable homeownership and weakens protections dating back to the 1980s, harming homeowners. She highlights that manufactured homes house essential workers, veterans, and 78% first-time buyers. Sharing her own dream of homeownership as a renter in Manchester, she notes how manufactured housing could make it feasible despite high costs, and urges opposition to preserve choices for future residents.
HB1007: Chris Norwood, New Hampshire Association of Realtors Oppose03:08:55.760 - 11:04:32 AM; Chris Norwood opposes HB 1007, providing data showing manufactured home prices rose 112% over six years, outpacing single-family homes at 78%, with only 3% of 1,500 sold in 2025 being new builds. He argues the bill slows regulatory progress by removing 'realistic opportunities' and 'other police power' from zoning laws, hindering permitting and new park creation. He urges opposition to avoid legal setbacks.
HB1007: Agnes Walker, Greenland, NH Oppose03:12:58.080 - 11:08:35 AM; Agnes Walker, a registered nurse living in a manufactured home for six years after moving closer to her daughter in Greenland, opposes the bill due to her struggles finding affordable housing despite 40 years in New Hampshire and past homeownership. After three years of searching post-divorce and economic hardship, she bought a mobile home through NH Housing Finance Authority. She values the gated community's strict standards and opposes limiting options for others, invoking Maslow's hierarchy of needs to emphasize housing security.
HR30: Representative Baxton Oppose04:06:52.640 - 12:02:29 PM; Representative Baxton moves for Inexpedient to Legislate (ITL) on HR 30, calling it counter to public interest, overreach, and overly complicated.
HR30: Representative Grant Oppose04:06:52.640 - 12:02:29 PM; Representative Grant seconds the motion and concurs with the ITL recommendation.
HR30: Representative Reed Oppose04:08:04.960 - 12:03:41 PM; Representative Reed supports ITL, criticizing the resolution's ignorance of state-municipal relationships and cooperative checks and balances.
HR30: Representative Paige Oppose04:08:04.960 - 12:03:41 PM; Representative Paige joins the ITL motion, appreciating public comments on state-local collaboration from Raymond but noting the resolution's phrasing lacks emphasis on partnership.
HR30: Committee Chair Information Only04:09:03.199 - 12:04:40 PM; The committee votes 17-0-1 in favor of ITL on HR 30, placing it on the regular calendar.
HB1098: Representative Thaxton Oppose04:10:14.399 - 12:05:51 PM; Representative Thaxton moves for ITL on HB 1098, arguing it reverses last year's decisions and counters expanding housing opportunities.
HB1098: Committee Member Information Only04:11:09.199 - 12:06:46 PM; A member notes the bill fails to address the core issue of safe access on private roads from last year's efforts.
HB1098: Committee Vote04:11:09.199 - 12:06:46 PM; The committee votes 17-0-1 for ITL on HB 1098, placing it on the regular calendar.
HB1006: Committee Chair Oppose04:12:29.840 - 12:08:06 PM; The Chair moves for ITL on HB 1006 to monitor recent parking reform progress before further changes.
HB1006: Representative Ryan Information Only04:12:29.840 - 12:08:06 PM; Representative Ryan seconds the motion.
HB1006: Representative Paige Oppose04:13:33.279 - 12:09:10 PM; Representative Paige supports ITL, believing existing statute on 'legally dedicated' parking provides sufficient municipal flexibility to achieve the bill's goals.
HB1006: Committee Vote04:13:33.279 - 12:09:10 PM; The committee votes 17-0-1 for ITL on HB 1006, placing it on the consent calendar.
HB1008: Representative Priest Support04:14:36.640 - 12:10:13 PM; Representative Priest presents HB 1008, aimed at providing communities tools—not mandates—to address the housing shortage locally and transparently. It clarifies inclusionary zoning definitions to reduce disputes, expands municipal options for affordable housing tailored to local needs, and creates a structured process for alternative compliance with independent review. The bill balances affordability, innovation, local authority, and oversight without lowering standards, encouraging creativity to build more affordable housing. Priest requests committee support.
HB1008: Representative (questioning) Information Only04:18:10.479 - 12:13:47 PM; A representative questions the sponsor about inconsistencies in Section 2 of the bill regarding the planning board's approval of alternate solutions and the role of third-party reviews, expressing confusion over whether the board must approve the alternate solution even if the third party agrees with the municipality.
HB1008: Ivy Van Oppose04:19:07.199 - 12:14:44 PM; Ivy Van opposes the bill, arguing that mandatory inclusionary zoning without financial incentives does not work. She shares a story from Somerville, Massachusetts, where such requirements led developers to reduce units from three to two to avoid the mandate, making renovations unfeasible. She recommends voting against it and suggests Portland, Oregon's model with tax rebates as a better approach if inclusionary zoning is pursued. In response to a question, she explains it worsens the situation by making projects financially unviable, as developers must absorb costs for below-market units, increasing overall expenses.
HB1008: Brody Dees, New Hampshire Municipal Association Support04:23:55.680 - 12:19:32 PM; Brody Dees supports HB 1008, which updates innovative land use controls to allow municipalities to offer incentives or require inclusionary zoning for affordable housing production, preservation, and tenant habitability. It includes an appeals process for alternative solutions, similar to existing parking appeals. He notes that many incentives go unused, as seen in Manchester, and emphasizes that market-rate housing takes decades to filter down to affordable levels. He expresses willingness to amend the bill to balance developer and municipal needs, citing successful examples like Berkeley, California.
HB1008: Patricia Bridgio Information Only04:27:25.920 - 12:23:02 PM; Patricia Bridgio cautions against using 'affordable housing' and 'workforce housing' interchangeably without clear, adjustable definitions tied to market rates. She urges the committee to consider how the bill's language on inducing or requiring actions might cause infrastructure failures at the local level, forcing municipalities to bear the costs.
HB1009: Representative David Priest Support04:29:20.239 - 12:24:57 PM; Representative David Priest, the sponsor, supports HB 1009, which caps parking at 1.5 spaces per unit for studio and one-bedroom workforce housing in developments of 10 or more units. He argues that excessive parking requirements increase costs, consume land, and deter projects, especially for smaller units in multi-family developments. The bill aligns requirements with actual demand, applies only to targeted workforce housing, reduces costs for developers and renters, and supports housing for essential workers without sacrificing safety or planning goals. In response to a question, he notes studies show 1.5 spaces as more reasonable than the current one-space maximum.
HB1009: Ivy Van Oppose04:33:33.919 - 12:29:10 PM; Ivy Van opposes HB 1009, arguing against increasing parking mandates from the previous one-space limit, calling it a backward step. She notes developers can already build more parking if desired and suggests parking maximums to prevent overbuilding. The bill would require more parking for smaller infill developments like 10-unit projects, where less parking is typically needed, undermining efforts for neighborhood-appropriate housing.
HB1009: Brody Dees, New Hampshire Municipal Association Support04:35:30.639 - 12:31:07 PM; Brody Dees supports HB 1009, which restores a previously negotiated statute allowing up to 1.5 parking spaces for small workforce housing units in larger developments. He argues the current one-space limit creates infrastructure challenges in denser areas and fails to account for household needs, such as families with multiple cars or visitors. The prior law provided flexibility for on-site, off-site, or mixed parking and incentivized workforce housing. He suggests basing mandates on bedroom count for better accuracy and notes it prevents inefficient uses like municipal parking garages.
HB1009: Chris Norwood, New Hampshire Association of Realtors Oppose04:39:20.958 - 12:34:57 PM; Chris Norwood opposes HB 1009, arguing that the one-space maximum parking requirement was recently signed into law on September 13th and needs time to take effect. He supports a minimum of one parking space per unit for practical reasons and notes that market forces will ensure adequate parking, as developers won't build unrentable units costing $400,000 to $500,000 each without it.
HB1009: Unnamed Speaker Oppose04:40:26.878 - 12:36:03 PM; The speaker opposes limiting parking to one spot per unit, emphasizing affordability of housing. They argue that people are cramming into units, many need cars for work, and parking is essential for visitors and service personnel. Without mandated parking, residents suffer, hindering their social life and family access, despite developer incentives.
HB1009: Representative Miles Vote04:41:36.958 - 12:37:13 PM; Moves for Inexpedient to Legislate (ITL) on HB 1009.
HB1009: Representative Bolio Vote04:42:33.120 - 12:38:10 PM; Seconds the motion for ITL and explains that the bill sets a minimum, not maximum, parking requirement. Agrees market forces will determine needs and notes it reduces hard surface parking, helping prevent rainwater overflow into culverts.
HB1009: Unnamed Representative Vote04:42:33.120 - 12:38:10 PM; Supports ITL, stating the recent law (effective September 13th, four months old) needs no changes.
HB1009: Committee Roll Call Vote04:43:36.480 - 12:39:13 PM; Roll call vote on ITL motion passes 17-0 (Vice Chairman Cole, Representatives Thaxton, Aaron, Boler, Dumont, Grant, Miles, Miner, Clerk Rinford, Paige, Reed, Woods, Hicks, Howland, Newell, Kerwin, Chairman Alexander all vote yes; Representative Berez absent). Placed on consent calendar with no objections.
HB1010: Len Turkot, on behalf of Representative Coutab, Strafford and towns of Strafford and Bington Support04:44:41.360 - 12:40:18 PM; Introduces HB 1010, noting HB 631 mandated multifamily development on commercial land by right but lacked infrastructure criteria definitions, leading to challenges like aquifer shortages and lawsuits. Towns seek repeal, but a compromise defining 'adequate infrastructure' would help all parties.
HB1010: Wayne Morris, Windham Support04:46:26.160 - 12:42:03 PM; Wayne Morris, a long-time conservation commission member and former planning board member in Windham, supports HB 1010. He describes how HB 631 enables oversized developments like 150 senior and 350 apartments on zoned commercial land, disrupting local plans for professional, gateway, and village center districts. Windham is unprepared for such scale without infrastructure, illustrating one-size-fits-all legislation's issues; the developer offered to fund studies, but local control is needed.
HB1010: Mr. Morris, Windham Oppose04:51:16.160 - 12:46:53 PM; Mr. Morris discusses the extension of sewer from Salem to a site, which HB 631 allows, and emphasizes the need for organized planning over decades. He views the bill as a disruption to Windham's plans and speaks in favor of repealing HB 630/631.
HB1010: Chris Norwood, Realtors Oppose04:52:42.240 - 12:48:19 PM; Chris Norwood urges opposition to the bill, noting it was recently passed and should be allowed to play out. He recalls the original broader scope was amended to focus on commercial zones due to residential concerns near industrial areas. He supports the current law but suggests tweaks for density clarity, opposing repeal.
HB1010: Ivy Van Oppose04:54:30.560 - 12:50:07 PM; Ivy Van opposes the bill, arguing it was enacted last year without time to assess its impact. She sees value in providing housing in underused industrial areas, like those with existing water and sewer infrastructure that never developed, and urges a no vote.
HB1010: Brody Ducha, New Hampshire Municipal Association Support04:55:24.798 - 12:51:01 PM; Brody Ducha supports repealing the law unless a fair compromise is negotiated considering municipal impacts like infrastructure. He mentions working with Rep. David Priest on HB 1065 as a compromise to be heard later, and would be neutral if passed.
HB1010: Nick Taylor, Housing Action New Hampshire Oppose04:56:14.400 - 12:51:51 PM; Nick Taylor opposes HB 1010, excited about HB 631's potential. He notes it doesn't override local assessments for water, sewer, or permits, allowing towns to set height, setbacks, and density. It promotes housing near existing infrastructure to avoid sprawl.
HB1010: Patricia Bridgio Oppose04:57:14.718 - 12:52:51 PM; Patricia Bridgio supports tweaks to the law and refers to her town's specific commercial and mixed-use zones. She highlights potential conflicts requiring zoning updates, additional town resources for compliance, and questions broad approaches without consulting towns on prior issues.
HB1010: N Graves, BIA Oppose04:59:00.000 - 12:54:37 PM; N Graves opposes HB 1010, deferring to extensive prior testimony. He notes any amendment proposed by the chair, developed with stakeholders, would be positive.
HB1010: Matt Mayberry, New Hampshire Homebuilders Association Oppose04:59:45.920 - 12:55:22 PM; Matt Mayberry opposes repeal, highlighting stranded lots in industrial parks too small for commercial use but ideal for worker housing like apartments. He urges not repealing to allow such opportunities statewide.
HB1010: Representative Christine Perez Oppose05:05:08.798 - 1:00:45 PM; Rep. Perez introduces HB 11 to eliminate zoning restrictions on dwelling unit occupants based on relationships, status, etc., preventing enforcement of such ordinances while allowing building and fire codes. She argues it enables group homes or overcrowding in residential areas, leading to parking issues, septic strains, and property value depreciation without addressing the housing crisis. She suggests repealing and defining lodging houses to allow municipal control.
HB1010: Unnamed Speaker (possibly Brody Dees) Information Only05:14:01.760 - 1:09:38 PM; The speaker briefly greets and notes seeing the representative, providing no substantive testimony on the bill.
HB1010: Brody Dease, New Hampshire Municipal Association Oppose05:14:10.958 - 1:09:47 PM; Brody Dease represents the New Hampshire Municipal Association and supports repealing the law mandating congregate or group living uses in all residential zones, including single and two-family districts. He notes that municipalities can already permit lodging houses and define them locally. Concerns arise because group living differs significantly from family units and impacts infrastructure more, suggesting placement in denser areas like college towns. He mentions alternative language in HB 1525 and openness to working on lodging houses in multifamily areas.
HB1010: Matt Mayberry, New Hampshire Homebuilders Association Support05:16:03.040 - 1:11:40 PM; Matt Mayberry urges opposition to the repeal in HB 1010, emphasizing that families regardless of makeup matter and privacy in living choices is important. He shares a personal example as legal guardian to his best friend's children, noting that in some towns, a three unrelated persons prohibition would force relocation. He warns that repeal could lead to municipalities limiting occupancy creatively, like restricting bedroom numbers or pet policies in condos, to control density.
HB1010: Chris Norwood, New Hampshire Association of Realtors Support05:19:11.520 - 1:14:48 PM; Chris Norwood, on behalf of the Realtors, urges opposition to HB 1011, calling it a rehash of last year's discussion. HB 457 passed by voice vote in both chambers and took effect in September. He suggests allowing the new law to play out before repealing.
HB1010: Karen Rosenberg, Disability Rights Center Support05:19:11.520 - 1:14:48 PM; Karen Rosenberg, policy director at the Disability Rights Center, opposes the bill as it potentially violates federal fair housing laws and discriminates against people with disabilities. Repeal could allow towns to require employment for residency or restrict unrelated people living together, affecting those needing live-in assistants for integrated living. She urges ITL and responds to questions about per-bed leases, noting they could impact Medicaid-supported independent living arrangements for people with disabilities.
HB1010: Jeff Berlin Support05:22:26.080 - 1:18:03 PM; Jeff Berlin, a prime author of last year's law, opposes the repeal without rehashing details. He encourages reaching out for questions and highlights that the law has enabled new housing discussions and positive outcomes.
HB1010: Sam Ferington, Rochester Support05:23:27.600 - 1:19:04 PM; Representative Sam Ferington urges ITL for HB 1010, noting it passed both chambers, was signed by the governor, and is effective. He mentions benefits to UNH college students who enjoy and respect the policy.
HB1010: Ivy Van Support05:25:27.040 - 1:21:04 PM; Ivy Van argues that laws requiring knowledge of relationships to determine legality are problematic, akin to flawed sign ordinances per Supreme Court rulings. Health and safety regulations already address overcrowding. She notes familial status protections federally and questions who defines a family, emphasizing light, air, and windows over relationships.
HB1010: Chairman Alexander Vote05:34:40.320 - 1:30:17 PM; Chairman Alexander moves for ITL on HB 1010, seconded by Representative Reed. He notes the law was signed in September, effective less than 4 months, and anecdotal evidence shows alleviated problems. It protects towns from discrimination lawsuits and is a great law too early to repeal without data.
HB1010: Representative Reed Vote05:34:40.320 - 1:30:17 PM; Representative Reed supports ITL, stating occupancy is based on building capacity regardless of relationships, as established previously. Government should not define family.
HB1010: Committee Roll Call Vote05:35:44.400 - 1:31:21 PM; The committee votes on ITL: Vice Chairman Cole yes, Representative Thaxton yes, Representative Aaron yes, Representative Buller yes, Representative Dumont yes, Representative Grant yes, Representative Miles yes, Representative Miner yes, Representative Rinford yes, Representative Paige yes, Representative Bores absent, Representative Reed yes, Representative Woods yes, Representative Hicks yes, Representative Howland yes, Representative Newell yes, Representative Kerwin yes, Chairman Alexander yes. Motion carries 17-0.
HB1012: Representative Len Turkot, Bington and Strafford Support05:37:42.878 - 1:33:19 PM; Representative Len Turkot introduces HB 1012, which repeals three sections and replaces one on accessory dwelling units (ADUs), moving definitions to RSA 21. He argues against state mandates for central planning, favoring local decisions. Removing mandates does not prevent municipalities from allowing ADUs. He references an op-ed analogy to communist policies and emphasizes one size does not fit all.
HB1012: Stephanie Skyler, AARP Oppose05:44:15.360 - 1:39:52 PM; Stephanie Skyler, representing 212,000 AARP members, strongly opposes HB 1012. ADUs support family caregivers, aging in place, intergenerational living, affordable housing, and workforce needs. Repealing would step backwards in addressing the housing shortage impacting youth, families, seniors, and communities.
HB1012: Chris Norwood, New Hampshire Association of Realtors Oppose05:45:24.000 - 1:41:01 PM; Chris Norwood urges ITL on HB 1012. Repealing RSA 674:72 removes key ADU provisions. While supporting local authority, it is not absolute, citing past state intervention against excessive local rules like mandatory fire suppression. Mandates do not mean instant ADUs; permitting processes remain robust.
HB1012: Matt Mayberry, New Hampshire Homebuilders Association Oppose05:47:31.200 - 1:43:08 PM; Matt Mayberry, CEO of NH Homebuilders Association with 600 members, asks to reject HB 1012. Zoning is a state police power under Dillon's Rule. Post-legislation, one company had 39 ADU contacts in Q4 2023 versus 37 since January 2024, with 75% for multi-generational living, freeing up housing units.
HB1012: Brody Dease, New Hampshire Municipal Association Support05:50:02.558 - 1:45:39 PM; Brody Dease supports HB 1012 to restore prior flexibility. Pre-2023 law, negotiated in 2016, allowed municipal implementation; NHMA was neutral. The 2023 overhaul removed flexibility, so repeal unless restored. Suggests HB 1136 as compromise and emphasizes municipal self-determination.
HB1012: Jeff Berlin Oppose05:51:50.480 - 1:47:27 PM; Jeff Berlin appreciates the debate but rebuts that state protection of property rights is not arrogant. Abuses occurred locally, like a Durham variance denial for 75 sq ft in an ADU due to fears of frat houses. Encourages further protections, perhaps percentage-based, to avoid ZBA hurdles.
HB1012: Ivy Van Oppose05:53:53.120 - 1:49:30 PM; Ivy Van urges killing HB 1012. ADUs are low-cost, invisible additions to neighborhoods, not springing up easily. Allowing towns to restrict or ban them is a step backwards. They enable staying in neighborhoods for starting out or winding down, vital for seniors in large homes facing upkeep and tax burdens.
HB1012: Representative Michael Aaron Oppose06:01:40.558 - 1:57:17 PM; Representative Michael Aaron moves for ITL on HB 1012, arguing that ADUs are effective for alleviating housing shortages, towns often fail to pass such measures independently, and a recent ADU RSA passed last year needs time to be evaluated.
HB1012: Representative Grant Oppose06:02:43.520 - 1:58:20 PM; Representative Grant supports the ITL motion, noting that ADUs have existed for nearly a century under names like mother-in-law apartments, and the recent law should be allowed to settle in before further changes.
HB1016: Representative Len Turkov, towns of Bington and Straford Support06:03:57.520 - 1:59:34 PM; Representative Turkov introduces HB 1016, which repeals the mandate for manufactured housing, similar to the previous bill but specific to mobile homes or trailers. He emphasizes restoring decision-making to municipalities without prohibiting manufactured housing, counters stigma by sharing his personal experience living in one, and argues against state mandates under the Dillon rule, advocating for local zoning processes instead of centralized planning.
HB1016: Representative Priest Support06:09:28.718 - 2:05:05 PM; Representative Priest supports HB 1016, highlighting its focus on local control, clarity, and trust in municipal decision-making. The bill removes the state mandate compelling municipalities to allow manufactured housing regardless of local conditions like size, geography, and infrastructure. It respects differences between rural and urban areas, allowing communities to decide if manufactured housing fits their plans, and promotes locally designed affordability solutions.
HB1016: Nick Taylor, director of Housing Action New Hampshire Oppose06:12:43.360 - 2:08:20 PM; Nick Taylor opposes HB 1016, stressing the importance of manufactured housing for ownership and wealth accumulation, especially for renters aspiring to own. He argues against allowing municipalities to legislate based on construction type due to past stigma, notes modern manufactured homes are comparable to stick-built ones, and calls for expanding options to address affordability, where a $182,000 income is needed for the median home.
HB1016: Brody Dashes, New Hampshire Municipal Association Support06:13:32.160 - 2:09:09 PM; Brody Dashes supports HB 1016 in line with the association's policies opposing zoning preemptions. He believes members will continue allowing manufactured homes, as many understand the need, and prefers local flexibility in implementing housing solutions and building state partnerships. He encourages considering HB 1007 for more municipal flexibility and notes the association can live with the current 2024 law.
HB1016: Karen Susi, New Hampshire Manufactured Housing Association Oppose06:15:41.360 - 2:11:18 PM; Karen Susi opposes HB 1016, which repeals protections for manufactured housing inclusion. She questions the targeting of manufactured housing, compares it to log cabins, and argues that repealing these protections hinders homeownership. In response to questions, she speculates passage would reduce installations, cites non-compliant towns denying permits and variances, and believes towns would shut down manufactured housing without state mandates, as they did before the 1980s law.
HB1016: Ivy Van Oppose06:18:45.920 - 2:14:22 PM; Ivy Van opposes HB 1016, predicting towns would enact zoning to prohibit manufactured housing entirely, based on her review of non-compliant zoning codes. She emphasizes modern manufactured homes are not outdated trailers, notes federal changes removing chassis requirements, and highlights their role in homeownership and appreciation like regular houses. She urges ITL to encourage rather than discourage them.
HB1016: Chris Norwood, New Hampshire Association of Realtors Oppose06:20:55.760 - 2:16:32 PM; Chris Norwood opposes HB 1016 and urges ITL, comparing it to HB 1007. He references the 1991 Britain v. Chester court case establishing 'reasonable and realistic' opportunities for affordable housing, arguing that without state guardrails, towns provide token amounts, as seen historically, and this would eliminate manufactured housing opportunities.
HB1016: Elizabeth War Oppose06:22:00.400 - 2:17:37 PM; Elizabeth War opposes HB 1016 as more restrictive than the prior bill. She reiterates her need for manufactured housing in a resident-owned community on the seacoast to remain homeowners affordably, avoiding skyrocketing rents that may not allow pets, which are vital for retirement health and family.
HB1016: Lily Wellington, Executive Director, New Hampshire State Commission on Aging Oppose06:24:56.638 - 2:20:33 PM; Lily Wellington opposes the bill from a demographic perspective, noting that 26% of New Hampshire's population is currently 65 or older, projected to reach 30% by 2030, making the aging population the only growing demographic. She emphasizes the need for forward-thinking planning given increased lifespans and outdated neighborhood designs. She references the Age Well NH multi-sector plan for aging, developed through extensive community engagement, which identified transportation and housing affordability as top issues for older adults. She highlights the importance of zero-step entry, affordable housing options that accommodate aging in place, as current housing stock often lacks these features.
HB1016: Matt Mayberry, New Hampshire Homebuilders Association Oppose06:27:57.680 - 2:23:34 PM; Matt Mayberry states that the New Hampshire Homebuilders Association opposes the legislation, emphasizing the need for housing at all levels, including manufactured homes. He shares a personal reference to his parents living in a manufactured home in Maine and agrees that one size does not fit all, criticizing communities of high-priced homes. He argues that supporting the bill discriminates against 40,000 New Hampshire families in manufactured homes, labeling it as 'snob zoning' and implying it makes them unwelcome or restricts where they can live despite working in the area. He urges a no vote to affirm that these families are welcome.
HB1016: Abby Bronson, Director of Policy and Advocacy, New Hampshire Community Loan Fund Oppose06:29:06.958 - 2:24:43 PM; Abby Bronson urges strong opposition to the bill, appreciating previous testimony supporting manufactured housing. She notes that since the 1980s, federal standards have ensured manufactured homes meet strict safety, quality, and durability requirements, making them comparable to site-built housing. She displays pictures of such homes to illustrate their quality and longevity. Bronson clarifies that these homes are certified manufactured homes built to federal standards and rarely move due to cost. She offers to arrange visits to residential communities for committee members who haven't seen one in person.
HB1016: Chairman Alexander Information Only06:31:28.958 - 2:27:05 PM; The chairman moves for Inexpedient to Legislate (ITL) on HB 1016, seconded by Representative Reid. He notes a 1983 statute amended in 2024 with 'reasonable and realistic' language that hasn't had time to take effect, calling this action premature. He emphasizes manufactured housing's role in addressing the housing shortage and states the committee does not want to repeal protections. No other comments are offered, and the motion passes 17-0 with all present members voting yes. The bill is placed on consent without objection.
HB1017: Representative David Priest, Prime Sponsor Support06:36:01.280 - 2:31:38 PM; Representative David Priest introduces HB 1017 as a modest bill clarifying how accessory dwelling units (ADUs) can address workforce housing needs while respecting local control and community character. He explains that the bill allows towns to count existing or potential ADUs toward their required workforce housing plans. ADUs are described as low-density options like backyard cottages, in-law apartments, or converted garages that integrate into neighborhoods, often created by homeowners to help family or supplement income. They provide affordable housing for essential workers like nurses and teachers. The bill does not mandate ADUs, override zoning, or force acceptance of non-compliant housing; instead, it permits towns to treat qualifying ADUs as workforce housing if they meet affordability criteria and allows restrictive covenants for long-term compliance. Priest highlights New Hampshire's housing shortage impacting the economy and residents across generations, positioning HB 1017 as a practical solution that strengthens local tools. He urges an ought to pass recommendation for its sensible approach.
HB1017: Representative Reed Information Only06:40:26.000 - 2:36:03 PM; Representative Reed engages in discussion with the sponsor, referencing her original ADU bill from several years ago. She suggests allowing the first ADU by right, potentially unattached, and for a second ADU, allowing municipalities to require it to be workforce housing. This would enable building for family members while also providing an affordable rental option.
HB1017: Argie Vanam Oppose06:42:17.120 - 2:37:54 PM; Argie Vanam urges the committee to vote ITL (Inexpedient to Legislate) on the bill, arguing that mandating affordable housing for ADUs ignores economic realities of real estate. She notes that most ADUs are built for known individuals like family members, and requiring workforce affordability without subsidies will prevent construction due to high building costs. She emphasizes that builders may need market-rate rents to afford construction, and such mandates could deter ADU development altogether.
HB1017: Chris Norman Information Only06:43:25.600 - 2:39:02 PM; Chris Norman questions Argie Vanam on whether workforce housing requirements for ADUs could suppress construction. Vanam responds that without subsidies, it leads to fewer units, citing an example from Somerville where affordability mandates reduced the number of units built.
HB1017: Chris Norwood, Chair of Public Policy Committee, New Hampshire Association of Realtors Oppose06:45:16.000 - 2:40:53 PM; Chris Norwood opposes the bill and encourages ITL. He highlights that ADUs are often built for family members (like in-law apartments), making rental eligibility tests under RSA 674:60 impractical. He expresses concern over the bill's provision allowing municipalities to require restrictive covenants for affordability, which could bind properties long-term, reduce marketability upon sale, and prevent market-rate rentals needed for affordability of construction, especially for retirees.
HB1017: H Grace, BIA Oppose06:48:22.000 - 2:43:59 PM; H Grace opposes the legislation, agreeing with Representative Reed that restrictions should apply only to a second optional ADU, not the first. She reiterates concerns about family living arrangements in ADUs, such as an 84-year-old in Concord building for her daughter from Laconia, where verifying workforce housing eligibility would be burdensome and defeat the purpose of ADU laws. She notes this could hinder family support without formal leases.
HB1017: Brody Deay, New Hampshire Municipal Association Support06:50:36.798 - 2:46:13 PM; Brody Deay supports the bill's goal of allowing municipalities to require new ADUs to meet affordability criteria, adding a tool to encourage truly affordable units amid a proliferation of market-rate and luxury ADUs. He clarifies the bill applies to ADUs under RSA 674:72, including multiple if permitted locally. He suggests openness to amendments, such as applying affordability only to a second ADU if allowed, without mandating two ADUs or further zoning preemption, to ensure long-term affordability for workforce and families.