Commission reviews zoning proposals and updates on Alteria, Densmore and Woolen Mill projects

Commissioners and staff reviewed a set of zoning changes staff plans to submit — including Rock Ridge (potential for up to 148 additional units under covenant limits), an industrial‑zone planned business park density increase, and a proposed change to the rule limiting expansion of nonconforming uses to 10%. Staff said these changes could enable more housing and allow reasonable expansions where appropriate.

On individual projects, the commission discussed Alteria — a long‑approved but unbuilt project — and the factors that have kept it from advancing. Staff said new ownership and adjusted pricing could prompt activity. David reported the Woolen Mill project has advanced with remediation support including InvestNH grants and council approval for 79‑E relief; he referenced a recent C‑PACE (commercial property assessed clean energy and resiliency) closing that brought roughly $20 million in equity toward portions of a large project. Commissioners said subdivision, condominiumization and phased construction remain complicated and that tax‑credit timelines and permitting will shape near‑term progress.