Planning board backs Selectmen's proposed purchase of 5 Ferry Road for cemetery use, authorizes chair to sign letter

Moultonborough ' July 8, 2026

The Moultonborough Planning Board voted to support the Board of Selectmen's request that the town consider acquiring Tax Map 203, Lot 002 (5 Ferry Road) for municipal cemetery use and authorized Chair Scott Bartlett to sign a letter conveying that support, with one abstention.

Why it matters: The Selectmen asked for the Planning Board's general position under RSA 41:14-a so the Selectmen can schedule required public hearings. The parcel evaluation cited by the Selectmen included test pits and concluded the site could address the town's limited cemetery capacity while preserving the view shed.

Chair Bartlett read a letter from the Board of Selectmen and staff provided a memorandum and a draft letter with a recommended motion. Board members limited their comments to planning issues rather than fiscal matters. Mr. Larson noted an existing driveway easement through Lot 2.3 that may need reconciliation if the town acquires the property. Mr. Quinlan said he had spoken with the property developer, who supported cemetery use and did not believe it would adversely affect the marketability of the remaining house lot.

Mr. Connolly noted a rough schematic suggested capacity for approximately 675 interment sites, "subject to final roadway and setback design," and the Board agreed to change draft language from "recommends" to "supports" acquisition of both sublots (2.2 and 2.3) if possible.

Public comment included Mr. Cormier, who cited RSA 41:14-a and said a petition to rescind that authorization had been presented at the most recent Town Meeting; he also said the Conservation Commission is pursuing a possible conservation easement on the site or an adjoining parcel under RSA 36-A and RSA 477:45 67. Board members clarified a nearby small cemetery is private and unsuitable for expansion due to steep slopes and ledge.

Formal action: Motion to authorize Chair Bartlett to sign a letter to the Board of Selectmen stating the Planning Board supports acquisition of Tax Map 203, Lot 002 (sublots 2.2 and 2.3) for cemetery use (Larson; Kelly 2nd). Vote: PASSED 8-0-1 with Mr. Quinlan abstaining.

Next steps: The Planning Board will provide the signed letter to the Board of Selectmen so the Selectmen can schedule the statutorily required public hearings and any further fiscal discussions.