Resident urges Selectmen to move smoking area at Manahan Beach after early nonresident crowds

Eric Fielding told the Hillsborough Board of Selectmen during public comment that he would like smoking moved away from Manahan Beach or banned altogether, and asked for clearer signage and enforcement. He said he arrived early on July 4 before the admission time and found about 50 people — none town residents — already on the beach, occupying picnic tables with loud music and costing about $200 in lost entry fees; he said, “it’s a great place for families” and would like smoking relocated from the beach area.

Selectmen did not make a policy decision during the meeting but said they would look into the request. Resident Jennifer Schamel thanked Fielding and told the board she agreed smoking should be moved and that the gates should be opened earlier. The Selectmen did not set a follow-up date at the meeting.