Hampton committee confirms 2026 implementation priorities, shifts to advocacy role

The Master Plan Implementation Committee on July 22 reviewed and reaffirmed its priority recommendations for 2026 and said it will take a more active advocacy role to secure Select Board authorization for staff time and other resources. Chair Ryan Pope reviewed the 2026 Priority Recommendations presentation that was made to the Select Board on July 13.

Committee members listed top priorities that include Town Center revitalization and resilience work such as flood-hazard mitigation and a municipal climate impact assessment. Mr. Pope described a three-step formalized process: the Committee identifies priorities, the Planning Board reviews and endorses them, and the Select Board authorizes allocation of staff and other resources.

Members emphasized outreach and education as part of implementation: the Committee will assist with research, community education and facilitation to improve adoption and execution. Don Bliss noted the Select Board will need to weigh these suggestions against available funding and staff availability. The committee set a timeline for public engagement actions and will report back at its September 23, 2026 meeting, when additional members will be present.