Committee Summary for House Committee on Housing (02/04/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB577 00:04:33.680 - 9:03:04 AM	Public Hearing	relative to modifying the definition of ADUs.	Alexander, Joe(R)[A]2024
HB577 00:36:46.520 - 9:35:17 AM	Public Hearing	relative to modifying the definition of ADUs.	Alexander, Joe(R)[A]2024
HB685 01:01:38.200 - 10:00:09 AM	Public Hearing	permitting in all residentially zoned areas by right the construction of manufactured housing.	Alexander, Joe(R)[A]2024
HB604 01:30:02.400 - 10:28:33 AM	Executive Session	relative to a loan forgiveness program for low-income homeowners to build new accessory dwelling units or renovate existing structures into accessory dwelling units.	Newell, Jodi(D)[D-]2024
HB459 03:17:44.760 - 12:16:15 PM	Public Hearing	relative to acreage requirements and zoning regarding sewer infrastructure and single-family residential uses.	Alexander, Joe(R)[A]2024
HB631 03:55:11.920 - 12:53:42 PM	Public Hearing	permitting residential building in commercial zoning by right.	Murray, Alissandra(D)[D-]2024

HB577: Joe Alexander, town of Goffstown Support00:04:33.680 - 9:03:04 AM; Joe Alexander, representing Goffstown, opened his testimony by emphasizing the urgency of addressing New Hampshire's housing crisis, pointing out the state's shortage of affordable housing and the sharp rise in rental prices. He highlighted the displacement of families and the exodus of young professionals and seniors due to housing costs. Alexander supported HB 577, arguing for the facilitation of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) as a solution. He criticized current municipal regulations for creating barriers and proposed that HB 577 would standardize and simplify the process of building ADUs across the state, ensuring they meet safety and zoning standards while respecting property rights. He concluded by urging the committee to support the bill to empower homeowners to help solve the housing shortage.
HB577: Representative Reed Information Only00:08:00.039 - 9:06:31 AM; Representative Reed asked Joe Alexander about the removal of a provision from the bill that would have allowed a town to require workforce housing rent levels for additional ADUs beyond the first one. Reed expressed concern that the removal could lead to ADUs being used for short-term rentals, which could worsen the housing crisis. Alexander responded by suggesting that he was open to reintroducing language to clarify the short-term rental provision to prevent such outcomes.
HB577: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:09:05.800 - 9:07:36 AM; An unnamed speaker asked for clarification on whether a door between the two units was required under the bill, specifically referencing page two, line three. Alexander believed that current law required a shared wall or door if the units were attached, but noted that the bill's language allowed for both internal and external ingress and egress points, leaving the choice to the builder rather than the town.
HB577: Matt Mayberry, CEO of the New Hampshire Homebuilders Association Support00:11:23.720 - 9:09:54 AM; Matt Mayberry, representing the New Hampshire Homebuilders Association, supported HB 577, emphasizing the collaborative effort to craft the bill. He explained that the bill would allow ADUs by right, limited to 950 square feet, without municipal permission, but still subject to building codes and zoning requirements. Mayberry highlighted the benefits of ADUs, including helping homeowners stay in their homes longer and providing attainable housing, while also reducing urban sprawl. He urged the committee to support the bill.
HB577: Sarah Holland, New Hampshire Association of Realtors Support00:14:43.600 - 9:13:14 AM; Sarah Holland, representing the New Hampshire Association of Realtors, supported HB 577 based on a survey showing strong public support for allowing ADUs. She discussed the housing anxiety faced by residents and the importance of ADUs as a solution. Holland argued that property rights should not be limited by town boundaries and refuted claims that ADUs negatively impact neighboring property values, citing evidence that they can increase property values. She urged the committee to support the bill to help alleviate the housing crisis.
HB577: Brian Chirichello, Derry Support00:18:22.159 - 9:16:53 AM; Brian Chirichello, a real estate agent from Derry, shared his personal experience with accessory dwelling units (ADUs). He described building an oversized two-car garage on his property in Derry, which he converted into a 'man cave' but is unable to use as an ADU due to town regulations requiring attachment to the main house. He supports HB 577 because it would allow him to convert this space into an ADU, thereby providing affordable housing. He suggested renting it out at $1,500 per month, significantly lower than the average rent in Derry, to help address housing affordability issues.
HB577: Notch Gra NCH, Business and Industry Association Support00:20:34.760 - 9:19:05 AM; Notch Gra NCH from the Business and Industry Association expressed support for HB 577, describing it as a sensible update to the 2017 ADU law. He highlighted the need for more housing options for traveling nurses and family members, pointing out that current regulations prevent the utilization of potential ADU spaces. He believes the bill strikes a balance between local control and the need for increased housing, and it addresses issues like water, septic, and sewer concerns, as well as the conversion of unused buildings.
HB577: Stephanie Skyler and Sharon Monroe, AARP Support00:22:50.679 - 9:21:21 AM; Stephanie Skyler and Sharon Monroe, representing AARP, endorsed HB 577, emphasizing its benefits for family caregivers, aging in place, intergenerational living, and affordable housing. They shared stories demonstrating how ADUs can benefit both young people starting out and elderly individuals nearing retirement. They believe the bill will help alleviate the housing shortage in New Hampshire by providing more housing options and additional income for seniors.
HB577: Nick Taylor, Housing Action New Hampshire Support00:26:06.240 - 9:24:37 AM; Nick Taylor, Executive Director of Housing Action New Hampshire, strongly supported HB 577, emphasizing its role in increasing housing affordability and property rights. He highlighted the benefits of ADUs for communities, noting they add housing without significantly impacting neighborhood aesthetics. He pointed out the current patchwork of ADU regulations across New Hampshire, which complicates development and lending, and praised the bill for standardizing regulations to help mature the market.
HB577: Ivy Van, Peterborough Support00:28:17.279 - 9:26:48 AM; Ivy Van from Peterborough, a certified land use planner, supported HB 577, criticizing the often restrictive and nonsensical ADU ordinances in various towns. She emphasized the importance of uniform ADU regulations across the state to facilitate development and lending. Ivy also discussed the economic necessity of short-term rentals for ADUs due to high construction costs and suggested that allowing short-term rentals could be beneficial as units can serve different purposes over time.
HB577: Matt Mushan, Claremont, 603 Forward Support00:32:21.399 - 9:30:52 AM; Matt Mushan from Claremont, representing 603 Forward, supported HB 577 for its potential to benefit both retirees and young people facing housing affordability issues. He shared his personal experience living in a home with an ADU, which helped him and his partner afford to stay in their community. He urged the committee to pass the bill to create more housing choices and meet the diverse housing needs of New Hampshire.
HB577: Grace Murray, Amherst, New Hampshire Youth Movement Support00:34:26.280 - 9:32:57 AM; Grace Murray from Amherst, representing the New Hampshire Youth Movement, supported HB 577, highlighting the housing challenges faced by young people and college students in New Hampshire. She shared experiences of friends forced to move out of state due to housing shortages and emphasized the need for statewide solutions like HB 577. She believes ADUs can provide affordable housing options for students and young professionals, helping them stay in New Hampshire.
HB577: Sarah Burke Cohen, New Hampshire Municipal Association Oppose00:36:46.520 - 9:35:17 AM; Sarah Burke Cohen from the New Hampshire Municipal Association expressed opposition to HB577. She highlighted that the bill would mandate zoning changes for municipalities, potentially causing stress on existing infrastructure. She argued that every municipality is unique, and local zoning control is crucial for managing issues such as infrastructure capacity and health and safety. Cohen also mentioned concerns about the bill's lack of requirements for the ADUs to be affordable or workforce housing, which she believes is necessary to address housing issues effectively in New Hampshire. She emphasized the importance of maintaining local governance over decisions about ADUs.
HB577: Bires, Amherst Municipal Association Oppose00:41:40.280 - 9:40:11 AM; Bires, representing the Amherst Municipal Association, opposed HB577, focusing on the differences between attached and detached ADUs. He explained that detached ADUs might require additional lot size for reasons such as sewage disposal, health and safety, and maintaining neighborhood character. He pointed out that the bill does not consider factors like ledge or other limitations on the lot that could affect building possibilities. Bires argued that these considerations necessitate the ability of municipalities to set lot size requirements, which the bill would remove.
HB577: Chris Freeman, Belt Howard Property Management Support00:45:57.119 - 9:44:28 AM; Chris Freeman, owner and executive manager of Belt Howard Property Management, supported HB577. He emphasized the financial and multigenerational benefits of ADUs, such as enabling aging in place and providing financial stability for young homeowners. Freeman shared personal experience, noting that renting out an ADU helped him financially and argued that ADUs could significantly contribute to retirement savings. He also addressed concerns about short-term rentals, suggesting that they might lead to lower rates and eventually encourage more traditional housing options.
HB577: Brian, unspecified affiliation Support00:49:42.520 - 9:48:13 AM; Brian supported HB577, briefly highlighting that the bill prevents municipalities from requiring a familial relationship between the occupants of an ADU and the main dwelling unit. He pointed out that some towns have such restrictions, which he believes are problematic and that the bill's provisions would address this issue.
HB577: Representative Reed, unspecified affiliation Information Only00:49:42.520 - 9:48:13 AM; Representative Reed clarified that the provision mentioned by Brian about familial relationships is already part of current law and that the bill primarily replaces the existing section with minor tweaks. He noted that some municipalities illegally enforce restrictions on familial relationships, which could lead to legal challenges. Reed emphasized the importance of addressing housing affordability, especially for the elderly and young families.
HB685: Representative Joe Alexander, Town of Goffstown Support01:01:38.200 - 10:00:09 AM; Representative Joe Alexander introduced HB 685, emphasizing its importance in addressing New Hampshire's housing crisis by empowering private property owners and increasing affordable housing options. He detailed that the bill allows manufactured housing in all residentially zoned areas, amending RSA 674:31 to clarify what constitutes manufactured housing, and mandates municipalities to amend their zoning ordinances to comply within six months. Alexander also mentioned his support for an amendment by Representative Paige to extend the compliance timeline. He highlighted the potential of manufactured housing to help families live together in compounds, referencing calls he received from Granite Staters interested in such developments.
HB685: Representative Reed Support01:05:31.799 - 10:04:02 AM; Representative Reed expressed support for HB 685, questioning why the bill specifically exempts modular and other pre-fabricated housing, suggesting that expanding the bill to include these types could provide more affordable housing options. He noted his co-sponsorship of the bill and looked forward to further discussion in a work session.
HB685: Representative Daxon Information Only01:06:39.920 - 10:05:10 AM; Representative Daxon raised a concern about Section 5 of the bill, which mentions oversight by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, an entity that does not exist in New Hampshire. Representative Alexander agreed to remove the reference to avoid confusion and potential issues with local implementation.
HB685: Representative Aron Information Only01:07:40.480 - 10:06:11 AM; Representative Aron inquired about the impact of HB 685 on the building of trailer parks, to which Representative Alexander clarified that the bill focuses on manufactured housing on permanent chassis, distinct from mobile trailer parks, and does not affect the latter.
HB685: Representative Reed Information Only01:08:43.439 - 10:07:14 AM; Representative Reed sought clarification on whether HB 685 would allow the creation of subdivisions of manufactured housing or if it was limited to owner-occupied lots. Representative Alexander explained that the bill allows for manufactured housing in residentially zoned areas, subject to typical planning board requirements, without needing additional language for subdivisions.
HB685: Abby Bronson, Director of Policy and Advocacy for the New Hampshire Community Loan Fund, Manchester Support01:10:44.600 - 10:09:15 AM; Abby Bronson, representing the New Hampshire Community Loan Fund, strongly supported HB 685, highlighting its role in helping families achieve homeownership amidst New Hampshire's housing crisis. She noted the affordability of manufactured homes compared to single-family homes and their suitability for younger families and retirees, emphasizing their safety and dignity as housing options.
HB685: Ivy Van, Land Use Planner, New Hampshire Support01:13:29.199 - 10:12:00 AM; Ivy Van, a land use planner, supported HB 685, describing modern manufactured housing as attractive, safe, and appreciating assets. She discussed the potential of using manufactured housing in Cottage courts, small groupings of cottages on a single lot, as a cost-effective and community-oriented housing solution.
HB685: Sarah Holland, Real Estate Broker, Central New Hampshire, 2025 Chair of the Public Policy Committee for the New Hampshire Association of Realtors Support01:14:56.920 - 10:13:27 AM; Sarah Holland, representing the New Hampshire Association of Realtors, supported HB 685, noting the critical role of manufactured housing in New Hampshire's housing market. She provided statistics showing manufactured homes as more affordable alternatives to single-family homes and criticized local zoning ordinances that hinder the development of such housing. Holland argued that manufactured homes are essential for workforce housing, retirees, and protecting private property rights.
HB685: Representative Buer Information Only01:18:02.280 - 10:16:33 AM; Representative Buer sought clarification on the median sale price of manufactured housing mentioned by Sarah Holland, questioning whether it included homes on leased land. Holland confirmed the median price reflects both homes on leased and private land.
HB685: Representative Reed Information Only01:19:06.760 - 10:17:37 AM; Representative Reed further clarified the median sale price of manufactured homes, stating it represents the cost of the home itself, separate from the land it sits on, and noted the wide range of prices for new manufactured homes.
HB685: Nick Taylor, Housing Action New Hampshire Support01:20:05.639 - 10:18:36 AM; Nick Taylor from Housing Action New Hampshire expressed support for HB685. He highlighted the bill's potential to expand affordable home ownership, noting that median home sales prices have been above $500,000 in recent quarters. Taylor appreciated the inclusion of property rights and health and safety discussions in the bill. He also addressed concerns about innovative construction models like 3D printing and prefab, clarifying that these are not prohibited under the bill and that companies in New Hampshire are already using these methods without issue. He emphasized that there should be no discriminatory treatment against these types of construction, suggesting that opposition is rooted in stigma.
HB685: Brody Dees, New Hampshire Municipal Association Oppose01:21:01.800 - 10:19:32 AM; Brody Dees from the New Hampshire Municipal Association opposed HB685, arguing that local decisions should be made by local residents and planning boards. He expressed concern over section 2, Roman numeral 3 of the bill, which he believes is too broad and might make it difficult for municipalities to interpret and adopt reasonable zoning or planning requirements for manufactured homes. Dees emphasized the need for clarity to assist local planning and zoning boards in making effective decisions.
HB685: Chris Freeman Support01:25:25.560 - 10:23:56 AM; Chris Freeman testified in favor of HB685, noting its importance in affirming property rights and providing accessible entry-level home ownership opportunities with prices below $200,000. He suggested considering stakeholder input from municipalities like Keene, which has adopted a cottage core ordinance, to avoid ambiguities or conflicts. Freeman addressed concerns about aesthetics and stigma associated with manufactured homes, arguing that market forces naturally balance construction types. He also highlighted the benefits of socioeconomic diversity for upward mobility and criticized the use of state power to support property values as an unethical redistribution of wealth.
HB604: Representative Aaron Information Only01:30:02.400 - 10:28:33 AM; Representative Aaron moved to retain HB604 for future work, citing unclear language in the bill. He expressed interest in exploring options like establishing a revolving fund and reconsidering the provision about the workforce housing range, hoping to reach a bipartisan agreement.
HB604: Representative Page Information Only01:31:05.960 - 10:29:36 AM; Representative Page supported retaining HB604, acknowledging the merit of the bill and the need to address affordability in accessory dwelling units (ADUs). He commended the sponsor's efforts to find solutions for making ADUs more affordable and suggested that the bill could complement other ADU legislation heard earlier in the day.
HB459: Representative Joe Xander Support03:17:44.760 - 12:16:15 PM; Representative Joe Xander introduced HB459, emphasizing the urgency of addressing New Hampshire's housing crisis. As a full-time bartender, he shared his perspective on the affordability issues facing working-class residents. He criticized 'snob zoning' practices that limit access to housing through restrictive minimum lot sizes, arguing that these regulations exclude working families and people of modest means. HB459 aims to eliminate unreasonable lot sizes for single-family homes, particularly in areas without municipal sewer systems, proposing a maximum lot size of 22,000 square feet for lots with sewer infrastructure unless larger sizes are justified for health or safety. Xander stressed that the bill supports property rights and aims to make housing more affordable without forcing municipalities to abandon zoning regulations entirely.
HB459: Chris Norwood, Seacoast, Norwood Group, New Hampshire Association of Realtors Support03:27:54.920 - 12:26:25 PM; Chris Norwood, a real estate broker and Vice Chair of the New Hampshire Association of Realtors Public Policy Committee, supports HB459. He emphasizes the importance of density for affordable housing development, describing the bill as a modest step towards increasing density. Norwood shares his personal experience with lot development, highlighting the complexities involved beyond simple zoning ordinances, such as the need for soil scientists or civil engineers. He also discusses a personal example involving his parents' land, where zoning laws prevented the division of land as intended. Norwood addresses misconceptions about the bill, clarifying that it won't mandate maximum lot sizes across all parcels and won't increase labor for the Department of Environmental Services (DES) regarding septic systems.
HB459: Ivy Van Support03:31:53.160 - 12:30:24 PM; Ivy Van supports HB459, focusing on the economic health of towns and the social benefits of denser housing. She discusses the high cost of road maintenance and how large lot sizes increase these costs without corresponding tax revenue. Van uses an example from Peterborough, NH, where an acre of land increased in value from $47,000 as a parking lot to $575,000 as a residential lot, highlighting the economic benefits of denser development. She also emphasizes the importance of walkable neighborhoods for social health and livability, suggesting that smaller lots can facilitate this.
HB459: Jack Rudderman, New Hampshire Housing Support03:36:25.800 - 12:34:56 PM; Jack Rudderman, Legislative Affairs Advisor at New Hampshire Housing, supports HB459. He explains that local zoning restrictions, particularly large minimum lot sizes, contribute to the housing crisis by limiting the supply of affordable homes. Rudderman argues that the bill offers a solution by tying lot sizes to existing environmental standards and setting limits on lots served by public water and sewer, which could help increase the supply of starter homes.
HB459: Nick Taylor, Housing Action New Hampshire Support03:38:22.239 - 12:36:53 PM; Nick Taylor, Director of Housing Action New Hampshire, supports HB459, stating that large lot sizes increase home costs and promote sprawl, negatively impacting conservation efforts. He clarifies that the bill does not override conservation subdivision ordinances and would not force urban areas to increase lot sizes. Taylor also mentions a similar Senate bill and the importance of ensuring that frontage and setback requirements do not render lots unbuildable. He notes that 58 communities in New Hampshire already use soil-based lot sizing.
HB459: NCH GRE, Business and Industry Association Support03:40:34.760 - 12:39:05 PM; NCH GRE, representing the Business and Industry Association, supports HB459 for promoting density, which they believe is crucial for lowering housing costs. They clarify that the bill would not change the existing DES permitting process for well and septic systems, nor would it force development without proper water and sewer capacity. GRE uses an example from New London to illustrate how the bill would not force development where it's not feasible.
HB459: Meredith Hatfield, The Nature Conservancy Information Only03:43:37.159 - 12:42:08 PM; Meredith Hatfield from The Nature Conservancy does not take a position on HB459 but expresses interest in addressing the housing crisis. She discusses the organization's work in land and water conservation and their experience with the challenges of housing affordability. Hatfield mentions their partnership with the New Hampshire Department of Transportation on culvert issues and their interest in using their scientific knowledge and mapping resources to help determine suitable locations for housing development.
HB459: Dave Nelson, Individual, Planning Board Chair Information Only03:45:41.840 - 12:44:12 PM; Dave Nelson, speaking as an individual and a Planning Board Chair, provides insights into the complexities of determining lot sizes beyond septic design considerations. He mentions the importance of aquifers and the challenges of ensuring water availability outside municipal water districts. Nelson emphasizes that while increasing density can help with housing affordability, other factors like water resources need to be considered in the context of HB459.
HB459: Unnamed Speaker, likely from a conservation or environmental organization Information Only03:47:18.199 - 12:45:49 PM; The speaker discussed the importance of considering various environmental factors beyond just septic systems when reviewing land use and sizing. They mentioned the impact of aquifers, water availability, slopes, and wetlands on development. They affirmed that there are already limitations on development affecting wetlands, such as setbacks from jurisdictional and prime wetlands, which need to be taken into account when determining buildable areas.
HB459: Samuel Hooper, Institute for Justice Support03:48:40.720 - 12:47:11 PM; Samuel Hooper, a legal counsel from the Institute for Justice, expressed strong support for the bill, applauding New Hampshire for being a national leader in addressing the housing crisis. He emphasized the importance of minimum lot size reform for increasing density and sustainability in communities. Hooper argued from a property rights perspective, suggesting that land use restrictions should be tied to valid health and safety reasons rather than arbitrary factors like aesthetics. He praised the bill for allowing a reduced minimum lot size for the majority of land in a municipality while retaining larger sizes for the rest, viewing it as a pragmatic approach to incremental reform. He also questioned the fiscal note attached to the bill, suggesting that costs related to contesting the lot size requirements should not be considered a valid reason for opposing the bill.
HB459: Chris Freeman, likely from a development or investment perspective Support03:51:59.640 - 12:50:30 PM; Chris Freeman supported the bill, focusing on the challenges and benefits of smaller lot sizes in New Hampshire, particularly due to the state's hilly terrain and wetlands. He argued that smaller lots could make use of awkwardly shaped spaces, increasing the amount of usable land for development. Freeman also highlighted the benefits of increased density for expanding the tax base and suggested that infrastructure could be adjusted over time to support such development. He advocated for municipalities to set larger targets for infrastructure to promote density.
HB631: Alexandra Murray, Representative for Hillsborough District 20, Manchester Ward 9 Support03:55:11.920 - 12:53:42 PM; Representative Alexandra Murray introduced HB631, which aims to address the housing crisis by allowing residential building and mixed-use units in commercial lots. The bill ensures that these units follow existing local guidelines for commercial structures. Murray highlighted the urgency of the housing crisis in New Hampshire, citing a 52% rise in homelessness and significant increases in home and rental prices. She argued for broad zoning reforms to encourage new construction and mixed-use developments, which could improve walkability, reduce parking needs, and enhance community building. Murray was open to adjustments in the bill, such as increasing the percentage of ground floor space dedicated to residential uses and clarifying parking requirements.
HB631: Matt Mayberry, CEO of the New Hampshire Homebuilders Association Oppose04:03:44.399 - 1:02:15 PM; Matt Mayberry expressed concerns about HB631 from the perspective of the homebuilding industry. He argued that allowing residential use in all commercially zoned land could lead to a scramble for builders to develop industrial, technology, and retail spaces, potentially making financing more difficult and excluding the very individuals the bill aims to help. Mayberry suggested that if the bill narrowed its scope to retail or office spaces with residential units above, it might gain support. He also highlighted the need to consider job creation alongside housing, expressing concern about residential development in industrial parks. Mayberry suggested looking elsewhere for housing development, given New Hampshire's forested and protected land.
HB631: Representative Reed Information Only04:08:49.279 - 1:07:20 PM; Representative Reed questions the broad definition of 'commercial' in the bill and seeks clarification on whether the bill truly supports increasing housing supply. He challenges the assertion that supply is the only solution to the housing crisis and questions why the bill does not allow for residential use in commercial buildings, which could be a direct way to increase housing supply. He also inquires about the tax implications mentioned by previous speakers, suggesting that addressing tax issues might be secondary to providing housing solutions.
HB631: Representative Gibbs Information Only04:13:47.359 - 1:12:18 PM; Representative Gibbs discusses the potential impact of the bill on industrial parks and whether the term 'by right' in the bill forces municipalities to sell to home builders. He argues that municipalities should retain control over zoning and development decisions, questioning the implications of 'by right' zoning on local governance and development priorities.
HB631: Representative Buio Support04:16:59.479 - 1:15:30 PM; Representative Buio expresses support for the concept of the bill, citing a successful example from Littleton, New Hampshire, where a former manufacturing plant was rezoned for mixed-use development. He raises concerns about the bill's definition of commercial use, particularly whether it would allow residential development in industrial areas, and suggests that clearer definitions might improve the bill.
HB631: Representative Miles Information Only04:19:21.159 - 1:17:52 PM; Representative Miles seeks clarification on the tax-related arguments presented, specifically how relying solely on residential property taxes affects a town's tax rates. He questions whether the bill's allowance for residential use in commercially zoned areas could lead to higher property taxes due to a lack of industrial revenue.
HB631: Grace Murray, New Hampshire Youth Movement Support04:25:28.279 - 1:23:59 PM; Grace Murray, political director for the New Hampshire Youth Movement, spoke in support of HB631. She highlighted the housing crisis affecting young people in New Hampshire, noting that the cost of homes, apartments, and starter homes is out of reach for many due to a lack of available housing and restrictive zoning laws. Murray argued that the bill would help by allowing the construction of more homes in commercial corridors, thus addressing the housing needs of residents and helping young people stay in the state.
HB631: Paul Desan, Town of Newington Oppose04:27:12.640 - 1:25:43 PM; Paul Desan, a project manager for the town of Newington, testified in opposition to HB631. He raised concerns about the unintended consequences of the bill, particularly regarding the definition of rural versus urban areas. Desan argued that Newington, with a population of about 800, should not be classified as urban, yet it might be affected by the bill due to its proximity to the Portsmouth metropolitan area. He also emphasized the importance of local control, suggesting that local governments are best positioned to address their community's housing needs. Desan expressed that Newington's current zoning strategy has been successful and should not be disrupted by this legislation.
HB631: Ivy Van, Land Use Planner Support04:37:26.639 - 1:35:57 PM; Ivy Van, a land use planner, expressed support for HB631 but suggested some considerations for the committee. She advised against increasing the non-residential space requirement in mixed-use buildings, arguing that the U.S. and New Hampshire are over-retailed. Van also discussed the potential of converting industrial areas and strip malls into housing, suggesting that such conversions could be beneficial and should be considered on a case-by-case basis. She recommended clear definitional changes in the bill to address these issues effectively.
HB631: Ivy Van, Land Use Planner Support04:39:48.878 - 1:38:19 PM; Ivy Van continued her support for HB631, emphasizing the importance of creating cohesive development rather than random buildings. She suggested that the committee should consider adding definitions to the bill to clarify its intent, supporting it both in committee and on the House floor. She addressed concerns about commercial buildings transitioning to residential use, dismissing the argument that it would drive out businesses and shift tax burdens. She provided examples from before 1970, such as Cambridge, Massachusetts, where mixed-use developments have been successful and economically viable. She also discussed the potential of transforming existing downtowns in New Hampshire towns like Manchester, Nashua, and Milford into mixed-use areas. Ivy Van concluded by suggesting that the bill could be improved by distinguishing between industrial and commercial uses to better target its intent.
HB631: Matt Mushan, Advocacy and Engagement Director for 603 Forward, Claremont Support04:48:28.080 - 1:46:59 PM; Matt Mushan testified in support of HB631, highlighting its importance in addressing New Hampshire's housing crisis by allowing multifamily housing and mixed-use developments in commercial zones. He outlined five reasons why the bill matters: addressing the housing shortage, lowering housing costs, shortening commute times, providing economic opportunities for property owners, and promoting the benefits of mixed-use development. He stressed that this legislation would help workers, teachers, and others find affordable homes near their workplaces, fostering stronger communities and supporting the state's economy.
HB631: Nick Taylor, Director for Housing Action New Hampshire Support04:50:41.240 - 1:49:12 PM; Nick Taylor expressed support for HB631 but noted that there might be room for improvement. He emphasized the need to address the housing shortage by developing in already built-out commercial zones where infrastructure exists, promoting walkability and increasing property rights. He cited examples from Montana and Arizona where similar legislation has been passed and mentioned a study by New Hampshire Housing that showed mixed-use development has the highest value per acre. He suggested that while industrial zones might not be the primary target, flexibility in the bill could allow for local opportunities to be utilized effectively, such as repurposing empty industrial parks.
HB631: Samuel Hooper, Legislative Counsel, Institute for Justice Support04:54:02.798 - 1:52:33 PM; Samuel Hooper from the Institute for Justice spoke in support of House Bill 631, emphasizing the benefits of mixed-use developments. He highlighted that many desirable living areas today, such as parts of Manhattan and Manchester, New Hampshire, would not be permissible to build under current zoning laws. Hooper expressed support for the bill's broad approach but cautioned against mandating specific percentages of retail space on the first floor due to potential economic infeasibility. He also discussed the flexibility of allowing housing in various zones, including industrial areas, and the importance of addressing the housing crisis on a broader scale due to the collective action problem.
HB631: Chris Freeman Support04:59:51.160 - 1:58:22 PM; Chris Freeman supported House Bill 631, focusing on the importance of property owner freedom. He argued that the market should determine the highest and best use of land, not government bodies. Freeman addressed concerns about converting industrial land into multifamily housing, suggesting it could lead to live-work communities. He emphasized the benefits of integrating residential and commercial spaces, citing examples from cities like Barcelona. Freeman also discussed the potential of adaptive reuse of existing buildings for housing, which could be more cost-effective than new construction.