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            TOWN OF KENSINGTON
 
    BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING
 
     Kensington Town Hall
 
95 Amesbury Road
     Kensington, NH 03833
 
Monday September 14, 2026
 
Meeting Minutes / Draft
PUBLIC SESSION
The Chair called the meeting to order at 6:37pm and led all in attendance in the Pledge of 
Allegiance. 
Board Members Present : Sara Hamilton (Chair), Tom Balabon (Member), Ian O’Reilly 
(Member)
Dept Heads & Town Staff – Chief Scott Cain (PD), Chief Jeff DiBartolomeo (FD), Gino 
Rignoli (Bldg Dept), Matt Armstrong (Road Dept), Carlene Wiggin (Tax Dept), Kathleen T Felch 
(Town Administrator), Peter Gaffney (Land Use Administrator).
Public in attendance was approximately 40.
1. Change to Agenda

The Chair announced that the public comment portion would be moved to later in the 
agenda. 

The Board began with a scheduled informational discussion regarding groundwater 
contamination concerns associated with the Unitil property and ongoing monitoring 
activities.

The Chair stated that the session was intended as a public question-and-answer 
opportunity for residents, particularly those owning property adjacent to the Unitil site, 
to receive information from representatives of Unitil, the New Hampshire Department of
Environmental Services (NHDES), and the project's environmental consultants
2. Unitil/NHDES Contamination Q&A Session

Panel Introductions - Representative Susan Porcelli welcomed attendees and thanked the 
Board, town staff, and participating agencies for their attendance. She introduced the panel:
o
Scott Drew, Hazardous Waste Remediation Bureau Project Manager, NHDES
o
Cheryl Brown, Oil Remediation Compliance Bureau Project Manager, NHDES
o
Michael Kanarik, Senior Project Manager, GZA GeoEnvironmental, Inc.
o
Tom Murphy, Manager of Environmental Health and Safety, Unitil
o
Alek O'Mara, Director of External Affairs, Unitil
o
David Beaulieu, Business Development Executive, Unitil

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
NHDES Site Overview - Scott Drew provided an overview of the Unitil property 
located at 114 Drinkwater Road. He explained that:
o
Petroleum contamination associated with a leaking underground storage tank 
was first identified in the early-to-mid 1990s.
o
Additional contaminants were identified during investigations beginning in 2019-
2020.
o
Contaminants identified include:
o
PFAS compounds
o
Arsenic
o
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs)
o
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
o
Pentachlorophenol (PCP)

Discovery of PFAS in a public water supply well triggered expanded groundwater and 
drinking water investigations.

Additional soil and groundwater assessments conducted around 2021 identified other 
contaminants associated with historical utility operations, including utility pole storage 
and transformer storage activities.

Ongoing investigations are being conducted under New Hampshire contaminated site 
regulations.

Additional groundwater monitoring and private well sampling continue both on-site and 
at nearby residential properties. 

Mr. Drew emphasized that NHDES staff present were geologists and hydrogeologists 
and were not qualified to provide medical or health-effect opinions. Residents with 
health-related questions were directed to NHDES Environmental Health Program 
professionals. 

Petroleum Remediation Status - Cheryl Brown reported that:
o
Petroleum contamination remains under active monitoring.
o
The petroleum plume has been delineated.
o
Monitoring occurs under a five-year permit framework.
o
Current data indicate that petroleum contamination is not migrating off-site.

Future Remediation Planning - Michael Kanarek of GZA GeoEnvironmental 
explained that:
o
Current investigative work will eventually support development of a Remedial 
Action Plan (RAP).
o
The anticipated objective is removal of source materials responsible for 
contamination.
o
Long-term groundwater monitoring would continue after source removal.
o
A Certificate of Completion could eventually be sought from NHDES once 
groundwater standards are met

Public Questions and Discussion
o
Jim Varn, 106 Drinkwater Road, asked whether a jointly owned fire pond located 
downhill from the Unitil property was being monitored.
o
Panel members responded that:

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o
Surface water samples from the pond had not been collected.
o
Existing hydrogeologic evaluations indicate a natural barrier between the 
identified PFAS source area and the pond.
o
The pond is not currently part of the PFAS sampling program.
o
Kate Carey, 8 Oak Ridge Road, asked whether all contaminants identified during 
investigations were included in current testing programs.
o
The panel stated that:
o
Current supplemental site investigations include testing for all identified 
contaminants of concern.
o
Investigation boundaries have been expanded to better define sources 
and contaminant migration pathways.
o
PFAS monitoring extends beyond the property boundary to residential 
abutters.
o
The investigation remains focused on fully characterizing contamination 
before active remediation begins.
o
Bob Hall, 101 Drinkwater Road, expressed concern regarding notification of 
contamination discoveries and questioned who had been informed of the 
findings.
o
Panel members explained:
o
Exceedances of groundwater quality standards are reported directly to 
NHDES.
o
State law requires notification of properties with drinking water wells 
located within 500 feet of identified exceedances of detected soil 
contaminants.
o
Notification letters were mailed to qualifying property owners.
o
Site investigation reports are publicly available through NHDES records.
o
Mr. Hall expressed concern that broader property owner notification had not 
occurred earlier. Unitil representatives replied that notification requirements had 
been followed according to state law and applicable regulations.
o
Susan Varn, 106 Drinkwater Road, asked why the number of homes included in 
the sampling program had increased.
o
The panel reported that:
o
Initial sampling focused on immediate abutters and properties within the 
regulatory notification radius.
o
Later efforts expanded outreach and sampling participation.
o
Approximately 16 of 21-22 invited households participated in the latest 
round of testing.
o
Sampling expansion reflects efforts to improve coverage and participation 
rates rather than discovery of new contamination patterns.
o
A resident requested clearer copies of previous sampling maps and testing 
information.
o
Unitil representatives agreed to investigate posting information online and 
reminded residents that records remain publicly available through the NHDES 
online system.
o
Panel members stated that:

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o
Most of the off-site PFAS test results have remained below state 
groundwater standards.
o
One location experienced an exceedance, but subsequent sampling 
reportedly showed declining concentrations below regulatory standards.
o
A resident requested estimated timelines for cleanup activities.
o
Unitil representatives stated:
o
Supplemental site investigations are expected to be submitted by the first 
quarter of 2027.
o
Following NHDES review and approval, remediation planning would
proceed.
o
Physical soil removal could potentially begin during 2028.
o
Soil excavation activities are expected to require approximately two to 
four weeks.
o
Estimated soil removal volumes range from approximately 800 to 1,500 
cubic yards.
o
A resident requested information about likely contamination sources. [
o
Unitil representatives stated:
o
Utility industry operations do not typically use PFAS directly.
o
Potential PFAS sources could include laundering of flame-resistant clothing
over many years.
o
PCBs may be associated with historical electrical equipment.
o
PCP contamination may be associated with utility pole storage practices.
o
Arsenic may be naturally occurring or potentially associated with historical 
wood treatment activities.
o
Jim Varn, 106 Drinkwater Road asked whether development of a proposed 
municipal well in neighboring Exeter could alter groundwater flow and affect 
contaminant migration.
o
Unitil representatives responded that:
o
Previous discussions occurred between project representatives and Unitil.
o
Available evaluations suggested the Unitil contamination area falls outside 
the projected zone of significant influence.
o
No additional information had been requested from Unitil by the Exeter 
project team.
o
A resident asked whether specific laboratories were recommended for private 
well testing.
o
NHDES representatives advised residents to consult the NHDES PFAS web 
resources, which contain guidance and laboratory information for private 
sampling and analysis.

Closing Remarks
o
Representative Susan Porcelli thanked residents, panelists, Unitil representatives,
NHDES staff, and Board members for participating. She stated that efforts would 
be made to consolidate contact information and resource materials for public 
access.
Meeting in RECESS at 07:10pm

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3. Call to Order

The Chair called the meeting to order at 07:20pm and opened the floor for public 
comment.
4. Public Comment

A resident raised concerns regarding the Board's recent notice concerning designation 
of the library as government use. The resident questioned the legal interpretation of 
RSA 202-A:3 and argued that a public library must be established or accepted by town 
vote before being considered a governmental entity. The resident expressed concern 
that such a designation could exempt the library from local approval processes and 
zoning oversight, including setbacks and site modifications. The resident further 
indicated that additional provisions of RSA 202 may require broader public 
representation and requested further review by the Town. The resident stated an 
intention to provide written legal analysis to the Board.

The Chair explained that the Board relied upon legal counsel's interpretation and 
acknowledged receipt of the resident's concerns. The Board clarified that:
o
No final determination has been made.
o
The Planning Board previously requested clarification regarding governmental-
use status.
o
Legal counsel advised that publicly elected library trustees may qualify as the 
governmental entity capable of submitting an application.
o
Discussions remain ongoing, and no application has yet been approved.
o
Any future proceedings would be publicly noticed.

Another resident requested clarification regarding what action the Board had voted 
upon concerning the library matter.

The Board explained that it voted to acknowledge and support legal counsel's opinion 
that a library may constitute a governmental-use entity and that the Select Board itself 
could not submit an application because the Town is not providing project funding. The 
Board further stated that publicly elected library trustees could potentially submit such 
an application.

A resident suggested that elected officials consider recusal in situations where they are 
actively fundraising or otherwise directly involved with entities seeking Board action, 
emphasizing public trust and transparency.

The Board noted that recusal practices are already utilized by members of various 
legislative bodies within the Town when appropriate.
End of Public Comment
5. Department Heads Reports
Police Department – Chief Scott Cain

Participation in a meeting with Homeland Security regarding emergency 
operations planning related to Seabrook Station.

Joint training opportunities for police and fire personnel focusing on radiation 
monitoring and response.

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
Scheduled training on December 3 for personnel certification related to radiation 
measurement.
Fire Department – Chief Jeff DiBartolomeo

The Fire Chief reported successful participation in Old Home Day festivities, 
generating positive community engagement.

Coordination with Homeland Security is set for December training exercises.

Establishment of a new warming and cooling center at Kensington Community 
Church for emergency public use during extreme temperatures has been setup.
Road Agent Report – Matt Armstrong

The Road Agent reported the completion of 2026 road reconstruction work by 
Bell & Flynn.

The total reconstruction expenditures of $220,020.49, approximately $1,600 
below the contractor's bid.

The remaining 2026 road reconstruction funds of $26,621.62 available for 
carryover into 2027.

We are in receipt of an initial road salt quote from Eastern Minerals of $77.77 per
ton for 2026/2027 season.

It is anticipated that the seasonal purchase of approximately 320 tons of salt will 
be required.
Tax Collector Carlene Wiggin

The Tax Collector reported the she will be in attendance at the annual Tax 
Collectors Conference in North Conway later this week and advised that office 
operations would continue under staff coverage during her absence.
Building Inspector

No issues to discuss.
6. New Business
A. Special Events Permit

The Board reviewed an open air assembly permit and a special alcohol permit for
a wedding to be held September 26, 2026, at 32 Moulton Ridge Road. Discussion
included parking arrangements, expected attendance, and police details.

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MOTION: To approve an Open Air Assembly for Beverly DeBoisbriand at 32 Moulton 
Ridge Rd on September 26, 2026 
Motioned by: Ian O’Reilly
Seconded by: Tom Balabon
Vote: Passed all in favor (unanimous)
MOTION: To approve an Special Alcohol Permit for Beverly DeBoisbriand at 32 
Moulton Ridge Rd on September 26, 2026 
Motioned by: Ian O’Reilly
Seconded by: Tom Balabon
Vote: Passed all in favor (unanimous)
B. Tax Abatement

The Tax Collector advised the Board that various abatement requests had been 
reviewed.

All requests were denied except one matter that had previously gone to 
settlement and was therefore approved by default.

One application involved inability-to-pay considerations; the applicant would be 
provided information regarding available tax relief programs.

No decision constitutes Board denial. No motions were made. All abatements 
were considered denied.
C. Solar Exemption Ownership Transfer

The Board reviewed a solar energy exemption application requiring reapproval 
due solely to a change in property ownership for property located at 244 
Amesbury Road. No changes to the exemption itself were 
MOTION: To approve Solar Exemption due to ownership change for Map 03 Lot 26.
Motioned by: Ian O’Reilly
Seconded by: Tom Balabon
Vote: Passed all in favor (unanimous)
D. Eversource Tax Payment Proposal

The Tax Collector presented a request from Eversource to transition municipal 
tax payments to Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). Eversource will no longer be 
issuing checks for tax payments per their letter.

Concerns were discussed regarding disclosure of Town banking information and 
implications for municipal financial security. The Board agreed additional 
information should be gathered through statewide tax collector discussions 
before any determination is made. No formal action was taken.

Many towns have issues with giving out town ACH information.

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E. Conservation Commission Appointments
Motion: To appoint Emily Lafferty to the Conservation Commission as a full member of
with a term expiring April 2029.
Motioned by: Ian O’Reilly
Seconded by: Tom Balabon
Vote: Passed all in favor (unanimous)
Motion: To appoint Susan Hatch to the Conservation Commission as a full member of 
with a term expiring April 2028.
Motioned by: Ian O’Reilly
Seconded by: Tom Balabon
Vote: Passed all in favor (unanimous)
Motion: To appoint Martin Choquette to the Conservation Commission as a full 
member of with a term expiring April 2027.
Motioned by: Ian O’Reilly
Seconded by: Tom Balabon
Vote: Passed all in favor (unanimous)
F. Pothole Damage Claim

The Board reviewed a citizen request for reimbursement for vehicle damage allegedly 
caused by a pothole on Wild Pasture Road. The discussion focused on RSA 231:92, 
which requires municipal notice of a roadway defect before liability may attach. Road 
Manager reported that notification was received after the alleged incident occurred and 
pot hole was filled around the time of the reported incident.
Motion: To deny the reimbursement request pursuant to RSA 231:92.
Motioned by: Ian O’Reilly
Seconded by: Tom Balabon
Vote: Passed all in favor (unanimous)
G. Cemetery Trustees Reimbursement Request

The Board reviewed a request from the Cemetery Trustees for reimbursement through 
the Cemetery Expendable Trust Fund for costs associated with removal and disposal of a
storm-damaged shed.
Motion: To approve the Cemetry Trustee request for reimbursement from the 
Kensington Cemetery Expendable Trust Fund for $350.80 for disposal costs related to 
the tree damaged shed.
Motioned by: Ian O’Reilly
Seconded by: Tom Balabon
Vote: Passed all in favor (unanimous)
H. Police Department Building Maintenance

The Board discussed a deteriorating Police Department exterior door that no longer 
consistently latches and poses a security concern. Estimated repair costs were 
approximately $1,400. Additional discussion included other maintenance issues involving
building lighting and historical-building considerations.

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
The Board authorized proceeding with repairs and agreed the expense should be 
tracked through the government buildings line item rather than police equipment 
budgets.
I. ALS (Ambulance) Service Review Discussion

Board members discussed a recent regional ALS meeting presentation and reviewed:
•
Cost structures.
•
Readiness fees.
•
Call volume data.
•
Tax rate implications.
•
Future service options.

The Fire Chief reported that regional ALS providers were dispatched 51 times to 
Kensington in 2025 and arrived on scene 33 times. Discussion emphasized balancing 
costs with public safety needs and exploring additional public informational 
presentations.

Approval of Prior Minutes
Motion: To approve meeting minutes for July 27, 2026 and meeting minutes for 
August 10, 2026.
Motioned by: Ian O’Reilly
Seconded by: Tom Balabon
Vote: Passed all in favor (unanimous)

Bills and payroll signed.

Next Board Meetings at 6:30pm

October 05, 2026
6.  Adjournment
MOTION: to adjourn the meeting was made at 8:20pm
Motioned by: Ian O’Reilly
Seconded by: Tom Balabon
Vote: Passed all in favor (unanimous)
Submitted by:
Peter Gaffney
Land Use Administrator
NHDES Attachment below

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ATTACHMENT