03/23/2026 SB Minutes

Bethlehem Board of Selectmen

Meeting Minutes

March 23rd, 2026

In person – Chairman Bruno, Selectman MacDonald, Selectwoman Knowles, Selectwoman Hibberd, and Selectwoman Strand.

Chairman Bruno motioned to go into nonpublic for reasons of personnel at 5:30. Selectwoman Hibberd seconded and roll call followed.

The board discussed a personnel issue.

Chairman Bruno opened the meeting at 6:00

Public Input 6:00- Jason Mooney and Sean Gawlick updated the board they are moving forward with plans to renovate the current snack shack.  They also recommended reconstructing the dug outs before the next season starts.  Teresa Wood requested the board respond to her question and Chairman Bruno responded they would be in contact.

Bethlehem Boosters- Dave LaFleur- Mr. LaFleur updated the board that a group of volunteer parents are forming a 501 3c called Bethlehem Boosters to fund raise for the Rec Department.  They will be requesting the use of the snack shack to sell concessions.

Energy Commission SB538- Selectwoman Strand motioned to sign the letter in support of SB 538 and send the letter to Senator Arvard.  Selectman MacDonald seconded and all were in favor. 

Master Plan Goals- The board discussed the 2016 Master Plan goals and made the following comments:

In lieu of joining a Chamber, the town is participating in NH Granite State Ambassador program to help economic development.   To support affordable and senior housing the town adopted RSA 79-E and for maintenance of transportation we have increased the capital reserve request, participated in two FEMA grants, and created the traffic calming task force.   For the Public Safety facility, a committee was formed which will be reinstated.  Limited parking continues to be an objective and the board discussed reaching out the Methodist Church regarding utilizing the available parking there.  The town has submitted a TAP grant though DOT to construct a sidewalk from elementary school to the library and broadband internet has been expanded throughout Bethlehem.  The board discussed future planning which included adding a Heritage Commission to promote preservation, adopting a comprehensive planning document, and the possibility of a future dog park.

Minutes 3/9 and 3/16- Selectwoman Strand motioned to approve the minutes from 3/9 and 3/23.  Selectman MacDonald seconded and all were in favor. 

Updates and Other Business- Selectman MacDonald reminded the board of the DOT public meeting on March 26^th to discuss the 142-bridge project.  Chairman Bruno updated the board that Bethlehem scored 100% on the Caledonian Record sunshine transparency award.

Chairman Bruno motioned to go into nonpublic for reasons of personnel at 7:15. Selectwoman Hibberd seconded and roll call followed.

Chairman Bruno motioned to adjourn at 7:30. Selectman MacDonald seconded, and all were in favor.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Moritz