MPC Dec 2022 Recap

The Master Plan Committee met on December 17 at Town Hall.  The existing conditions of the town continued to be explored.  Paul Wainwright of the Conservation Commission described the town’s Open Space of over 1,000 acres; some public and some private. It all adds up to more than 15% of the area of the town. The head of the town’s recreation department, Noriko Yoshida-Travers told of the many recreation opportunities available as well as shortcomings.  For one, it was not surprising to learn that pickleball is stretching the public resources for that sport. 

The committee could have spent all evening learning about the history of the town. Ken Grant and Historical Commission chair Kate Rochford shared their rich knowledge.  The Center School, the Kimball Trust and the Native American Meeting Rock were just a few of the interesting historical items explained. Did you know that Atkinson was once a part of Haverhill? Members of the Water Resources Committee detailed the role of private wells and the Hampstead Area Water Company have in providing the town with its most precious resource.  

The committee learned more about future community involvement in the plan. The public forum that will take place this spring (probably in April) will be a highlight.  Until then please visit the Master Plan Committee website at https://bit.ly/whatsnextatkinson  The next meeting of the committee will be January 19th at 4:30 in Town Hall. You are welcome to attend.