The following guide provides a summary of key warrant articles on the March 11, 2025, ballot. Each article includes arguments for and against to help voters make informed decisions.
Article 2: Zoning Amendments – Workforce and Senior Housing
For:
- Brings Bedford’s zoning regulations into compliance with NH state law.
- Expands workforce and senior housing options, promoting affordability and accessibility.
- Encourages smart development by reducing restrictions on workforce housing locations and density.
Against:
- Reduced affordable housing requirements may lead to fewer truly affordable units.
- Increased housing density could strain local infrastructure and services.
- Changes may alter the character of certain neighborhoods.
Article 3: South River Road Fire Substation ($8.935M Bond)
For:
- Will improve emergency response times in a high-growth area.
- Addresses increased demand due to Bedford’s 90% population growth since 1994.
- Designed to meet community needs for decades, preventing future costlier expansions.
Against:
- Significant cost that will impact taxes ($0.172 per $1,000 of assessed value in 2026).
- Some argue that increased efficiency in existing fire services may be a better solution.
- Long-term debt commitment that could limit funding for other priorities.
Article 4: Parks & Recreation Improvements ($3.226M Bond)
For:
- Enhances sports and recreational facilities for the community.
- Supports local youth programs by upgrading ballfields and the skateboard park.
- Long-term investment in town amenities could improve property values.
Against:
- $3.226M expenditure may not be justified when other town needs exist.
- Some residents may not use the improved facilities.
- Adds tax burden ($0.067 per $1,000 in 2026).
Article 5: Sebbins Pond Watershed Management Plan ($100K Grant-Funded)
For:
- 100% grant-funded, meaning no tax impact.
- Helps protect water quality, climate resiliency, and stormwater management.
- Aligns with environmental sustainability goals.
Against:
- Some may question the necessity of the study if issues are not urgent.
- Potential for additional costs in future remediation projects.
Article 6: 2025 Operating Budget ($38.89M)
For:
- Ensures continued funding for essential town services.
- No direct tax rate increase from the prior year.
- Provides for the town’s growing needs in a stable manner.
Against:
- Some may argue for budget cuts to reduce overall spending.
- Increases spending in some areas that could be debated as non-essential.
Article 8 & 9: Greenfield Parkway and Beals Road Bridge Replacements ($2.5M & $3M Bonds)
For:
- Addresses critical infrastructure failures; Greenfield Parkway Bridge already closed.
- No direct tax impact due to state and federal funding sources.
- Improves safety and transportation efficiency.
Against:
- Some may argue funding could be prioritized elsewhere.
- Uncertainty in state or federal reimbursement could delay projects.
Article 10: Old Bedford Road Sidewalk ($670K, 80% Grant-Funded)
For:
- Improves pedestrian safety near Memorial Elementary School.
- Mostly funded by state and developer contributions.
- Supports walkability and aligns with the town’s Bicycle & Pedestrian Master Plan.
Against:
- Some may argue against the necessity of the project.
- Ongoing maintenance costs for the town.
Article 11: Additional Local Road Maintenance ($400K)
For:
- Ensures roads are maintained at current standards, preventing costlier future repairs.
- Supplementing the existing budget keeps roads in good condition.
Against:
- Additional tax impact ($0.06 per $1,000 assessed value).
- Some may argue that road conditions do not warrant increased spending.
Article 15: Community Power Aggregation
For:
- Allows the town to negotiate better electricity rates for residents.
- Opt-out program means participation is automatic unless residents choose otherwise.
- Supports local renewable energy projects.
Against:
- Some residents may prefer to choose their energy supplier independently.
- Potential for administrative complexity in program management.
Conclusion
Voters in Bedford have several important decisions to make in the 2025 town election. Each warrant article has potential benefits and drawbacks, and residents should carefully consider how each measure aligns with their priorities. Make your voice heard by voting on March 11, 2025.
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