Unresolved Zoning Debates Impact Balanced Growth

The Challenge: Contributors concerned about the lack of resolution on the ongoing zoning debate calling for reforms that would enable more housing while also raising concerns about overbuilding, second-home development, and loss of rural character. What do New Hampshire residents think? Contributors described tensions in how the state handles development. On one side, supporters of reform wrote: “NH legislators must continue to support zoning reform and incentivize communities to take steps to make their development codes clearer, more accessible, and more modern. Support and fully fund the Housing Champions Program.” On the other side, contributors raised concerns about overbuilding: “Do not allow overbuilding. Preserve the green spaces and forests.” Some called for balance: “Affordable housing without causing the congestion of overbuilding.” Specific concerns included the type of housing being built: “Too many new condos, which are unaffordable to locals.” Across responses, contributors pointed to a need for housing supply alongside concerns that current development patterns are not producing the kinds of homes locals can afford.