One of the agenda items during the most recent Hudson Board of Selectmen meeting was in regard to a possible grant from the NH Department of State Parks.
“I’m excited to announce an opportunity for the Town of Hudson to enhance public recreation while fulfilling our municipal obligation,” Town Engineer Elvis Dhima explained. “The New Hampshire Department of State Parks is offering funding through the Land and Water Conservation Fund State and Local Assistance Program, and we are ready to apply for a $500,000 grant to construct a new recreational boat launch at Robinson Pond.”
Dhima added that last year officials tried to make improvements to both the beach area and boat launch through a grant, but voters rejected it.
“Last year we went for a grant for a million dollars. Unfortunately, we could not get it through the warrant article because we were off by a couple hundred votes,” Dhima explained during the meeting.
Dhima also added that there would be multiple benefits if they go for the grant and are successful.
“This project not only improves access to one of our most valued natural resources, but it also earns the Town credit toward our MS4 stormwater permit compliance, due in 2026,” Dhima explained in the memo. “It’s a win-win for recreation and environmental stewardship.”
It was explained by Dhima that after the failed vote, he went back to the State to make the case for being able to apply to just have the boat launch done.
“We would love to go for the boat launch only this year,” Dhima mentioned to the State.
Dhima shared that they received positive feedback on the boat launch project last year.
“The Conservation Commission is taking the lead on design and permitting, and this grant would help bring the project into the construction phase,” Dhima wrote. “The grant requires a 50 percent match, meaning the Town’s share would be $250,000, which will be proposed through a warrant article for voter consideration in March 2026.”
Dhima also noted that it would not only help improve the pond, it would also help with requirements.
“This is a great opportunity to invest in our community’s quality of life while fulfilling important regulatory requirements,” Dhima wrote.
It was also noted during the meeting that even if they are approved for the grant, they would have to go to the voters for approval in order to raise and appropriate the funds needed for the matching grant.
The Board of Selectmen unanimously approved allowing Dhima to apply for the grant.
