The Hudson Board of Selectmen covered two significant issues during its most recent meeting, receiving an update on the state’s PFAS settlement program and reviewing the annual operating license for the Hudson Speedway. Both items highlighted the town’s ongoing efforts to manage long term environmental impacts while also overseeing local business operations.
Director of Development Services Elvis Dhima briefed the Board on the PFAS Compensation Fund for Public Water Systems, noting that the update was informational and required no immediate action. In a memo to the Selectmen, Dhima explained that the State of NH has reached settlement agreements with 3M, DuPont, Tyco, and BASF to resolve claims related to per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination in public drinking water systems.
“The New Hampshire Department of Justice is submitting claims on behalf of eligible water systems,” Dhima said. Because communities are at different stages in addressing PFAS contamination, the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services has grouped systems to guide the strategic distribution of settlement funds.
Based on the state’s criteria, the Hudson Water Department has been placed in Group 2, which includes systems with PFAS detections that may require mitigation projects in the future. As a result, Hudson is expected to receive $1,006,228 in compensation.
Dhima said staff is now working with the state to determine which projects and expenditures will qualify for reimbursement. “Updates will be provided as additional information becomes available and as the Town continues to address the impacts of PFAS contamination,” he wrote.
Board of Selectmen Chair Dillon Dumont, who also serves as a State Representative, said the state delegation will continue to stay engaged as the settlement process moves forward. “We’ll continue those conversations and make sure that we follow right up that food chain,” he said.
Following the PFAS briefing, the Board turned its attention to the annual operating license for the Hudson Speedway, a recurring item that often draws discussion due to traffic, safety, and neighborhood impacts.
Town Administrator Roy Sorenson reported that the premises had been inspected and that both the Inspectional Services Division and the Police Chief submitted conditions that must be met before the license is issued. “The application is only applicable for races May through Nov. 1, 2026,” Sorenson noted.
In a memo to the Board, Police Chief David Cayot outlined several additional requirements for the 2026 racetrack license. They include:
- Parking Restrictions: Speedway owners must ensure patrons are advised, through signs and announcements, of no parking on Old Derry Road, Robinson Road, Putnam Road, and Senter Farm Road. Patrons and race teams should be encouraged to exit via Robinson Road to Route 102 after events.
- Police Details: A minimum of two police officers must be assigned to the racetrack and paid by the owners. Officers must arrive 30 minutes before the first race to address safety and parking issues and remain until the final race concludes. If Hudson officers are unavailable, the detail will be offered to mutual aid agencies.
- Alcohol Compliance: All laws and ordinances regarding the proper and safe service of alcohol must be followed.
The Board reviewed the conditions and ultimately approved the Speedway’s license for the May – November 2026 season.