Barrington NH election 2024: Will voters approve new library, community center?
BARRINGTON — The town could get a new library and a new community center if voters approve them Tuesday, March 12.
Town Administrator Conner MacIver noted library board of trustee members have come up with a less costly plan to put to voters in 2024 after more expensive proposals were rejected by voters in 2019 and 2020.
This year, voters are being asked to approve $3.6 million to purchase and renovate the former Frisbie Urgent Care at 426 Celef Highway into a new library.
"If approved, the current library space is the topic of another article, to renovate the space for use as a recreation/community space, at a cost of $1.15 million," MacIver said.
"We have applied for a $1 million loan through the state's community center investment program, coming from (federal American Rescue Plan Act) funds," he added. "We would raise $150,000 as a required match. The loan may be forgivable, more of a grant."
The current library on Ramsdell Lane is shared with the Recreation Department and a food pantry, he noted.
When and where is election in Barrington? Who is on the ballot?
Barrington residents will also elect municipal and school leaders, as well as decide on town and school budgets and a number of warrant articles. Voting is Tuesday, March 12, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Barrington Middle School on Haley Drive.
Incumbent Select Board member Dannon Mannschrek is being challenged by Robert Russell. On the School Board, incumbent Tim Hatfield and challengers Rick Walker and Jason Baker are competing for two seats.
Voters will consider the town's proposed operating budget, which is just under $9 million. If the budget fails, the default budget of $8.66 million would be enacted.
The school district budget proposal is for nearly $29.6 million. The default budget is nearly $28.9 million.
There are 19 zoning amendments on the warrant. MacIver said the town is responding to a substantial rise in development, and residents' desires to maintain the character of the town.
"One of the most substantial is a request to buy a 13-acre plot in the center of town, using TIF district funds," said MacIver. "If that passes we will put the question to the voters on what we should should do with the land, perhaps making it a park, for self-guided leisure activities."
Once again this year, Barrington kids will head to the polls for a kids vote event, too. This year they will be deciding the date for trick or treat and a name for the town's new forestry truck. MacIver said kids will also have their own versions of the state "I voted" stickers given out to voters.
"It gives the kids exposure to civics," said MacIver. "It also helps bring their parents out to the polls."
Information: Barrington 2024 Town Meeting Voting Guide
This article originally appeared on Fosters Daily Democrat: Barrington NH election 2024: Library and community center on ballot
