Article 38: Mill Pond Dam $250,000

Here’s a link to the Article as it will appear on the Ballot:

Article 38.pdf

What it means: Last year, voters approved decommissioning the Grist Mill Pond dam, as it was in a state of disrepair. $400,000 was appropriated from tax revenue for this purpose. A group of concerned citizens have banded together to get the dam restored as opposed to removing it. This Article seeks to re-allocate the $400,000 from 2014 and asks for an additional sum of $250,00 to help restore the dam.

Those in favor say: Many people spoke in favor of this article.  One speaker noted that the full story was not brought forward prior to last year’s vote.  Other comments related to the importance of maintaining our heritage (the Grist Mill and surrounding property being an important part of Hampton for over 300 years); that the existence of the pond helps the area with flood control; that the Grist Mill itself might be in jeopardy if the dam is not there to control the flow of water; and that it is used by townspeople and wildlife alike.  More information at: http://friendsofgristmillpond.net

Those against say: Those who spoke in opposition to this Article commented that the dam and the pond are technically on private property; that the project would benefit the surrounding home owners more than the town as a whole; or that the vote last year was to decommission so we should stick to that.

Fiscal Impact: The average Hampton home valued at $329,000 would bear an increased tax cost of $29.57 if this Article passes.