Here’s a link to the Article as it will appear on the Ballot:
What it means: After 100+ years, the dam at Ice Pond has failed. The Conservation Commission purchased the dam and part of the Pond on behalf of the Town in 2007, with the promise that the pond would be available for passive recreation. If the dam is not replaced, the recreational value of the property is likely to be diminished or eliminated. Aquatic and wildlife habitats would be disrupted. The Conservation Commission has dedicated $40,000 to the repair of Ice Pond dam. They are seeking $90,000 more to complete the project, which is necessary to maintain the pond so it can be enjoyed for fishing, ice skating and other recreation.
Those in favor say: This is the only protected pond in Hampton that is open for the recreational use of townspeople. It is a frequently-used pond, with many ice skaters in the winter, and people fishing and birding or just enjoying the view in the warmer months. The intended new dam will be a low-maintenance concrete dam with stop-logs that will allow for control of storm waters. It is part of the heritage of the town as it was used to supply businesses with ice prior to the era of refrigeration. Without a dam, downstream flooding may occur, recreation opportunities will no longer be available, and the pond is likely to return to a meadow within a period of time. More information at: http://www.hamptonicepond.org
Those against say: There was some discussion of the pond contributing to up-stream flooding, but a subsequent speaker indicated that an engineering firm was hired to investigate the causes of flooding upstream, and the cause was found to be not connected with the Ice Pond area at all. Another speaker expressed a concern about maintenance costs.
Fiscal Impact: The average Hampton home valued at $329,000 would bear an increased tax cost of $10.64 if this Article passes.