Effingham got its chance to publicly support Freedom’s claim that the controversial campground expansion plan violates Ossipee’s floodplain zoning ordinance, but the outcome was the same. Meanwhile, Ossipee’s Select Board has turned down a proposed settlement of the issues with Freedom, and an Effingham Planning Board member warns that Ossipee residents could lose eligibility for federal flood insurance if the town is found to be out of compliance with its floodplain regulations.
NEWS
All Eyes On Webcam Loons This Weekend
For the past three weeks, a pair of nesting loons on a central New Hampshire lake have been the stars of the Loon Preservation Committee’s webcam, which is being accessed by more than 7,000 people daily across 141 countries. The hatching is expected this weekend.
Country Ecology: Pine Siskens
Acrobatic as well as aggressive, the versatile pine siskin will feed from tube feeders, trays, or globe feeders, thistle sacks, and occasionally on the ground for spilled seed there. They balance easily on the many diverse swaying devices we put out for winter birds we enjoy attracting. Where they appear is always a surprise. It’s all about the availability of the local food supply.
Ossipee Zoning Board Ordered to Hold Another Hearing on Westward Shores
Effingham, which has abutter status in the issue, was not notified of the ZBA hearing at which Freedom, which also has abutter status, was given an opportunity to present its opposition to the expansion plan. Freedom had previously been denied the opportunity by Ossipee officials to present its case, a denial that was overruled by a state court judge.
Ossipee Planning Board Approves Gas Station
On a 5-2 vote, with two abstentions, developers of the old White’s Garage/Johnson Oil property will be allowed to proceed with their controversial plans. Unless there is an appeal, the vote ends a contentious application process that featured Planning Board members insulting one another as well as members of the public.