Land Use Law Conference - You Must Login to Register

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This workshop will be held in a hybrid format - In person attendance option and a virtual attendance option in zoom.
In person attendance is limited to 60 people. 

In Person Location: NH Municipal Association, 25 Triangle Park Drive, Concord NH 03301

NHMA Member Registration Fees: $70 Virtual/$115 In person 
Non Member Fees: $140 Virtual/$230 In person 

AGENDA OF EVENTS:

8:30 AM - Registration and Continental Breakfast

9:00 AM - Welcome Remarks
Legal Services Department, NH Municipal Association

9:05 AM – 10:00 AM - Keynote
Judge Michael Klass
Merrimack & Pemi Room

10:00 AM – 10:15 AM - Morning Break

10:15 AM – 11:30 AM (Concurrent Sessions)

Variance in the Balance: Anatomy of a New Hampshire ZBA Decision

Using a recent variance application before the City of Keene as a practical case study, this presentation examines New Hampshire variance law and principles from municipal review through the Zoning Board of Adjustment’s deliberations and final decision. The session will explore how the ZBA developed the record, evaluated the evidence presented at public hearings, applied the governing variance criteria, and satisfied procedural requirements throughout the process. It will conclude with practical guidance for municipal officials navigating variance applications.

Stephen Buckley, Alternate Member ZBA, City of Keene*

* This presentation reflects only the presenter’s views. It does not state the official position or opinions of the City of Keene, any other member of the Keene ZBA, or the Keene ZBA as a public body. It is provided for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.

Planning Board Roles and Responsibilities

This session will discuss the role of the Planning Board member from the perspective of a professional town planner who has worked in the business for 35 years in four municipalities in New Hampshire and in South Carolina.  While guidance from an attorney is fundamental, a seasoned planner can provide a much broader and richer orientation.  The goal of the board and of its individual members should be to engage applicants in a mutually beneficial discussion, to optimize the quality of projects, to build good will among all stakeholders if possible, and to enhance the character of the community.   AND, for the members to enjoy themselves and to grow personally. A legalistic approach will keep you out of trouble but so much more is involved.

Michael Behrendt, Town Planner, Town of Durham

12:00pm – 1:30pm    Lunch

1:30pm – 3:00pm (Concurrent Sessions)

ZBA Q&A

Chris will field your "hypothetical" questions on ZBA issues and protocols as well as pose some questions to participants as needed.

Chris Boldt, Esquire, Partner, Donahue, Tucker & Ciandella, PLLC

 

Recent Developments in Land Use Law

This session will provide information for planning boards regarding changes in land use law that have occurred over the past year which affect how zoning ordinances and planning regulations may regulate land use. Topics include multi-family housing, accessory dwelling units, childcare centers, limits on road development, and innovative housing structures. 

Christine Johnston, Legal Services Counsel, NH Municipal Association

 

3:00pm    Conference Concludes

Pre-registration and payment is required.  Registration is available until 5:00 pm on November 12, 2026. Registrations after this time cannot be guaranteed.  You will be billed according to the pricing on the options you select at registration. If you wish to make changes, NHMA must be notified in writing at least 48 hours in advance. Refund of the full registration fee will be made if cancellation notification is received 48 hours in advance. Cancellation less than 48 hours in advance, including no-shows, will result in you being charged the full cost of the workshop.  If you have made a change to your registration (from in person to virtual, for example), NHMA will adjust your invoice if we receive notification as outlined above. If you register but cannot attend, a recording of the workshop will be provided if payment has been received. 

*Please be advised that photographs may be taken during the event for promotional and informational purposes. By attending, you consent to the use of your image in any such materials.

Questions? Please contact us at 603-230-3350 or registrations@nhmunicipal.org 

REGISTER HERE