Frequently Asked Questions

The Waterfront Village Commercial District proposal puts the Charrette recommendations and newly adopted Master Plan into action. Forward Sunapee supports it. The goal of the Waterfront Village Commercial District proposal is to balance watershed protection, public safety, and preservation of the rural and quaint scale of our village, while encouraging small-scale development consistent with Sunapee residents’ values. The Waterfront Village Commercial District proposal seeks to update zoning regulations that are nearly 40 years old. Currently, real threats of large-scale development have emerged that could significantly alter Sunapee’s small-town, rural, quintessential New England character. This proposal is designed to reduce the risk of such development while updating the zoning framework. The proposal reduces allowable building height, overall building size, and restaurant size, while also creating new opportunities for landowners to make productive use of their properties.

Yes. Sunapee residents have consistently expressed opposition to large-scale development, particularly in the village harbor area and along Main Street. Community members have voiced strong opposition to large box stores, oversized buildings, and chain restaurants. Recent proposals—such as the Dollar General project and the large marina and showroom proposal in Georges Mills—illustrate the type of development pressure facing Sunapee’s villages now. This proposal reduces the likelihood of such outcomes by updating zoning regulations while still expanding property owners’ rights to develop their land. The George’ Mills Village regulations have been updated. Now it is time to update the harbor and Main Street village commercial district. The proposal focuses on the Harbor and Sugar River commercial areas, emphasizing classic New England–style commercial development and long-term housing opportunities for residents.

No. In fact, it expands property rights by allowing homeowners to add more residential units than currently permitted. Reduced setbacks and frontage requirements also increase buildable areas on lots and are consistent. with a village atmosphere. These changes directly support the community’s stated need for additional housing, as identified in both the Master Plan and the Charrette.

No. These areas are already part of the same village commercial district. The proposal keeps them together to preserve their historical connection, continuity, and shared character.

No. Properties located in a desirable, quaint waterfront area tend to retain and increase value. Allowing additional residential units and encouraging New England–style commercial development is expected to support—and potentially enhance—property values over time.

No. The proposal does not include any subsidized or state-regulated housing programs. While workforce housing is permitted in other zoning districts in Sunapee, it has never been allowed in the current Village Commercial District.

Yes. Town officials have confirmed that adequate water and sewer capacity exists, and anticipated growth is modest, estimated at approximately 1–2% per year.

No. However, gradual growth in housing and small-scale commercial development is expected to result in a slow, steady increase in tax revenue over time.

Yes. Parking and traffic considerations are addressed through the Planning Board’s Site Plan Review process for all commercial, multi-family, and mixed-use developments.

The volunteer committee was formed following the 2024 Charrette through an open public enrollment process. It currently includes eight active members representing a range of income levels, property ownership types, and local business involvement.