Seacoast Family Promise, a Stratham-based nonprofit that operates a day center for homeless families in the Seacoast, will appeal a recent decision by the Exeter Zoning Board of Adjustment denying its new day center.
At a Nov. 18 meeting, the zoning board denied SFP a special exception to open a day center at 27 Hampton Road. The property, a former day-care center and doctor’s office, is located in a residential zone; the board ruled that the center would not conform with existing property uses in the area. Residents at the meeting also expressed concerns that the day center would adversely affect property values.
“The property at 27 Hampton Road is a near-perfect match for our needs, with plenty of indoor space for offices and family meetings, a fenced outdoor play yard, and ample parking,” said SFP board of directors president Kary Kelly in a statement.
SFP currently operates its day center at the Stratham Community Church but has “outgrown its cramped space.” Kelly said the nonprofit is looking for a space that can house administrative offices, host parent meeting and job-search sessions, and provide a place for children to nap and play. The current day center hosts community meetings, educational programs, and family activities for residents who are “taking steps toward stable housing.”
“We believe that the Exeter ZBA committed an error in rendering their decision and that they failed to account for the significant positive evidence presented by the applicant,” SFP attorney Sharon Somers said in a statement. — Larry Clow