WILTON – Barrett Hill Road is now designated “scenic,” following a special, petitioned, town meeting on Monday, July 18. Deputy Town Moderator Deb Degan presided.

The petition, signed by over 70 residents, asked that the entire length of Barrett Hill Road, from its junction with Burton Highway, to a private property known by tax map number A-34, be designated “scenic” in accordance with RSA 231-157.

The article was amended twice, and the final vote, by a requested paper ballot, was 42 yes to 7 no.

Selectman Chairman Kermit Williams proposed the first amendment, adding that the Planning Board be authorized to create the rules and procedures for removal of trees and stone walls. He said the town could make the state regulations more stringent. ‘Stone walls and large trees along the road cannot be removed except with Planning Board approval but does not generally affect the landowner.’

Asked how this would affect development – the underlying reason for the petition – Williams said the Planning Board could determine the process. “A lot of it is process and the developer would cover the costs.”

The designation would cover future projects, not those now in progress.

The second amendment changed the size of trees affected from 15 inches in circumference to 9.5 inches, about a three-inch diameter. Williams said the statute allows for the smaller trees “to promote growth.”

It was noted that these rules would apply only to Barrett Hill Road, not the other six scenic roads.

Williams said the roads designated “scenic” are all lightly traveled and some are not maintained during the winter. “There is nothing the town has to do specifically and most such designations were requested by the people who live on them.”

Asked about fallen trees and aftereffects of storms, Williams said the Highway Department can deal with emergencies. Utility companies have to have permission from the Planning Board to do the routine maintenance, cutting of trees or limbs that endanger the power lines. “They need prior approval and have to justify what they do.”

Resident Tom Schultz, a Wilton native, noted that there is only one “old” house on the road, the others have been built within the last 30 years, and ownership has changed frequently. He noted the limited availability of housing in town. “Residents are concerned about an eight-lot subdivision. Be aware of what (this designation) will do to your property values.”

It was agreed that the designation will not stop the development of a 45-acre parcel on the road.

Zoning Board of Adjustment Member Peter Howd said, “Nothing in the scenic road designation changes zoning or the ability to develop property. It only changes the town’s ability to cut trees or move stone walls within the town’s right-of-way.”

Degasn said the discussion had gotten too far away from the topic of the warrant article and question was called, ending debate.

There was no other question on the warrant and no other issues were raised.