Manchester Planning Board Taps Younger Generation to Expand Footprint
Local land use boards (Planning Boards and Zoning Boards) serve as the governing bodies responsible for land development and use within a community. The practice of planning revolves around a communal perspective aimed at shaping area growth and property utilization. Planning boards lay the groundwork for evolution through the establishment and enforcement of land use regulations, as well as the creation of guiding documents (like a Master Plan).
Molly Lunn Owen, Executive Director of 603 Forward and The Forward Foundation, is a working mother of two living in Manchester. She joined the Manchester Planning Board because she cares about people in the community, how things are built, and the way the City continues to develop.
As the youngest Board member and only renter, Molly brings a unique perspective that addresses everything from sidewalk repair to nature conservation, and pedestrian safety to commercial vs. residential space appropriation. NowWhatNH spent a minute with Molly to learn more about joining the Planning Board and why she thinks diverse participation is the key to a sustainable Manchester.
Joining a Land Use Board
Molly encourages anyone, but especially the younger generation and those of diverse backgrounds, to ask around about what it means to be on a land use board. She suggests starting with people right next door, the Town Clerk, and other elected officials to get a sense for what it means to be involved.
As for reasons to join, Molly agrees there are many! Some of the biggest are:
- Influence Community Development – have a direct say on what happens around you.
- Be Heard – share your voice, new perspectives and different priorities to affect change.
- Develop Skills, Experience – expand your knowledge and educate others.
- Networking Opportunities – engagement opens personal and professional doors.
- Environmental, Social Impact – address climate change, affordable housing, and other issues.
- Exercise Civic Responsibility – shape the future through government, policies, and more.
As a member of the Manchester Planning Board, Molly is making Manchester more livable and accessible to residents, with the specific goal to attract and retain young professionals to live in the Granite State. With vibrant towns, good childcare options, extensive community services, quality healthcare, deep arts and culture, convenient public transportation, and welcoming gathering spaces, she invites readers to visit https://nowwhatnh.com/ and learn more about how to keep New Hampshire one of the Northeast’s most desirable places to live.
Check back to the “Digging In” blog page for part two of the interview with Molly. We’ll look at the day-to-day responsibilities of being on the Land Use Board and some real life examples of how Molly and the team have made a difference in Manchester.
