Dan Kennedy: A Kearsarge compromise

At a public meeting of the Kearsarge Lighting Precinct on Jan. 21, numerous speakers — residents and non-residents alike — expressed deep feelings for the peaceful, rural character of this Kearsarge neighborhood, feelings that go back generations. They also made clear that something is deeply wrong in the neighborhood, as some owners have openly violated the KLP zoning law that prohibits all rentals unless the property is owner-occupied. That ordinance has been in effect since 1986.

Here’s a bit of background. In March of 2019, concerned Kearsarge residents attended the annual meeting of the KLP to express their alarm at the dramatic increase in disturbances of the peace caused by illegal transient tenants at various properties. Commissioners left the meeting with a charge to examine the issue and develop recommendations for solving the problem.