April was a month of meaningful engagement across District 4, as I worked to address pressing issues like highway safety, affordable housing, veterans’ services, substance abuse recovery, and community infrastructure. Below, I’ve outlined these initiatives, reflecting my commitment to improving the lives of Granite Staters while ensuring transparency and fiscal responsibility.
Championing Highway Safety Through the Governor’s Task Force
On April 4th, I had the privilege of facilitating the Governor’s Special Task Force on Highway Safety at the NH Fire Academy. It was an honor to work alongside the Governor’s representative, Steve Pecora, and Assistant Commissioner of the Department of Safety, Eddie Edwards. The meeting was well-attended by a diverse group appointed by the Governor, including the Attorney General, legislators, victims, highway safety stakeholders, county attorneys, and other dedicated individuals. Commissioner of Safety Robert Quinn and his State Police, Motor Vehicle, and Administrative Hearings staff provided a comprehensive overview of the process.
The Task Force, a follow-up to our earlier Highway Safety Roundtable, has a clear mission: to enhance all aspects of highway safety in New Hampshire. Key priorities include reducing the Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) test refusal rate, identifying improvements in enforcement, law, policy, education, and training, and strengthening outreach, marketing, and enforcement efforts. With New Hampshire experiencing a high driver fatality rate—particularly linked to alcohol and drug impairment—these efforts are crucial to saving lives. We’re working diligently to develop actionable recommendations, with a report due to the Governor in June. I encourage your input—please send suggestions to [email protected].
Supporting Affordable Housing with Fellowship Housing
Housing remains a top priority, and I was thrilled to meet with Ben Dion, Director of Development and Community Engagement at Fellowship Housing, a 501(c)(3) non-profit. They provide affordable housing and behavioral health services to individuals with persistent mental illness, operating several homes in the Concord area. Now, they’re planning to expand into Manchester in District 4. Their mission—to create high-quality living environments and collaborate with providers to ensure long-term stability for renters—is one I deeply admire. Their vision of a community where people with mental illness can manage daily life, be good neighbors, and find acceptance is a model for compassionate, impactful housing solutions.
Celebrating Resident-Owned Communities at Medvil Cooperative
I also joined Katie McQuaid and Abbie Bronson for a delightful tour of Medvil Cooperative in Goffstown, a vibrant 55+ resident-owned community established in 2006. Spanning 154 acres, Medvil is home to over 301 manufactured homes and boasts amenities like two clubhouses, a horseshoe pitch, a bocce court, landscaped gardens, and a quarter-acre frog pond with a dancing fountain and walking bridge. When the original landowners planned to sell a few years ago, the NH Community Loan Fund stepped in, enabling residents to purchase the park with low-interest loans. This ensured they could remain in their homes and community—a shining example of how New Hampshire can tackle housing challenges in a way that prioritizes residents and affordability. Learn more at medvilcooperative.com.
Supporting Veterans Through HarborCare’s Independence Hall
Another highlight was touring HarborCare’s BAE Systems Independence Hall in Manchester with CEO Henry Och and his team. Located at 335 Somerville Street, this 26-unit complex of one- and two-bedroom apartments serves male and female veterans and their families, helping them escape homelessness. HarborCare’s Transitional Housing program provides a safe, supportive environment where veterans can regain stability through access to housing and routine healthcare. These beautiful apartments offer a nurturing space for our veterans to rebuild their lives. I’m grateful to Henry and his staff for their dedication. Veterans in need of supportive housing can contact HarborCare at (603) 305-1122.
Infrastructure and Community Support in Pittsfield
In the Town of Pittsfield, I attended a Board of Selectman meeting to discuss a Department of Transportation pavement resurfacing project covering 7.2 miles, from Crescent/Main through Dowboro Road. Funded through the State Betterment fund and approved at a recent Governor and Council meeting, the project is set to begin this summer. My goal was to learn more about the town’s responsibilities and assist in securing additional funding for portions of the project that fall solely on Pittsfield, ensuring this critical infrastructure work moves forward smoothly.
Collaborating with Manchester Police Department
I met with Manchester Police Chief Peter Marr, Assistant Chief Ken Loui, and Captain Matt Larochelle to discuss key issues impacting the department. We covered topics like bail and sentencing reform, substance abuse, highway safety, and community policing services, exploring how the Executive Council can provide support. These conversations are vital to ensuring our law enforcement agencies have the resources and policies they need to keep our communities safe while addressing systemic challenges.
Advancing Conservation with Strafford’s Kennett Dam Removal Project
In Strafford, I was pleased to support the Kennett Dam Removal Project, voting this month to approve funding that will help the district meet its goals. I previously visited Superintendent Robert Seaward to discuss the initiative, which not only removes the dam but also includes plans for conservation and trails for school children and the public to enjoy. This project protects a high-quality aquatic resource and preserves upland habitat, benefiting both the environment and the community.
Superintendent Seaward expressed his gratitude in a letter:
Dear Councilor Stephen,
Thank you so much for your support of our Dam Removal project and for keeping us informed about the Governor and Council’s approval. We truly appreciate your role in helping us move this important initiative forward.
Your backing has meant a great deal to us throughout this process, and we’re especially grateful for your recognition of the conservation and educational aspects of the project. We’re proud to be advancing something that will benefit both the environment and the community, and your encouragement reinforces our commitment to that vision.
We’re also very thankful for your offer of continued support—it’s reassuring to know we can reach out in the future.
With sincere appreciation,
Robert Seaward
Superintendent of Schools, Business Manager, Director of HR
Strafford School District
Strengthening Recovery Services with Peer Support Funding
This month, I also voted to approve a contract for Peer Recovery Support Services, a critical step in addressing substance abuse in New Hampshire. Jessica Carter, Executive Director of Revive Recovery Resource Center, sent a heartfelt thank-you:
Dear Executive Councilor Stephen,
On behalf of Revive Recovery Resource Center and the broader peer recovery community, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude for your vote in favor of the Peer Recovery Support Services Facilitating Organization contract that came before you on Wednesday.
Your support for this contract is not only a vote of confidence in peer-led recovery services but also a meaningful investment in the health, hope, and healing of individuals and families impacted by substance use disorder across our state. The decision you made underscores your continued commitment to strengthening New Hampshire’s recovery infrastructure and honoring the lived experience of those working on the front lines of this epidemic.
We are proud to be part of a movement that centers peer voices and meets people where they are, and your support helps ensure that this vital work can continue with integrity, consistency, and care.
Thank you again for your leadership and your ongoing support of recovery in New Hampshire.
With appreciation,
Jessica Carter
Executive Director, Revive Recovery Resource Center
This funding ensures peer-led recovery services can continue supporting those impacted by substance use disorder, a cause I’m deeply committed to.
Advocating for Local Banks and Financial Oversight
Finally, I testified in support of Senator Howard Pearl and Denise Riccaridi’s amendment to a House Bill, continuing my push to bring a significant financial management contract for a fund to the Governor and Council. This effort aims to support our local banks and ensure greater oversight and transparency in how these funds are managed. I’ll keep advocating for this initiative, as it’s critical to strengthening our local economy and protecting New Hampshire’s financial interests.
Moving Forward Together
These efforts reflect my dedication to improving safety, housing, recovery services, and infrastructure while ensuring fiscal responsibility. I’m honored to serve District 4 and will continue working tirelessly to address the needs of our communities. If you have suggestions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
— John Stephen, Executive Councilor
