Officials Hope Chemtan Stays in Exeter

Some Exeter officials said they hope the Chemtan manufacturing facility stays in Exeter after its expansion plan was denied.

Last week, the Zoning Board of Adjustment denied the company's plan to more than double the size of its plant on Hampton Road.

It's unclear if Chemtan will try to expand elsewhere in Exeter or move outside town. President Dave Ouellette could not immediately be reached for comment.

"I'd hate to see them leave town," Selectman Chairman Matt Quandt said Monday.

Chemtan, which makes chemicals for the leather tanning industry, currently employs about 15 people. It has operated in Exeter since 1956. Ouellette said the expansion would allow the company to employ more people.

ZBA Chairman John Hauschildt last week said Chemtan's expansion would negatively impact the surrounding area because there would be more truck traffic and the property values of homes would go down. Chemtan is situated in a residential area.

"Clearly there's a significant benefit to the applicant to do this, but it's not without impacts to the general public," Hauschidt said.

Town Manager Russ Dean said Chemtan is in a difficult position because of its proximity to homes.

"We certainly value their presence in Exeter," Dean said Monday.

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