Sign of Economic Strength: Motor Vehicle Permits

Hampton Finance Director Michael Schwotzer, in his March 2014 monthly financials update, said motor vehicle revenues came in at $296,800, which he called a new one-month record.

"The lines just did not stop. It was unbelievable," Schwotzer said while discussing the financials May 5 before the Hampton Board of Selectmen.

The motor vehicle revenues are one sign of overall economic activity.

The March 2013 financials showed $192,000 in motor vehicle revenues, which was $24,000 less than the same period in 2012, according to Hampton's financial reports.