Katherine "Kitty" Marple - Town Council Candidate

KATHERINE "KITTY" MARPLE - Town Council
82 Madbury Road 

Education:  BS Mechanical Engineering, University of New Hampshire

Occupation:  Former government engineer, homemaker

Years as Durham Resident:  37

Previous Service on Governmental/Community/Civic Boards, Commissions, Committees, or Organizations:

--I am currently the Chair of the Town Council.  I have served on the Integrated Waste Management Committee, Rental Housing Commission, Historic District Commission and the Planning Board.  The Rental Housing Commission was my first committee.  We proposed and advocated for two important town laws, the Disorderly House Ordinance and the Housing Standards Ordinance which seek to make rentals in Durham more safe and landlords more responsive to their neighbors in traditional family neighborhoods.
--I was a member of the Design Review Board for the Durham Business Park where Harmony Homes on the Bay is located. 
--I sat on an oral hiring review board for the Durham Police department.  Was one of two residents who provided a community perspective on the hiring of a police officer.
--I took part in a “shooting incident” first responder training operation at the town hall.
--I volunteered at the elementary and middle schools.
--I register voters at the polls on most election days

Reason for Interest in Running for Elected Office:
My initial impetus to become engaged in town government was to offer protection to homeowners dealing with town-gown issues. After nine years on the council I feel that I am aware of the daily operations of the town and am capable of providing responsible advice to the Town Administrator as needed.  I enjoy working with an inclusive group of fellow councilors who are generally very respectful even in difficult discussions. 

Some of my general interests include:

• Waste reduction
• Support of police and fire departments
• Encouraging local food production
• Protection of water resources and other “taken for granted” amenities such as infrastructure and public areas
• Encouraging stewardship of conservation properties
• Allowing neighborhoods to maintain a tranquil quality of life
• Alternative energy initiatives for the municipality, residents and local property owners
• Continued emphasis on keeping Durham an open, safe community
• Encouraging residents to celebrate human differences to create a more welcoming community