|
|
|
 NEWS AND HAPPENINGS ...
|
|
|
|
|
Bicycle on Main Street after a recent snowstorm. Courtesy Hana Bartos
Today is Friday the 13th! Fortunately, the beautiful weather has served to thaw the chill that this date strikes in the hearts of humankind.
____________________________
|
|
TOWN OFFICES CLOSED ON MONDAY FOR MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. CIVIL RIGHTS DAY HOLIDAY
A final reminder that all Town offices will be closed for the Martin Luther King, Jr. Civil Rights Day holiday on Monday, January 16, 2017.
Although the Town offices are closed, there will be NO CHANGE to the regularly scheduled refuse and recycling routes. As always, residents are asked to please have all items out by 7AM on their respective collection days.
|
|
FILING PERIOD FOR DURHAM ELECTED OFFICES FOR MARCH 14, 2017 TOWN ELECTION
The filing period for local Durham elected offices for the March Town Election is Wednesday, January 25, 2017 through 5:00 PM Friday, February 3, 2017. There is no filing fee required.
Citizens that might choose to become involved in Durham Town government may file for one of the positions below at the Town Clerk-Tax Collector's Office during the filing period noted above. Questions may also be directed to that office by calling 603-868-5577 or emailing Town Clerk-Tax Collector Lorrie Pitt at lpitt@ci.durham.nh.us
Residents interested in learning more about any of these positions are invited to contact the Administrator's Office at 603-868-5571 or write to tselig@ci.durham.nh.us. The 2017 Town elections will take place on Tuesday, March 14, 2017 at the Oyster River High School. Polling hours will be from 7AM to 7PM.
Town Council, 3 positions (3-year terms)
Library Board of Trustees, 2 positions (3-year terms)
Town Clerk-Tax Collector, 1 position (3-year term)
Treasurer, 1 position (3-year term)
Trustees of the Trust Funds, 1 position (3-year term)
|
|
OYSTER RIVER COOPERATIVE SCHOOL DISTRICT ELECTION INFORMATION
The filing period for the ORCSD elected offices for the March 14, 2017 Election is Wednesday, January 25, 2017 through 5:00 PM Friday, February 3, 2017. There is no filing fee required.
At Large School Board, 2 positions (3-year terms)
|
|
Map of Eversource Seacoast Reliabilty Project route. Courtesy Eversource
DURHAM ENGAGES THIRD PARTY INDEPENDENT EXPERT TO VET EVERSOURCE SRP
In terms of the proposed Eversource project, our staff has been actively undertaking due diligence since the Council’s decision on Dec. 5th to evaluate and select a highly qualified environmental expert to assist us in vetting the Eversource Seacoast Reliability Project (SRP) submittals relative to the proposed underwater crossing of the Little Bay utilizing controversial jet plow technology.
Durham’s concern is to ensure no harm is done to the natural resources of the estuary.
After much review, we have contracted with GeoInsight, http://www.geoinsight.com/services/environmental/risk-assessment/ ,which in partnership with the Woods Hole Group, will serve as our independent third party experts. The cost of Durham's efforts will likely fall within the $50,000 - $100,000 range. A purchase order has been executed in the amount of $90,000 for the undertaking.
While Eversource’s employees and contractors have asserted to date there is no risk to the bay, the Town Council believes it’s essential to carefully vet Eversource information by an impartial third party engaged by the Town. This review, as well as that undertaken by an independent expert from the Attorney for the Public at the NH Department of Justice, will help the Town, the SEC, and the public to fully understand the implications of this significant $70 million Eversource proposal impacting the estuarine resources of the region.
Woods Hole Group http://www.woodsholegroup.com/ is multidisciplinary consulting firm with expertise divided into three teams: Applied Ecology & Sustainability; Coastal Sciences, Engineering & Planning; and Oceanography & Measurement Systems. The company celebrated 30 years of business success in 2016.
Consulting specialties include: coastal engineering and geology; numerical modeling; environmental risk/impact assessment and remediation; physical oceanography; ocean and systems engineering; marine survey/data collection and field services; measurement systems installation, operation, and maintenance; climate change vulnerability assessments and sustainability.
Members of the Durham Historic Association also attended a session this week in Portsmouth sponsored by the NH Division of Historic Resources in which historic elements of the proposed Eversource project were discussed. The Durham Historic Association has been granted Intervener status by the NH Site Evaluation Committee.
|
|
HOUSING STANDARDS ORDINANCE - 2016 STATISTICS
The Fire Prevention Division at the Durham Fire Department was busy this year managing the Housing Standards Ordinance, which requires the registration of all rental property in Durham and a cyclical inspection of such properties to ensure compliance with basic NH health and safety standards.
Inspection data for 2016 is as follows:
- Total Rental Housing Inspections between 1/1/16 – 12/31/16: 643
- Total Inspection Violations: 601
- Total violations that have been corrected: 216
- Outstanding inspection violations: 385
Top 5 Life/Safety/Heath Deficiencies include:
- Hard-Wired Interconnected Smoke Alarms Required - 34
- Smoke Alarms Not Interconnected – 29
- Carbon Monoxide Alarms Required – 28
- Boiler Inspection Overdue - 27
- Replace/Restore Junction Box Cover – 26
For information about the Housing Standards Ordinance, don’t hesitate to contact the Durham Fire Department at mperusse@ci.durham.nh.us or call 603-868-5531.
|
|
Durham Police Department honor guard at recent Wildcat hockey game. Courtesy Karen Henny, McGregor Memorial EMS
DURHAM POLICE HONOR GUARD AT LAST NIGHT'S GAME
The Whittemore Center celebrated First Responder Appreciation Night during last night’s UNH Hockey 4-1 victory over Northeastern University. Performing the National Anthem was Michael Mone, Durham Police Sergeant Kathryn Mone and NH Liquor Enforcement Officer Tim Mone’s son. Members of the Durham Police Honor Guard, represented by Officer CJ Young, Officer Max Castricone, Detective Tom Kilroy, and Officer Pam Donley, displayed the Colors for the National Anthem.
Courtesy Liz Keelty
|
|
2016 YEAR END WRAP UP – An Annual Report by Admin. Selig
The Town of Durham continues to be economically and prudently operated. We function as a purveyor of municipal services, and town staff, elected, and appointed officials are working to implement business practices to control costs and maintain the municipality’s fiscal position despite many competing pressures. From preserving the quality of life within our traditional residential neighborhoods to taking steps to protect the interests of the community and the health of the Great Bay Estuary with respect to the proposed $70 million Eversource Seacoast Reliability Project in which a new 115 kV regional electric transmission line would be constructed between existing substations along roughly 12.9 miles of existing rights-of-way from Madbury through Durham to Newington/Portsmouth, many individuals have collectively worked diligently on behalf of the community in 2016.
According to Moody’s Investors Service, the town has a very solid financial position. Durham's credit position is very high quality, and its Aa2 bond rating is stronger than the median rating of Aa3 for cities nationwide. Notable credit factors include a modestly sized tax base with an affluent socioeconomic profile. It also takes into account a sizable pension burden with a mid-ranged debt liability.
Durham's net cash balance as a percent of revenues far exceeds the US median. In terms of management and governance, surplus operating margins are a component of strong financial management. Moody’s indicates that on average, Durham has run surpluses over the past several years. The presence of UNH in Durham also serves to bolster and solidify the local economy.
The town’s weekly “Friday Updates” serves to keep the Town Council and members of the community informed of news and happenings in Durham. Over 3,100 people subscribe to this weekly broadcast. Durham has once again bolstered its Twitter and Facebook presence in order to meet the demands of residents’ changing preferences for information distribution. For example, 702 individuals have signed up for our Twitter feed (an increase of 24% since 2015) and 1,863 (up 49%) individuals now follow Durham on Facebook. The goal is to keep residents informed of local affairs so they may become engaged when issues are of interest to them. We are a community that truly welcomes and encourages citizen involvement.
Over the last year, the town has continued to pursue Long-Term Economic as well as Environmental Sustainability, which are inextricably linked. Without economic sustainability, the town will not have the financial resources available over the long-term to stabilize the tax rate, pursue desired projects/infrastructure, preserve open space, etc. Without a healthy natural environment, we will not sustain the Durham in which citizens hope and desire to live, work, and play. The 2011 Master Plan survey was very clear in pointing out that residents of the community seek balance. The notion of seeking a state of balance in Durham continues today.
In the area of land conservation, the town worked closely with the Southeast Land Trust as part of an effort to conserve the 40 +/- acre Thompson Forest parcel located along Wednesday Hill Road abutting the Durham-UNH Water System pump station on the Lamprey River. This was completed in 2016. Durham has also been working with Forest Society relative to securing a conservation easement on the 40 +/- acre Hills/Emery Farm property located along Route 4 directly across from the Emery Farm farm stand.
In 2016, the “Powder Major” (or Goss family) project consisting of approximately 227 acres at the juncture of Durham, Lee, and Madbury near Tibbetts Field/Rt.155 in Madbury in conjunction with the Society for Protection of NH Forests was approved by both the Durham Conservation Commission and the Town Council, as well as the towns of Lee and Madbury. The Forest Society is still in the process of raising the necessary funds to close on the parcel in early 2017.
Durham has experienced significant economic development activity between 2012 and 2016, which will serve to provide increased tax base moving forward. New construction increased the town’s tax base from $916,456,045 in 2014 to $1,007,876,992 in 2016, an increase of $91.4 million or 9.97%. Historically, our tax base has grown by around 1% per year. We project that the tax base will grow by an additional $11.8 million to $1,019,669,153 in 2016, an increase of 1.2%.
The Town Council goals in 2016 tasked the Administrator with developing a budget for 2017 that held General Fund expenses at current levels except for contractual increases, including wages and benefits and a cost of living adjustment for non-unionized personnel. I am pleased to report that we were able to fulfill this directive, leaving the projected municipal-only portion of the tax rate at $8.48 for the third consecutive year.
In 2013, the Council approved the acceptance of $125,000 over three years from the US Department of Justice, Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) program, for the purpose of hiring a 20th police officer focused on “Problem Oriented Policing (POP).” This additional resource has enabled the Police Department to address impacts of poorly managed non-owner occupied college student housing within Durham’s traditional residential neighborhoods surrounding the downtown core. The grant has now ended but due to the program’s measurable success, the POP officer will be retained moving forward.
Durham’s new 12,187 sq. ft. state-of-the-art Town Hall at 8 Newmarket Road entered its third year of operation on October 23, 2016. Following an extensive RFP process, Durham ultimately sold the former Town Office site at 15 Newmarket Road to a local technology company, Applied Geosolutions, for the sum of $650,000. Applied Geosolutions plans to invest around $600,000 in the building. The town has required that any redevelopment of the site not impact its spot on the National Register of Historical Places. Construction is now under way.
Following numerous permitting delays, construction on the new UNH Outdoor Pool was completed in 2016. It opened to great fanfare this past fall. At 14,355 sq. ft., the +/- $6.5 million structure paid for fully by UNH is one of the largest outdoor pools in New Hampshire. The Town Council has allocated the sum of $30,000 to subsidize the annual pool pass cost for Durham residents by providing a 20% reduction off the annual purchase price. Passes are purchased at the Hamel Recreation Center.
The Town and UNH, through the administrative joint Water, Wastewater, and Stormwater Committee, continued to address a multitude of joint Town/Gown items to include operation of the new Spruce Hole Well which went on line in late-2015, focusing attention on water quality deficiencies within the Great Bay Estuary (nitrogen) as identified by the NHDES and the EPA, meeting EPA wastewater and stormwater MS-4 mandates, implementing a required NHDES backflow prevention program, water tank refurbishing/painting, and more.
Significant energy has been dedicated in 2016 toward working with UNH as part of a collaborative public/public/private development project in downtown Durham to include numerous potential elements such as the UNH bookstore (in lieu of the present Memorial Union Building location), professional office space, small hotel, retail and restaurant space, structured parking, and possible over 55 housing within the downtown core in the vicinity of 66 Main Street, the former ATO fraternity site. The Council and USNH Board of Trustees approved a Memorandum of Understanding between Durham and UNH in 2015. Unfortunately, efforts did not produce results in 2016, yet we look forward to additional discussions around this potential partnership in 2017.
Durham and UNH negotiation teams met extensively in 2016 to discuss and ultimately agree upon a variety of topics/agreements which were subsequently approved by the town and UNH in spring 2016 as follows: Agreement to renegotiate the Municipal Services (Omnibus) Agreement which expires 12/31/18; MOU on Long-Range Planning Coordination and Communication; Fire Protection Services Agreement; Jackson's Landing Boat Launch Agreement (for 1 year); MOU on University Outdoor Swimming Pool; The School Agreement; Transfer of Real Property Agreement (transferring ownership of the “Tot Lot” and Oyster River Park to Durham); and the Water and Wastewater System Agreement. This package of agreements represents a significant undertaking and accomplishment.
Durham’s vision for its Parks & Recreation Department is that it will offer a wide variety of opportunities and concentrations for all residents of any age wishing to participate in accessible, affordable activities. The department also plans/coordinates community-wide events such as Durham Day, a summer concert series, the Annual Tree Lighting, as well as managing the Churchill Rink. Director Rachel Gasowski has been working very closely with the Conservation Commission to introduce residents to the numerous open space properties the town controls.
In response to the goal of becoming a more pedestrian and bicycle-friendly community, the town moved forward numerous efforts in 2015 and 2016 to delineate roadways within our downtown core with “share the road” (or sharrows) markings and signage. 45 such yellow signs on wooden posts were ultimately installed throughout the community. Efforts to better delineate and safely address bicycle and pedestrian friction points utilizing Transportation Engineer Dirk Grotenhuis’ services were evaluated and discussed by the Council. Many recommendations were acted upon, including the application of green paint within bicycle areas at specific intersections in the downtown to assist bicyclists in navigating the downtown core more effectively and safely. It’s important to keep in mind as well that Durham’s public roadways are also built for automobiles! When bicyclists are on the road, they are responsible for following the same rules of the road as cars drivers. In short, bike and car drivers alike must exercise safety and good judgment while out and about on our roads.
As a result of new development, specific sidewalk sections along Church Hill and Madbury Road were widened, and the pocket park at Main Street and Mill Road was completely refurbished as part of the Pauly’s Pockets project, which was completed in 2016. The pocket park at the corner of Main Street and Pettee Brook Lane was also refurbished in 2014 with excellent results, furthering our efforts to make downtown pedestrian welcoming. The Madbury Commons project at 17-21 Madbury Road now provides an attractive pedestrian connection between Madbury Road and Pettee Brook Lane (and Main Street beyond).
In an effort to enhance Durham’s resiliency and sustainabilityy in an era of climate change, following many, many months of discussions/negotiations the town partnered with ReVision Energy and IGS Solar, pursued and was awarded a $500,000 grant from the NH Public Utilities Commission, obtained approval from the Governor and Executive Council by a narrow 3-2 vote, worked through a PILOT agreement with the Town of Lee, entered into an agreement with the Oyster River Cooperative School District for power purchase, negotiated required connection arrangements with Eversource, and the Town Council ultimately approved in late-fall 2015 moving forward with executing contracts for the construction of a 640 kW DC solar array in Durham’s Packers Falls Gravel Pit. The project came on line in spring 2016. This project is the 2nd largest solar array in the State of New Hampshire.
Oyster River School District Superintendent of Schools James Morse and I continue to work to remain in active communication with one another regarding issues of mutual interest/concern. It is helpful to note that Town Councilors Kenny Rotner and Allan Howland are also members of the ORCSD School Board, in this way ensuring there is very good communication between Durham and the ORCSD School Board as well relative to issues of mutual interest.
Much work has been devoted to addressing human resource issues in Durham in 2016. Collective bargaining contract negotiations were kicked off in the fall 2015 between the town and the AFSCME Unit representing our public works personnel, and with the Durham Professional Firefighters Association (DPFFA Unit) representing our firefighters and fire inspectors. A common theme in these discussions revolved around increasing employee contributions toward health insurance premiums. Both contracts were ratified by the Town Council in 2016. Contract negotiations with the Durham Police Officers Association for a successor bargaining agreement commenced in fall 2016.
Durham is highly regarded as a leader in myriad areas amongst NH municipalities, state agencies, and beyond. For example:
- In 2016 Durham was selected as the recipient of the Sustainable Communities Award from the Gulf of Maine Council on the Marine Environment;
- We were listed as one of the safest college towns in America according to Safewise;
- The community received the top ranking score in NH by the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equity Index;
- Our new Master Plan was selected as Plan of the Year by the NH Association of State Planners.
These accomplishments were not by accident. The residents who live here are smart, entrepreneurial, always taking the long-term perspective, focused on the environment, community-oriented, and committed to quality education. The town is blessed with significant natural resources as well: the Great Bay, the Oyster River, the Lamprey River, the Spruce Hole Bog, Wagon Hill Farm, numerous natural gateways leading into and out of the community, and more. But it is not only that we have these natural treasures. Durham has had the foresight to protect them through local decision-making, good planning, prudent management, and a lot of hard work. Meanwhile, the University of New Hampshire provides social, cultural, and athletic opportunities for the community, not to mention it's an economic driver for Durham and the entire region. And our town employees — public works, police, fire, planning, zoning, and more — they are good people, working hard with limited resources to meet the needs of demanding citizens with high expectations for exceptional service delivery at the local level.
While taxes are undeniably high in Durham, for all of these reasons, home sales remain strong, commercial investment is active, downtown vacancies are almost non-existent, the tax base is growing, the town is beautiful, and a positive sense of community is pervasive.
All in all, it has been a solid year for Durham.
|
|
DURHAM REPRESENTATIVES ATTEND MEETING OF NH COMMISSION ON NATIVE AMERICAN AFFAIRS – “Cruel Adversity” Mural Image at Durham Post Office
A brief update relative the mural issue at the Durham Post Office. At the request of the NH Commission on Native American Affairs (NHCNAA), Town Council Chair Kitty Marple, Rev. Larry Brickner-Wood, and Mr. Selig traveled to Franklin, NH to attend the commission’s quarterly meeting. It was held at the Franklin Public Library. The topic was the historic “Cruel Adversity” mural image at the US Post Office in Durham.
The meeting lasted for approximately 90 minutes. In summary, we talked about the history of the mural set, various perspectives we have all received, concerns expressed by the commission itself, Rev. Brickner-Wood’s concerns, etc. In addition, Mr. Selig relayed the US Postal Service Historian's feedback that the US Post Office official policy is to neither remove nor cover artwork in postal service facilities. The commission members asked Mr. Selig to show them where it explicitly states this policy in writing in US Postal Service documents. Mr. Selig indicated that he had no idea and that this would be a question for the US Postal Service. In addition, the commission asked who legally owned the mural set. Mr. Selig indicated that to our knowledge and understanding, the US Postal Service did. Mr. Selig was asked whether the Town of Durham had any legal documentation to this effect. He explained that we did not, but that it is our understanding the Women’s Club of Durham donated the mural to the post office in 1959. Again, another question for the USPS.
The NHCNAA Chairwoman, Bronwyn Asplund-Walsh, indicated that she had also invited Ms. Kathi Roy (Manager of Consumer Affairs, USPS, 151 Forest Avenue, Portland, ME 04101) to the meeting and that Ms. Roy had in fact accepted the invitation. Unfortunately, Ms. Roy was not in attendance.
After much discussion, the commission appeared to reach consensus that interpretative language was likely the best course of action to address the concerns expressed to date. Mr. Selig explained that US Postal Service Historian was in the process of developing draft language, and that when it was ready to be reviewed in draft form for feedback, she was going to forward it to him and he, in turn, would share it with the Durham Historic District Commission, Durham Human Rights Commission, Durham Historic Association, interested citizens, and, if they were interested, the NHCNAA. The NHCNAA was very interested in this approach.
Mr. Selig explained that he did not know what form the interpretative language would take (i.e., words painted on the wall, a plaque, a pamphlet, etc.), but that he imagined we could provide feedback relative to that as well to the US Postal Service Historian for consideration.
The commission will tentatively meet next on April 11, 2017, and Mr. Selig extended an invitation to host them in Durham. We’ll let you know if the meeting is ultimately scheduled to take place here in the hope that interested Durham residents might be able to attend as well.
Finally, Mr. Selig asked the commission whether it had concerns about the “Native Ingenuity” panel. It did not.
Of interest is the fact that Ms. Marple, Mr. Brickner-Wood, and Mr. Selig all drove to Franklin together for the meeting. “You came together!” one member of the commission exclaimed. “Wasn’t it an uncomfortable ride given that you are at odds on this issue?” We explained that we are all friends in Durham, even though we may at times have differing perspectives. That’s the way it should be!
|
|
SUPERVISORS OF THE CHECKLIST
The Durham Supervisors of the Checklist will meet at the Town Hall twice in January to accept new voters and to make corrections to the checklist:
Tuesday, January 24, 2017, 7:00 -7:30 PM.
Saturday, January 28, 2017, 2:00 -2:30 PM.
Changes in party registration can also be made at this time.
Prospective voters are required by law to show proof of identity, age (18 by the election day), domicile/residence in Durham, and U.S. Citizenship. A driver’s license and a birth certificate or passport are useful. Affidavits of domicile and citizenship may be signed under oath if proofs are lacking.
|
|
UNREGISTERED DOGS AND 2017 DOG TAGS
Dog owners with unregistered dog(s) in 2016 are reminded that they must register their dogs by January 20, 2015, to avoid additional penalties. Dog tags for 2017 are now available, however; dog owners with an outstanding 2016 registration will need to take care of 2016 fees before they will be issued a 2017 tag.
|
|
WINTER SAND/SALT MIX
The Department of Public Works has winter sand/salt mix available for RESIDENTIAL USE ONLY at the Public Works department located just outside the gate near the mailbox. As many may recall, this used to be in the old Town Hall parking lot until the property was sold and the Town Hall moved.
Residents may fill a few pails as needed for their homes throughout the winter. This is NOT FOR COMMERCIAL USE.
|
|
Sketch of proposed renovation/addition at Durham Police Department. Courtesy Bill Schoonmaker, Schoonmaker Architects
DURHAM POLICE RENOVATIONS/ADDITION PROPOSAL - Additional information for residents in a new video from DCAT.
The second video pertaining to the proposed renovations/addition to the existing police facility is now available. Kudos to Craig Stevens of DCAT who developed this 2nd of 3 videos available on "Video on Demand" at the Durham website. While the first 13 minute video focused upon the three critical and immediate needs that challenge the agency, this video offers insight to the working areas of the department that the public rarely sees. Future information will focus upon the following items:
- Breaking down the pricing cost centers for the $1,960,000 renovation/addition
- Highlighting the positive energy efficiency that the renovations will accomplish
- Define the useful 30-50 year life expediency of the project’s outcome
- Discuss the existing attractive interest rates that would be financed over a number of years.
If there are any residents who would care to see their police facility first-hand, please contact Chief Dave Kurz and he will be happy to arrange for a tour.
|
|
REFERENDUM QUESTION ON THE MARCH 14, 2017 TOWN ELECTION WARRANT asking residents if they are in favor of raising and appropriating not more than $1,960,000 for the expansion/renovation of the Durham Police facility
At the January 9, 2017 Town Council meeting, the Council held the first required Public Hearing in accordance with RSA 33:8 and voted unanimously to place the following referendum question on the March 14, 2017 Town Election Warrant relating to bonding for the expansion/renovation of the Durham Police facility:
"Are you in favor of raising and appropriating the sum of $1,960,000 for the purpose of the expansion/renovation of the Durham Police Facility, with said sum to be in addition to any federal, state or private funds made available therefor, and of authorizing the issuance of not more than $1,960,000 of bonds or notes in accordance with the provision of the municipal finance act, RSA Chapter 33, and authorizing the municipal officials to issue and negotiate such bonds or notes and to determine the rate of interest thereon. The Council recommends this appropriation. 2/3 ballot vote required."
The Council also scheduled a second Public Hearing in accordance RSA 33:8-d II (b), to be held at its February 6, 2017 meeting, as well as a Public Hearing to be held on February 6, 2017 on a resolution authorizing the borrowing of money and incurrence of debt of not more than $1,960,000.00 of bonds or notes, issued in accordance with the provisions of the Municipal Finance Act (RSA 33), for the expansion/renovation of the Durham Police facility. This Public Hearing will meet the requirements of Section 5.12(A) of the Durham Town Charter.
|
|
MAIN STREET SIDEWALK NETWORK TO GROW
NHDOT has selected a proposal developed by UNH under the Federal Highway Transportation Alternatives Program designed to improve pedestrian safety. The project award will fund construction of a new sidewalk on the south side of Main Street (including landscaping and lighting improvements) from the Field House west to the roundabout. (highlighted area in Google Earth image)
The project will include coordination of a new crosswalk on Main Street at Sage Way which will be developed with Town Traffic Safety review. The grant will fund 80% of an estimated $460,000 total project cost with UNH providing local match. Project design will start late this summer with construction likely during summer 2018. FMI contact Steve Pesci at UNH Campus Planning.
|
|
DURHAM POLICE DEPARTMENT SEEKING FULL-TIME POLICE OFFICER
The Durham, New Hampshire Police Department is seeking qualified applicants to establish a list for the position of full-time Police Officer. The applicant selected to serve as Police Officer will provide law enforcement and community-oriented services to this diverse Seacoast/University community.
Officers patrol an assigned area for the purpose of crime prevention and law enforcement. Duties include but are not limited to the investigation of crimes; identification/apprehension of offenders, traffic enforcement, and the provision of emergency services. Candidates must have the ability to exercise good judgment, common sense and discretion, and be able to analyze situations quickly and objectively. Applicants must be able to make decisions under pressure.
Applicants must be 21 years old by the anticipated date of appointment. Applicants must be a high school graduate or hold a GED; Bachelor Degrees from an accredited college or university are preferred. Applicants must appear on the most recent Great Bay Police Testing Alliance written test list OR be a certified police officer in this or any other state accepted by the New Hampshire Police Standards and Training Council. Prior Great Bay test participants may still participate as long as they provide proof of their test score and the date the test was taken.
Visible Tattoos will disqualify a candidate automatically.
Females and Minorities are encouraged to apply.
Anticipated date of appointment for this selection process is April 17, 2017. This date is subject to change.
Letter of Interest, Professional Resume, and Town of Durham Employment Application must be received by Capt. David Holmstock by 5:00 PM, Friday, February 3, 2017 at:
Durham Police Department
86 Dover Road
Durham, New Hampshire 03824
The Durham Police Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
|
|
DURHAM HISTORIC ASSOCIATION MEETING
The Durham Historic Association’s 2017 January program is scheduled on Sunday, January 22, 2017 at 2:00 PM in the Durham Town Hall Council Chambers: "Arron Sturgis and Jessica Milneil of Preservation Timberframing, Inc.: The Israel DeMeritt/O'Kane House." This was Durham's finest Federal period house, according to James Garvin, noted architectural historian.
This program is open to all DHA members and the general public. Snow date is Sunday, January 29.
|
|
HOW SWEET IT IS: A family friendly presentation about the fascinating, and important, Honey Bee
On Saturday, February 4th, from 11:30 am - 1:00 pm at the Durham Public Library, the Durham Agricultural Commission will present New Hampshire Beekeeper Wendy Booth. Wendy will share her excitement for keeping bees and talk about the fascinating life of the Honey Bee. We will laugh and learn and laugh some more.
Wendy is past President of the NH Beekeepers, 2008 Beekeeper of the Year, featured on NH Chronicle, NH Magazine and NPR and has award winning bee photos in national magazines. There will be honey for tasting and honey recipes to take home. If you are thinking of keeping bees, enjoy gardening or love to hear about nature…this will be a great presentation.
For more information, please contact Theresa Walker of the Durham Agricultural Commission at 659-7226, theresawalker@comcast.net
|
|
CURRENT USE VALUE RANGES FOR 2017-2018
Current Use Assessment provides a property tax incentive to all qualifying landowners who agree to maintain their land in an undeveloped condition. This assessment is based on the capacity of the land to produce income in its current use-whether it is managed farm or forest, or unmanaged open space. Current Use is the cornerstone of the state's land conservation efforts, with over half the land in New Hampshire is enrolled in this valuable program.
"It is hereby declared to be in the public interest to encourage preservation of open space, thus providing a healthful and attractive outdoor environment for work and recreation of the state's citizen's, maintaining the character of the state's landscape, and conserving the land, water, forest, agricultural and wildlife resources." - NH Current Use law RSA 79-A (enacted July 1, 1973)
For land to qualify for Current Use it must be a tract of land or a combination of contiguous tracts under identical ownership comprised of a minimum of ten (10) acres.
When land is disqualified from Current Use due to development of the land or because it no longer meets the minimum acreage requirement, it is subject to a land use change tax equal to 10% of the full and true value of the land at the time it is disqualified.
View more information regarding Current Use HERE.
Per RSA 79-A, the Current Use Board has revised the Current Use value ranges for 2017-2018.
Cub 304.07 Assessment Ranges for Forest Land Categories. The assessment ranges for forest land categories without documented stewardship shall be as follows:
a) The category of white pine shall be $110 to $165 per acre;
b) The category of hardwood shall be $47 to $71 per acre; and
c) The category of all other shall be $34 to $51 per acre.
Cub 304.08 Assessment Ranges for Forest Land Categories with Documented
Stewardship. The assessment ranges for forest land categories with documented stewardship shall be as follows:
a) The category of white pine shall be $66 to $99 per acre;
b) The category of hardwood shall be $28 to $43 per acre; and
c) The category of all other shall be $20 to $30 per acre.
Cub 304.13 Assessment Range for Unproductive Land. The assessment for unproductive land shall be $20 per acre.
Cub 304.14 Assessment Range for Wetland. The assessment for wetland shall be $20 per acre.
|
|
HAVE YOUR APPLIED FOR YOUR SOLAR EXEMPTION YET?
Persons that own property in Durham and recently installed a “solar energy system” that utilizes solar energy to heat or cool the interior of their building, heat water, or to provide electricity, may qualify for a solar exemption.
The Town of Durham has adopted the Exemption for Solar Systems per RSA 72:62 which gives qualifying residents a solar exemption from their property tax assessment.
In order to qualify for this exemption, a PA-29 exemption application must be received by the Assessing Office by April 15, 2017. Applications may be downloaded from the Town website or may be picked up at the Assessor’s Office located on the 2nd floor of the Town Hall building at 8 Newmarket Road. Applications must also include the total installation cost and a detailed list of what equipment was installed on an applicant's property.
If approved, this exemption will be applied to 2017 assessments.
Please contact the Town Assessor at 603-868-8064 with any questions regarding the solar systems exemption.
|
|
DURHAM HISTORIC ASSOCIATION "THANK YOU" TO HANNAFORD
The Durham Historic Association (DHA) would like to thank Hannaford for designating the DHA as the non-profit for the month of November. Thank you also to everyone that brought a bag or left a contribution. Your generosity will help the association with its dual mission of historic preservation and education.
Be watching for the opening of the DHA museum!
|
|
|
|
Local Author Elliott Baker's latest book, The Sun God's Heir, will be launched on Wednesday, January 18, 2017
DURHAM RESIDENT ELLIOTT BAKER PUBLISHES NEW BOOK
Durham resident Elliott Baker has published a new book, The Sun God’s Heir. The book is just out and will be launched at the Riverrun Book store located at 142 Fleet St., Portsmouth, NH on Wednesday, January 18, 2017, at 7:00 PM.
The Sun God’s Heir is a swashbuckling series, set at the end of the seventeenth century in France, Spain and northern Africa. Slavery is a common plague along the European coast and into this wild time, an ancient Egyptian general armed with dark arts has managed to return and re-embody, intent on recreating the reign of terror he began as Pharaoh. René Gilbert must remember his own former lifetime at the feet of Akhenaten to have a chance to defeat Horemheb. A secret sect has waited in Morocco for three thousand years for his arrival.
|
|
MEETINGS: SCHEDULE AND VIDEO ON DEMAND
The following public meetings are scheduled for the coming week All meetings begin at 7:00 PM and are held in the Council chambers at the Durham Town Hall unless otherwise indicated below. Click on the meetings listed below to view agendas and other information.
Economic Development Committee - Tuesday, January 17, 2017
Parks & Recreation Committee - Thursday, January 19, 2017
___________________________________
All meetings recorded on DCAT are available on DVD at the Durham Public Library for checkout and viewing.
|
|
DCAT CABLE CHANNEL 22
Don’t miss the latest episode of “ In the Biz; Durham Business Spotlight”. This episode features Young’s Family Restaurant. Meet owner Ken Young and hear his strategy on how he keeps his restaurant on the cutting edge of the ever changing restaurant scene, he’ll also talk about how he brings his customers the freshest product available. There are a few surprises too. This video is available on DCAT 22 TV at 12:30 & 6:00 PM, DCAT on Demand, & our website
Total run time: 11 minutes
_______________________
Durham Police Facility Video. DCAT 22 Studios has created the first two videos in a series of three which are designed to inform residents of the needs of the police facility. These videos focus on critical and immediate needs that challenge the agency. While the department will be presenting and hosting opportunities to tour the facility, these series of short videos will offer some exposure to areas at the police department that the public rarely sees. The video airs on DCAT Cable Channel 22: Saturday & Sunday @ 7:30 PM. It’s also available On Demand.
_______________________
DCAT is Live Streaming. Please join DCAT for any of our regularly scheduled meetings live-streamed directly to the device of your choice . It’s easy, all you have to do is go to: live-stream.com and follow the prompts to set up your live stream account. You’ll receive email updates as to when the meeting will be held and the start time. All you have to do is click and watch. Live-stream works on any PC (just remember to update your Adobe Flash player), Apple or Android device. Please contact dcat@ci.durham.nh.us with any questions.
|
|
PARKS AND RECREATION PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Durham Parks and Recreation, its Director and Committee, strive to offer a wide range of quality programs, parks, and facilities that encourage all community members to participate in healthy, fun, and enriching activities. Together, they celebrate the essential role public recreation plays in fostering a cohesive and vibrant community.
2017 Winter Programs With DPR
Happy New Year from Durham Parks & Recreation! Winter programs are underway along with several community events planned! Keep on top of what we have going on by following us on Facebook “Durham Rec” and by visiting us at durhamrec.recdesck.com to register for programs. Here’s to a fun and active 2017!!
Karate & Kobudo-A Community Martial Arts Class for youth and adults. Thursdays, January 19th-February 23rd from 6-7:30pm at the Middle School-MPR. Ages 10+ (youth & adults). $60/participate. Practical self-defense through a traditional Okinawan style of karate (Shorinryu Matsumura Seito), including training with bo, sai, and kama. Pre-registration due by January 16th.
Energy Medicine Workshop: Explore your Inner Healing- Curious what ENERGY medicine is? Would you like a way to “rest” your “feel good” button to increase your energy level, improve concentration, clear toxins from your body, feel more grounded and experience more joy? Join Mary Schwoerer for these workshops to learn how energy exercise can propel you towards greater health and happiness while balancing negative energies that assault your well-being. Expand YOUR light!
Register for these FREE workshops: Monday, January 30th 9-10:30am and Thursday, February 2nd 6:30-8pm at the Parks & Recreation Building.
Coyote Club Session 3-Coyote Club introduces children to nature-based studies, native crafts and environmental stewardship. This program will get kids out of the house and into the woods, connecting them to their environment
Mondays, after school-4:30pm beginning January 30th -March 27th (8 weeks). No class 2/27. Pre-registration is due by January 23rd- space is limited so please register early. Coyote Club takes place at Moharimet Elementary School Sugar Shack area and surrounding woods. Students from Mast Way can take bus #84 to Moharimet to participate.
After School & Community Archery Clinics- Tuesdays: February 14th-March 14th. After School Session for grades 5-12, 2:45-3:45pm. Community Session for ages 7+ (youth & adults), 4-5pm at the Oyster River Middle School. $70/pp. Archery In Motion will be instructing this four-week clinic which will focus on safety, proper shooting form and developing technique to become more precise in order to enhance the archers’ abilities.
Pre-registration required by February 8th.
Upcoming Events-Save The Date!!
Family Sweetheart Dance- Friday, February 10th 6-8pm at the Oyster River High School- MPR. Join us for our first Family Sweetheart Dance!! The whole family is invited to join in on an evening of dancing, FUN and to celebrate Valentine’s Day!!
$20/couple or $30/family (add a person for $5). Ticket prices include a 5x7 photo. Tickets are now on sale!!
Slush Cup Pond Hockey Tournament- Saturday, March 18th. 1pm at Churchill Rink. Enjoy one last hoorah of the season before ice is out with this 3vs3 short ice double elimination tournament! Gather a team and enter into one of our age appropriate divisions. Great prizes and family fun! $30/team or $10/player (teams can have up to 4 players per team or register as a single and get placed on a team).
|
|
COMMUNITY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Main Street Makery - Choice of 3 $5 crafts to choose from. Make a New Years Resolution Journal, Craft a colorful fleece scarf or make a wood Mr. & Mrs. Winter. Tues-Fri 10-6 and Sat. 10.
Newcomers Unlimited Meeting - Friday, Jan 20, 2017. Social 9 to 10 AM; presentation at 10AM, Durham Community Church, 17 Main St. Hayley LaPoint, Meteorologist, WMUR, Ch. 9 will talk about what it’s like working as a meteorologist at WMUR and share a behind-the-scenes video of the studio that explains the process and challenges of forecasting the weather, as well as what is it like to work in a male-dominated field.
OR High School Drama Department Talent Show - Friday, Jan 27, 2017, 7PM. Tickets: $7/adult, $5/student. Food available for purchase.
UNH Summer Youth Program Fair - Thursday, Feb 2, 2017, 5 - 7:30 pm, Hamel Recreation Center, 5 Edgewood Rd. Parents and students will learn about the variety of UNH youth programs available and talk with program staff. UNH offers summer programs for students ages 6-18 in subject areas such as Academic Enrichment, the Arts, Athletics, Recreation, and STEM.
Parking is in the Edgewood Rd. Visitor Lot. Some UNH summer programs are currently open for enrollment; others open mid-February and early March. For more information and enrollment open dates, click HERE. Email cathy.leach@unh.edu with questions.
Oyster River Folk Concerts presents Fiddler and Singer, Lissa Schneckenberger with guitarist, Bethany Waickman, Saturday, Feb 4, 2017, 7PM, Durham Unitarian Fellowship, 30 Madbury Rd. Tickets: $12/adults, $5/students. Only sold at the door. Doors open at 6:30 PM.
OR High School Weekly Athletic Schedule. View the schedule HERE.
UNH Museum of Art Upcoming Events. View schedule of events HERE.
|
|
Congratulations to Kerstin Nielsen winner of the Oyster River High School Poetry Out Loud Contest and runner-up Diayao Zhang. The contest was held at the Durham Public Library on Jan. 11th. ORHS participants pictured
DURHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
The library will be closed on Monday January 16th in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Children’s and Young Adult Programs:
Congratulations to Kerstin Nielsen the new Oyster River High School Poetry Out Loud Winner and runner up Diayao Zhang.
Special Cocheco Valley Humane Society visit with Bonnie Burke, Miss Strafford County, Sat. Jan. 14th at 10:30 am - Come learn about the animals, meet an animal and make a fun craft. All ages.
Storytimes - Tues. Jan. 17th and Thurs. Jan. 19th at 10:30 am - “Penguins!”
Jack & Annie Book Club (Grades K-2) Tuesday, January 17th at 4:00 – 5:00 PM - Join us for our new monthly book club made just for kids in kindergarten through 2nd grade! During our meeting we will talk about our book club book, play games, and make a craft. This month’s book is "Ghost Town at Sundown" by Mary Pope Osborne. Books are available at the circulation desk. Registration is required. Please sign-up at the Children's desk!
Baby Lap-sit (ages 2 & under with care giver) Begins again on Weds. Jan. 18th at 10:30 am
Pajama Storytime - Pirates! Thursday, January 19th at 6:30PM - Join Oyster River Parents & Preschoolers (ORPP) at the Durham Public Library for our monthly evening storytime for preschoolers! This month we will be all about the Pirates. Come hear stories, do the felt board, sing some pirate songs, and make a fun Pirate craft. Snack provided by ORPP and all are welcome!
Family Movie: Finding Dory! Sat. Jan. 21st at 10:30 am - Join us for this fun family movie: Finding Dory! This movie is shown upstairs in the Oyster River Room. Popcorn is served and all are welcome!
Knitting and Craft Club for 3rd-5th graders Begins again on Weds. Jan. 25th 4-5 pm (register at the Children’s desk).
Join us for Lego Club (K-4th grade) begins again on Thurs. Jan. 26th at 3:30-4:30 pm! We will have fun weekly challenges and of course free build.
Bookeaters, Middle School Book Group, Weds. Jan. 25th 2:45-4:00 pm – Join us for this month’s book group. This month’s book is “Maximum Ride” by James Patterson. Ruth Wharton McDonald is the facilitator. Books are available at the circulation desk. Pizza is served.
New! Fun and Games Fridays, begins on Fri. Jan. 27th all day! – Come and create a drop-in craft and play some fun board games. All ages.
Family STEAM program, Sat. Jan. 28th at 10:30 am – Playdough Engineers. Come and create with clay. All ages.
YA Mondays will begin on Monday, Jan. 30th from 2:45-4 pm (ages 10 & up) – Stop by the YA room for movies, crafts, snacks and games.
Raccoon Readers (2nd-4th grade) Tues. Feb. 7th, 6:00 pm - Join us for Raccoon Readers, our monthly 2nd-4th Grade Book Group. This month's book is "The Island of Dr. Libris" by Chris Grabenstein. We talk about books, authors, play some games and make a craft.
Teen Advisory Board Mon. Feb. 6th, 6:30 pm – Tech Night! The teen advisory board is open to kids in middle and high school. We want to hear from you! Tell the staff about books you would like added to the collection, activities you want to try, movies you want to watch or anything else you feel we should know. This month: Tech Night! Come and try out some new cool tech items: ozobots, makey makey, google cardboard and more.
Seacoast Reads, UNH tutors, will start again in February. Have a child who could use some help with their reading and are in grades 1st-4th? Sign up now at the Children’s desk for a weekly after school session at the library. This is a weekly commitment through early May. Spots are limited so sign-up early.
Join the Patch Program! Come and join and collect your patches! This program is generously sponsored by the Friends of the Durham Public Library.
Adult Programs:
January In the Gallery - Kirk Trombley, Durham Artist. If you missed the reception you can still visit the exhibit in the Gallery during the month of January.
February Artist In the Gallery- Naomi Kornhauser Mark your calendar for the next Artist Reception, Tuesday, Feb. 7, 6:30-7:30
January Author Talk-Michele Albion, Thurs. Jan. 19, 2017 6:30-7:30 pm - Michele Albion to visit DPL again! This time she will talk about her book, The Quotable Amelia Earhart. Michele was the guest author in June at the Ole Time Auto event when she spoke about The Quotable Henry Ford. Light refreshments will be served. Book signings and purchases available, cash, checks & credit cards accepted.
McGregor Memorial EMS offers two classes on the same day! Sat. Jan. 28, 10 am- 12 pm First Aid Class and 12 pm- 2 pm CPR & AED Class - Cost and registration information found at http://cprsafe.org
Friends of the Durham Public Library - Book Donation Week January 30 thru February 4 - Please bring books and DVDs in bags or boxes that do not need to be returned. This is a big help to the volunteers that run the monthly book donation drives. Thank you.
Durham Garden Club Tues. Jan 24, 5:30 pm - Potluck dinner and discussion. Gathering at 5:30 to enjoy an informal potluck dinner. Members and friends are invited to bring their favorite garden tool and share how it helps them in the garden.
Nook Periodicals - We are disappointed to announce that the Nook Periodicals will be discontinued this winter. As much as we wish to continue providing digital magazines, Barnes & Noble, the company providing the digital magazines, no longer collaborates with our eBook and audiobook vendor, OverDrive. About half of the magazine titles will expire in early January and the remainder of the titles will expire in March. But there are other ways to read digital magazine articles! Remember, you can use your library card number to access hundreds of magazines, peer-reviewed journals and newspapers online in our EBSCO database. To see if the magazine you want is listed: Select EBSCO from our website; enter your library card number; select Explora, the first database in the list; type the name of your magazine in the Search box. Chances are, lots of articles from your magazine will pop up! Then you can narrow it down to exactly what you want to read.
Magnifier for the vision-impaired - We are fortunate to have acquired a very user-friendly magnifier, now available in the cafe for anyone to use. It is easy to enlarge the font or change the colors and contrast of any reading material. Come in and have a look! Thank you to our generous donor.
The library offers help for people who need assistance using technology: computers, iPads & cell phones, eReaders (Nook, Kindle, etc.) Call to check on availability of the volunteers and set up an appointment. 868-6699 or email durhampl@gmail.com
For more information, visit the Durham Public Library website.
|
|
WEEKLY ARREST REPORT
*Academic year commences the third week of August through graduation at UNH in May.
|
|
********************************************
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
