Friday Updates - November 4, 2016

Friday, November 4, 2016

Fall leaves. Courtesy Todd Selig

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Opening:  This has been a busy week, to say the least!  There was a very nice editorial about Durham in the Foster’s Daily Democrat entitled, "Communities Should Follow Durham’s Lead.”  Trick-or-treating went smoothly.  UNH and Durham prepare for a visit from President Obama on Monday.  The FY 2017 budget is presented to the Town Council on Monday evening.  Finally, Tuesday, November 8th, is election day in NH and across the nation.  

Remember to turn clocks back one hour this weekend. Daylight Savings Time ends at 2AM on Sunday morning, November 6th.

GENERAL ELECTION AND VOTER REGISTRATION

The General Election will be held on Tuesday, November 8th, at Oyster River High School, 55 Coe Drive, from 7AM to 7PM.  

Saturday, October 29th was the last day for being able to register to vote prior to the election. However, New Hampshire has same day registration and new voters may register to vote at the polls. In order to do so, residents must be 18 years old by the day of the election and provide the following information at the polls:

• Photo ID (i.e., driver's license, passport, birth certificate)
• Proof of domicile/residency
• If not born in the United States, proof of citizenship

Due to the anticipated large voter turnout that is expected, new voters are encouraged to come to the polls sooner than later in the day.

Questions should be directed to the Town Clerk's Office at (603) 868-5578.

To view the official Election ballot for Durham, click HERE.

ELECTIONEERING AT POLLING PLACES - What you need to know at the polls.
Over the years, the Town has been asked during the election process what election information/material can be distributed at polling places. Below are some bullet points about electioneering:

• No electioneering inside the polls or within 50 feet of the polls
• There must be a 10 foot wide path into the poll from the parking lot where a voter can enter undisturbed if s/he so chooses.
• No signs can be placed on municipal or school property.
• All signs must have someone attending them.  The Attorney General has said that vehicles parked in the polling place lot with large signs for a candidate are considered unattended signs.
• While a voter may bring in voter guides to assist him or her, the voter cannot use those materials to influence anyone else and may not leave such material inside a voting booth.
• Electioneering materials not permitted inside the polling place include buttons, badges, and articles of clothing.

Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA) 659:43 “Distributing Campaign Materials at Polling Place”, addresses this question as follows:

“I.   No person shall distribute, wear, or post at a polling place any campaign material in the form of a poster, card, handbill, placard, picture, pin, sticker, circular, or article of clothing which is intended to influence the action of the voter within the building where the election is being held.

II.   No person who is a candidate for office or who is representing or working for a candidate shall distribute any campaign materials or perform any electioneering activities or any activity which affects the safety, welfare and rights of voters within a corridor 10 feet wide and extending a distance from the entrance door of the building as determined by the moderator where the election is being held.”

Section 2.9 "Display of campaign materials at polling place" of the Durham Town Code states:   

 
"Persons as candidates for elected office or as representing or working for a candidate for office or promoting a petition, resolution, referendum or measure on the ballot may not solicit votes or display, exhibit or district any campaign materials within fifty (50) feet of the polling place building. The Moderator shall exercise his powers under state law relative to the conduct of elections,

distribution of campaign materials and electioneering within the polling place."

POLITICAL ADVERTISING - Roadside Signs/Banners

During every election, The Town receives numerous reports about political signs that have been placed in various locations throughout the community, and Town officials are asked to remove signs that residents believe to be in violation of state statutes and/or the Town's Zoning Ordinance.

A new state law was passed in 2013 relative to the placement and removal of political advertising, which is outlined below.

RSA 664:17 Placement and Removal of Political Advertising. – "No political advertising shall be placed on or affixed to any public property including highway rights-of-way or private property without the owner's consent. All political advertising shall be removed by the candidate no later than the second Friday following the election unless the election is a primary and the advertising concerns a candidate who is a winner in the primary. Signs shall not be placed on or affixed to utility poles or highway signs. Political advertising may be placed within state-owned rights-of-way as long as the advertising does not obstruct the safe flow of traffic and the advertising is placed with the consent of the owner of the land over which the right-of-way passes. No person shall remove, deface, or knowingly destroy any political advertising which is placed on or affixed to public property or any private property except for removal by the owner of the property, persons authorized by the owner of the property, or a law enforcement officer removing improper advertising. Political advertising placed on or affixed to any public property may be removed by state, city, or town maintenance or law enforcement personnel. Political advertising removed prior to election day by state, city, or town maintenance or law enforcement personnel shall be kept until one week after the election at a place designated by the state, city, or town so that the candidate may retrieve the items."

ABSENTEE BALLOTS
Ballots must be returned to the Town Clerk’s Office or received in the mail.  PLEASE do not put your ballot in the Town Hall drop box.  Ballots found in the drop box will not be counted. 

TOWN OFFICES CLOSED ON VETERANS DAY HOLIDAY - Friday, November 11, 2016
All Town offices will be closed in observance of Veterans Day next Friday, November 11, 2016. There will be NO CHANGE TO THE REFUSE AND RECYCLING SCHEDULE that week. As always, please have all items out by 7AM.
 
With many holidays coming up, residents should refer to the 2016 Holiday Schedule for refuse and recycling schedule information.

Bettina Sietz & Sarah Hall DeSantis at the Mast Way school's Halloween party on Saturday evening, October 30th. Courtesy John Pacheco

PROPOSED 2017 OPERATING AND LONG-RANGE CAPITAL BUDGETS TO BE DELIVERED TO COUNCILORS MONDAY, NOVEMBER 7TH
In accordance with the Town Charter, on Monday Councilors will receive the Administrator’s proposed 2017 Budget, which includes the General Fund, Water Fund, Sewer Fund, Library Fund, Parking Fund, Depot Road Lot Fund, Churchill Rink Fund, Stone Quarry TIF Fund, and Downtown TIF Fund budgets, as well as the Administrator’s proposed 2017-2026 Capital Improvement Plan incorporating the FY 2017 Capital Fund budget utilizing a ten-year time horizon.

 
A primary driver within Durham’s municipal budget is personnel-related costs that accounts for 61.22% of total spending as part of the proposed 2017 budget. 
 
 A 2% increase has been budgeted for non-union, non-library personnel in 2017, contingent upon successful performance evaluations. An approximate wage increase of up to approx. 25% has been budgeted for many library personnel in recognition of the fact that they are underpaid relative to comparable positions in other communities.  We have endeavored to make strides in compensating our library employees more competitively over the last two years but 3% annually will simply not allow us to achieve our goal.  A market adjustment is necessary.

Fiscal Year 2017 Budgetary Proposal

This year’s budget cycle has resulted in a proposed 2017 General Fund budget totaling $14,458,900 -- a spending increase of $357,433 or 2.53% compared to FY 2016.  Increases due to required wages and benefits as a result of collective bargaining contracts, a 2% COLA for non-union personnel, adequately budgeting overtime for the police department based upon historical actual usage, insurance increases, and NH State Retirement System downshifted costs to the local community total $335,268, plus an additional $48,000 to address lagging wages at the Durham Public Library.  Non-property tax revenues are expected to increase in FY 2017 by $212,947 or 3.64% to $6,064,000.  In total, this year’s budgetary proposal is projected to keep the 2017 local municipal portion of the tax rate unchanged at $8.48 for the third year in a row.  
 
It is of interest to note that of the 238 municipal entities surveyed by the NH Department of Revenue Administration, the 2015 equalized town (excluding county and school) tax rate for Durham is the 187th highest in the state.  (In other words, there are 51 communities with higher town-only rates than Durham.)  Higher rates can be found, for example, in Rochester (#203), Dover (#217), Somersworth (#222), Manchester (#225), Keene (#235), and Berlin (#238).  Plymouth (#182) and Portsmouth (#180) are slightly less expensive than Durham’s town-only rate.
 
The proposed Sewer (Wastewater) Fund budget reflects a 2.67% increase in user fees in 2017 (a rate of $7.50 per hundred cubic feet), while the proposed Water Fund budget carries an anticipated 4.8% increase in user fees (a rate of $5.61 per hundred cubic feet) for FY 2017.

New development in Durham increased the Town’s tax base from $916,456,045 in 2014 to $964,931,959 in 2015, an increase of $48.5 million or 5.2%, and again from $964,931,959 in 2015 to $1,007,876,992 in 2016, an increase of an additional $42,945,033, or 4.5%.  Historically, our tax base has grown by around 1% per year.  We project that the tax base will grow by an additional $11,792,161 in 2017, an increase of 1.17%.  Future economic development projects that may come to fruition over the next two to five years include: Durham Business Park (Phase II), Mill Plaza redevelopment, 66 Main Street, Young Drive redevelopment, Eversource Seacoast Reliability Project.  All told, these future potential projects combined could add anywhere from $60 - $100 million to the local tax base.

 
Additions to this year’s proposed budget include a $1.96 million bond for an addition and renovations to the Durham Police Department (the Town Council unanimously voted in support of this initiative and moved the proposal forward for referendum on March 14, 2017), $30,000 to support updating the Future Land Use Chapter of the Durham Master Plan, and an additional $25,000 to support expanded parks & recreational programming.  Due to the fact that the concept of creating a new land stewardship position to assist in better managing open space lands is still in its formative stages, funds are not allocated for this purpose at the present time.
 

The following are big ticket purchases that are included in the proposed FY 2017 budget:

General Fund
Replacement of Fire Department Aerial Ladder Truck - $875,000 (50% UNH)
Replacement of Fire Department Engine 2 - $575,000 (50% UNH)
Fire Prevention Vehicle Replacement - $35,000 (50% UNH)
Police Department Addition/Building Renovation - $1,960,000
Replace 2 Police Vehicles - $42,500 each
Finger Print Scanner (Police) - $18,000
IT Equipment Replacement - $12,000
Town Hall Emergency Generator - $72,000
Wagon Hill Farm Barn & Carriage House Restoration - $178,000
Mill Pond Restoration/Preliminary Design & Engineering - $150,000
Road Resurfacing (Old Landing Rd., Packers Falls Rd., Simons Ln., Spinney Ln. - $450,000
Sidewalk Improvement (Mill Pond Rd.) - $40,000
LED Streetlight Upgrades for Improved Energy Efficiency and LT $ Savings - $123,000
DPW 1/2 Ton Pickup Replacement - $24,100
Transfer Station Bldg. Renovation - $130,000

Water Fund
Town/UNH Water System Modeling - $21,000
Town/UNH Shared Water System Improvements - $70,000

Wastewater Fund
Wastewater Facilities Plan - $425,000
WWTP Major Components Contingency - $50,000
Collection System Repair/Upgrade (Town/UNH) - $30,000
Collection System Repair/Upgrade (Town only) - $65,000
Woodman Road Sewer Improvements - $245,000
Oyster River Road Pump Station Maintenance - $30,000
18” Force Main Replacement - $252,000

Parking Fund
Parking Enforcement Vehicle - $22,500

Read the Foster's Daily Democrat/Seacoast Online article regarding Durham's proposed budget HERE.

Map of the Eversource SRP from Madbury to Portsmouth, NH.  Courtesy Eversource

EVERSOURCE SEACOAST RELIABILITY PROJECT – Durham/UNH File New Request for Independent Study of Potential Effects to Little Bay

Town officials have raised fresh questions about the proposed Seacoast Reliability Project, an electrical transmission line estimated at $70 million (approx. $35 million in Durham) that would traverse the community along existing Eversource rights of way.  

The attorney representing Durham and the University of New Hampshire has a filing to the NH Site Evaluation Committee (SEC), the state entity having sole jurisdiction over the application, supporting a request by the NH Department of Justice that Eversource pay for outside independent experts to review aspects of the 13-mile project, which would run from Madbury to Portsmouth.  This includes an independent environmental assessment of the project.  

One of the required submittals as part of the Eversource Seacoast Reliability Project application to the NH Site Evaluation Committee was in fact a Natural Resource Impact Assessment prepared by Normandeau Associates, Inc., an environmental consulting firm.

The assessment focuses on the envisioned effects of the project on:

• wetlands,
• streams,
• secondary wetlands,
• vernal pool impacts,
• compensatory wetland mitigation,
• water quality effects from jet plowing,
• water quality effects from hand jetting,
• impacts to bathymetry and sediments from placement of protective mats,
• impacts to eelgrass,
• impacts to macroalgae,
• impacts to shellfish,
• impacts to benthic infauna,
• impacts to epibenthos,
• impacts to fish,
• and impacts on rare species.  

This Natural Resource Impact Assessment report, submitted March 2016, may be reviewed in full HERE.

Durham and UNH officials have been endeavoring to thoughtfully listen to and document concerns that had been or are now being raised by Durham community members and UNH staff members (who are sometimes one in the same), in regard to the Seacoast Reliability Project.  To that end, we have tried to document concerns aired and transform them into useful questions that we plan to present to Eversource as part of the Site Evaluation Committee process by an established November 16th deadline.   
 
A working draft of questions as of 10/21/16 can be found HERE.  We would appreciate any feedback community members might have, and whether there are additional matters individuals feel should be raised.  If there are, we will consider them.  Please send to tselig@ci.durham.nh.us.    

Learn more about the Eversource Seacoast Reliability Project HERE.

The Town has also been in communication with the US EPA to determine whether that agency has had an opportunity as yet to evaluate the project as it pertains to the Great Bay Estuary.  

Existing Eversource utility corridor in Durham at Cutts Rd./Ffrost Dr.  The Seacoast Reliabiltiy Project would extend the current 60 ft. clearing by 20 ft. on either side within the utility's ROW and replace existing wooden poles with 85 ft. +/- steel poles.  Over the last 18 mos., the Town had worked with Eversource to separate the proposed transmission line from the distribution lines as part of the project, and Eversource had agreed, which would have lowered pole heights by around 15 ft., but abutters along the utility ROW preferred fewer/taller poles versus additional/lower poles in this area.  Therefore, the Town reverted to the origianal design proposal by the utility.  nbsp;Similar corridors already exist along the entire route of the proposed Seacoast Reliabiltiy Project, including the existing RR bed/ROW between Rt. 4 and the UNH Campus.  The utility asserts that above ground poles have significantly less environmental impact, particularly within wetlands, versus going underground.  Underground cabling costs approx. 6-8X as much as above ground poles on this $70 million project.  Additional costs would be borne by NH utility ratepayers.  The Town/UNH had requested putting the cables underground along the entire route and the utility declined other than in an approx. 1/2 mi. stretch under Main St. at the Town's RR Trestle in vicinity of the Durham/UNH Train Station.  Courtesy Todd Selig

HOW DOES NOISE FROM PEASE AIRPORT IMPACT DURHAM | The Pease Noise Compatibility Committee

The Pease Development Authority Noise Compatibility Committee was created years ago as a formal conduit by which complaints concerning noise generated by air traffic activity at the Pease International Tradeport could be addressed. It is also a forum that is available so surrounding communities, local interest groups, and the media can be kept abreast of noise abatement measures, noise monitoring programs, and general airport developments on a regular basis.

Members of the Noise Compatibility Committee consist of the surrounding communities of Dover, Durham, Eliot, Greenland, Kittery, Madbury, New Castle, Newington, North Hampton, Portsmouth, Rye and Stratham; airport users consisting of the Pease Air National Guard, Corporate Representative, Cargo Representative and Pan American Airways; the Regional Planning Commissions of Rockingham and Strafford Counties and Southern Maine; the Sherburne Civic Association, a local interest group; and Pease Tower and Manchester Approach, representing the FAA. Typically six to ten of these groups are represented at the quarterly NCC meetings with approximately fifteen individuals attending each meeting.

Durham resident Lee Seidel is our representative to the committee.  This week he provided Administrator Selig with an overview of recent activities at the PDA.

Noise Complaints

For the period May 1 – September 30, 2016, 359 individual noise complaints were receive on the Pease Hotline (603-436-6333).  One individual from Newmarket accounted for 178 complaints and another individual from Portsmouth accounted for 112. As such the committee received complaints from approximately 70 individuals.

During this same period, 8 complaints came from Durham.  All complaints were acknowledged and examined.  All the complaints from Durham were valid and were acknowledged with an explanation. If an aircraft or helicopter potentially violated either Pease or FAA regulations, the incident would be reported to appropriate authorities.  

Our neighbors in the Portsmouth area continue to be very concerned by the noise associated with Robinson (tourist) helicopters.  However, all indications are that Robinson Helicopter is flying in accordance with FAA rules and regulations.

New Air Force Tankers (46-A's)

The new Air Force tankers (46-A) will replace the existing fleet (KC-135R) in the May-September 2018 time frame. Given the size and characteristics of these new aircraft, the number of tanker flights should decrease and the flights should generate less noise.

The Pease Noise Hotline is 603-436-6333 and Durham residents are encouraged to call if they have any concerns.

Most recent rendering of Mill Plaza as of October 13, 2016  Courtesy Planning Office

PROGRESSION OF MILL PLAZA RENDERINGS AVAILABLE ON WEB SITE
As you may know, the Mill Plaza project was discussed by the Planning Board this past Wednesday evening, 10/26/16, reviewing an updated design for site plan and conditional use for the redevelopment of this 10-acre site.  The project involves demolition of the rear commercial building; construction of 2 new mixed-use buildings, 1 with commercial on ground level and 3 floors of residential and 1 with commercial on ground level and 4 floors of residential; construction of 1 retail outbuilding;  370 parking spaces, including 42 garage spaces; a total of 80,000 square feet of commercial;  residential space for 330 occupants; new public spaces; and other site changes. Central Business District.  Map 5, Lot 1-1.

Planner Michael Behrendt has assembled an easy to view grouping of plan iterations for the site that have been discussed over time.  To view them, click HERE.

YOUNG DRIVE REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT PROCEEDING THROUGH PLANNING BOARD PROCESS

The owners of Young Drive will be appearing before the Planning board on November 9th to discuss their redevelopment proposal.  This proposal is to demolish existing buildings on Young Drive and instead locate approximately 160 units of age restricted housing, which would be sold under condominium conditions.

The proposal would give the opportunity for persons to live and enjoy approximately 10 acres of land with a view of Beards Creek. Under the proposal from the applicant, Young Drive would be converted to a private drive, which would lessen the burden on the community regarding road maintenance and future repair and or replacement. The new residents would have access to downtown business and activities on foot and the ability to interact with the neighbors on a positive note. These new residents would be permanent, active members of the Durham community, in age-restricted housing.

The applicant indicates the architecture of the planned development will be in keeping with the neighborhood theme of colonial style buildings. The facility will make use of indoor parking as much as possible and will be fully compliant with building codes to include automatic sprinkler systems, fire alarm systems, and elevators.

This type of development is growing throughout the state and particularly in the Seacoast Region in communities such as Exeter and Hampton Falls to meet the demand of an aging population that wishes to remain in the Granite State.   Nationally, college communities are highly desirable location for retirees.  

View the most recent iteration of colored plans HERE.

Example of a Durham Tax Bill.  Courtesy Town Clerk/Tax Collector's Office

PROPERTY TAX BILLS
The second half bills for 2016 are due December 1st.  Last year, and again this year, we were fortunate to have our tax rate set early by the State of New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration.  This came as a surprise to some residents last year, so we wanted to bring it to the attention of residents early this year. 

As always, if you are having difficulty paying the entire bill, it is to your advantage to pay as much as you can, as often as you need to, in order to decrease the amount of interest that will accrue.  Advance payments are also an option.  Payments can be made throughout the year in any amount you desire so as to decrease the amount due when the actual bill arrives.  

Feel free to contact the Tax Collector’s Office if you would like more information at (603) 868-5577.

Please see payment options noted above.  

Caroline Wilson, a Durham resident and senior at ORHS, was recently honored at the American Legion for her participation in Granite Girls State in June. Sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary, Girls State is a national program that gives young women citizenship training, a knowledge of government and the sense of obligation to their community. Caroline will be recognized at the Nov 10 Veterans Day program at the Durham Library at 6:30PM.

PROPERTY TAX AND UTILITY PAYMENT OPTIONS
Payments may be made in person at the Tax Collector’s Office, online, by mail directly to the Tax Collector’s Office or by mail using the envelope provided with your bill addressed to our lockbox in Manchester.  The Manchester address does cause some confusion.  The lockbox service allows payments to be credited to our bank account faster.  

Bills may be paid with cash, check, credit card, or ACH.  Additional fees apply to credit card ($1.50 service fee + 2.75% of the bill charged by the credit card use fee) and ACH payments ($1.50 service fee). 

You can learn more about these options by visiting the Town website at https://www.ci.durham.nh.us/.  Select “Inside Town Hall”, “Town Clerk Tax Collector”, “Online Property Tax & Utilities”.

USING ELECTRONIC BANKING

Many residents are using electronic banking to pay bills through their checking account.  It is important to remember that some additional information is important to insure proper credit to your account.

Water/Sewer – Enter your account number in the memo or note section.

Property Tax – Enter the bill number, (this number changes on each bill), or the map and lot number, in the memo or note section.

Repairs are under way at the Crommet Creek Bridge. Courtesy Todd Selig

CROMMET CREEK BRIDGE PROJECT CONSTRUCTION UPDATE
Crommet Creek/Durham Point Road bridge will be closed Monday morning (October 24th) for approximately 4 weeks so the bridge can be opened for traffic during week of Thanksgiving (week of November 21st). The bridge will then be closed a second time for a window in early December for new timber guardrail installation – information on the specific dates of the second closure will be announced in November.  

DPW reports the project is progressing nicely.  The bridge decking is apparently in very good shape.
 

Any questions, please call Town Engineer, April Talon at 603-86-5578 or email atalon@ci.durham.nh.us

Crommet Creek on Friday located on Durham Point Road. Courtesy Todd Selig

PART-TIME TRANSFER STATION ATTENDANT
The Town of Durham is seeking a Transfer Station Attendant. The position is part-time, non-benefits.  Applicants must be comfortable dealing with the public and have a Solid Waste Operators License, level 1 minimum or the ability to obtain a license within one (1) year of hire.  
 
Duties include: checking in residents, ensuring materials are disposed of in proper locations, maintenance and cleaning of facility.  Pay is $11-$15/Hr based on experience.  Hours will be Saturday & Tuesday from 7AM - 3:30 PM with the potential for more hours.  Valid driver’s license required and a background check will be performed.
 
Applications accepted until the position is filled.  Applications are available at the Public Works Office. Contact: Doug Bullen Assistant Director for Operations, 100 Stone Quarry Drive, Durham, NH  03824, (603) 868-5578.

DURHAM FIREFIGHTERS KEEP LOCAL CHILDREN WARM THIS WINTER WITH BRAND NEW WINTER COATS
The Durham Firefighters, Local 2253, are gearing up again this year to fundraise for their Firefighters for Operation Warm initiative. Durham Firefighters have joined forces with national non-profit Operation Warm in the program, “Firefighters for Operation Warm,” a movement led by professional firefighters across the U.S. to combat the effects of childhood poverty while saving American jobs.  

In 2015, Local 2253 was able to provide 30 children with brand-new winter coats and this year they hope to double it. They are asking the community to support their efforts through monetary donations. If they reach their goal, firefighters will surprise the students during the winter months with their bright new coats, personally fitting each child, and helping them to write their names in the interior tag that reads, “Made Especially for You.”

A warm coat is an essential item for all children. A brand new winter coat provides more than just warmth. It helps empowers a child to have greater self-confidence, encourages more school attendance in the winter, and contributes to their overall wellness during outdoor play.
 

DURHAM BIKE & SPORTS

Durham Bike & Sports is hoping to accommodate kids from the community and UNH students by selling, donating, or loaning used hockey and figure skates.

The community generally seeks used skates for their children or family to use at local rinks or for pond skating. UNH students want to skate during the Whittemore Free Skate. UNH has many students from other parts of the world who have never skated and want to try it! 

If you or your family have skates that are not being used, please consider donating them. If you have skates that are in top condition please consider Durham Bike's consignment program.

Lamprey River. Courtesy Richard (Dick) Lord

HAPPY 20TH BIRTHDAY, WILD AND SCENIC LAMPREY RIVER

On November 12, 1996, a 11.5 mile segment of the Lamprey River in Durham, Lee, and Newmarket was designated by the US Congress as a National Wild and Scenic River. On May 2, 2000, an additional 12 miles of river in Epping was added.

For twenty years, visitors and local residents have grown accustomed to seeing signs like the one above. This might seem normal to many, but, in fact, it is something extraordinary.

The Lamprey is one of only two Wild and Scenic Rivers in New Hampshire and one of only 208 rivers in the US and Puerto Rico. Fewer than 1/4 of 1% of our rivers are protected under the National Wild & Scenic Rivers System. In today’s political climate and given the fact that designation literally requires an Act of Congress, people who live near the Lamprey really have something to celebrate.

AMTRAK DOWNEASTER TRACK REPAIRS WILL IMPACT ALL SERVICE AND SCHEDULES FOR TWO WEEKENDS

The Downeaster has some major track work coming up (primarily affecting service north of Portland) that will impact all service and schedules for the period October 11 through November 18, 2016.

During two weekends (10/22-23 and 11/5-6) there will be no train service at all.

More information can be found at the Amtrack Downeaster website HERE.

Closing their last work day at the Durham Community Gardens, the board awarded this year's Golden Gloves award for outstanding service to Betsy Burton and Dennis Meadows. Betsy organized the food pantry program that delivered over 700 pounds of fresh produce to Durham's two food pantries. Dennis continued as the "go to" person for all things logistical and technical, including providing the break bell from a San Francisco street car you see on the wall behind them. Courtesy Wayne Burton

HUNTING IN DURHAM

Deer hunting season is quickly approaching with muzzle loading season starting October 29th through the 8th and all deer hunting from November 9th through the December 4th.  It is the hunter’s responsibility to check the capability of hunting on all lands.  There is no hunting allowed on land owned by the Town of Durham.  State and Federal lands routinely allow hunting and it should be noted that 80% of New Hampshire's forestland is privately owned. Generally speaking, most private lands -- especially larger tracts -- remain open to hunters across New Hampshire, unless otherwise posted against hunting. While the Durham Police and New Hampshire Fish and Game highly recommend that each hunter personally contact landowners whenever possible and seek permission to hunt, this is not always accomplished.  It is noted that even land posted to hunting can be accessed by contacting the owner prior to hunting. We urge all hunters to please respect all landowners wishing to keep their lands posted. One category of current use tax reduction requires the landowner to keep their land open to public use, including hunting, in order to get an additional 20% tax reduction. Regardless, the discharge of a firearm within 300 feet of a permanently occupied building owned by another is unlawful.  If residents are concerned about any gunshots, the Durham Police are poised to respond and investigate the situation.

Residents should also be aware that the Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge in Newington holds a special hunt on the first weekend of the regular firearms season. The shotgun-only white-tailed deer hunt serves the dual purposes of supporting the state's effort to control the deer population while providing recreational opportunities on the 1,100-acre refuge.  A total of 40 hunters (20 each day) are selected through a free lottery for one-day hunting permits.

The only reference to hunting in Durham’s Town Ordinance is found in Article II section 63 entitled “Shooting” which states that “Shooting of any kind is prohibited at any time on town property, including the town dump and the town gravel pit.”  The ordinance goes on to define shooting as, “The ejection, propelling or driving forth of any object, such as but not limited to a bullet or arrow, by any force whatsoever, including but not limited to a sudden release of tension, as in a bowstring, or an explosion or expanding gases, as in a rifle or other firearm, or by any other means.”

If residents walking or hiking encounter hunters, it certainly is wise to advise of your presence.  As always, if anyone is concerned about the activity they see and desire clarification, the Durham Police can be contacted at (603) 868-2324 or via 911.

NOVEMBER ZBA MEETING CANCELLED

The Zoning Board meeting that was rescheduled to Tuesday, November 15, has been cancelled as no applications were filed to come before the board.
 

McGregor Memorial EMS's "Boo-Boo Bus" made an appearance at the Parks & Recreation's Spooktacular event at Jackson Landing last Friday.  Pictured is attendant Crystal Hermawan with a child who is treating her dragon. Courtesy McGregor Memorial EMS

IRS SCAM IN DURHAM
This week Durham Police took several calls from residents stating that they had received a recorded message from a person identifying themselves as from the IRS.  The call indicated that they needed to immediately call a number and address outstanding tax issues.  The recording further stated that if the person being called did not address this issue immediately, that legal action would commence immediately.

The concerned residents called Durham PD and a detective called the number noted by one of the residents.  A male answered as though he was at the United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS) but he feigned a foreign accent that became more pronounced as the call went on.  He identified himself as an IRS agent while the detective pretended to be the recipient of the IRS call.  The detective/employee was instructed to purchase “Green Dot Paks” at Rite Aid and use these in paying the outstanding bill.  The detective asked why Green Dot to pay the IRS and he responded that the billing service that the IRS routinely used was not in operation and this was an alternative that would clear up the bill.  The Durham detective engaged the man for a lengthy period of time until the detective identified himself.  The “IRS” worker immediately hung up! 

Durham residents should be aware that no Federal entity will operate via a telephone call for such serious matters.  Neither banking institution nor credit card company operates in this manner either and no reputable company will use these tactics!  Hang up and notify the Durham Police of the incident as it is a scam!

One common denominator are the “Green Dot Paks” which are technically referred to as Green Dot MoneyPak cards which are reloadable debit cards, available in many businesses that can be used to pay your phone, cable, or credit card bills. They're typically for people who don't have, or want, bank accounts.  The scam works in the following way.  The phone caller demands payment for some seemingly reasonable thing and instructs the person to go to any number of stores, including Rite Aid, to purchase a loaded Green Dot MoneyPak card with an amount of cash.  The person is then given a call-back number, as in the Durham incident, and instructed to scratch off the back of the card where a number is reveled.  Once the call is accomplished and the number revealed to the “debt collector” the number is used over the Internet and all the funds on the card are immediately removed.  Green Dot MoneyPak cards are not linked to bank accounts - the money is on the card. Anyone you share your card number with has instant access to your cash and can siphon the card dry.

While most of these cases are virtually impossible to resolve as they routinely operate from foreign third-world countries, reporting is important as it allows the Durham Police to alert you to ongoing frauds/scams that are being experienced in Durham. 

EXCERPT FROM "THE SMART GROWTH MANUAL"

The following passage is an excerpt from “The Smart Growth Manual,” by Andres Duany and Jeff Speck (with Mike Lydon), which has been added to the Planning Department's library of planning books in Town Hall.

“Celebrating High Points.  Assign significant hilltops to public use.  The high points of a site should be kept free of private development and reserved as public space or for civic buildings.  Vistas to and from privileged places should not be privatized;  only communal structures merit such exalted sites.  Most complaints about hillside development refer not to the hillside, but too the hilltop, where private houses impinge on the natural skyline when seen from afar.  As long as houses keep their roofs below the ridge, the visual damage is limited.  But a well-designed civic building can enhance a hilltop with its bold silhouette.”

MEETINGS: SCHEDULE AND VIDEO ON DEMAND
The following public meetings are scheduled for the upcoming 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.

Town Council - Monday, November 7, 2016

Planning Board - Wednesday, November 9, 2016

Conservation Commission - Thursday, November 10, 2016

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All meetings recorded on DCAT are available on DVD at the Durham Public Library for checkout and viewing.

DCAT CABLE CHANNEL 22

DCAT 22 Studios was on the road again for our latest episode of “In the Biz” Durham Business Spotlight. Join your host, Economic Development Director, Mary Ellen Humphrey as she chats with Amy Gibbs, owner of Amy’s Frame Shop, located inside Hayden Sports.  Amy’s will custom frame just about anything, she also has a wide selection of off the shelf frames available. Did you know that she has a Kodak Kiosk to professionally print your digital photos!   Please take a few minutes to watch this video short.  In the Biz can be seen on DCAT Cable Channel 22 on Saturday & Sunday @ 12:30 & 6:00 PM. The video is also available for viewing On Demand.

Grand Canyon. Courtesy Michael Behrendt

Were you unable to attend the American Southwest presentation by Durham Town Planner, Michael Behrendt on November 2nd  at the Durham Public Library?  No worries, DCAT 22’s volunteer, Phil Kincade was there capture the presentation on video.  Sit back and enjoy as Michael spins his yarns on he and Naomi’s southwestern travel.  Plenty of photos and beautiful scenery too!  This video can be seen on Cable Channel 22 @ 4:00 PM – Saturday & Sunday.  It can also be seen On Demand.  Total run time: 45 minutes

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Durham Police Facility Video. DCAT 22 Studios has created the first video in a series of others which are designed to inform residents of the needs of the police facility. This first 15 minute video focuses upon the three critical and immediate needs that challenge the agency.  While the department will be presenting and hosting opportunities to tour the facility, the 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:  Monday – Friday at 8:00 PM, Saturday & Sunday @ 7:30 PM.  It’s also available On Demand.

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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.

Mark Your Calendars!!
Feather Fest- Thursday, November 24th at Wagon Hill Farm-10am.  This is a collaborative event between Durham Parks & Recreation & ORPP for local children and their families. Join us  at Wagon Hill Farm for some fun and fresh air before the feast!  Follow the trail of feathers to the bay for a sweet treat, a story and a make-it-at-home craft!!
 
Tree Lighting Celebration - Saturday, December 3rd on Main Street.  6-8pm. Enjoy raffles, bonfire, s’mores, hot cocoa, holiday crafts, visit with Santa and be there as we light up the tree for the holiday season!

Spooktacular Day
Due to inclement weather for Spooktacular Day, we were not able to set-up the many games and activities we had planned to station around Jackson’s Landing playground.  Making the best of the weather, we modified the event and moved into Churchill Rink!  Participants were still able to enjoy a spooktacular skate, pumpkin carving & decorating, activities stations, cookie decorating, spooktacular snacks, and visit with Durham Professional Fire Fighters & McGregor EMS!  Thank you to all who came out to participate!

Many thanks to Federal Savings Bank for their $500 donation towards the event, Coppal House Farm for their donation of pumpkins, and Kappa Sigma for helping to staff the activities.  

Churchill Rink
-Saturday Night Lights!  Join us Saturdays from 7:45-9:15pm.  Dimmed lights, party music and pizza!  Bring a friend!!
-After School Skate Sessions- 3:30-4:45pm: Mondays & Fridays- After School Stick & Puck & Wednesdays- After School Open Skate.   
For more information on skating times, skate rentals, season passes, advertising at the rink, and group rentals, please visit us HERE.

Stargazing at the UNH Observatory

Durham Parks & Recreation has teamed up with UNH Astronomer John Gianforte - The SkyGuy, to offer Stargazing opportunities throughout the year at the UNH Observatory & at Wagon Hill Farm. On Saturday, November 12th from 7:00-8:30pm at the UNH Observatory, we will view the moon and the prominent fall constellations that are rich in mythology and contain some amazing deep sky objects.

Please let DPR know you’ll be attending by Wednesday, November 9th : at recreation@ci.durham.nh.us. This is a community program-all ages are welcome. Suggested donation of $5/pp.

Indoor Rock Climbing at the UNH Artificial Climbing Wall
Durham Parks & Recreation has once again teamed up with UNH Outdoor Education for the After School Rock Climbing Club. Team members will work closely with UNH Outdoor Education students who are also AMGA certified instructors to learn belaying skills, knots, equipment, climbing technique, problem solving skills, and more!  New and experienced climbers welcome. All equipment provided.  Pre-registration required HERE.

Family Climb Nights- Fridays 6:30-8:30pm: November 18^th & December 2^nd. $30/2 family members, $50/4 family members.  Add on a family member for $10.  Ages 5+. Min of 10, Max of 24.

High School Climb Night-Friday, December 9^th 6:30-8:30pm. $20/climber. Snacks provided! Ages 14+. Min of 10, Max of 24.

Teeter TOTers Playgroup

Teeter TOTers Playgroup is a partnership program with Oyster River Parents for Preschoolers (ORPP), which allows children and parents the opportunity to gather together for free play, time to socially interact, and the choice to participate in an age appropriate activity.  

The Playgroup meets on Fridays at 10:00am at various locations throughout the year.  Please visit us at: durhamrec.recdesk.com to see where to meet and what we have planned!  Participation is FREE!

Music with Benji
Begins Oct. 5th. Join us on Wednesdays at 9:45am at the Durham Parks & Rec. building for music fun with Benji!  This is a free community program for ages 5 & under.  Adult supervision is required. 

SAVE THE DATE!

• December Vacation Week Activities-  December 27th 2016-January 2nd 2017.  Something fun planned each day of vacation!!

OR PTO will host Screenagers: Growing up in the Digital Age, on Wednesday November 9th. Read more information below.

COMMUNITY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

Screenagers: Growing up in the Digital Age, Wednesday, Nov 9, 2016, 6:30PM, ORHS auditorium. An independent documentary examining the lives of kids, families, schools, and communities attempting to navigate the complexities of social media, Internet addiction, and digital citizenship. Panel discussion following the screening. Free to the community. Hosted by Oyster River PTOs.

Where did Organic Come From? The Unpredictable Past of Natural Food and Farming in the United States. A lecture by Professor Andrew Case (UNH '02) of Washington College on his forthcoming book on the history of the organic food movement, Wednesday Nov, 9, 2016, 5PM, MUB Theater I, UNH campus.  Free and open to the public.

Help for Haiti Coffeehouse Fundraiser to Help Haiti, Thursday, Nov 10, 2016, 7 - 9PM, Community Church of Durham. Will include a night of music and poetry.  Admission is a donation of choice. All monies collected will go immediately to the Haitian Health Foundation, which has been working in Haiti for decades, and currently is at the epicenter of much of the devastation.

Fall Shopping Bazaar, Friday, Nov 11, 2016, 10AM - 3PM, ORHS Cafeteria. 20+ vendors with a variety of products! Feel free to bring the family, as there will also be soup and cornbread muffins for sale.

UNH Celebrates International Education Week - Nov 12 - 18, 2016. Includes a variety of events exploring international issues, cuisine, language, international opportunities, and the arts. View the full schedule of events HERE.

Tickets available online HERE.

It's Fine to Have no Spine - Saturday, Nov 12, 2016, 11AM - 12 Noon, Newmarket Public Library.  A naturalist from the Lamprey Rivers Advisory Committee will provide a sampling of live and formerly-live invertebrate animals that are found in our rivers and ponds. Free! Copies of the just-published Chick and Dee-Dee's Lamprey River Adventure will be for sale for $10.00.

Blue Ocean Society Beach Clean-Up, Jenness Beach, Saturday, Nov 12, 2016, 10:30 AM - 1PM. Will be a fun outside family event to help improve the marine habitat for our sea and beach creatures. Data collection sheets will be provided for itemizing numbers of cans, rubber gloves and bands, Styrofoam, lobster traps, buoys, rope.

Durham Historic Association Program: "History of the University of New Hampshire (1866-1927)", Sunday, Nov 13, 2016, 2PM, Town Hall Council Chambers. Presented by Historian, author, and UNH Professor Emeritus, Douglas Wheeler.  Free and open to all DHA members and the general public.

Active Retirement Association presents Dr. Dante J. Scala of UNH speaking on "Election - 2016: What Just Happened, - Tuesday, Nov 15, 2016, 1:30 PM, Durham Evangelical Church, 114 Dover Road. Dr. Scala will be discussing and analyzing Election 2016. Everyone -- Democrat, Republican, Undecided -- is welcome. More information, contact Penny Drooker,

(603) 397-5681, pdrooker@hotmail.com. 

International Food Luncheon hosted by Fairchild Hall, UNH, Friday, Nov 18, 2016, 11AM - 2PM, Huddleston Ballroom. Twenty dishes from around the world cooked for you by Fairchild Hall, UNH's international dorm as part of a 60+ year tradition. From Poland to Chile to the Philippines there will be dishes for all dietary needs and any preferred taste. Buffet served throughout the event and guests are welcome at any time during the event. Admission: $10/per non-student and dessert. $5 togo boxes also available. Buy tickets online HERE.

UNH Museum of Art Upcoming Events. View schedule of events HERE.

OR Girls Middle School Hockey. Open to girls in grades 5-8 in the OR School District. Positions still available for new players. Games are in the Southern Maine Middle School Hockey League and ORMS team will play a 12-14 game schedule beginning in November. More information, contact orms.girls.hockey@gmail.com

Special Veteran's Day Program -  All Veteran's are invited! American flags for everyone!Thurs. Nov. 10, 6:30 pm - Join us for a special Veteran's Day Program Featuring Sam Perley, trumpet player with Patriotic Tunes!

DURHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

The Library will be closed on Friday, Nov. 11th in honor of Veteran’s Day.

Children’s and Young Adult Programs:

STEAM Family Program Sat. Nov. 5, 10:30 am - Join us for some fun STEAM Sensory Activities!  There will be mystery balloon, sensory bag, heat changing slime, and tracing your name with play dough.  All ages.  Don't miss the fun.
Storytimes Tues. Nov. 8th and Thurs. Nov. 10th at 10:30 am.  “Farms and Farm Animals!”  
Baby Lap-sit (ages 2 & under with care giver) Weds. Nov. 9th at 10:30 am
Young Adult Drop-in Monday (ages 10 & up) Monday 2:45-4pm Oct. 31st: -Halloween Photo Booth & Games - Drop by the YA room anytime between 2:45 - 4:00 PM on Monday, October 31st  to take pictures in our Halloween photo booth with your friends and play games like zombie brain toss and spiders in your hair.  This program is designed for young adults ages 10 and up.
YA Monthly TAB (Teen Advisory Board) for ages 10 & up, Group, Mon. Nov. 7th, 6:30-7:30 pm – Join our monthly group where you decide what books and programs the library should have.  This month:  We will make a Thanksgiving inspired craft, and try our hand at baking “mug cakes” in the microwave for dessert!  Registration is required and space is limited.  Pizza is served.
Raccoon Readers, 2nd-4th grade book group, Tues. Dec. 6th, 6:00-7:00 pm – Join us for our monthly book group.  Check at the Circulation Desk for this month’s book.  We talk about the book, play some games, make a fun craft and enjoy a snack.  Books are available at the Circulation desk.
Knitting Club for 3rd-5th graders Weds. Nov. 9th 4-5 pm (register at the Children’s desk).
Join us for Lego Club (K-4th grade) on Thurs. Nov. 10th at 3:30-4:30 pm!  Our weekly challenge will be Timed Building.
Home-schooler’s Group Friday, Nov. 18th at 10:30 am.  “Food and Families!”
Jack & Annie Book Club (K-2) Tues. Nov. 15th, 4-5 pm Join us for our new monthly book club made just for kids in kindergarten through 2nd grade! Next book is, "Shadow of the Shark" by Mary Pope  Osborne. Books are available at the circulation desk. Registration is required. Please sign-up at the Children's desk!
Special Family Movie Sat. Nov. 12, 10:30 am - Ratatouille (G)  All are welcome.  Movie shown in the Oyster River Community Room.  Popcorn is served.
Pajama Storytime - Thanksgiving and Food! Thursday, November 17th 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 Thanksgiving and food.  Come hear stories, do the feltboard, have a paper turkey hunt, make a fun Thanksgiving craft.    Snack provided by ORPP and all are welcome!.
Bookeaters, Middle School Book Group, Weds. Dec. 7th 2:45-4:00 pm – Join us for this month’s book group.  This month’s book is “Nooks & Crannies” by Jessica Lawson.  Ruth Wharton McDonald is the facilitator.  Books are available at the circulation desk.  Pizza is served.
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:

SPECIAL  Veteran's Day Program -  All Veteran's are invited! American flags for everyone!Thurs. Nov. 10, 6:30 pm - Join us for a special Veteran's Day Program Featuring Sam Perley, trumpet player with Patriotic Tunes!  American Legion Auxiliary to recognize Caroline Wilson & Michael Donovan, Boys and Girls State recipients Edward "Skip" Biron, Veteran & Author of Skip's Legacy. Refreshments served. All are welcome, especially Veteran's and their friends and family. Contact Armida Geiger ageiger@ci.durham.nh.us
Dr. Marguerite Genest, Portsmouth Neuropsychology- Guest at Oyster River ASD Friends Tues. Nov. 8, 6:30 pm - Dr. Genest will lead a discussion about the skill set needed for successful transition to post-secondary education and work.  Monthly meeting for parents connecting and learning to support themselves and their teens/young adults on the Autism Spectrum. Contact Julie jsmithnh@icloud.com
Friends' Book Discussion, Thurs. Nov. 17, 10:30 am - Please join the FRIENDS' BOOK DISCUSSION of the long short story, Boule de Suif by Guy de Maupassant, facilitated by Jennifer Lee.  Nine copies are available at the library desk and there is an online text of it by the same translator (McMaster et al).
The Refugees of Shangri La-  Screening Tues. Nov. 29, 6:00 pm - After cultural persecution, loss of a beloved home, and twenty years surviving in refugee camps in Nepal, the Kingdom of Bhutan's forgotten exiles abandon hopes of returning to their lost land and seek a new life in a new country. In the past five years, 92,000 Bhutanese refugees have resettled to America. This is the story of our new neighbors... The Refugees of Shangri La.  Durham native Doria Bramante and Markus Weinfurter gather to share this important film featuring one of New Hampshires largest refugee communities, the Bhutanese. 2014  Doria Bramante, Markus Weinfurter 55 min USA/Nepal/Bhutan  Doc  Contact Doria Bramante doriabramante@gmail.com http://www.therefugeesofshangrila.com
Book Donations accepted thru Saturday, November 5. Gently used books and DVD's.
2nd Annual Library Snowflake Social, Tuesday, December 6, 2016, 4-6pm - Live Music,  2016 Gingerbread House Unveiling, Origami Star making, Crafts and Tasty Treats. Everyone is invited! Snow date is Wednesday,  December 7, 2016.

Once again thank you to those who have volunteered to bake cookies for the cookie basket located at the circulation desk.  Patrons purchase the cookies for $1 a bag and really enjoy the tasty treats. Proceeds benefit the children's programs.  Cookies are needed for the months of November, December and January. Interested in baking cookies?  Contact Nancy Schieb neschieb@gmail.com  Or when at the library kindly leave your name and phone number with a staff member at the circulation desk or call the library 603-868-6699 and leave your name and number.     

                
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.

Durham's 21st officer identifies a suspicious character!  Courtesy Loren Selig

Everyone can tackle climate change. How can you reduce your carbon footprint?