Friday Updates - November 8, 2013

Friday, November 8, 2013

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On Tuesday this week, Durham's department heads (the Leadership Team) were given a tour of the University of New Hampshire InterOperability Lab located at Goss International on Technology Drive in Durham. The UNH-IOL tests networking and data communications products. Above, students are conducting a live test event.   Courtesy Suzie Snow

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A final reminder that all Town offices will be closed on Monday, November 11, 2013 in observance of Veterans Day.

There will be NO CHANGE TO THE REFUSE AND RECYCLING SCHEDULE that week. As always, all items should be out by 7:00 AM on their regular day of pick up.

ENERGY EFFICIENT CRUISERS AT DURHAM POLICE REDUCE GAS CONSUMPTION BY 14%, SAVING $13,797 IN FUEL COSTS

The Town of Durham made a strategic decision two years ago to transition our police department vehicles away from the traditional 8-cylinder Ford Crown Victoria models to smaller, more fuel efficient V-6 Ford Taurus cars.  With 5 out of 11 of the department’s vehicles now in place in the more fuel-efficient model, the Police Department analyzed fuel use for comparative purposes.  The results are instructive.


During the period January to September of 2012, the department utilized 12,920 gallons of gasoline.  During the same period in 2013 with 5 Taurus vehicles and 6 Crown Victoria’s, gasoline usage dropped 14% to 11,104 gallons.  This equates to a savings of approximately $13,797 compared to last year’s figures.


It is apparent that the transition to the fuel-efficient Taurus is having a significant impact that will only become greater as the Crown Victoria is phased-out of operation at the police department.  With next year’s planned purchase of 2 new Ford SUV’s, utilizing the same engine at the Taurus, there will be 7 newer fuel-efficient vehicles and 4 older Crown Victoria’s.  We hope to be totally transitioned to the new vehicles by January of 2016. 

MAST WAY GREEN TEAM REPORTS ON POSITIVE ACCOMPLISHMENTS

The Mast Way Elementary School, along with each school in the Oyster River Cooperative School District, has spent the past weeks forming a school specific Green Team charged with assisting the ORCSD in the implementation of the sustainability policies adopted by the School Board this past summer. 

The Mast Way Green Team includes the following teachers, parents, staff, and community members:  Maggie Morrison, Mary Ellen Webb, David McCormick, Kris Tonkin, Amy Newman, Sarah Farwell, and Paul Gasowski.


The Green Team at Mast Way is pleased to share some news.

• Composting is now being implemented in 7 classrooms;
• Mast way no loner uses wipes in the lunch room saving approximately $2,500 per year and reducing the school’s contribution to the landfill;
• The ORCSD has changed the location of drinking straws requiring students to request a straw if needed.  Straws often end up in the compost according to Mr. Fox composting causing the compost to be contaminated;
• The next project will be to power down during school vacations.  Teachers and staff along with students will work together to reduce Mast Way’s electricity bill over the December recess.

To learn more about the Mast Way Green Team’s efforts or to become involved, contact Maggie Morrison at mmorrison@orcsd.org.  The team meets monthly on the second Tuesday of the month from 8-8:30 AM. 

The next meeting is November 12th.

DURHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY EXPERIENCES TREMENDOUS GROWTH

October has been the busiest month in the library’s 16-year history. People from across the community are attending programs, checking out books, using study rooms, hosting meetings, working on computers, and bringing their children to storytime. And the statistics bear this out. Patron visits to the previous facility in the Mill Plaza averaged 4,082 per month through July of this year; in October, 6,322 visited the new library, an increase of 55%. The statistics are similar for circulation with 4,120 monthly checkouts the first half of the year jumping to 5,473 in October (33% increase) and program attendance skyrocketing from 529 to 1,299 (146% increase). Also, since opening in late July, the library has issued 490 new library cards. This trend is expected to continue as more and more people discover the benefits of the new Durham Public Library.   

RECENT CLIMATE ADAPTATION FORUM AVAILABLE NOW ON DCAT

On October 28, 2013, the Town of Durham, the Strafford Regional Planning Commission, and the NH Coastal Program hosted a public forum at the new public library about climate change, sea level rise, and local preparedness for severe weather events. Dr. Cameron Wake, UNH Research Associate Professor, provided a very informative presentation pertaining to climate change and potential implications for Durham and the Seacoast.  The forum is available for viewing on Durham’s Peg Central HERE.

ADMINISTRATOR SELIG CRAFTS COMMUNITY COMMENTARY ON CLIMATE CHANGE
At the Climate Adaptation Forum described above there was discussion amongst those in attendance that Durham needed to do more to make the community and the region aware of local efforts in this area.  In response, Administrator Selig crafted a Community Commentary piece that appeared in today’s Foster’s Daily Democrat.  It can be viewed HERE.

DPW employee Glen Clark begins removing tiles from the ceiling of the new Town Hall site. Courtesy Craig Stevens

WORK BEGINS AT NEW TOWN HALL SITE - 8 NEWMARKET ROAD

The Public Works Department hosted a pre-construction meeting with Town staff members and the construction team for the new Town Hall project on Thursday. Demolition has started and the general contractor, Hutter Construction will be on site starting next week. The project is scheduled to continue until June 1, 2014.

 

Mike Lynch and Doug Bullen discuss the demolition schedule in what will become the Town Clerk/Tax Collector’s area on the first floor of the new Town Hall at 8 Newmarket Road. Courtesy Craig Stevens.

UNH OUTDOOR POOL PLANNING PROCESS UNDER WAY

On Tuesday, November 5, 2013, representatives from the Town of Durham and the University of New Hampshire met to begin the process of discussing the actual cost of bringing the existing 42,000 sq. ft. UNH Outdoor Pool up to modern health and safety standards, as well as what smaller pool size and configuration UNH would construct itself to meet the institution’s own specific needs, but which would also be open to Durham residents. Based on very preliminary estimates from the spring, the cost differential was in the $3 million range.  UNH has offered Durham the opportunity to bridge the cost difference between the TBD smaller pool size (10,000 sq. ft. to 16,000 sq. ft) UNH would need for its own purposes and preserving the existing facility by bringing it up to modern standards.  Again, a smaller pool would be made accessible to Durham residents by UNH.  

Participating as part of the process to date are Council Chair Jay Gooze, Councilor Wayne Burton, resident Dudley Dudley (representing FUNHOP), resident Kenny Rotner (representing FUNHOP), resident Marjorie Wolfson, and Administrator (and resident) Todd Selig.  Participating from UNH include UNH Vice President for Student and Academic Affairs Mark Rubinstein, Associate Vice President for Energy and Facilities Paul Chamberlin, Campus Planner/Architect (and resident) Doug Bencks, Director of UNH Campus Recreation Stacey Hall, and UNH Special Assistant to the President (and resident) Mica Stark.  


The group met with Douglass Whiteaker of Water Technology, Inc. which specializes in aquatic planning, engineering, and design http://www.watertechnologyinc.com/, and Lynn Reda architect for the Hamel Recreation Center expansion project from Hughes Group Architects http://hgaarch.com/. Ms. Reda is also the architect working with the Town of Durham on a new fire station design for the Durham Fire Department.


The group discussed the existing outdoor pool, its configuration, the purpose of modern standards, and what bringing it up to modern standards for an outdoor pool would entail.  The group also discussed goals the Town would have for a new facility, optimal orientations (which according to the consultatns would be to the south or the west) for maximum sun exposure, etc.  


The next meeting will occur on November 21, 2013, at which time the consultants are anticipated have firmer configuration recommendations and pricing for discussion purposes.  

[​Note:  The sum of $270,000 is included at this time as part of the Administrator's proposed 2014 Durham budget to potentially be utilized as a long-term, annual municipal contribution toward the upgrade and future operation of the pool as part of a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) that would need to be developed between Durham and UNH.  The MOU would have to address issues pertaining to access for residents, pricing, parking, programming, etc.  The most current cost estimates range from $3.7 million for a 10,000 sq. ft. pool to $6.6 million to retrofit the existing facility and bring it up to modern standards.  UNH has informed the Town that the pool will not be open for the 2014 season due to concerns by UNH about the facillity not meeting modern standards for an outdoor pool.  It should be noted that the $270,000 allocation is considered to be a placeholder by the Administrator to enable a community discussion as part of the budget process (the public hearing on the proposed 2014 budget is scheduled for Nov. 18th) over the next several weeks regarding whether Durham desires to bridge the funding gap described above to retain the existing outdoor pool while also bringing it up to modern standards.  Alternatively, a bond issue at some level (recall the exact pricing has yet to be determined) could be placed on the March 2014 ballot.  Note, too, that the Durham Parks & Recreation Committee has taken no position to date relative to the outdoor pool because the issue thus far has been exclusively before the Town Council, FUNHOP, and UNH.]  

FRIENDS OF THE UNH OUTDOOR POOL (FUNHOP) MEETING - WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2013

On Wednesday, November 13, 2013 members of the FUNHOP group will meet at the Oyster River High School Cafeteria beginning at 7PM to discuss the UNH outdoor pool and the University's decision not to open the pool next summer. The group will also be discussing possible strategies to take moving forward. This meeting is open to all members of the public desiring to attend.

TOWN COUNCIL TO HOLD PUBLIC HEARING ON THE ADMINISTRATOR'S PROPOSED FY 2014 BUDGET - MONDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2013

The Durham Town Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed FY 2014 Operating, Capital, and Special Fund Budgets on Monday, November 18, 2013 at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers at the Town Hall located at 15 Newmarket Road.

Copies of the proposed budget as well as the proposed 2014-2023 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) are available for viewing at the Business Manager’s office on the second floor of the Durham Town Hall located at 15 Newmarket Road, and at the Durham Public Library located at 49 Madbury Road. Questions regarding these documents may be addressed to Business Manager Gail Jablonski at 868-8043, gjablonski@ci.durham.nh.us.


Interested citizens are encouraged to attend the public hearing and express their views.  Comments may be mailed to the address above or sent by electronic mail to  jberry@ci.durham.nh.us.

To view the proposed FY 2014 Operating Budgets click HERE.

To view the proposed 2014-2023 Capital Improvement Plan, click HERE.

OYSTER RIVER COOPERATIVE SCHOOL DISTRICT PUBLIC FORUM ON REDISTRICTING - An Invitation to Citizens from Superintendent James Morse

The ORCSD will be holding a public forum on the issue of Redistricting on Monday, November 18th, 2013 from 7PM to 9PM at ORHS in the auditorium. As you are likely aware, the elementary schools have unequal enrollment with Moharimet at 407 students and Mast Way at 292 students. The School Board is preparing to make a decision to remedy the inequity for the fall of 2014.

The School Board is considering whether to keep the K-4 configuration and move 66 students from Moharimet to Mast Way by rerouting buses or reconfiguring the two schools; one as a grade K-2 school and the other as a grade 3-4 school. Over the past several weeks community members have sent in numerous questions that Dr. Morse plans on answering on November 18th. Should there be additional questions, Dr. Morse will have those answers, to the best of his ability, for the School Board meeting on November 20th.

The November 18th public forum is not a School Board meeting, though the School Board will be present. The School Board's role will be to listen intently to the questions posed by the community members. This will be a meeting of the Superintendent, therefore; it is not governed by Board policy, but by polite decorum with the intent of answering questions and gathering new questions to be considered in the Board’s decision on November 20th.

2013 STATISTICAL UPDATE OF DURHAM PROPERTIES HAS BEEN COMPLETED AND NEW ASSESSMENTS ESTABLISHED
In accordance with New Hampshire state law, the Town of Durham has completed the Statistical Update of all real property assessments with an effective date of April 1, 2013. 

The tax year begins April 1st and ends on March 31st of a given year.  Final notices regarding the new assessments of residential and commercial/industrial have been mailed and the values have been approved by the Town.  At this point, the Town is waiting for the new tax rate to be set by the Department of Revenue Administration.  The new assessments and tax rate will be used for the 2013 final tax bill which will be issued in December.    

The Town of Durham engaged the services of three companies to help perform the Statistical Update of all property assessments throughout Durham.  KRT Appraisal, LLC updated the assessments of the residential and vacant properties; Steve Traub of Property Valuation Advisors, LLC updated the assessments of the commercial/industrial properties; and George Sansoucy, PE, LLC updated the assessments of the utility properties and those with communication site leases. 

All three companies worked in conjunction with the Assessor’s Office.  Durham’s Assessor, Jim Rice updated the assessments of those properties owned by the University of New Hampshire.  Although UNH is owned by the State of New Hampshire and is exempt from property taxation per RSA 72:23 I (d), the assessments of all exempt properties must also be revised anew once every five years per NH Constitution, Article 6.  UNH provided the Town with value information for each of its properties as part of the process.


The following data reveals the assessed value changes between 2012 and 2013 by property type.

Subtracting the exempt properties from the taxable properties reveals an average percentage change of less than 1% for all properties in Durham.

Assessments can be viewed on the computer in the lobby of the Town Office.  There is also an Excel spreadsheet on our website, as well as at the Town Hall, showing 2012-2013 assessment changes for all properties in Durham. 

The Vision database will be available again on the website starting November 7, 2013.

Copies of the proposed FY 2014 budget and CIP were distributed to Councilors today. 

Courtesy Todd Selig

ADMINISTRATOR’S PROPOSED 2014 OPERATIONAL AND CAPITAL BUDGETS & PROPOSED 2014-2023 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN

In accordance with the Town Charter, the Administrator’s proposed 2014 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 2014-2023 Capital Improvement Plan was made available to the Town Council. 

The proposed budget once again allocates limited resources, supports funding for targeted initiatives, and is intended to generally sustain and in some circumstances enhance the current level of municipal services available to residents and taxpayers of Durham. 

Durham has responded to a challenging economic environment

Much progress has been made in our collective efforts to make Durham a better place in which to live, work, and play over the last several years.  We have worked hard to spend the taxpayers’ money wisely and have provided the maximum number of desired services possible within the limits of the Town budget.  Every effort continues to be made to stabilize the cost of the various services the municipality provides. 

Like many other communities throughout the state, the tax rate is significant and today, following the Great Recession, it places a particularly heavy burden on the property taxpayer.  I note again what I have made plain in prior budget transmittals:  Unless some additional means of financing the requirements of local government can be found, this burden will continue to increase, particularly amidst an environment of downshifted costs from the state, additional Federal regulations, and limited revenue streams available to NH municipalities. 

Fiscal Year 2014 Budgetary Proposal

This year’s budget cycle has resulted in a proposed 2014 General Fund budget totaling $13,612,993.00, a spending increase of $905,435 or 7.13% compared to FY 2013.  Non-property tax revenues are expected to increase in FY 2014 by $295,961 or 5.5% to $5,672,456.  In total, this year’s budgetary proposal is projected to increase the 2014 local municipal portion of the tax rate by 36 cents (or 4.35%) to $8.63 from the estimated 2013 level of $8.27.  If recommended General Fund funding – totaling $270,000 -- allocated as an annual contribution toward preserving as close to possible the existing footprint of the UNH Outdoor Pool (see description below) were removed, the municipal tax rate increase would be .97%. In 2014, the tax base is projected to increase by $11 million or approximately 1.2%.

For comparative purposes, the twelve-month August 2012 to August 2013 Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) numbers are:  U.S. City Index – 1.5%, Northeast Urban Index – 1.5%, and Boston-Brocton-Nashua-MA-NH-ME-CT – 1.9%.  


A listing of highlights from the proposed FY 2014 budgets follows:

 

General Government

• The sum of $270,000 is included at this time as part of the Administrator's proposed 2014 Durham budget to potentially be utilized as a long-term, annual municipal contribution toward the upgrade and future operation of the pool as part of a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) that would need to be developed between Durham and UNH.  The MOU would have to address issues pertaining to access for residents, pricing, parking, programming, etc.  The most current cost estimates range from $3.7 million for a 10,000 sq. ft. pool to $6.6 million to retrofit the existing facility and bring it up to modern standards.  UNH has informed the Town that the pool will not be open for the 2014 season due to concerns by UNH about the facillity not meeting modern standards for an outdoor pool.  It should be noted that the $270,000 allocation is considered to be a placeholder by the Administrator to enable a Council discussion as part of the budget process (the public hearing on the proposed 2014 budget is scheduled for Nov. 18th) over the next several weeks regarding whether Durham desires to bridge the funding gap described above to retain the existing outdoor pool while also bringing it up to modern standards.  Alternatively, a bond issue at some level (recall the exact pricing has yet to be determined) could be placed on the March 2014 ballot.  Note, too, that the Durham Parks & Recreation Committee has taken no position to date relative to the outdoor pool because the issue has thus far been exclusively before the Town Council, FUNHOP, and UNH.
• A 2% pay increase is budgeted for non-unionized personnel, as is a 1% pool of funds for market-based wage adjustments, if necessary.
• In FY 2001, the Town had 85.6 full-time equivalent (FTE) employees.  Despite the implementation of new programs and initiatives since that time, we were successful over the years in identifying strategies to increase efficiencies and trim our workforce. Staffing had decreased to 82.8 employees by 2009.  However, additional programmatic demands over time have necessitated adding additional personnel.  The FY 2014 budget includes 91.7 FTE’s.  These include a part-time Information Technology position to assist in managing the technology function for Durham serving all departments.  An additional police officer is included for a total of 20 officers at the Police Department. A full-time assistant code/zoning officer is included in 2014 to better address neighborhood issues as well as to help keep up with Durham’s present building boom.
• A total of $50,000 is budgeted in 2014 to bring on a part-time or contracted economic development practitioner.   Offsetting funding will come from the UDAG account.  Unless an ideal candidate can be found, funding will remain unexpended.

Police Department

• The department’s 19th full-time police officer position which had been cut by the Administrator in 2009 due to budget constraints, restored by the Council in 2010, held vacant for the majority of 2011 by the Administrator, and then eliminated for 2012 as a cost savings measure was restored for 2013.  The department requested two additional officers in 2014.  While the Administrator believes strongly that two additional officers are warranted, because of budget constraints only one additional officer, a 20th, is included in the FY 2014 budget.  The 20th officer would be utilized as a Problem Oriented Policing (“POP”) officer, an initiative in which the Rental Housing Commission and the Council have both expressed interest.  In addition, a $125,000 Federal COPS Grant has been awarded to the Town to partially offset the cost of this new position.
• Ongoing replacement of two of the department’s 8-cylinder Crown Victoria Police Interceptor vehicles with more fuel-efficient 6-cylinder Ford Explorers budgeted in 2014 at a cost of $62,000.
• $45,000 was requested to support the cost of a building needs analysis/design for long term police facility planning but due to budget constraints the request was delayed until 2016. 

Fire Department

• In accord with our Kaizen and sustainability efforts, the Fire Department, in conjunction with representatives from the Town and UNH, was able to develop an innovative long-term funding solution to address the department’s 25-year capital item replacement program by calculating an inflation adjusted yearly contribution to the Fire Equipment Replacement Capital Reserve Fund.  This annual contribution would eliminate the need to bond department-wide capital items (exclusive of a new station or new fire trucks) thereby eliminating approximately $80,000 in annual debt service cost, enhancing predictability in our funding stream, and eliminating the peaks and valleys associated with the long-term capital needs of the department – a win/win arrangement for both Durham and UNH (which supports 50% of the cost of the department).  The Town partially implemented this program in FY 2011 by adding $98,400 to the fund and contributed another $40,000 in FY 2012.  $150,000 was appropriated for FY 2013.  $75,000 is budgeted in 2014, which will adequately meet the program’s needs.

Public Works

• The road program is funded through the operating budget at $283,431 for FY 2014.  Targeted roadways include a 1” overlay for Bayview Road, Beards Landing, Briarwood Lane, Bunker Lane, Cutts Road, Denbow Road, Ffrost Drive, Littlehale Road, Woodside Drive, and the new Town Hall Lot at 8 Newmarket Road.  Two roads recommended by Public Works were postponed by one year by the Administrator for cost savings reasons: Petteebrook Lane ($23,747) and Stone Quarry Drive ($32,526).
• $499,500 is budgeted for the continued development of a Stormwater Management System Capital Improvement Plan in accordance with our Federal MS-4 permit and implementation of that plan which includes monitoring, repairs, and improvement projects according to a prioritized project list.  The project will encompass identifying/mapping catch basins and stormdrains in Durham, installing biorentention structures (rain gardens and gravel wetlands) to treat stormwater, in addition to water quality monitoring. This program will ultimately improve water quality and sustainable practices to protect Durham’s natural resources.  The program is funded 50/50 between Durham and UNH.
• $173,745 is budgeted to replace the Town’s 351 Cobra Head Style inefficient high-pressure sodium and metal halide municipal streetlights with energy efficient L.E.D. street lighting. The project was included for 2013 but contingent on grant funding.  Despite our efforts, no grant monies have been found in 2013.  Staff recommends moving forward with the project in 2014 without grant funding as part of our sustainability efforts.
• $68,800 is included to replace the 3,695 ft. long, 5 ft. wide bituminous asphalt sidewalk and concrete curbing installed in 1977 along Coe Drive.  This sidewalk links the Oyster River Middle School to the Oyster River High School and will be accomplished in conjunction with the 2015 Road Program as Coe Drive will be resurfaced.  (The new sidewalk should be installed prior to roadway improvements.)
• The 2250 linear ft. Bagdad Road sidewalk will be replaced in 2014 at a cost of $51,800.  The project includes 810 linear ft. of new granite curb and the resetting of 615 ft. of granite curb.  (See “Sidewalk Improvements” CIP item for a description of this and other sidewalk projects planned for future years.  The Public Works Department will be enhancing its sidewalk planning program in 2014 for a clearer picture of future capital needs to maintain and potentially improve Durham’s pedestrian environment.)
• The downtown parking lot (metered lot) on Pettee Brook Lane is recommended to be resurfaced in 2014 to include a reconfiguration to provide additional wetland buffer and possible walking path along the brook to coincide/connect with the Golden Goose project at Madbury Commons.  The cost is $125,000 being funded through impact fees.
• $136,000 is included for the replacement of a 35,000 lb. GVW Public Works dump truck with flow body, side wing, and front plow.  Truck #1 is a 2001 International dump truck with 5,981 hours and 13 years of service.  It is a front line piece of snow fighting apparatus.  (This truck was originally scheduled to be replaced in 2013 but was moved out to 2014 by the Administrator as a cost containment strategy last year.  There are six dump trucks in the DPW fleet.)

Library

• $84,887 is included in 2014 to support bringing the Assistant Library Director and the Children’s Librarian from 33 hours per week to full-time status qualifying them for full-time benefits.  In addition, the Library has conducted salary surveys for each of its positions and the Trustees have determined that Durham’s Library staff is significantly underpaid when compared to the market.  Although the Trustees requested making a one-time wage adjustment to address this inequity, the cost was too high for a single year and as such, the Administrator (who also believes the staff is underpaid when compared to the broader market) is proposing phasing the increases over three years.
• $12,338 is included to pay for the incremental additional cost of operating the new Library at 49 Madbury Road for a full year versus the 6 months budgeted in 2013.  
• The $4.8 million Library project was completed by the Town of Durham in 2013 receiving numerous accolades from the community.  The project came in under budget by approximately $250,000 due to the diligent work of all involved. Approximately $50,000 will be utilized from this amount in late-2013 to install an emergency generator at the facility, as well as to electronically connect and equip the public meeting space on the second floor of the Library to DCAT/Channel 22 so that live broadcasts of meetings and presentations may take place for the benefit of the community.  The residual, approximately $200,000, will be applied toward reducing debt service for the Library project in 2014.  

Water Fund

• $1,378,000 is included in 2014 to bring the Spruce Hole well on line.  The cost is to be shared between Durham ($459,333) and UNH ($918,667) on a 1/3, 2/3 basis.  $302,000 (supported 2/3 by UNH) was budgeted in 2013 for design associated with the Spruce Hole Well development project with an estimated construction date of 2014. The Town’s Master Plan and 2004 Water Allocation Report calls for the development of the Spruce Hole Aquifer (this is distinct from the Spruce Hole Bog) as the next water source for Durham and UNH.
• $70,000 is budgeted for design services to address the Wiswall Dam spillway.  The Wiswall Dam was constructed in 1912 and although the abutments have been rehabilitated, including complete replacement of the left abutment in 2011, the spillway has not had any attention in all of these years.  It is estimated the cost of spillway repairs will be $465,000 in 2015.  

Sewer Fund

• For 2014, projects included in the Capital Fund budget include:  WWTP Phase III improvements ($230,000), Wastewater Facilities Plan improvements ($560,000), a diesel generator replacement ($425,000), a chemical disinfectant building design ($63,000), and various collections system upgrades ($50,000).  Funding sources for most items in this fund are shared 2/3 UNH, and 1/3 Durham. 

General Fund Revenues

• To supplement General Fund revenue in FY 2014 and in light of the lingering effects of the Great Recession, this budget proposal again reflects a transfer of approximately $60,000 from the Depot Road Parking Fund to the General Fund (this was done as well in 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013).
• A new cable franchise fee associated with the Town’s franchise agreement with Comcast for television service is estimated to generate around $100,000 in revenue to offset DCAT/Channel 22 expenses, as well as supplementing the General Fund.  While these revenues will generally be utilized to offset DCAT/Channel 22 expenses, they are not restricted to this use and could be utilized for other purposes as approved by the Town Council.  
• The sale of 37 Main Street (the Grange project) will generate $58,533 in 2014.

To view the full budget letter, Click HERE.


A hard copy of the budget and CIP documents are available at the Town Offices and the Durham Public Library. 

Electronic versions will shortly be posted on the Town web site for easy access by residents.

Town department heads toured and had their recent Leadership Team Meeting at the UNH InterOperability Lab located at the Goss International Facility out off of Technology Drive. The tour was conducted by IOL Engineer Jeff Lapak.

SPECIAL TOWN ELECTION - DECEMBER 17, 2013
In October the Town Council requested the Governor and Executive Council to schedule a special election for the purpose of filling the vacancy of the seat formerly held by Representative Philip Ginsburg as soon as possible. 

The period for declaration of candidacy has closed with two persons filing for the District 6 seat:  Democrat Amanda Merrill of Durham and Republican Deidre Lepkowski of Madbury.

Because there is not a contested race within each party, the primary election is cancelled and the actual election will occur on the primary date -- December 17th.  

ENERGY COMMITTEE SEEKING MEMBERS

The heavy lifting is done (Master Plan chapter endorsed after 5 years of research and scribbling! Whoopee!), so we are on to devising both boring (insulation, anyone?) and ingenious (cooperative residential solar panel initiatives?) ways to help residents and the Town reduce energy consumption. Join the energy wonks or pitch in on a specific project, such as a household survey of energy use. We're a great group, if we say so ourselves, but we'd really appreciate new members willing to pitch in. Bicycle and pedestrian advocates welcome. (Think Durham should plan for electric cars? The Town's got a head start: there's a GE Watt EV plug charging station at the new library....)

OYSTER RIVER COOPERATIVE SCHOOL BOARD ADVISORY BUDGET COMMITTEE

While the Town Council is working on the budget, it is important to remember that the largest portion of our tax bill relates to the Oyster River Cooperative School District.  The School Board created the Advisory Budget  Committee to assist the Superintendent and the School Board in shaping the budget


There currently are several vacancies. If you are interested in serving on the committee, please send a letter to Superintendent James Morse, 36 Coe Drive.

WINTER PARKING BAN

The Durham Winter Parking ban commences today November 1st and will be in effect through April 1, 2014.  As many know, parking on Main Street, Jenkins Court and any Town owned parking lot is prohibited between 1:00AM and 6:00AM throughout the year. But the Winter Parking ban prohibits parking ON ANY STREET from November 1st to April 1st between 1:00AM and 6:00AM.  As the ordinance states, “Any vehicle so parked during the prohibited hours and dates shall be subject to being towed away at the owner’s risk. The owner or owners shall be required to pay all towing costs and a fine before the vehicle is released.”  For the first week, the Durham Police will endeavor to issue warnings designed to remind everyone of the Winter ban but were a surprise snowstorm to occur next week, there should be an awareness that vehicles may be towed to allow for Durham Public Works to more effectively plow the streets and roadways of Durham.

PLANNING BOARD SCHEDULE FOR NOVEMBER 13, 2013 MEETING

--Durham Master Plan update - Molly Donovan, Chair of Master Plan Advisory Committee

--Presentation by RSG Associates on joint Town-UNH projects for the updated Traffic Model-morning peak and prospective design for Roundabout at the Main Street-Pettee Brook-Quad Way intersection.  

--Public Hearing - Proposed zoning amendments initiated by Town Council on October 21, 2013:

1. Change Mixed Use Residential in the Central Business and Church Hill districts from permitted to conditional use;  
2. Increase the minimum lot area per dwelling unit in the Central Business and MUDOR districts;  
3. Set the maximum number of bedrooms per dwelling unit in Multi-Unit and Mixed-Use residences at four;  
4. Prohibit new basement dwelling units in Multi-Unit and Mixed-Use residences; and   
5. Allow for flexibility in the arrangement of Nonresidential Uses in the Central Business district by conditional use.

--118 Piscataqua Road. Tax Map 11, Lot 24-4, Residence C Zoning District.

1. Public hearing - Formal application for Site Plan and Condominium Conversion for a 4-unit condominium for seniors.   Submitted by Alexander Bakman; Corey Colwell, MSC Engineers, engineer/Surveyor;  Scott Hogan, attorney.  
2. Request for extension to meet precedent conditions for 2-lot subdivision.  Submitted by Alexander Bakman;  Scott Hogan, attorney

--Public Hearing - 17 & 21 Madbury Road.  Formal site plan and conditional use application for “Madbury Commons,” a complete redevelopment of multifamily site known as “The Greens” for mixed use project with student/multifamily housing for 460 +/- residents, office/retail, and parking.  Golden Goose Properties, Barrett Bilotta, Ken Rubin, and Eamonn Healey (applicant);  Rose Lawn Properties, Laura Gangwer (owner of 17 Madbury);  GP Madbury 17, Barrett Bilotta (owner of 21 Madbury);  Michael Sievert, MJS Engineering (engineer); Shannon Alther, TMS Architects (Architect).  Tax Map 2, Lots 12-3 & 12-4. Central Business Zoning District.  

--Public Hearing (continued) - 25-35 Main Street.  Formal site plan application to redevelop three lots into a mixed-use student housing project.  The proposal involves rehabilitating the houses at 25 and 35 Main Street, demolishing the houses at 27 and 29 Main Street, demolishing/relocating the barn in the rear, erecting two new houses fronting on Main Street, erecting two large new buildings, one in the rear and one fronting on Main Street.  Orion Student Housing, Bill Fideli and Philip Wills, applicant;  Bob Clarke, Allen and Major, engineer;  Lisa DeStefano and Adam Wagner, DeStefano Architects, architect;  Tim Phoenix, attorney. Tax Map 5, Lots 1-6, 1-7, and 1-8, Central Business District. To view the designs of this proposed project that were approved by the Historic District Commission, click HERE.

--Mast Road.  Discussion about cutting of trees along the multi-use path and possible remedies.  Related to approved site plan under construction for 142-unit/460 bed apartment-style housing development.  Peak Campus Development, LLC.  Office Research/Light Industry Zoning District.   

--Draft Agricultural Resources Chapter of the Master Plan – first presentation to the Planning Board.  

--2014 Schedule of Planning Board meetings. 

LOCATING PLANNING BOARD PROJECTS ON THE TOWN'S WEB SITE

At the Planning Board meeting on Wednesday evening this week a member of the public expressed difficulty finding architectural renderings of current projects on the Town’s website.  Any renderings and plans that we receive are posted to the web.  Often they are included in links labeled “Site Plans” or something like that.  We often receive all of the plans as one file and post them that way, so be sure to check under “Site Plans” for all related plans.

 

Here is the direct link to the various Planning Board projects:

http://www.ci.durham.nh.us/planningandzoning/other-planning-information

Or to get to the Planning Board projects from the home page on the Town’s website here go to: http://www.ci.durham.nh.us/

• Click on Inside Town Hall
• Boards, Committees, and Commission
• Planning Board
• Current Information and Applications Before the Board
• Then click on the specific project and it will take you to all of the documents

Feel free to call Karen Edwards at 603-868-8064 if you have trouble finding any items.  Thank you.

A photograph of the Bagdad Road Pond illustrating algae blooms across much of the surface area of the pond.  The algae is caused primarily by nitrogen in lawn fertilizer applied by residents in the nearby neighborhoods.

Courtesy Dave Cedarholm

LAWN FERTILIZER SURVEY - Residents may receive a call from the UNH Survey Center on behalf of Durham and UNH in an effort to help inform our Integrated Wastewater Plan development intended to protect the Great Bay Estuary

The Oyster River Integrated Watershed Plan development team (Durham DPW, UNH Facilities, and the project consultants VHB and W&C) and UNH Survey Center have developed a telephone survey, which was initiated yesterday, to obtain important information regarding lawn fertilizer use in Durham.


Fertilizer is one of the largest non-wastewater sources of nutrients in the Oyster River Watershed (and Great Bay) and is the primary cause of damaging algae blooms in the rivers and ponds in Durham.  It is important for the Town to verify some key information that has been used by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services in their nutrient loading model for the Great Bay Watershed, and as it relates to the model the team is developing for the Oyster River Watershed. The above photo taken this morning is of the algae bloom in the Bagdad Road pond.


We are hopeful that this survey and a subsequent educational program aimed at assisting residents with informed decision making about fertilizer use will be a cost-effective nutrient management activity for Durham. This phone survey will provide both verification of nutrient management practices on private property and also help as we develop fertilizer management educational programs.  


The phone survey will be conducted by the UNH Survey Center from Huddleston Hall on the UNH Durham Campus. The questionnaire has been developed to be about 5-7 minutes in length and will be a random digit dialing survey of 450 year-round Durham residents. The survey is scheduled to be completed by the 31st of October. The survey has been pre-tested. The survey has been largely based on previously conducted surveys developed on this same topic in NH and other states working to resolve nutrient pollution issues.

SURVEY REGARDING A LOCAL FOODS CENTER IN DURHAM

A Durham citizens group invites its fellow citizens of Durham, Lee, and Madbury communities to take a 3-minute questionnaire on the topic of building a local foods center in Durham. 

If you would like to share your opinions on this prospect, please go to the link below to take the questionnaire. 

https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/X6M3FH9

FALL CLEANUP OF LEAVES AND BRUSH BEGINS NOVEMBER 4TH
Curbside collection of brush will begin on Monday, November 4,  leaves November 11, 2013. Everything must be curbside no later than 7AM that Monday.  Leaves should be placed in paper leaf bags (remember, plastic bags are not recyclable).  Paper bags may be purchased at Town and Campus, Durham Marketplace, and  stores such as Lowes.  Loose leaves will not be accepted but may be brought to the Transfer Station & Recycling Center on Durham Point Road.  Brush should be placed in one direction, bundled and tied with string (no wire please).  Brush and limbs must be no greater than 5 feet in length and 5 inches in diameter.  No stumps will be accepted.  The amount of brush and limbs is limited to one truckload per household.  Cutting off small limbs from branches will help maximize each load.

CHURCHILL RINK AT JACKSON'S LANDING NOW OPEN FOR SKATE!

For details on the schedule, please go to https://www.ci.durham.nh.us/churchillrink or call the rink at 868-3907. 

Public Skate Schedule:

Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 2:00pm - 3:20pm

Tuesday's:12:00pm - 4:20pm

Thursday's: 12:00pm - 1:50pm

Saturday & Sunday 2:00pm -3:45pm

Public Skate Admission: $5.00 (13 and up), $3.00 Child (12 & Under)

Individual Season Pass $75.00

Family Season Pass $150.00

Open Stick & Puck (unstructured hockey)

Monday - Friday 10:50am - 11:50am

Sunday 11:00am - 12:20pm

$5.00/pp

Drop in Hockey (limited to 20 and 2 goalies, full gear required)

Monday, Wednesday Friday 12:00pm - 1:20pm

Monday & Wednesday 3:30pm - 4:50pm (ends November 13th)

Friday 8:00pm - 9:20pm

Sunday 9:30am - 10:50am

$10/pp

Family Pond Hockey (Helmet required)

Sunday 12:30pm - 2:00pm

$5.00/pp

THE LATEST PRODUCTIONS FROM DCAT STUDIOS

Explore the Beautiful City of Prague with Hana Bartos -Sunday’s @ 1:30 PM - Run time: 1:07

Join Hana Bartos, Durham resident and Prague native, for an armchair journey through the beautiful city of Prague. Learn about its rich history, culture, great food and music.  Prague is, without a doubt, one of most gorgeous cities in the world.  This video is also available on our On Demand site.  This is an original DCAT 22 Studios Production.

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Climate Adaptation with Dr. Cameron P. Wake - Sunday’s @ 8:30 PM - Run time: 1:42

Join Dr. Cameron P. Wake, Research Associate Professor & Kyler Pimental, Senior Regional Planner of the Strafford Regional Planning Commission in a community conversation about climate change, sea level rise, and local preparedness for severe weather events.  This video will help you understand the potential impacts of climate change and hearing more about the Town’s recently developed Climate Adaptation Chapter.  This video is also available on our On Demand site.  An original DCAT 22 Studios Production.

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New Hampshire and the Greater Dover Economy; an armchair discussion - Sunday’s @ 4:00 PM - Run time: 1:38

Join Moderator, Michael Bolduc as he chats with Department of Resource & Economic Development Commissioner Jeff Rose and Dover Economic Development Director Daniel Barufaldi as they present: New Hampshire and the Greater Dover Economy; an armchair discussion.  DCAT Studios travelled to the Three Chimney’s Inn to record this event.  This video is also available on our On Demand site.

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New Video - Durham Public Library Grand Opening - Sunday’s at 7:00 PM -Run time: 1:04

Check out the latest release from DCAT Studios.  If you were unable to make it to the Durham Public Library’s Grand Opening, that’s okay, DCAT Studios was there to capture some of the festivities. Watch your host, Richard Belshaw interview Town Administrator, Todd Selig, Library Director, Tom Madden…and more.   Hear the opening remarks and watch as local resident Mica Wishengrad cuts the ribbon.  These are only a few of the fun and interesting clips you’ll see in this video.  This video is also available on DCAT On Demand.

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Gundalow “Journey Up River” - Sunday’s @ 8:10 PM

Gundalow “Journey Up River” is an archive video from DCAT Studios.  Please join the Captain and his volunteer crew as he navigates the tricky waters of the Oyster River.  The scenery is beautiful, along with excellent information about how important the gundalow was that sailed the waters of the Oyster River and the Great Bay Area years ago.

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.

Agricultural Commission - Monday, November 11, 2013. To view an agenda and other information, click HERE.

Integrated Waste Management Advisory Committee - Tuesday, November 12, 2013 (Durham PD Community Room - 7:00 AM). To view an agenda and other information, click HERE.

Zoning Board of Adjustment - Tuesday, November 12, 2013. To view an agenda and other information, click HERE.

Planning Board - Wednesday, November 13, 2013. To view an agenda and other information, click HERE.

Conservation Commission - Thursday, November 14, 2013. To view an agenda and other information, click HERE.

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

VIDEO ON DEMAND: Meetings can also be viewed via Video on Demand. Interested viewers can access the streaming site from the Town’s website at http://ci.durham.nh.us/  by clicking the DCAT on demand logo, or directly at http://dcat.pegcentral.com/.

Durham Public Library Board of Trustees meeting schedule, please click HERE.

DCAT Programming Schedule, please click HERE.

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.

DPR Climbing Club members practice knot tying and belaying skills during their first session in New Hampshire Hall on Thursday evening. UNH OE students provide leadership and guidance for the young climbers. Courtesy Stefanie Frazee

Yoga for Seniors – NEW!

Find out more HERE.

 

Thursday Night Yoga – NEW!

Convenient time, location, and cost…

Thursdays from 5-6PM. $40/8 sessions or $10 drop-in.

Don’t Miss These Upcoming Events:
Feather Fest (previously Turkey Trot) – November 28th 10-11AM @ Wagon Hill Farm (festive story and walk, refreshments, games, FREE).

Sponsored by Durham Parks & Recreation and ORPP.  Find out more HERE.
Tree Lighting Celebration – December 6th 6-8PM @ Main Street

(special guests, tree lighting, bon fire, crafts, giveaways, FREE).

 

Volunteer With DPR

Do you like being outdoors?  Do you have a group looking for ways to be more involved and give back to the community?  Contact: sfrazee@ci.durham.nh.us to learn about local volunteer opportunities.

Get FIT With DPR:
HoopFIT Tuesdays: 5:30-6:30PM (ORMS Multipurpose Room) drop-in only ($10)
YOGA

Mondays:  5PM

Tuesdays:  7:15PM

Thursdays:  6AM & 5PM
BOOT CAMP  

Wednesday/Friday – 7AM
PILATES  

Monday – 8AM

Wednesday – 6:30PM

Saturday – 10AM (ORMS Multipurpose Room)
ZUMBA  

Monday/Wednesday – 5:30PM (ORMS Multipurpose Room)

Saturday – 9AM
STRENGTH & STRETCH

Wednesday/Friday – 8AM
TAI CHI Beginner/Advanced

Friday – 4-5:30PM

Find out more here: http://www.ci.durham.nh.us/calendar?departments=283
TAI CHI MOVING FOR BETTER BALANCE

Tuesday/Thursday 9-10AM

Find out more here: http://www.ci.durham.nh.us/calendar?departments=283

Durham Resident and UNH Research Scientist, Mark Popecki referees a robot match at the FIRST® LEGO® League Seacoast Qualifying Tournament. Courtesy Bain Testa

COMMUNITY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

ORHS First LEGO League Seacoast Qualifying Tournament, Saturday, Nov 9, 2013, 10AM - 12PM, Memorial Union Building on UNH campus. Food available. For more information contact Nate Oxnard at noxnard@orcsd.org.

Department of Kinesiology at UNH - Exercise Training Study funded by the National Institute on Aging. Evaluating muscle strength, size, and physical functioning following three types of exercise training. The department is seeking healthy older men and women aged 65 years old and older to participate in this study. For more information on the study contactSummer Cook, Ph.D. at 603-862-0895, summercook@unh.edu.

Durham Great Bay Rotary Food Drive, Thursday & Friday (Nov 14 & 15), 4-6:00 PM, Durham Marketplace parking lot. Non-perishables and/or cash would be greatly appreciated. Collection will go to local food pantries.

UNH Serves, Saturday, Nov 16, 2013. UNH students will participate in community service projects in Durham, Dover, Portsmouth. Looking for projects such as yard work, cleaning, painting, etc. For more information contact Mary Faucher, 603-862-2268, mary.faucher@unh.edu.

2nd Annual DPMMA All University Floor Hockey Tournament to Benefit SHARPP, Saturday, Nov 16, 2013, Hamel Rec Center, UNH Campus. $10 per player-5 player minimum. Get entry forms HERE.

ORHS Drama Department Play "Dancing at Lughnasa", Thursday, Friday, Saturday (Nov 21, 22, 23), 7PM. $5.00/students; $7.00/adults.

Durham Garden Club - Tuesday, Nov 26, 2013, 6:30 PM, Durham Public Library. O'Donal's Nursery owner, Jeff O'Donal of Gorham, Maine, will give an up-to-date review of the trees and shrubs that were give the Cary Award in recognition of their beauty, hardiness, and suitability for New England. Free and open to the public.

DURHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

The Friends of the Library present CARPE LIBRI DAYS!

Just in time for the holidays, join the Friends for a special three day event featuring over 200 gorgeous coffee table books. Browse while catching up with new and old friends over cider and cookies upstairs in the Oyster River Room. All proceeds support library programs.

 

The sale opens on Thursday, November 14th from 2:00pm to 8:00pm and continues on Friday, November 15th from 10:00am to 5:00pm and Saturday, November 16th from 10:00am to 4:00pm.

 

The Durham Public Library is located at 49 Madbury Road. 868-6699

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Baby Lap-Sit! For infants to age 2 with their caregiver, Sat. Nov. 9th at 10:30 a.m. - Join us for stories, fingerplays and songs.  There will be a time after for you and your baby to play and socialize with other parents and babies.  This program is geared to ages 2 and under with their parent/caregiver.  All are welcome.
The Library is closed Monday Nov. 11th in honor of Veterans Day.
The Library Book Drop Box has been moved. You will notice we have moved our outside book drop box! The old location tended to block traffic, and plowed snow would have covered the door. It is now further around the circle, where there is more room to pull your car over and hop out for a minute to return your books. Please remember that the box is for Library materials only; donations must be brought inside.
Pre-school storytimes: Tues. Nov. 12th and Thurs. Nov. 14th at 10:30 a.m. – The theme is: A trip around the World!  It’s International Education week. Special Storytime with Members of the UNH Russian Honor Society on Thurs. Nov. 14th!
Basic email Skills, Free Class at the Library, Tues. Nov. 12th, 4-5:30 p.m. – Having trouble managing your email?  Wish you understood the process a little better?  Nancy Miner will lead a basic email class.  Please register at the front desk; six laptops are available if you are unable to bring your own.
McGregor Memorial EMS CPR Course, Tues. Nov. 12th, 6:00-8:15 p.m. - McGregor Memorial EMS is proud to offer a CPR Course at the library. The cost for the Community CPR Class is $20, and payment is due the night of the class. Please register at www.mcgregorems.org
Friends of the Durham Public Library Book Group, Thurs. Nov. 14th, 10:30-12:00 p.m. - Please join the Friends' Book Discussion of The Sense Of An Ending by Julian Barnes, November 14th, 10:30-12:00 in the Heritage Room. Jennifer Lee will facilitate the discussion of this story which critics called "novel, fertile, and memorable..." and "Quietly mesmerizing." Your copy awaits.
Lego Club (1st-4th graders), Thurs. Nov. 14th at 3:45-4:45 p.m. – Join us Thursdays to make Lego creations. Lego Club is in need of Lego Donations!  Have any Legos that you would like to donate to the library?  They will be put to good use at our very popular Lego Club.
Homeschoolers Activity Hour, Friday Nov. 15th, 10:30 a.m. – This week:  Ireland.  We will hear books, play some games, do some puzzles and make a craft.  This group is geared to home-schoolers but all are welcome.
Crafternoon – Fri. Nov. 15th 3:00-4:30 p.m. – Stop by the Children’s craft room on Fridays for a fun craft.
Family Movie Afternoon, “Monster’s University”, Sat. Nov. 16th 2:00 p.m. – Join us upstairs for this month’s movie “Monster’s University”!  Popcorn is served and all are welcome!
Chess and Board Game Afternoon (ages 10 & up), Monday Nov. 18th 3:00-4:00 p.m. – Join us every Monday afternoon now in the Young Adult room for a game of chess (or other board games).
Special Nutcracker Performance by Northeastern Ballet Theatre and Storytime, Monday, Nov. 18th, 6:30 p.m. - Join us for this special Nutcracker/Dance storytime with a performance by the Northeastern Ballet Theatre.  Miss Edra will be here again with her talented dancers.  Don't miss this fun family program!
Bookeaters, Middle School Book Group, Weds. Nov. 20th, 2:45-4:00 p.m. - Join us for this Middle School Book Group. This month’s book is “Ender’s Game” by Orson Scott Card. Walk from the Middle School.  Ruth Wharton-MacDonald is the facilitator.  Pizza is served. Books available at the library.
Pajama Storytime, Tues. Nov. 26th, 6:30 p.m. – This month:  Thanksgiving and Hanukah!  Join ORPP and the Durham Library for this month's PJ storytime.  Come wearing your Pajamas!  This month we will read stories about Thanksgiving/food and Hanukah and make a fun Thanksgiving craft.  Snack provided by ORPP.  All are welcome.  This is a fun way for parents and children to meet.
Patch Club! Earn patches and a library bag for your reading time.  Register at the children’s desk.

Visit the DPL website www.durhampubliclibrary.org for more information.

WEEKLY ARREST REPORT

*Academic year commences the third week of August through graduation at UNH in May

FROM "HISTORY IN AN OYSTERSHELL - A BRIEF HISTORY OF DURHAM, NH, 1600 - 1976 written by Philip A. Wilcox and members of the Durham Historic Association.

1694 - "The Indians fell suddenly & unexpectedly upon Oyster River about break of day. Took 3 garrisons. Killed & carried away 94 persons & burnt 13 houses." This massacre was the first act of hostility after "ye peace concluded at Pemiquid." Plans for attack were common talk on Quebec streets.

Have a nice weekend. 

Todd

Todd I. Selig, Administrator

Town of Durham, New Hampshire

T:  603-868-5571    F:  603-868-5572

tselig@ci.durham.nh.us    http://www.ci.durham.nh.us

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