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Durham's downtown trick or treat event held on Saturday, October 24th and hosted by Durham Parks & Recreation, was filled with plenty of fun, games, and treats. Thank you to all of the downtown businesses for helping to make this year's event a success! Photos courtesy Jeremy Gasowski
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DURHAM TRICK OR TREAT: Due to the prediction for rain all day this coming Saturday into the evening, the Town has decided to move trick or treating in Durham off to Sunday, October 31st. The time remains the same, from 5 - 7:30 PM.
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COVID CASES REMAIN HIGH IN NEW HAMPSHIRE
This week NH State epidemiologist Dr. Benjamin Chan told reporter Karen Dandurant from Foster's Daily Democrat that while everyone is tired of COVID-19, we are not out of the woods yet! New Hampshire is averaging more than 500 new coronavirus cases a day and current hospitalizations were over 200 at mid-week. Dr. Benjamin Chan indicated if we remain vigilant, things will get better.
Dr. Chan said: "The national trend is showing some decreases, but New Hampshire and other northern states are still seeing increases. If you look at the CDC maps, there has always been some differences in spread by area. We tend to see surges first in the southern states and then it spreads north, so there is a disparity. It is a difference in timing, so we see a delay."
Dr. Chan indicated the level of community transmission remains high/substantial. In the past week, over seven days, NH saw an average of 500 to 550 cases daily. Hospitalizations are high, about 200 cases statewide, so we are still seeing the impacts. We are seeing impacts on K-12 schools, with more outbreaks and clusters. During the past two months, September and October, we saw over 150 outbreaks and clusters in schools, affecting 1,500 students and staff. That is not counting individual cases.
Read the full article with good Q&A HERE.
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MADBURY ROAD RECONSTRUCTION DESIGN PHASE UNDERWAY
The Madbury Road Project which will reconstruct improvements to roadway, water and sewer utilities, storm water, and streetscape while also providing upgrades to pedestrian, and cyclist accommodations while using a “Complete streets” approach, where possible, is underway with the engineering design services contract awarded to Vanesse, Hangen and Brustlin (VHB) on September 13, 2021.
The project limits extend from Main Street in downtown Durham to Pendexter Road North of Route 4. Beginning the week of November 1st, 2021, residents and businesses can expect to see survey crews, underground utility inspection crews and police details on Madbury Road intermittently for a duration of approximately 10 weeks followed by Geotechnical explorations.
Durham Public Works is currently developing a Madbury Road Project which will provide helpful project information and inform residents of opportunities to provide project input. The first of many public outreach meetings will also be scheduled where stakeholders will be invited to share local knowledge and concerns around this town gateway roadway and adjoining intersections. Any questions can be directed to Durham Public Works at (603) 868-5578 or MadburyRoadProject@ci.durham.nh.us
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OPINION FROM TOWN ATTORNEY WALTER MITCHELL CONCERNING MILL POND DAM REFERENDUM PETITION AND TIMING OPTIONS FOR A TOWN-WIDE VOTE
Interested community members can find a link below to a legal opinion from Town Attorney Walter Mitchell regarding whether it is possible to hold a Town-wide vote concerning the future of the historic, head of tide Mill Pond Dam on the Oyster River, at the Annual Town Election, versus at a special referendum election. Because the legal opinion helps to explain how our Town Charter works and the complex nuances of a referendum petition process in Durham, Administrator Selig has made the opinion a public document.
As indicated by Attorney Mitchell, should the Town Council choose to rescind its September 13, 2021 action, the referendum petition effort would be moot. The Council could then proceed, at its option, to place the matter before the voters at the Annual Town Election on March 8, 2021. Or, the Council could take no action and the Town would proceed with a special referendum election, at this time tentatively targeted for December 28, 2021.
The Town Council will take up this matter at its upcoming meeting on November 1st.
Read Attorney Mitchell's opinion letter HERE.
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FY 2022 BUDGET PROPOSAL HAS BEEN PROVIDED TO TOWN COUNCIL
This year’s budget cycle has resulted in a proposed 2022 General Fund budget totaling $17,638,250 -- a spending increase of $674,550 or 3.98% compared to FY 2021. Increases are due to required wages and benefits as a result of collective bargaining contracts, a 2% COLA for non-union personnel, insurance increases, debt service costs, and other miscellaneous requests that will be discussed as part of the upcoming process. Non-property tax revenues are expected to modestly increase in FY 2022 by approx. $36,000 or .47% to $7,673,700.
In total, this year’s budgetary proposal is projected to increase the 2022 local municipal portion of the tax rate by 2.98% from $7.86 to $8.09, an increase of 23 cents. The tax rate had remained at $7.37 (formerly $8.48 but adjusted due to 2018 statistical revaluation update) for 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018. The proposed increase would cost the average Durham property taxpayer with a home valued at $350,000 an additional $80.50 in taxes for 2022.
The proposed Sewer (Wastewater) Fund budget reflects a .31% increase in user fees in 2022 (a rate of $9.00 per hundred cubic feet), while the proposed Water Fund budget carries an anticipated 9.3% increase in user fees (a rate of $8.46 per hundred cubic feet) for FY 2022. The largest impacts in the Sewer Fund include an additional bond payment for the Dover Road Force Main Project and a quarter of the DPW Projects Engineer position for a full year in 2022. The total Sewer budget appropriation proposal is up 3.4% from $2,876,000 to $2,974,500 – an increase of $98,500. The biggest impact in the Water Fund is adding in a quarter of the new DPW Projects Engineer position for a full year. The total Water budget appropriation proposal is up 5.3% from $1,190,200 to $1,252,700 – an increase of $62,500.
The twelve-month September 2020 to September 2021 Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) numbers are: U.S. City Index – 5.4%, Northeast – 4.6%, New England – 4.1%, and Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH – 4.0%.
This year’s budget proposal generally represents a steady state budget request for 2022, adjusted on a line-by-line basis after consulting with departments, boards, committees, and commissions, reflecting updated realities/projections based upon our best understanding of the current landscape and needs of the community. Budget highlights include the following:
- The part-time 16 hrs/wk Economic Development Director position is eliminated. We would utilize contracted service funds if bringing on board professional assistance is deemed beneficial in 2022 for specific initiatives.
- The fire inspector position is again not funded in 2022 (it was not funded in 2021 either). This results in the continued complete pause of Housing Standards Ordinance inspections. It is recommended that the Council revisit in 2022 whether it desires to resume the Housing Inspection program in 2023 or beyond.
- The FY 2022 proposed budget includes approximately $15,000 in funding to continue to partner with the UNH Sustainability Fellowship Office to bring on a Graduate Student for the spring/summer/fall 2022 semesters to continue/drive forward our sustainability efforts in Durham in support of the Energy Committee and Council goals, as well as our commitment to the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate Action and Energy initiative.
- Funding included for a full-time GIS Manager position for a full year in 2022. (Note, this was funded for a partial year in 2021.)
- Funding included for a full-time DPW Projects Engineer Position for a full year in 2022 to both keep up with workload, monitor compliance with numerous Federal/state permits, and to help the department become more proactive in its efforts, potentially saving capital project monies and increasing efficiencies over the long-term. (Note, this was funded for a partial year in 2021.)
- The 21st police officer position at the DPD will remain vacant through September 2022 as a cost savings measure.
- To meet the demands of our Parks & Recreation Department and ensure long-term sustainability/resiliency within that operation, the current part-time assistant position (at a cost of $16,000) is eliminated and a new, full-time Assistant Director position is created as of January 1, 2022, at a cost of $95,000 ($50,000 wages, $45,000 benefits).
- To meet the demands of our MIS/IT Department and ensure long-term sustainability/resiliency within that operation, a new full-time IT support position will be created as of April 1, 2022, at a cost of $75,000 ($41,500 wages, $33,500 benefits).
- $1,000 has been added to the Integrated Waste Management Advisory Committee to support increased public information around waste reduction, recycling, and composting. If additional funding is needed, we will address through DPW operational transfers or Contingency.
- $3,600 in additional funding has been included in the Historic District Commission/Heritage Commission budget to support a sign campaign denoting important historic structures within the community as well as community outreach.
- $3,500 is once again included in 2022 to support the planting of shade trees as part of our Tree City efforts.
- $25,000 has been included as a new DPW CIP item to offset the cost of unanticipated facility needs/repairs/failures over the coming years. Not having monies budgeted in reserve for such purposes has proven a challenge for the department. This model closely parallels the reserve account we have established for $50,000 within the Wastewater Fund for major component replacements/failures.
- The annual $100,000 contribution (funded 50/50) between Durham/UNH to replenish our Fire Equipment Capital Reserve Fund intended to cover the cost of expensive equipment items at the DFD in a predictable, sustainable manner over time to avoid lulls and valleys in our funding reserve has been reduced to $50,000 for 2022.
- McGregor Memorial EMS support is up $2,400 for a total request of $40,000 to reflect the cost of operations and a reallocation of costs across the four served communities (Durham, UNH, Madbury, and Lee) on a rolling average basis.
- The Oyster River Youth Association requested an appropriation of $56,750 in funding for 2022. Because the Council had previously opted to phase out ORYA funding over several years in the past, this request was not included in the proposed budget. Reinstatement of such funding would need to be by Council initiative.
- $118,000 has been included to cover the cost of two replacement police vehicles (hybrid) in 2022. These would represent our 4th and 5th hybrid vehicles within the fleet. Over time, we plan to transition our entire police patrol and command fleet to hybrid, and in turn our downshifted DPW and Town Hall staffing cars.
- $450,000 is included for roadway resurfacing/reclaiming, as appropriate, in 2022 with cash to appropriate treatments for the following roadways: Back River Road, Mast Road, Pendexter Road, Timberbrook Lane, Wednesday Hill Road, and Wiswall Road.
- $1.6 million is budgeted through debt service in 2022 to move forward a TBD solution for the historic, head of tide Mill Pond Dam on the Oyster River. Once the community determines a definitive future course with regard to this structure, engineering, design, and permitting can begin and funding would be fine-tuned for 2022/2023. $275,000 was budgeted in 2021 to commence engineering services. While the Council by a vote of 7-2 on September 13, 2021, directed staff to move forward with a contract with VHB Engineers for engineering services for dam removal, a petition referendum to reverse that action was submitted by residents on October 12, 2021, and subsequently certified by the Town Clerk. As such the question will appear at an upcoming TBD Town election. The Town has been advised by external potential project partners that significant offsetting grant funding would be available to help defray the cost of a dam removal/river restoration option, while minimal external funding exists for a dam repair option.
- The future Madbury Road roadway, complete streets, and water line project along this central corridor represents a significant, multi-million dollar phased capital undertaking for the Town in the coming years. It is recommended that Councilors review this project closely in the attached CIP plan.
- Significant future facility upgrade/maintenance costs exist in the coming years for our Wastewater Treatment Plant. It is recommended that Councilors review these projects closely in the attached CIP plan.
- $175,000 is budgeted (payment 3 of 3) to support the Piscataqua Region Estuaries Partnership (PREP) CArE (Critical Advances for our Estuaries 2020-2022) initiative, made possible 100% through the funding collaboration between Eversource and Durham (with Durham’s $525,000 in SRP settlement funds for the Estuary).
To reiterate, the FY 2022 budget is a basic budget proposal intending to ensure municipal operations remain in conformance with Town Council goals while also meeting the ongoing daily needs of the community. There are few innovations/enhancements, yet those that are noted are believed to be important for the community. Details associated with the budget can be found within this FY 2022 budget book, the 2022-2031 Capital Improvement Program document, or within a separate informational booklet being prepared by the Business Office that will offer some high-level analysis concerning the proposal for Town Council and community information.
View the Administrator's proposed FY 2022 budget HERE.
View the Budget Informational Booklet HERE.
View the Capital Improvements Program HERE.
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UNEARTHING GREAT BAY'S PAST - A UNH archaeology project documents social, ecological changes over 400 years in Durham and around the Great Bay Estuary
As an archaeological survey based near P8bagok Bay — Great Bay’s ancestral name in the Indigenous Abenaki language — begins to wrap up, UNH researchers are piecing together a more accurate vision of the region’s past, one that pushes back on the colonial narrative of Indigenous savagery and warfare and uncovers some uncomfortable truths about local landowners who enslaved people from Africa.
That history is now on display as an online StoryMap featuring artifacts from the project and their country of origin, audio clips from project collaborators and details on the nuanced relationships between people and the environment.
The Great Bay Archaeological Survey (GBAS) is a five-year, community-engaged project that focuses on the time period around the 17th and 18th centuries, when British colonialists descended on the region to capitalize on its abundant natural resources. The project has been led by Meghan Howey, a UNH professor of anthropology in the College of Liberal Arts and the Earth Systems Research Center.
Read the full story in UNH Today HERE.
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DURHAM HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION ADOPTS LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT STATEMENT - Encourages other Durham Boards/Committees to follow suit.
At the Durham Human Rights Commission meeting on October 21, 2021, the Commission adopted an acknowledgment statement fashioned after the UNH Land, Water, and Life Acknowledgment statement. The UNH acknowledgment was developed by a committee and approved by Tribal Elders, which includes six guiding principles/critical elements:
Include land, water, biota.
Capture Abenaki/Penacook historic stewardship status.
Recognize current challenges faced by local Indigenous peoples.
Recognize relationship of UNH with Indigenous people and place.
Include an Abenaki term to describe the local Durham place.
Include the spiritual connection to the land.
The HRC is requesting that the Durham Town Council adopt the acknowledgment language provided below at its meeting on Monday evening, November 1, 2021, and that the Town Council read the acknowledgment each year at its meeting prior to Indigenous Peoples’ Day in October and again at the beginning of its first meeting following the annual March Town Election as periodic reminders of its commitment to promote understanding, friendship, and the well-being and growth of its indigenous community. The HRC intends to read the acknowledgment at the beginning of each of its meetings. HRC members will also be speaking with other town boards, commissions, and committees asking them to consider reading the acknowledgment at the beginning of their meetings as well.
The town of Durham, New Hampshire wishes to acknowledge the spiritual and physical connection maintained by the Pennacook, Abenaki and Wabanaki peoples to N’dakinna (homeland), aki (land), nibi (water), lolakwikak (flora) and awaasak (fauna). New Hampshire has been home to these Indigenous people for thousands of years. The residents of Durham acknowledge the ongoing hardships endured by our Indigenous neighbors after the loss of their ceded homelands which we now steward and we will work to foster relationships to support the well-being of Indigenous people who carry forward the traditions of their ancestors.
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DID YOU KNOW?
Part 2
If your old gadgets run too slow for comfort, barely hold a charge or are in some way damaged, they might be past the point of being useful again. In that case, it’s time to consider recycling them. Just remember: most old tech products, such as tablets, computers and more, shouldn’t go in the recycle bin any more than they should go in the trash.
Responsible recycling
On-line assistance:
Tap into databases like the one run by Earth 911 to find local recyclers that would be willing to accept aging and unusable tech for recycling.
Transfer Station:
The Durham Transfer Station accepts e-waste with the purchase of a $15 disposal fee sticker.
Big-box stores:
Some of the same places where you purchased your tech will take them when they’re no longer usable. Best Buy lets you bring your aging tech into certain stores — from there, it gets sent to the company’s recycling partners, which will see if it can be repurposed before breaking it down. Staples’ recycling program works very similarly. Meanwhile, Office Depot and Office Max will sell you a box you can fill with old tech and bring it into a store for shipment and recycling by a third-party.
Tech companies:
In some cases, you can send old devices back to the companies that made them. Apple will accept its own products for recycling, and in some cases will give you a credit that can be applied to new purchases. The computer maker Dell — which shipped more than 12 million new PCs in the second quarter of 2021 — accepts shipments of old electronics of any brand to be recycled. That said, Dell’s track record with recycling isn’t completely free of blemishes.
Source: The Washington Post
Brought to you by the IWMAC Committee
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PUBLIC WORKS WINTER MAINTENANCE PREPARATION
With the approaching winter season Durham Public Works staff continue to transition from construction and maintenance operations to winter operations. Following completion of the upcoming brush and yard waste collection, a primary focus will be winter maintenance emergency response. Pre-planning activities include, setting up plows and deicing equipment, inspecting equipment, reviewing treatment and plow routes while identifying potential hazards, coordinating weather forecast monitoring, and ensuring sufficient supplies and contractor commitments. Durham Public Works has planned a winter operations meeting which will include calibration of deicing material spreaders, reviewing policies and performing a dry run of routes with assigned equipment.
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HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE DAY COLLECTION EFFORT
DPW reports high participation in the October 23rd Household Hazardous Waste Day event with over 70 residents disposing of common household hazardous waste items. This extremely important collection event provides an opportunity for residents to easily and properly dispose of common household hazardous wastes while protecting the environment.
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OLD TOWN HALL/COURTHOUSE HVAC UPGRADES
The Durham Public Works Department’s HVAC contractor, ENE Systems of NH, completed a major upgrade to the HVAC system in the Museum portion of the Old Town Hall / Courthouse facility this week. The new system will replace the existing split heating/AC system which had failed earlier this year and will allow for increased efficiency and dehumidification.
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ASPHALT PAVEMENT PATCHING
Durham Public Works Highway Division Crews continue to target areas in need of pavement repair before asphalt plants close in November. The patch depicted in the photo is a crosswalk under repair on Main Street at the intersection of College Road. Sections of Rocky Lane, Dennison Road, and Stafford Avenue also received attention.
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AN EXPLANATION CONCERNING WHY CERTAIN ROGUE/UNAUTHORIZED TRAILS ON UNH LANDS WILL BE CLOSED
In 2018 unauthorized trails totaling about 3 miles on UNH’s Thompson Farm and MacDonald Lot were identified for closure. Unauthorized trail building can conflict with other uses like research and wildlife habitat management and can grow to become unmanageable from a practical standpoint.
There have been a number of questions about the recent closure on Thompson Farm. Issues of concern are addressed in the link below. Several informational signs were also recently posted on site highlighted with caution tape. Among other things, the signs pointed out that the trail was built through permanent forest inventory plots and provided this information (summarized):
“These plots are used to monitor tree growth, forest health, regeneration and other things. The information is available to our researchers to use for a variety of purposes. When the plots were installed in 2013 there was not a trail present. The installation and continuous use of the trail makes the plots uncharacteristic of the rest of the forest, making them less useful in terms of scientific method.”
It is certain that the trail builders did not knowingly go through the plots. However, even after users were made aware that the plots were there, both prior to the closure (verbally) and afterwards, through signage, the trail has seen continuous use.
These events underscore one of the primary reasons for areas to be set aside for purposes other than recreation. Although the vast majority of trail users do not disturb work on purpose, preserving the integrity of forest research is justification enough to close this trail and preserve areas where future research will not be disturbed.
Users should respect the request to discontinue the use of certain areas. Proposals for new trails should come endorsed by either the Town of Durham or some locally or nationally recognized group and will be reviewed by the Woodlands Committee, a board that oversees the management of UNH properties and is made up of UNH Natural Resource Faculty and Staff members.
Please call Steve Eisenhaure, UNH Land Use Coordinator, Office of Woodlands and Natural Areas, with any questions, 603-534-7979.
View a list of the Thompson Trail Closure Frequently Asked Questions HERE.
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ONLINE SURVEY OPEN THROUGH NOVEMBER 8TH TO PROVIDE INPUT REGARDING DURHAM'S CLIMATE ADAPTATION MASTER PLAN CHAPTER
Two Zoom input sessions were recently held regarding Durham's Climate Adaptation Master Plan Chapter. For those who were registered but were unable to attend or for those who would still like an opportunity to provide their feedback, the online survey will remain open through November 8, 2021.
Take the online survey here: https://unh.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2oyw28VtLN78QNo
Printed copies of the survey are available at the Town Clerk's office in the Town Hall and at the Durham Public Library. Please return completed surveys to either location so they may be picked up sometime after November 8th.
The Town of Durham is preparing for impacts from hotter temperatures, flooding from more intense rainfall events, and rising sea levels. Your feedback can help Durham prioritize recommended actions to build resilience to these impacts.
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THE UNH DURHAM WATER TREATMENT PLANT AND WATER SYSTEM SERVICING DURHAM – Learn more about how our local water system works.
The UNH-Durham Water System is a jointly operated water system, meaning that both UNH and the Town of Durham contribute to the production of safe drinking water. Water in Durham comes from combined sources provided by UNH and/or the Town at any given time. There are 1,300 water meters in the Town’s System, which are read monthly and billed quarterly and over 200 UNH meter locations.
The University owns and operates the Surface Water Treatment Plant, which includes the Lamprey River Pump Station, and the portion of the water distribution system serving the University. The brand new Water Treatment Plant (WTP) became operational on March 13th, 2020 and replaces the Arthur Rollins Treatment Plant that was originally constructed in 1935.
The raw water is supplied to the treatment plant from a reservoir on the Lamprey River and/or the Oyster River, or the Spruce Hole Well. This well serves a dual purpose: (1) to convey river water from the Lamprey River to artificially recharge the underlying aquifer; and (2) to convey groundwater from the Spruce Hole Well to the UNH-Durham Water System. In the treatment process chemicals are added to remove impurities through settling. The water is then filtered through layers of anthracite coal and sand. The final stage of treatment involves the addition of chlorine for disinfection, fluoride to minimize tooth decay, sodium hydroxide (caustic soda) for pH control, and blended phosphate to minimize corrosion of the piping system. The maximum capacity of the WTP is about 2 million gallons per day.
The Town of Durham owns and operates the Lee Well and Pump Station, Foss Farm and Beech Hill Storage Tanks, the Town reservoir behind the Wiswall Dam on the Lamprey River, Technology Drive and Madbury Road pressure stations and the portion of the distribution system serving the residents and businesses of the Town. (Note, many residential properties located beyond the downtown area are on private wells.)
The Town’s portion of the water system is under direct control of the Durham Public Works Department. The Lee Well is a gravel packed well located on Angel Rd. in Lee, N.H. The Town of Durham owns the land on which the wellhead and pump house are sited. The well has an estimated safe yield of approximately 550,000 gallons per day. The well water is naturally filtered underground. Water pumped into the distribution system has chlorine added as a disinfectant, fluoride to minimize tooth decay, sodium hydroxide (caustic soda) for pH control, and blended phosphate to minimize corrosion of the piping system.
View an interesting view about the new UNH Durham Water Treatment Plant HERE.
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During the Downtown Trick or Treat event on Saturday, October 24th, Officer Erik Burke and Officer Emily Festa caught this unicorn and scare crow having some fun. Plenty of candy was passed out to all…..
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HALLOWEEN IS A BUSY TIME IN DURHAM - Information from DPD.
Trick or treating in Durham has been postponed to Sunday, October 31st, from 5 - 7:30 PM. The Durham Police Department will once again have additional officers out to ensure everyone’s safety while interacting with all the little ghosts and goblins. The police department wants to remind all parents to think “Safety First” and recommends high visibility costumes for your little witches and gremlins.
Additionally, the department will have an expanded compliment of officers on earlier in the day to help handle the increased traffic resulting from the UNH Football game. We anticipate a heavy volume of traffic in the area of Main Street stretching from the Edgewood Road intersection to the Mast Road intersection, and would recommend to all community members to find an alternative route from the hours of 10 AM to 5 PM.
It is expected to be a very active weekend for the department as we strive to maintain a proactive and high visibility presence designed to allow everyone to enjoy the various entertainment opportunities both on the UNH campus and throughout the downtown.
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JOIN THE FALL 2021 COMPOST CHALLENGE - Sponsored by the Integrated Waste Management Advisory Committee (IWMAC), Town of Durham Department of Public Works, and Durham Parks and Recreation
Looking for a small way to make a big difference in our community? Composting is an excellent way for you to be a part of fighting back against Climate Change in our community and our world! Learning to compost is a great way to teach your kids the importance of being sustainable. Sign up for our next Durham Compost Challenge!
October 16 - November 20
View details about what you can compost HERE.
Challenge participants receive a compost bin and compostable bags. Participants are asked to weigh each bag of their compost and household trash and keep records to report weekly. You may choose to compost the organic waste in your yard, have it picked up by Mr. Fox, or drop it off at the Transfer Station. Register for the Challenge with Durham Parks and Rec. The registration fee is $10.00.
Have questions? Contact Julie Kelley at ricjulkelley@comcast.net
Register with Parks & Rec HERE.
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WAGON HILL FIELD MOWING UNDER WAY!
The Durham Public Works Facilities and Grounds Division began the annual mow of the Wagon Hill Farm fields this week. The roughly 80 acres of field will take approximately two weeks to complete.
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DURHAM POTENTIALLY ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE TWO CONGRESSIONALLY AUTHORIZED SPENDING ALLOCATIONS FOR IMPORTANT LOCAL PROJECTS TOTALING OVER $1.4 MILLION
The Town received notification from Senator Shaheen’s office this week that our request for approx. $900,000 in emergency land and mobile radio communications infrastructure funding for Durham’s public safety departments has passed through the US Senate Commerce, Justice, and Science Committee with a favorable recommendation and is moving into the funding appropriations Bill. In addition, Durham’s request for approximately $540,000 for emergency generators/emergency generator upgrades for local critical facilities/infrastructure has passed the US Senate Appropriations Committee.
The appropriations bill will continue along their respective trajectories slowly move toward the US Senate floor where they may be further amended and eventually passed. It is important to note that funds would become available only after new legislation funding the government for FY2022 is approved by both the Senate and the US House of Representatives and signed by President Biden.
A thank you is extended to Senator Shaheen and her staff for supporting these important Durham projects. Thank you as well to our DPW, Fire, Police, and IT teams for moving forward these initiatives for consideration by Senator Shaheen and Congressman Pappas.
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ROAD GRADING
The Durham Public Works’ Highway Division began Fall maintenance work on the Town’s gravel roadways this week. A road grader was used on Dame Road to scratch the surface of the gravel, carrying some aggregate along its blade to smooth imperfections and re-establish the crown at the center of the roadway.
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Detective Carrington Cazeau
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DURHAM POLICE PARTICIPATE IN DRUG TAKE BACK PROGRAM
This week the Durham Police Department delivered three boxes of unused prescription drugs to the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) Drug Take Back Program. The unused, unwanted, or expired medications are collected in a drop box in the lobby of the Durham Police Station, year round. The drop box is available to the public during any business day from 8AM to 5PM. It is free and anonymous! The boxes pictured were collected from this spring until the end of last week.
Disposing of medications with the Durham Police Department prevents prescription drug abuse. Six out of ten teenagers who have taken prescription narcotics state that they get them from their parents or relative’s medicine cabinets. Additionally, using this service keeps trace drugs out of our lakes, streams and estuaries as waste-water treatment plants cannot remove many compounds found in medications; so when flushed or put in a landfill, drugs are discharged into our surface and ground water and consumed by fish and wildlife.
If anyone has any questions about this service, please call the Durham Police during business hours Monday through Friday, 603-868-2324, or by email police@ci.durham.nh.us
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HAZARDOUS TREE REMOVAL
The Durham Public Works Department’s tree contractor, Orion Tree Service, recently removed several dead or decaying ash, pine, and hemlock trees along Ffrost Drive (adjacent to Town owned property), Bayview Road, and Main Street. These trees posed a significant risk to the safety and functionality of the infrastructure in their vicinity. All trees were safely removed without incident.
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STUDENT-ATHLETE ADVISORY COMMITTEE
"The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) is a leadership group of UNH Student-Athletes, selected by coaches, teammates, and Student-Athlete development staff that acts as a liaison between student-athletes and administrators. Each year, SAAC schedules and creates events and initiatives that bring athletes together and serve the community. If you would like to learn more about SAAC, please visit: https://unhwildcats.com/sports/2015/4/21/GEN_2014010160.aspx
Currently, SAAC is raising money/non-perishable food items for Durham’s Cornucopia Food Pantry and we are looking for your help! Please leave canned goods on your doorstep on Sunday, November 7th and a UNH Student-Athlete will be by to pick up your donations, starting at 10am! Thank you in advance!"
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DURHAM BENEFITS FROM A REBOUNDING RECYCLING MARKET
Durham Public Works reports that the commodity market for recyclable materials continues to rebound in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. Paper mills in Vietnam, India, and Mexico have continued to increase their imports and several domestic companies are expanding allowing for increased capacity. Plastic prices are approaching record highs largely due to rising oil prices. During the recent down recycling market Durham made a strategic decision to include a revenue share agreement, tied in to two separate commodity indices, in the contract renewal for solid waste disposal and recycling processing with Waste Management. The Town is now benefiting greatly and receiving direct payments for the recycling materials residents diligently place both curbside and recycle at the transfer station.
Durham Public Works thanks all residents and businesses for their continued efforts in Recycling and Sustainable Waste Management!
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SWAP SHOP GUIDELINES - A Reminder From DPW
The Durham Public Works Department, Integrated Waste Management Advisory Committee (IWMAC) and Swap Shop Volunteers would like to remind residents that the Transfer Station’s Swap Shop does not accept certain items. While we would like to keep reusable items out of the waste stream and the landfill, indoor storage space is limited, and other safety concerns must be considered. When entering the Transfer Station, it is mandatory to stop and check-in with one of the Attendants to review the items you wish to donate to the Swap Shop. The Attendant(s) will evaluate each item(s) based on the criteria below to determine if it will be accepted. A $15 bulky waste coupon may be required in situations where the item(s) is not accepted. We encourage residents to discuss other options for donating their goods with the attendants and Swap Shop Volunteers. A reminder that users of the Swap Shop are encouraged to remain at the facility for no longer than thirty minutes during any one visit to allow other residents an opportunity to view and take items.
The following is a list of items that are not accepted at the Swap Shop:
- Dirty, moldy or stained items. Stained fabrics may go into the Ecosmith Textile Recycling bin.
- Broken, non-functioning or items missing pieces (a chair without a leg, desk without a drawer or drawer knobs, etc.)
- Boxes full of unsorted items (unless approved by a Transfer Station Attendant or Swap Shop Volunteer.)
- Upholstered furniture (mattresses, box springs, chairs, couches, headboards, pillows, etc.).
- Electronic items (all of which require an electronic coupon for disposal):
- Refrigerators
- Dehumidifiers
- Air Conditioners
- Other items containing a refrigerant
- Televisions
- Computer Monitors
- Construction materials of any kind (wood, shingles, sheetrock, insulation, etc.)
- Concrete, bricks, stone, solid fill.
- Appliances larger than a microwave (appliances containing refrigerant that have an electronic coupon will be considered for donation).
- Hazardous Materials or Chemicals (oils, gas, diesel, kerosene, propane, oxygen, mercury containing items, etc.)
- Food, beverages, cosmetics
- Textbooks, dated manuals, reference books (can be recycled using the Discover Books bin)
- Skies, ski boots, snow boards
- Child safety equipment (car seats, helmets)
- Weapons
- Broken glass (including glass from picture frames)
- Clothing and shoes (Use the Salvation Army bin for clothing and shoes in good condition. The Ecosmith bins for these and any stained bedding, towels, fabric stuffed animals, etc.
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BAGS THAT GIVE BACK PARTICIPATE IN HANNAFORD COMMUNITY BAG PROGRAM THIS NOVEMBER
UNH Military and Veteran Services (MVS) has been selected by local Hannaford store leadership as the benefiting non-profit in the Community Bag Program for the month of November!
The Hannaford Community Bag Program is an easy way for shoppers to give back to the local community and the environment as part of the regular shopping routine. For every $2.50 reusable Community Bag purchased, a $1 donation will be sent to UNH MVS, which supports Veteran, Active Duty, National Guard, Reservist, and military-connected students.
Stop by the Hannaford’s at 7 Mill Road, Durham, NH anytime in the month of November to purchase a bag, reduce single-use plastic in the environment, and give back!
For more information about the Hannaford Community Bag Program, please visit hannaford.bags4mycause.com.
If you have any questions, please contact MVS Director Kalyn Ryll at kalyn.ryll@unh.edu.
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WINTER PARKING BAN - BEGINS NOVEMBER 1ST
The Durham Winter Parking ban commences Sunday November 1st and will be in effect through April 1, 2021. 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 few weeks, the Durham Police will endeavor to issue warnings designed to remind everyone of the Winter ban but were a surprise snowstorm to occur during this period, there should be an awareness that vehicles may be towed to allow for Durham Public Works to effectively plow the streets and roadways of Durham.
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NEW AMTRAK DOWNEASTER SCHEDULE
A New Amtrak Downeaster schedule became effective this week which has minor changes to the now daily service schedule in Durham.
View the new schedule HERE.
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AFGHAN EVACUEE RESETTLEMENT IN NEW HAMPSHIRE - Information for Durham residents interested in the subject.
Two organizations - Ascentria Care Alliance, based in Concord, and The International Institute of New England, based in Boston, MA - are in the process of planning the resettlement of 125 Afghan evacuees in New Hampshire. The Afghan people who recently escaped Afghanistan following the Taliban takeover are not considered refugees but as "humanitarian parolees" in legal status. This means that they do not qualify for many refugee benefits available, making their resettlement "more challenging" to quote one of Ascentria's program managers. Basic supplies, financial donations, and housing concerns are therefore needed, as well as volunteers to work with families. Contact either of the above organizations if you would like to help out.
It is being reported that currently Afghan evacuees are mostly unvaccinated, with initial inoculations in progress overseas at their sites of refuge, adding to the challenges of an immediate resettlement. Many Afghans already live in the Lowell, MA, area and the hope is that those who resettle in NH will find homes in locations not too far away. Anyone who may be thinking of offering their homes as temporary housing, please be aware that 2-3 months is the standard timeline for this, English may not be an understood or spoken language for all, and that as (mostly) Muslim, Afghans follow strict dietary restrictions.
It is important that we be accommodating to the Afghan culture, making the resettlement process as comfortable as possible for them. For further details on how you may be of assistance, please check the websites: https://iine.org/ or http://ascentria.org/
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THE SEACOAST VILLAGE PROJECT - Helping seniors age in their homes and community
The Seacoast Village Project (a nonprofit) is a network of older adults working together to get smart, get connected, and help each other out as they age in place in their homes and community. The Seacoast Village Project offers educational programs, social activities, home services, resources, friendships.
Learn more about the Seacoast Village Project HERE or call 603-373-8429.
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FALL LEAF COLLECTION - Did You Know That Leaf Waste Can Contribute to Nitrogen Impairment In Our Local Streams and Rivers?
A reminder that this year’s fall cleanup of leaves and brush will begin on Monday November 8th. Leaves should be placed in recyclable paper leaf bags. Improper dumping of leaves and grass clippings, especially along streams and rivers can contribute to the Nitrogen impairment of our local water resources. Please do not improperly dispose of leaves and grass clippings. Loose leaves may be brought to the Transfer Station & Recycling Center on Durham Point Road.
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FALL LEAF AND BRUSH CURBSIDE COLLECTION BEGINS ON MONDAY, NOVEMBER 8TH
All items must be out by 7am! During Fall Cleanup, Public Works picks up brush (natural material from trees) first followed by the collection of leaves. Fall Cleanup is separate from your regular curbside collection!
- Leaves should be placed in paper leaf bags (remember, plastic bags are not recyclable and will not be picked up). Paper bags may be purchased at Aubuchon Hardware and stores such as Lowes or Home Depot. 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.
- Remember, backyard composting of your leaves and brush reduces the flow of waste, while at the same time, produces valuable organic matter for the soil. It improves your soil and the plants growing in it.
All residents should have received the fall newsletter in the last week.
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FIRE HYDRANT WINTERIZATION
Durham Public Works, Water Division staff began winterizing fire hydrants within the Town water system this week. This includes inspection and draining of the hydrant barrel to prevent freezing during inclement conditions. The UNH and Town of Durham Water System is responsible for the operation and maintenance of over 160 hydrants across the Town and UNH campus.
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Watercolor by Riverwoods resident Ellie Lonske of the Town Pound at the intersection of Newmarket Road and Durham Point Road: Stone enclosure bearing a datestone: "Built in 1709" Rebuilt 1808--Restored 1908." The wooden enclosure built in 1709 was replaced in 1808 by a stone structure.
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TOWN OF DURHAM FACEBOOK AND TWITTER ACCOUNTS
Did you know that the Town has a Facebook & Twitter account and frequently posts Durham & UNH news, happenings, and articles of interest in our area and the seacoast?
Like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter.
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"Nightmare on Young Drive, a Halloween Experience" will be doing a spooky walk-through once again. Where: 26 Young Drive When: Sept 30th 4-9pm. View more information on the event by clicking the programs and events button below.
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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.
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*Academic year commences the third week of August through graduation at UNH in May.
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HISTORY IN AN OYSTERSHELL - A Brief History of Durham, NH 1600 - 1976 (A little volume that was the Heritage Project of the Durham Historic Association Bicentennial celebration)
Preface - "Since before God made the first little green apples, oysters have probably been growin in the Oyster River; and some of the largest and juiciest to be found anywhere in the world are still growing here today. The following vignettes from rollicking history of Durham town on the Oyster River are therefore presented between the shells of an oyster."
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1786 - Mail was delivered by post riders from Portsmouth, and in 1796 Benjamin Thompson became our first postmaster. In the next 120 years 12 men and women held the office and did business in 10 stores and homes, being in the Ffrost store by the Falls for 40 years.
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Have a nice weekend and a HAPPY HALLOWEEN! Boo!
Todd
Todd I. Selig, Administrator
Town of Durham, NH
a: 8 Newmarket Rd., Durham, NH 03824 USA
t: 603.868.5571 | w: www.ci.durham.nh.us
He/him/his pronouns
Everyone can tackle climate change. How can you reduce your carbon footprint?
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