Friday Updates - September 6, 2024

Friday, September 6, 2024

It's never good news to see five lime green Servpro trucks at Town Hall! The company came to the rescue on Thursday when a broken water line in the Planning/Zoning/Assessing Office flooded numerous offices in the Town Hall, including the Town Clerk's Office, which has relocated to the lobby. Courtesy, Todd Selig

The State Primary Election is this Tuesday, September 10. Voting will be held at the Oyster River High School Multi-Purpose Room (MPR), 55 Coe Drive, in Durham from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. To see samples of the ballots, please click HERE.

TOWN CLERK'S OFFICE LIMITED HOURS FOR FOUR DAYS THIS FALL

Please note that due to reduced staff and elections, the Durham Town Clerk’s Office will be closed or have reduced hours on the following days:

• Wednesday, September 11, 2024 – Opening at 12pm
• Thursday, October 10, 2024 – CLOSED Staff Training Day
• Tuesday, November 5, 2024 – CLOSED 2024 Presidential Election
• Wednesday, November 6, 2024 – Opening at 12pm

The Clerk's office thanks you for your patience as they work through this busy election period.

DURHAM’S ANNUAL RIGHT-TO-KNOW LAW EDUCATION SEMINAR RESCHEDULED FOR SEPT. 19

The seminar on the State of NH Right-to-Know law, which was canceled last spring, has been rescheduled to Thursday, September 19, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers. Town Attorney, Laura Spector-Morgan, will be doing the presentation.  The seminar will be broadcast live on DCAT if you prefer to watch it that way. Or you can join by Zoom if you think you would like to ask questions. The link to register for Zoom can be accessed HERE.

RESCHEDULED DURHAM HISTORIC ASSOCIATION ANNUAL PICNIC TO BE HELD ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7

Pack a picnic supper and join the Durham Historic Association at the Milne Nature Sanctuary on Mill Pond Road for the Durham Historic Association’s annual picnic on Saturday, September 7th at 3pm. 

Diana Carroll will share her recollections of her long relationship with Margery and Lorus Milne, the Keepers of the Swans, who gave this land to the Town. If the weather deteriorates at the time of the picnic or during the picnic, we have arranged to move Diana Carroll’s presentation to the Durham Town Council Chambers. Attendees may then picnic in the Town Hall lobby.

Parking is limited in the area of the Milne Nature Sanctuary to about 20 cars, so plan to carpool, contact a friend in Faculty Development to share their driveway, or walk from the Town Hall or Community Church parking lots.

There are three mosquito-borne viruses recognized in NH and known to cause human and/or animal disease: Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus with its first NH human case identified in 2004, WNV with the first human case in 2003, and most recently JCV, with a first locally acquired case in 2013.

Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus

EEE is an alphavirus, primarily maintained in some perching song bird species found in fresh-water swamp habitats. The virus is transmitted among wild birds in these areas primarily by a mosquito species that feeds almost exclusively on birds. EEE has a cycle of natural infection among wild bird populations with occasional infections of humans, animals (most often horses) and large domesticated birds (emus, ostriches, etc). Infected mammals (e.g., humans, horses) do not serve to spread the virus since mosquitoes biting infected mammals do not become infected. Risk of infection in humans is a function of exposure to infectious human-biting mosquitoes.

Many people infected with EEE will not have symptoms of disease, while others may only experience a mild flu-like illness with fever and headache. However, for people with infection of the central nervous system, a sudden high fever, severe headache, and stiff neck can be followed quickly by seizures, coma, and death.

West Nile Virus

WNV is a flavivirus. Similar to EEE, WNV is also maintained in the environment in a cycle that involves birds, with indiscriminate feeding mosquitoes infecting humans and other mammals. WNV causes sporadic disease in humans, and occasionally results in significant outbreaks.

While symptoms may vary, about one in 150 people infected with WNV will develop severe illness (WNV neuroinvasive disease). Severe symptoms can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, and paralysis.

WNV activity varies from year to year. When the proportion of infected mosquitoes in a relatively small geographic area is high, the risk of the virus being transmitted or “bridged” from birds to humans will increase.

Jamestown Canyon Virus

JCV is a bunyavirus belonging to a mosquito group that circulates in nature in a cycle including deer and various mosquito vectors. The transmission cycle of JCV is still being described, but it is thought that early season mosquitoes play a significant role in the early spread of the virus within deer population. Late season amplification as well as transmission to humans is also thought to be connected to certain mosquitoes that will readily bite mammals, including humans.

It is thought that many people infected with JCV do not develop any illness. Typically, JCV will cause a mild, febrile illness, although neuroinvasive disease (meningitis or encephalitis) has been reported.

Potential Action Steps to Reduce Mosquito Activity Around the House…

By reducing their exposure to mosquitoes around their homes and by eliminating mosquito breeding grounds, residents can greatly reduce their risk of mosquito-borne virus exposure. Many species of mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Weeds, tall grass, and bushes may provide resting areas for the mosquitoes that are most often associated with WNV. Fresh water swamps, marshes, woodland pools, and coastal areas provide larval habitat for the mosquito species commonly associated with EEE and JCV. The NH DHHS recommends citizens take the following steps to reduce opportunities for mosquito breeding:

• Eliminate standing water around residential and commercial areas by discarding outdoor artificial containers such as tin cans, plastic containers, or similar water- holding containers.
• Remove all discarded tires from your property. The used tire is the most common site for mosquito breeding in the United States.
• Dispose of or drill holes in the bottom of containers left outdoors, such as recycling containers or flowerpots. Drainage holes on the sides of containers will still allow enough water for mosquitoes to breed. Do not overlook containers that have become overgrown by aquatic vegetation.
• Mow grass and weeds as short as possible and thin shrubs to allow air circulation through plants.
• Make sure roof gutters drain properly. Clean clogged gutters in the spring and fall and as often as necessary to eliminate standing water.
• Tightly screen “rain barrels” to ensure mosquitoes can’t deposit eggs in or on water.
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. If not in use, keep empty and covered. Do not allow these covers to collect standing water.
• Aerate ornamental pools or stock them with fish. Water gardens become major mosquito producers if they are allowed to stagnate.
• Turn over wheelbarrows and plastic wading pools when not in use. Both provide breeding sites for domestic mosquitoes.
• Change water in birdbaths at least twice weekly.
• Remind or help neighbors to eliminate mosquito breeding sites on their property.
• Consult with local mosquito control companies for additional solutions to decrease mosquito-breeding activity in nearby areas. Products are available that can be used to reduce mosquito populations (see Mosquito Control Activities below).

Potential Personal Protective Measures You Can Take…

Residents can take simple steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites. Such steps are critical in reducing the risk of WNV, EEE, and JCV infections. The NH DHHS that residents take the following steps to protect themselves when mosquitoes are most active:

• If outside during evening, nighttime and dawn hours, or at any time mosquitoes are actively biting, children and adults should wear protective clothing such as long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and socks.
• If outside during evening, nighttime and dawn hours, or at any time mosquitoes are actively biting, consider the use of an effective insect repellent.
• Repellents containing DEET (N, N-diethyl-methyl-meta-toluamide) have been proven effective. No more than 30% DEET should be used on adults or children.
• The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Committee on Environmental Health has updated their recommendation for use of DEET products on children, citing: “Insect repellents containing DEET with a concentration of 10% appear to be as safe as products with a concentration of 30% when used according to the directions on the product labels.” Repellents with DEET should not be used on infants less than 2 months old.
• Repellents containing Picaridin (KBR3023), oil of lemon eucalyptus (a plant-based repellent) or IR3535 provide protection similar to repellents with low concentrations of DEET. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under the age of three years.
• Do not apply repellent directly to children. Apply to your own hands and then put it on the child’s skin.
• Infants and children should be protected by placing mosquito nets over strollers in the evening, nighttime and dawn hours or at any time mosquitoes are actively biting.
• Wash all treated skin and clothing after returning indoors.
• Store repellent out of reach of children.
• Make sure that doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair or replace all screens in your home that have tears or holes.
• Vitamin B, ultrasonic devices, incense and bug zappers have not been shown to be effective in preventing mosquito bites.
• If on trails, stay to the center of the trail and in groomed areas away from brush and tall grasses where mosquitos tend to rest.

The ORCSD and the Town of Durham have been in communication over the last week and should local case counts for EEE, WNV, or JCV rise to a degree where it is determined additional action should be considered, evaluation will be given to the possibility of isolated perimeter spraying around fields/schools, though it is recognized that the personal protective actions outlined above provide the best defense for residents.  It's important to keep in mind that perimeter spraying kills a wide range of insects and pollinators, not just mosquitos, which we try hard to avoid.

THE SUN IS SHINING – DURHAM POLICE REMINDS EVERYONE TO BE MINDFUL OF VEHICLES, PEDESTRIANS, BIKES, AND NEW TYPES OF MICRO-MOBILITY DEVICES.

With an increase in sunshine and warm winds, citizens will also see an increase in pedestrian traffic, motorized and non-motorized scooters, and increased bicycle activity. The Durham Police Department would like to take this time to remind everyone about some of the laws and related facts that help govern motorized devices, bikes, and pedestrians alike.  

Motorized Devices/Scooters: The Town of Durham has a town ordinance that governs the use of motorized devices such as electric scooters. Motorized devices are any device with a gas or electric engine and wheels joined to the bottom of a narrow platform that may or may not have vertical handles fixed to the platform, frame or wheels that is powered without the assistance of human peddling, pushing, or gliding. It does not include items designated for elderly or those with disabilities.  

• Operation of a motorized device is strictly prohibited on any Town sidewalk.  
• Individuals under the age of 16 operating on a public way is strictly prohibited.  
• Drivers must obey all official traffic signals, signs and other devices used to regulate traffic. 
• Motorized devices must be equipped with brakes, lights, and some sort of audible alert such as a bell.  
• During the period of one-half (1/2) hour after sunset to one-half (1/2) hour before sunrise, a motorized device must display a front facing lamp, emitting a white light visible for 300 feet. The motorized device must be equipped a red reflector on the rear visible from 300 feet.  
• Motorized Devices shall not exceed 15 mph and shall be operated as near the right-hand side of the roadway as practical.  
• Operators emerging from a driveway or building shall, upon approaching a sidewalk or roadway yield the right-of-way to all pedestrians approaching on the said sidewalk area; and upon entering the roadway shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching on said roadway.  
• Unattended motorized devices may only be parked on streets, sidewalks or other Town properties in areas specifically designated and marked by the Town for the parking of such devices, including but not limited to corrals, pods, and bike racks.  
• If found unattended in violation of the ordinance, efforts will be made to contact the owner and they will be given 2 hours to properly park the motorized device and issued a violation notice.  
• If the owner cannot be located and the 2 hours has gone by, the device will be removed.  
• If a motorized device is left unattended and blocks pedestrian passage on a sidewalk or street or otherwise presents a public safety hazard, it shall be removed immediately.  

Bicycles: RSA 265:143 governs the safe operation of bicycles. It directs that all riders have the rights of and are subject to all the duties applicable to the driver of any other vehicle under the rules of the road. Just as important is RSA 265:143-a that directs all drivers of a vehicle to approach bicyclists with due care and ensure the bicyclists safety and protection by leaving a reasonable and prudent distance between the vehicle and the bicycle.  

• Bicyclists less than 16 year of age must wear a helmet when operating a bike on a public way.  
• Persons riding 2 or more abreast shall not impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic and, on a laned roadway, shall ride within a single lane.  
• A bicyclist shall wear at least one item of reflective outerwear apparel, such as a reflective vest, jacket, or helmet strip, during the period from ½ hour after sunset to ½ hour before sunrise.  
• A bicycle parked on a sidewalk shall not impede the normal and reasonable movement of pedestrian or other traffic.  
• Every bicycle operated upon any way during darkness shall be equipped with a lamp emitting a white light visible from 300 feet in front of the bike.  
• A lamp or reflector that is visible from 300 feet to the rear of the bike is required when operating at night on a way.  

Pedestrians: RSA 265:34 to RSA 265:37 govern pedestrian laws in the State of New Hampshire. These laws require pedestrians to obey the instructions of any traffic sign or regulation specifically applicable to him/her, unless otherwise directed by a police officer.  

• When traffic signals are not in place, the driver of a vehicle shall yield the right of way, slowing down or stopping, if need be, to yield to a pedestrian crossing the roadway within a crosswalk when the pedestrian is upon the half of the roadway upon which the vehicle traveling, or when the pedestrian is approaching so closely from the opposite half of the roadway as to be in danger.  
• No pedestrian shall suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle which is so close as to constitute an immediate hazard.  
• Whenever a vehicle is stopped at a marked or any unmarked crosswalk at an intersection to permit a pedestrian to cross the roadway, the driver of any other vehicle approaching from the rear shall not overtake and pass such stopped vehicle.  
• Pedestrians crossing a roadway at any point other than within a marked crosswalk or within an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection shall yield the right of way to all vehicles upon the roadway.  

As the Durham Police Department focuses their attention on these issues, we wish everyone a safe spring and want remind everyone to remain vigilant no matter what mode of transportation you choose to use.  

UPDATES FROM TOWN DEPARTMENTS...

Durham's Leadership Team, consisting of the heads of various municipal departments which meets every two weeks, and discussed recent events, ongoing projects, and potential challenges across respective town departments, including traffic issues, alcohol violations, and the use of micro-mobility devices. They also addressed policy changes and staffing updates, while discussing upcoming events and the impact of a new state law. Lastly, they welcomed new team members, highlighted their relationships with academic partners at UNH, and discussed future projects and concerns. Finally, two parcels of land were tax deeded for lack of paying taxes, the first time the Town has had to tax deed parcels in about 20 years.

UNH and ORCSD School Years Off to a Smooth Start

Police Chief Kelley reported UNH’s move-in weekend was successful with minimal traffic issues and a manageable crowd size. However, there were a few alcohol-related violations and disorderly conduct incidents. Fire Chief Emanuel noted a higher number of EMS responses over the weekend, which he attributed to the start of the semester. Code Enforcement Officer Cline mentioned an increase in private residential parking infractions, which could be due to students settling into their new living arrangements. DPW Director Reine confirmed that public works was present on weekends to manage trash. Police noted some unusual foot pursuits and a high prevalence of alcohol being carried by young people, likely college students. Chief Kelley noted that the Police Department had hosted a successful pizza party for the incoming freshman class at the High School, which is an annual tradition.     

School Traffic, Policies, and Paving Update

Chief Kelley discussed the ongoing traffic issues around the schools in Durham and mentioned that directed patrols were being conducted. Admin. Selig brought up the new policy at Oyster River High School regarding no phones, which Chief Kelley agreed to discuss with the school resource officer to see how it was being rolled out and whether it was proving effective. Chief Emanuel confirmed that the DFD conducts quarterly fire inspections at the schools. DPW Director Reine provided an update on the Madbury Road paving project, anticipating substantial completion by early November. Library Director Bass reported that the library traffic was reduced but manageable, and they had registered more UNH students than ever before, which was very positive. Admin. Selig discussed concerns the office has been receiving about the use of scooters and micro mobility devices in town by both college students and Durham youth.

UNH Campus Micromobility Device Policy Announced on Campus

Admin. Selig reminded everyone about the new campus policy regarding the use of devices. All devices on campus must be registered through UNH parking services and are prohibited from academic and administrative buildings, as well as sidewalks. They are allowed to operate on multi-use trails and must obey all traffic signals and rules. Dir. Reine sought clarification on the distinction between sidewalks and multi-use paths, which Mr. Selig explained is based on the definition of a sidewalk as a walkway adjacent to a public road.

Land Stewardship Coordinator Sara Callahan taking full time position with UNH Cooperative Extension

The team announced the departure of the Town’s most excellent land stewardship coordinator, Sara Callaghan, who has accepted a full-time position at UNH. Admin. Selig expressed concern about the ability to find individuals with this particular set of expertise who would also be interested in a part-time position in Durham. 

A number of events upcoming…

Upcoming events in Durham include a food crawl organized by UNH students and staff at the MUB on 9/7/24, an event being planned by a new business owner in a couple of weeks on Jenkins Court that would close the roadway for a few hours, and preparations for the September 10th state primary election.

Clerk's Office, Departments, and Continuity of Operations

Town Clerk-Tax Collector Rachel Deane highlighted the busy period in the clerk's office due to tax preparation and the upcoming State Primary and General Election, as well as the transition of duties with Lorrie Pitt and Kitty Marple who will be assisting in the office. Chief Emanuel will be proposing a change to the Town/Strafford County Memorandum of Understanding for Radio Communications, and he suggests departments review and make any updates to the Town’s Continuity of Operations Plan. Deb Ahlstrom from the Business Office discussed updates, including the end of an audit from last year, the incorporation of DPW into some single audit tasks, and recent changes in the office.

DPW Updates…

The wastewater treatment plant upgrades by Apex Construction are making progress, with the aeration tanks done and primary clarifiers nearing completion, while the secondary clarifiers are scheduled for 2025-2026. A grant was received for restoring the Bickford Chesley House, with additional funding sought for caretaker quarters. The mixing systems project for Beach Hill and Foss Farm Tank is expected to be completed by September. Comments were received from DES on the Wagon Hill Farm wetland permit for shoreline restoration. Catch basin cleaning and sewer realignment work is ongoing, along with pavement markings planned for major roads like Madbury, Emerson and Durham Point Road.

Housing Ordinance Progress and Transfer of Rights

Dir. of Planning Behrendt discussed the progress of the housing ordinance, expressing optimism about changes of some type moving forward as part of the process. He mentioned that if the ordinance currently under consideration passes, it could pave the way for affordable housing projects on larger vacant lots, including a 117-acre lot owned by the Keefe Family. Dir. Behrendt, Code Officer Cline, Fire Marshall O’Sullivan, and resident Jay Gooze had attended a newly formed legislative committee studying the impacts of housing law on college students last week. He noted that the committee, despite some concerns, seemed sympathetic to the importance of local control.

Plaques, Assessments, and Tax Challenges

Dir. Behrendt discussed the installation of plaques in honor of Elizabeth DeMerritt at the site of the former UNH Elizabeth DeMerritt House on Garrison and the decision to designate the old Brick Town Hall for a similar plaque, addressing concerns about the building's historic integrity. Assessor Freer provided an update on the assessing department, noting a 1% increase in assessed value for the town and the ongoing sales inspections until March. Admin. Selig highlighted the challenges in maintaining a stable tax rate due to the small growth in the tax base. Planning Dir. Behrendt mentioned potential future projects, including an envisioned second phase for Harmony homes and increased activity at 121 Technology Drive, but emphasized that these were long-term prospects.

New Team Members and Academic Partnerships

Police Chief Kelley announced the addition of new team members, including Chloe Scott, a newly sworn-in officer who recently completed her master's degree in homeland security, and Dan McDonald, a part-time parking enforcement officer. Chief Kelley also revealed that they had hired three individuals who studied under UNH Assistant Professor Andrew McPherson, including Zack Bartels who is currently in the Academy. The team also discussed their relationships with their UNH academic partners, highlighting the quality of work produced by their students.

A DESCRIPTION OF SOME OF THE LESSER-KNOWN ELECTED POSITIONS THAT WILL BE ON THE STATE PRIMARY BALLOT ON SEPT. 10

New Hampshire remains a state in which your vote really does count. Polls are open at the Oyster River High School for the September 10, 2024, Primary from 7 AM to 7 PM. View or download a facsimile of the ballot HERE.

Below are brief descriptions of some of the less well-known positions on the State Primary ballot.

STATE LEVEL

Executive Council — Executive Councilors are responsible for confirming gubernatorial appointments for state agency chiefs and judgeships, and they must approve most state contracts. The Executive Council also approves appointments of members of commissions and boards, administrative law judges with jurisdiction over various specialized areas, and certain other state officials, such as all attorneys in the Attorney General’s office. For more information, see the Overview of the Executive Council website HERE.

COUNTY LEVEL

Sheriff — The Sheriff oversees and handles the transportation of criminals, delivery of writs and other Court-related paperwork, operates a Communications and Dispatch Center, and oversees Courthouse security. The Strafford County Communications and Dispatch Center provides dispatching services for Durham Police, Fire, and Public Works. For more information, see the Strafford County Sheriff’s Office website HERE.

County Attorney — The Office of the Strafford County Attorney is responsible for overseeing the investigation and prosecution of all criminal cases in the County. The County Attorney handles (or oversees) all the county’s legal affairs. The office also operates a domestic violence unit, child advocacy center, and family justice center. For more information, see the County Attorney’s website HERE.

Register of Deeds — The Strafford County Registry of Deeds is the land records office for the three cities and ten towns that comprise Strafford County. The Register is responsible for recording, indexing, and safeguarding documents filed in the office, including deeds, mortgages and other instruments relating to the transfer of interests in real estate. In addition to land record recording duties, the Registrar of Deeds also notifies the city or town of all land transfers recorded in the Registry and collects all recording and related fees and sends them on to the state or over to the county treasury. The Registry is a major source of revenue for the county. For more information, see the Strafford County Register of Deeds website HERE.

County Commissioner — Three County Commissioners make up the Executive branch of Strafford County, with responsibility for the day‑to‑day operations of County government in both fiscal and policy matters. In Strafford County, the Commissioners are elected for two-year terms, at large, meaning from anywhere in Strafford County. See the Strafford County Commissioners’ website HERE.

County Treasurer — Although the Strafford County website does not include a description of this office, the Rockingham County website does HERE. It reads in part: “The County Treasurer is an elected position covered under Chapter 29 of the New Hampshire RSAs. The Treasurer issues the annual tax warrant to each of the municipal units for their portion of the tax levy, maintains custody of all funds, and obtains the necessary authorization to borrow funds when needed. New Hampshire residents all pay a county portion of their property taxes to their municipality, which is passed on to the County in one lump sum each December. The total amount due is set by the County’s legislative delegation (comprised of the elected members of the NH House within the county) during the annual budget process. The Department of Revenue apportions the total due to each town based on their valuations.” In addition, authority for the position is provided under Chapter 29 County Treasurers and County Taxes of the State's RSAs which can be found HERE.

Please join us in giving the bog bridges along Longmarsh Road a much-needed face lift! These bog bridges provide a locally loved gateway to the Sweet Trail and the world of wetlands. No experience necessary, just a willingness to work hard, comfort wielding simple hand tools, and recognition that your feet might get wet. Snacks, tools and work gloves will be provided.

Dates:

• Friday, September 13, 2024 • 10:00am–1:00pm
• Friday, September 20, 2024 • 10:00am–1:00pm

What to bring:

Please wear appropriate outdoor work clothing - long pants and closed-toed sturdy shoes are a must. Please bring your own water bottle. Feel free to bring anything else that will help you be more comfortable in the woods, such as bug spray, sunscreen, personal work gloves and alternative snacks.

Sign Up!

Advanced sign-up is not necessary but preferred. Please click HERE to use the Nature Groupie website to sign up, or email the Land Stewardship Coordinator directly at fireflystewardship@gmail.com.

REPORT FROM LAND STEWARDSHIP COORDINATOR SARA CALLAGHAN

July: Attend Land Stewardship and Conservation Commission meetings; Meet with education/outreach subcommittee, Meet Doe Farm heirs and help gain access to the family cemetery, Complete site walk at Thompson Forest, Stolworthy and Jackson Landing; Research potential of accessible analysis on selected Durham trails, Continue communication and planning with DES on Longmarsh wetlands crossings.

August: Education/outreach subcommittee; Attend Farm Day; Work with Jim Lawson to create Durham Conservation Lands materials; Site walks at Jackson's Landing, Longmarsh and newly opened White Trail; Visit a potential new conservation project within the Follet's Brook area and discuss with Admin. Selig; Coordinated trail mowing at ORF and Thompson Forest

Ms. Callaghan has been hired by UNH Cooperative Extension for a full-time position so the Town will take steps to search for someone to fill this important stewardship position. On a positive note, Ms. Callaghan has expressed interest in joining the Land Stewardship Subcommittee as a member.

NEWS FROM THE SWAP SHOP

●    Drop off used eyeglasses, cell phones, and crutches, or tents and sleeping bags in good condition. They will be made available to those in need.

●    The Swap Shop is accepting Fall/Winter Holiday items starting on Tuesday, October 2nd.

●    Swap Shop hours are 9:00-2:30. The Swap Shop closes 30 minutes before the Transfer Station so that volunteers may put all items away and leave by 3:00. 

●    Often the Swap Shop opens before 9:00. If the doors are open, the Swap Shop is open. If the doors are not open, please check in with a Transfer Station Attendant before dropping off items.

●    The Swap Shop cannot take upholstered furniture or large rugs without Bulky Waste coupons. These items are not protected from rain and snow. If ruined before anyone wants them, they go to Bulky Waste.

●    Items accepted include working refrigerators or freezers, dehumidifiers, laptops and computer monitors (anything with a screen), and dehumidifiers ONLY if you have purchased an Electronics/ Appliance sticker FIRST.

●    Become a volunteer. It’s easy! Check https://swapshopdurham.wordpress.com/

Thank you for helping to keep reusable items out of the landfill,

The Linda H. Hollister Swap Shop 

Are you looking to get rid of outdated or inefficient AC units and/or dehumidifiers? 

NHSaves’ utility partners are hosting an event this Saturday, September 7 where eligible customers can turn in room air conditioners and dehumidifiers for a $30 incentive per unit. 

In order to be eligible for the rebate, you must complete the online form HERE prior to the event and receive a confirmation code. 

Please see the link HERE for all of the details.

Date: 9/7/2024

Time: 9:00-1:00pm

Location: Lowes, 160 Washington St, Rochester NH

Brought to you by the IWMAC Committee 

Questions about recycling or composting? Email us at: DurhamRecycles603@gmail.com

Check the IWMAC Committee out on Instagram: sustainable.durham.nh

Not sure if an item can be recycled? Check here: www.Recyclesmartma.org

Want to learn more about the Swap Shop? Click HERE.

THE SWITCH IS ON - Did you know you can switch to 50% Clean Electricity and still save money off your Eversource bill?

Durham residents who participate in Durham Community Power save money off their Eversource bill and support 33% Clean Electricity. However, you have the choice to sign up for 50% Clean Electricity and still save money off your Eversource bill.

Durham is participating in a Seacoast Challenge with other towns in the area to see how many people are willing to "opt up" to the cleaner electricity level. For more information on the Challenge, click HERE. (Net metering customers should read FAQs HERE first.) To opt up, call 1-866-603-POWR with your Eversource account number or go to https://www.communitypowernh.gov/durham. 

Have any energy questions? Contact the Durham Energy Committee at dec@ci.durham.nh.us.

You may never have heard of the Florida-based company named National Public Data, but that does not mean your personal information hasn’t been taken in a massive data breach reported by the same company. Earlier this year, information including Social Security numbers, names, email address, phone numbers, and mailing addresses, may have been leaked due to a “third-party bad actor.” Four terabytes of information, a massive amount of data, was for sale on a hacker forum. It was estimated there were almost 2.9 billion rows of records included in the information for sale. On August 6, another hacker posted a complete version of the file available to download, for free. 

There are varying numbers being estimated as to how many people’s confidential information was released, but the risk is likely not going away and there are some steps you can take for prevention. 

Freezing your credit is one of the top priorities you can easily do today. Simply put, freezing your credit means preventing potential creditors from accessing your credit report. This makes it more difficult for bad actors to open new accounts, like a credit card or loan, using the data leaked in these types of breaches. If you are trying to get a new loan or open a credit card, you simply “thaw” your credit report or un-freeze them for a specified amount of time. 

To freeze your credit files, you need to do a little bit of leg work. There are three major credit reporting bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and Transunion. You can easily set up an account at each of the bureaus, for free, which allows you to easily freeze or unfreeze your credit reports. There are several other credit bureaus that report, which some experts recommend you also contact to freeze your reports with them. An internet search regarding freezing credit reports helps to list the numerous other financial organizations you may wish to reach out to.

To sign up and freeze your accounts with the “major three,” here are their contact information:

Online: Equifax Freeze Page – https://www.equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services/credit-freeze/

By phone: 800-685-1111

By Mail: Equifax Security Freeze

P.O. Box 105788

Atlanta, Georgia 30348-5788

Online: Experian – https://www.experian.com/freeze/center.html#content-01

By phone: 888-397-3742

By Mail: Experian Security Freeze

P.O. Box 9554

Allen, TX 75013

Online: TransUnion - https://service.transunion.com/dss/orderStep1_form.page

By Phone: 888-909-8872

By Mail: TransUnion LLC

P.O. Box 2000

Chester, PA 19016

McGREGOR EMS OFFERING FREE HOME VISITS FOR THOSE WITH ASTHMA OR COPD

McGregor EMS recently received funding from the NH Asthma Control Program to support people with asthma or COPD through home visits. Visits are tailored to the needs of the individual but can include (1) help identifying or minimizing triggers in the home (2) review of symptoms and treatments (3) help with existing asthma action plans (4) help with when and how to take your medications. For a limited time, receive a FREE home air purifier after your visit (while supplies last)! Visits & air purifiers are funded entirely through the grant and are offered at no cost to the patient or community. Insurance is not required. Questions regarding the program can be emailed to asthma@mcgregorems.org

To sign up for a visit, please fill out the secure form HERE. We will contact you to schedule an appointment.

The Durham Professional Firefighters Local #2253 would like to introduce Smokey the Fire Dog. Smokey will give short tips on Fire Safety, weekly, so Parents and guardians can generate conversation with their children about Fire Safety. Keep an eye out in the weekly updates. These small questions and tips are a great way for you as a Parent/Guardian to teach your kids about Fire Safety. The more they know the safer they will be.

WEEK #36

Summer days are fading and it's time to think about the fall.  For some helpful tips on safety, click HERE.

OYSTER RIVER SCHOOL NEWS

9/10 is a Teacher Workshop Day

All ORCSD schools will be closed Tuesday, September 10, for a teacher workshop day.

Superintendent Shaps' First Week of School Update

Superintendent Shaps shared a video update for the first week of school. You can view the video HERE.

Roadwork in Durham

Due to the extensive ongoing road work projects in Durham, ORCSD has prepared a transportation and safety video for middle and high school families. Take a few minutes to view this video HERE, as it contains essential information to ensure the safety of students.

Free and Reduced Meals 

To continue receiving free or reduced meals for the 2024-2025 school year, your application must be received by October 13, 2024. To apply, click HERE. Free and reduced meals applications are also available throughout the school year at your child's main school office and nurse's office upon request. 

Save the Date: Community Dinner on 10/10

The Oyster River Wellness Committee invites you to a community dinner celebration on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at the Oyster River Middle School. Additional details will be made available in the coming weeks.

ORCSD School Board Update

The school year is off to a great start. All of the school have a good first week and the year is already busy with activities. Each school will be hosting an Open House: September 19th at both Mastway and Moharimet, September 26th at the Middle School, and October 10th at the High School. All times and details can be found on the district website. Picture Day is also happening in all the schools over the next week and dates have been communicated to families by principals. As a reminder, there is a teacher workshop and no school on Tuesday September 10th. Have a great week!