Recognition

2023

CITY OF DOVER RECEIVES VISIONARY LEADERSHIP AWARD

The City of Dover was honored with the Visionary Leadership Award by the Workforce Housing Coalition of the Greater Seacoast at their annual awards event on Nov. 30, 2023.

This recognition underscores Dover's commitment to fostering innovative solutions and inclusive strategies in addressing housing challenges within the community. The City's leadership has demonstrated a forward-thinking approach, effectively collaborating with various stakeholders to create, sustain, and plan for attainable housing options.

Pictured from left to right, Housing Navigator Ryan Pope, Planning Director Donna Benton, Deputy City Manager Christopher G. Parker, and Business Development Coordinator James Burdin.

CITY RECEIVES BEST PRACTICES AND STANDARDS AWARD FOR WATER METER REPLACEMENT PROGRAM

The City of Dover received the 2023 Best Practices and Standards Award from VUEWorks for the water replacement program the city undertook in the past few years. VUEWorks honored the work of IT staff Annie Dove, Kathleen Myers and Tim Pine, and Community Services staff Mike Nadeau for its use of the asset management software to aid the city in identifying and tracking more than 10,000 water meter replacements in the city.

"The Dover team has shown great dedication and perseverance in the pursuit of best practices in asset management," said VUEWorks Senior Vice President Donna M. Huey.

The award ceremony was held virtually on Nov. 29, 2023. Click here to watch Dover being honored with the award and Nadeau explaining how the city used the VUEWorks program.

CITY OF DOVER CHOSEN FOR PROJECT OF THE YEAR BY NH PLANNERS

The New Hampshire Planners Association awarded the 2023 Project of the Year to John and Maggie Randolph and the City of Dover for The Cottages at Back River Road project. The Randolphs, owners of Harmony Homes Assisted Living, designed and developed the project and worked together with the City of Dover for several months to make their vision a reality in Dover. The development includes 44 standalone homes for rent that are around 384 square feet on lots that average 560 square feet. The award was given at the NH Planners Association Spring Conference on June 2, 2023.

WASTEWATER SUPERVISOR RAY VERMETTE INDUCTED INTO WATER ENVIRONMENT FEDERATION'S QUARTER CENTURY CLUB

Ray Vermette, the city’s Wastewater Treatment Facilities Supervisor, was recently inducted into the Water Environment Federation’s (WEF) Quarter Century Operator Club. The Quarter Century Operator Club recognizes operators of wastewater treatment facilities for their service and dedication to their work in a challenging and dangerous profession.

Vermette’s tenure is much longer than a quarter century. He began his career as a laborer at the newly opened wastewater treatment facility on Middle Road in 1991. He has been there ever since, including between 1992 to 1999, when the city contracted its operations to a private firm.

Vermette, a member of the NEWEA Executive Committee, is a New Hampshire Grade IV Wastewater Operator, NEWEA Grade IV Collections Operator, New Hampshire Grade I Water Treatment Operator and a NEWEA Grade I Laboratory Analysis. Vermette has been a NEWEA member for over 20 years, serving as the 2019 President, NH State Director, and the Plant Operations Committee Chair. Before his involvement with NEWEA, Vermette served on many New Hampshire Water Pollution Control Association Committees and was the Past President of the Association’s 40th year. He is a past recipient of the NEWEA Alfred E. Peloquin Award, Operator of the Year Award, and the WEF Hatfield Award. Vermette is also a member of the Select Society of Sanitary Sludge Shovelers.

2022

GULF OF MAINE COUNCIL HONORS GRETCHEN YOUNG WITH VISIONARY AWARD

The Gulf of Maine Council on Marine Environment recognized Community Services' Gretchen Young on July 28, 2022, with a 2022 Visionary Award for her "outstanding accomplishments as Environmental Projects Manager for the City of Dover."

The Gulf of Maine Council highlighted Young's work in facilitating the City Council's Committee to Study Stormwater and Flood Resilience Funding, which earlier this year recommended the City Council create a stormwater utility to fund existing and future stormwater infrastructure needs. The City Council accepted the recommendation and declared its intent to create a stormwater utility, which is currently underway.

"We particularly appreciate your proactive efforts to reduce stormwater pollution by partnering with the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services and the Piscataqua Region Estuaries Partnership to bring residents, developers, and non-profit organizations together to develop innovative stormwater funding strategies," Gulf of Maine Council Coordinator Joan LeBlanc wrote notifying Young of the award. "Thanks to your leadership and personal dedication, Dover is at the forefront of sustainable efforts to fund stormwater programs in coastal New Hampshire."

At the awards ceremony in Portland, Maine, NHDES Coastal Program Administrator Steve Couture presented Young with her award.

"Gretchen is a visionary leader whose personal commitment and professional dedication have helped improve Gulf of Maine waters by reducing pollution from stormwater runoff," Couture said. "Gretchen's visionary leadership and personal commitment have made a lasting positive impact on sustainability in New Hampshire and the broader Gulf of Maine watershed."

In her remarks, Young said she was thankful to work for a city that supports innovation and environmental stewardship. While she noted there wasn't always agreement between the diverse members of the stormwater committee, in the end, the committee voted unanimously to recommend the stormwater utility, which would be the first in New Hampshire.

"We still have some work to do, but I'm proud of what we've done so far," Young said.

The Gulf of Maine Council is a Canadian-American regional partnership that provides collaborative leadership on cross-border, including ecosystem conditions, water quality, and climate change within the Gulf of Maine watershed. Its mission is to maintain and enhance environmental quality in the Gulf of Maine to provide sustainable resource use by existing and future generations. Its annual Visionary Awards "recognize innovation, creativity, and commitment to protecting the marine environment."

In 2021, Community Services Director John Storer received a visionary award from the Gulf of Maine Council.

2021

CITY HONORED FOR CREATING INTERACTIVE GIS MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
FOR DRINKING WATER, WASTEWATER AND STORMWATER ASSETS

The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) and the New England Water Environment Association (NEWEA) each recently recognized the City of Dover for the creation and use of its drinking water, wastewater and stormwater asset management program. NHDES and NEWEA also cited Dover as an asset management leader in New England and recognized the city's willingness to share its success with interested communities.

The asset management program is the combined effort of the Community Services and Information Technology departments to identify the location, age, condition and expected life for all drinking water, stormwater and wastewater assets, and status of ongoing work orders. It also helps the departments to plan and execute maintenance and replacement schedules, allowing the city to manage its assets in a fiscally sustainable way and ensure the assets meet service expectations and regulatory requirements. Creating the program provided Community Services an avenue to document and build upon its staff's wealth of institutional knowledge of its drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater assets, allowing that information to be readily accessible to those working on and with the systems. Through the systematic mapping and detailing of piping networks, Community Services staff also identified and corrected several improper connections and inadequate configurations.

The effort to identify and include assets is in the city's integrated GIS mapping and work order programs started in 2016 as part of the City of Dover's strategic planning process to manage and maintain the city's drinking water, wastewater and stormwater assets. It also allows the city to plan for significant capital purchases through its long-term Capital Improvements Program. The work by Community Services and Information Technology expands city efforts started in the 2000s to integrate its digital work order management system with its GIS mapping and analytic software, providing staff with real-time information, whether in the office or the field.

CITY OF DOVER RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPORTING

The City of Dover was awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada for its annual comprehensive financial report (ACFR). The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management.

DOVER POLICE SELECTED AS BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS
2021 PARTNER OF THE YEAR

Big Brothers Big Sisters of New Hampshire selected Dover Police Department as its 2021 Partner of the Year.

Chief William Breault said he was “humbled and honored” for the department being selected.

“Our team of ‘Bigs’ here at the Police Department is truly an amazing and selfless group,” Breault said. “I couldn’t be any more proud of them and the work that they are doing with the Bigs and Badges program. They are also doing a great job getting their coworkers to join the program and become Bigs.”

Dover Police has partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters since 2019. Currently, five officers, including Chief Breault, are meeting and mentoring their “Littles.” The involvement, called “Bigs with Badges,” is part of the department’s overall focus on community outreach.

Breault said he was surprised by how beneficial it’s been to become a Big Brother. “Meeting with my little is often the best part of my week and has helped me reset from the craziness and stress that is part of my regular job,” Breault said. “It has helped keep in focus why I became a police officer so many years ago: to make a positive difference in people’s lives.”

The Police Department will be formally honored at a virtual ceremony in 2022.

COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR RECEIVES VISONARY AWARD

Community Services Director John Storer was awarded a 2021 Visionary Award from the Gulf of Maine Council on the Marine Environment for his department's "outstanding accomplishments."

The Gulf of Maine Council is a Canadian-American regional partnership that provides collaborative leadership on cross-border issues, including ecosystem conditions, water quality, and climate change within the Gulf of Maine watershed. Its mission is to maintain and enhance environmental quality in the Gulf of Maine to provide sustainable resource use by existing and future generations. Its annual Visionary Awards "recognize innovation, creativity, and commitment to protecting the marine environment."

New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Coastal Program Administrator Steve Couture presented Storer with the award at a December 2021 award ceremony. He called John a "visionary leader" working to solve "some of the most challenging environmental problems in the region, such as the loss of eelgrass in the Great Bay Estuary."

2020

CITY OF DOVER RECEIVES INNOVATION AWARD

The GIS integrated-software firm VUEWorks recently presented the City of Dover's Office of Information Technology with its 2020 Innovation Award of Excellence for the City’s integration of VUEWorks with its municipal ESRI ArcGIS Enterprise application environment. In its award, VUEWorks cited the City of Dover’s “great ingenuity in managing their assets using technology and tools.” In the past year, the City of Dover also leveraged VUEWorks application projects to track its COVID-19 response.

The City of Dover has utilized the VUEWorks application since 2008 to manage citizen service requests and resulting employee work orders for municipal facility and infrastructure assets. While the initial task was to convert from paper to electronic processes, citizens can now report issues online, and employees can manage work in the field electronically. In the past year, the City of Dover, working with VHB, integrated the VUEWorks application with the ESRI ArcGIS Enterprise environment. Field personnel continue to complete work orders and update facility assets in the office or in the field using VUEWorks. With this integration, the City can leverage the ArcGIS Enterprise maps, app and dashboard services so all municipal staff have access to the latest status for select facility assets. For our project in particular, we are viewing utility pole street lights and Fire and Rescue vehicle status information.

VUEWorks recently showcased the City of Dover as a “case study” for its use of VUEWorks software at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020. City employees used VUEWorks to create and track the status of work orders needed to shut down the City at the start of the pandemic. The case study can be read at this link.

COMMUNITY SERVICES RECEIVES WATER FLUORIDATION QUALTIY AWARD

In coordination with the New Hampshire Oral Health Coalition, the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services Oral Health Program recently presented the City of Dover with a Water Fluoridation Quality Award from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Fluoridation is the adjustment of fluoride in drinking water to a level that is effective for preventing tooth decay. The award recognizes those communities that achieved excellence in community water fluoridation by maintaining a consistent level of fluoride in drinking water throughout 2018.

CITY OF DOVER RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPORTING

The City of Dover was awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada for its comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR). The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management.

POLICE DEPARTMENT, CITY COUNCIL RECOGNIZE ANNUAL AWARDS RECIPIENTS

On February 25, 2020, the Dover Police Department recently held its annual awards banquet at Ember Wood Fired Grill. The award recipients were also recognized with a proclamation by Mayor Robert Carrier and the City Council. During the night, the department honored the following employees for various awards:

Employee of the Year: Officer Christopher Plummer
Mission Award: Officer Alison Couch
Outstanding Partner Award: American Legion Post #8
Chief Daniel Smith Award for Exceptional Service: Officer Brynn Dunne, Officer David Collis, Officer Michelle Murch, Officer Jenna Donais and Detective Andrew Courter
Looking Beyond the Traffic Stop: Officer Alison Couch
Creative Innovation Award: Dispatcher John Nelson
Traffic Officer of the Year: Officer Michael Volpe
Community officer of the Year: Officer Killian Kondrup
Chief’s Marksmanship Award: Officer Bryon Lynch
Ridings Memorial Marksmanship Awards:

1st place: Officer Nate Goard
2nd place: Detective Tim Burt
3rd place: Officer Bryon Lynch

2019

BILL BOULANGER RECEIVES SALT SHAKER AWARD FOR SALT REDUCTION PRACTICES

The 2019 Salt Shaker Awards were announced on Tuesday, September 10, at the 6th annual NH Salt Symposium. These awards recognize people in the snow and ice management business for their contributions to salt reduction and to the industry in general. Bill Boulanger of the Dover Department of Public Works received the Shaken, Not Stirred Award, for his unmatched willingness to share knowledge with others in the pursuit of increased awareness and competency of snow and ice management standards at the state, regional, and national levels.

The 6th Annual New Hampshire Salt Symposium was held September 10 at the Grappone Center in Concord, NH. Sponsored by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, the University of New Hampshire Technology Transfer Center and the Snow and Ice Management Association, this daylong conference presents expert speakers in salt reduction practices, winter maintenance research, marketing, insurance and liability, liquid uses, interactive discussion sessions, and the awards presentation.

CITY OF DOVER RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPORTING

The City of Dover was awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada for its comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR). The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management.

ACCELERATED I/I SOLUTIONS IN DOVER EARN ACEC ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE AWARD

Wright-Pierce has earned an ACEC-NH Engineering Excellence Award for proactive infiltration/inflow (I/I) evaluation and remediation to protect Dover's wastewater collection system assets and support economic development in this mill city of 32,000.

Community Services Deputy Director, Bill Boulanger, accepted the award at the recent ACEC awards luncheon and acknowledged the City's decade long partnership with the engineering team at Wright-Pierce. "A system-wide flow monitoring program conducted by Wright-Pierce strategically narrowed in on the problem sources of I/I that have been troubling our aging system, enabling very focused, cost-efficient remediation we can accomplish more quickly."

ARBOR DAY FOUNDATION NAMES DOVER TREE CITY USA

Dover was named a 2018 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation in honor of its commitment to effective urban forest management. Dover achieved Tree City USA recognition by meeting the program's four requirements: a tree board or department, a tree-care ordinance, an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation, in a partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters.

More information on the program is available at arborday.org/TreeCityUSA.

ENERGY COALITION NAMES DOVER 2019 MUNICIPAL ENERGY CHAMPION

At the culmination of New Hampshire Energy Week, an annual event hosted by the New Hampshire’s Energy Future partnership, the City of Dover was named 2019 Municipal Energy Champion for its forward-thinking efforts over the years. The awards selection committee recognized Dover’s conversion to smart LED street lighting, municipal solar panel installations, and first-in-the-nation greenhouse gas and nitrogen inventory report among the city’s accomplishments in improving energy efficiency and transitioning to renewable energy sources.

OFFICIALS UNVEIL NEW DOVER SOLAR ARRAYS AT RIBBON-CUTTING CEREMONY

During a ceremony at the Children's Museum of New Hampshire on Wednesday, Feb. 20, city officials and other dignitaries unveiled the new 318-panel solar arrays atop the Museum and Dover Indoor Pool.

The combined 101.7-kilowatt solar array on the museum and pool roofs will generate approximately 120,000 kilowatt-hours of clean electricity per year and offset more than 126,000 pounds of carbon pollution annually. The system is expected to provide roughly 30 percent of the combined electricity needs of the two facilities, but may rise to 50 percent or more once planned LED lighting and other efficiency upgrades take place. The solar array is projected to save approximately $550,000 in long-term electricity costs.

REPORT SHOWS GREENHOUSE GAS AND NITROGEN INVENTORY
FOR DOVER'S MUNICIPAL OPERATIONS

The City of Dover’s Planning and Community Development Department announced the publication of its first greenhouse gas and nitrogen inventory for municipal and school operations. It is believed to be the first report in North America completing an analysis of both reactive nitrogen impacts and greenhouse gas emissions. The report is a result of a University of New Hampshire Sustainability Fellowship undertaken by UNH doctoral student Jackson Kaspari and hosted by the City of Dover.

Conducting a greenhouse gas (GHG) and nitrogen inventory serves a number of purposes, primarily by allowing a municipality to develop a baseline analysis to which future emissions and costs may be compared. Dover’s report also provides a picture of how various city operations, facilities, and policies contribute individually to the gases and reactive nitrogen released into the atmosphere and surface waters. Identifying individual impacts then enables city leaders to target specific reductions to the overall municipal impact, such as retrofitting a facility with LED lighting, or transitioning vehicles in the fleet from diesel to gasoline, or from gasoline to electric.

COUNCIL, CITY MANAGER HONOR FIRE AND POLICE STAFF FOR AWARDS RECOGNITION

During this week's City Council meeting on Jan. 9, 2019, the Council and City Manager J. Michael Joyal, Jr. congratulated members of Dover Fire and Rescue and the Police Department for recent special recognition by the New Hampshire Fire and Emergency Medical Services Committee of Merit.

Several members of the police and fire departments attended the meeting to be recognized for their efforts during three emergency events.

2018

DOVER'S BEAUDOIN NAMED NH LIBRARIAN OF THE YEAR

The New Hampshire Library Trustees Association (NHTLA) awarded Dover Library Director Cathleen Beaudoin 2018 Library Director of the Year. According to the NHTLA, eligibility for the top award includes being an active advocate for promoting libraries, endorsed by the library’s board of trustees, developing program and services to meet community needs and enhancing the quality of life, and demonstrating effective management and development skills with staff and volunteers.

Members of the Dover Library's Board of Trustees, staff and the city manager cited Beaudoin's leadership at the library and her willingness to try new initiatives to better serve the community. Beaudoin has been with the city's library for 43 years, beginning in 1975. She became library director in 1999.

CITY OF DOVER RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPORTING

The City of Dover was awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada for its comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR). The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management.

CITY OF DOVER WINS UNH 'BUILD A BETTER MOUSETRAP'

The City of Dover was the winner of the University of New Hampshire’s Technology Transfer Center (UNH T2) 2018 Build a Better Mousetrap for their Media Box design for the state of New Hampshire. The Media Box was designed and installed in areas of the city where stormwater treatment was necessary but there was inadequate space for the construction of a rain garden. With both the Bellamy and Cochecho rivers running through Dover, and flowing into the sensitive Great Bay with both fresh and tidal water flow, finding innovative and sustainable ways to address stormwater was an important opportunity for Dover.

NH PLANNERS NAME DOVER'S CLIMATE ADAPTATION MASTER PLAN CHAPTER AS PLAN OF THE YEAR

On behalf of the City of Dover, the Planning and Community Development Department announced the City’s recently adopted Climate Adaptation Chapter of the Master Plan is the New Hampshire Planning Association’s Plan of the Year. The Climate Adaptation Chapter was adopted by the Planning Board in February 2018.

The Climate Adaption Chapter represents another step in the City’s ongoing efforts to recognize, understand and address effects of Climate Change. The chapter examines climate change in a comprehensive manner and is designed to inform future land use decisions and identify public and private risk and vulnerability. Specifically, the plan highlights the following topics: water availability and quality, health and safety, food, energy, infrastructure, and natural resources. Each topic was prepared with the best available existing condition data, as well as projected impact data associated with climate change.

The Climate Adaptation Chapter is posted on the City’s Master Plan. It can also be found in the Planning Department located in City Hall and at the public library.

BILL BOULANGER RECEIVES REGIONAL STORMWATER AWARD

Each year the New England Stormwater Collaborative awards three New England Stormy Awards for the best ideas in the world of stormwater management. The Stormy Awards recognize imaginative, unique, and inventive stormwater ideas. This year’s winners include City of Dover Superintendent of Public Works and Utilities Bill Boulanger. Bill was nominated by Jamie Houle of the UNH Stormwater Center and was selected to receive the award because of his optimistic, enthusiastic approach for developing new, cost effective ways to manage stormwater. Bill’s work on the Berry Brook Restoration Project in Dover exemplifies his dedication to finding simpler ways to treat stormwater runoff without sacrificing performance. In addition, Bill is viewed as a leader in municipal stormwater management. He is very generous with his time and knowledge – if a community needs stormwater technical assistance, Bill steps right up and delivers. His unique designs and approaches are being adopted by communities throughout the region.

2017

DOVER LIBRARY RECEIVES AWARD FOR PASSPORT CUSTOMER SERVICE

The Dover Public Library was recognized by the U.S. Department of State on Jan. 29, 2018, for its commitment to customer service as an official Passport Acceptance Facility. A recognition ceremony was held in Washington, D.C.

The award was part of the State Department's 2017 National Awards for Passport Acceptance Facilities and Agents.

The nomination for a special recognition award was made by the National Passport Center. In its nomination letter, the National Passport Center states, "As of 2016 the State of New Hampshire had no public libraries serving as acceptance facilities (AFs), only 43 post offices made up the AF network. In early August 2016 Customer Service Manager (CSM) Susanne Delaney made a cold call to Dover Public Library Director Cathy Beaudoin to see if she and her staff would be interested in learning more on becoming an acceptance facility to which she graciously accepted. During an informal meeting at the Library, CSMs Robert Sullivan and Susanne Delaney explained the process of how to become an AF, the requirements of the Program and thus began the designation process for Dover Public Library which was officially approved on November 4, 2016 making Dover Public Library the first up and running public library acceptance facility in NH.

In December 2017, the State Department notified Library Director Cathleen Beaudoin that the Dover Public Library had been selected as an award recipient.

In the letter, the State Department wrote, "We had numerous nominations for this award and your facility's accomplishments clearly stood out to our National Awards Committee. Congratulations! The Department of State sincerely appreciates the library's commitment to providing quality passport acceptance services to our mutual customers. As the first public library in New Hampshire to participate in the Passport Acceptance Program, your dedication to customers' receipt of timely and convenient passport services inspired other libraries in New Hampshire to become passport acceptance facilities."

Beaudoin was in D.C. on Jan. 29, 2018 to accept the award.

VERMETTE RECEIVES WASTEWATER AWARD

In November 2017, Wastewater Treatment Facility Supervisor Ray Vermette received the 2017 William D. Hatfield Award from the New England Water Environment Association (NEWEA). The award is presented to operators of wastewater treatment plants for outstanding performance and professionalism. The award was established in honor of Dr. William D. Hatfield, Superintendent of the Decatur, Illinois Sanitary District, who was President of the Central States Sewage Works Association in 1944-45 and served as President of the Federation in 1958-59.

The award consists of a plaque suitably inscribed with the recipient’s name and is presented by a Federation representative at the Member Association annual meeting.

The purpose of the William D. Hatfield Award is to recognize operators of wastewater and waste treatment plants who are doing an outstanding job in performance of their duties as well as to operators demonstrating distinguished professionalism. The aspects of plant operation upon which the award is based serve these purposes:

Encourage better public relations between plant operators and the public.
Recognize the outstanding reports which serve the requirements of the operator’s superior officials and provide a basis for recommendations by the operator for improvements to his plant for better efficiency of treatment and economy of operation.
Recognize the outstanding reports which serve the requirements of the funds and care of the treatment plant and accessories entrusted to the operator.
Advancement of the art and knowledge of wastewater treatment by dissemination to other engineers and operators the basic information and data concerning a particular plant and process through papers, articles, meetings, and reports.

WENSLEY HONORED WITH YOUTH IN ACTION AWARD

In November 2017, Dover Youth to Youth student Izabelle Wensley was recognized by New Futures with their 2017 Youth in Action award. She was recognized for working tirelessly over the course of the last legislative session to effectively advocate, educate and collaborate to improve prevention, treatment and recovery efforts for individuals with substance use disorders in the Granite State.

DETECTIVE TIM BURT LEADS SESSION ON CRIME SCENES

During the week of Aug. 6, 2017, Dover Police Detective Timothy Burt instructed at the International Association of Identification’s International Conference in Atlanta, Georgia. He taught two workshops on Basic Crime Scene Investigation as part of a new “Crime Scene Track” offered at the IAI Conference. The first workshop was an overview of the proper methods used for crime scene processing (scene security, officer safety, photography, scene documentation, evidence collection, evidence processing). The second was running students through mock crime scenes that he designed. The scenes allowed the students to apply what they had learned throughout the week, specifically: photography, scene documentation, evidence collection, latent processing and blood detection/enhancement. The workshops consisted of police officers and college students.

He has been invited back for the 2018 conference to assist with the Crime Scene Track in San Antonio, Texas. This time, he has been asked to help coordinate the entire week’s workshops. He would be coordinating with other instructors to ensure that all the principal aspects of basic crime scene investigation are covered. He would also teach the same workshops as he did in 2017.

NH PROVIDERS ASSOCIATION NAMES Y2Y PREVENTION PROVIDER OF THE YEAR

The New Hampshire Providers Association recognized the Dover Coalition for Youth as Prevention Provider of the Year at their annual meeting on July 20th. The Coalition was recognized for its outstanding work preventing youth substance misuse and assisting other communities while they implement prevention programs. The award came with a beautiful trophy and a $100 to continue the good work.

MARTUSCELLO IS YOUTH ADVOCATE OF THE YEAR

Dover Youth to Youth member Hannah Martuscello was honored recently as the 2017 Eastern States Youth Advocate of the Year by the Washington, DC-based Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids. Hannah was one of 5 regional winners from around the US who attended a large gala banquet in Washington on May 10th. The award is accompanied by a $2,500 scholarship for college and a $500 prevention grant for Dover Youth to Youth.

DOVER YOUTH TO YOUTH RECOGNIZED FOR 25 YEARS OF SERVICE

On April 21, 2017. Dover Youth to Youth celebrated 25 years of drug prevention advocacy in the community with an open house and a short ceremony at the McConnell Center café. The event featured displays, food, and many current and former members. In addition, NH State Senator David Watters presented the students with a proclamation from Gov. Chris Sununu commending the youth group for its accomplishments over the years.

DOVER POLICE HAND OUT ANNUAL AWARDS

On March 6, 2017, the Dover Police Department held its annual awards banquet at the Ember Wood Fire Grill. During the night, the department honored the following employees for various awards:

Employee of the Year: Lyndsay Salantri
Outstanding Partner Award: NH Listens
Traffic Officer of the Year: Officer Bobby Joslin
Exceptional Service Award: Sergeant Tarmey
Exceptional Service Award: Communications Bureau
Chief Daniel Smith Award for Exceptional Service: Detective Oake Carlson
Chief’s Marksmanship Award: Detective Tim Burt
Ridings Memorial Marksmanship Awards:

1st Place: Sergeant Mark Collopy
2nd Place: Detective Tim Burt
3rd Place: Officer Scott Petrin

2016

BOULANGER EARNS EPA RECOGNITION FOR STORMWATER LEADERSHIP

At a ceremony in Boston on May 10, 2016, City of Dover Superintendent of Public Works and Utilities Bill Boulanger received the Environmental Protection Agency's Region 1 Environmental Merit Award for his 42 years of service. The EPA's Environmental Merit Awards Program honors those who have made outstanding contributions to protect New England's environment.

Boulanger was nominated for the award by the University of New Hampshire Stormwater Center and the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services.

The nomination letter recognizes Boulanger as a leader in a variety of projects, including watershed restoration at Berry Brook, and assisting with innovative stormwater management system design.

Boulanger has worked for the City of Dover for 42 years. He is a long-serving member of the New Hampshire Water Works Association, where he has been on the Board of Directors for the past seven years. Boulanger has taught and continues to teach many classes for NHWWA and has mentored many municipal employees in water-related management.

Boulanger holds many certifications, including grade IV water distribution, grade II water treatment, grade III in wastewater treatment, and grade IV in wastewater collection. During his career with Dover, Boulanger also developed and implemented a regionally acclaimed directional flushing program and his expertise in this area is recognized throughout the state, according to the EPA nomination letter. Boulanger and his staff have also installed supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems in well stations and pump stations for both water and sewer, installed automated billing meters and implemented asset management inventory systems for water distribution, hydrants, wells, pump stations, leak detection and more.

2015

LIBRARIAN COMPLETES EMERGING LEADERS PROGRAM

Peggy Thrasher, Systems and Technology Librarian at the Dover Public Library, completed the Primex3 Emerging Leaders Program in October 2015. This seven-month program is designed to provide a professional development opportunity for participants to discover their strengths and develop the competencies needed to grow in leadership effectiveness. Peggy was one of 14 participants selected from municipal employees of the State of New Hampshire for this program.

The program combines discussion, experiential learning and reading to focus on four areas of leadership. Participants understand and integrate into practice the competencies of high performance leadership as defined by scientific research and practicing executives. They explored the link between Emotional Intelligence and behavioral style, and used it to build leadership competency. The importance of ethical analysis and decision making processes were examined through cases analysis and live interaction with emerging leaders from various public sector agencies. They built competences which promote an effective and accountable risk management culture through integrity, knowledge, and practice. Each participant put their new skills into action by completing a project to address an existing issue within the participant's organization.

CITY AGAIN EARNS FINANCIAL REPORTING DISTINCTION

For the 11th consecutive year, in August 2015, a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting was awarded to the City of Dover by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA). This award is for the City's Fiscal Year 2014 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR).

Dover was one of the first communities in New Hampshire to be recognized with this achievement, beginning in 2004, and is now one of only a few communities from the state to consistently receive the award year after year.

The Certificate of Achievement awarded by GFOA is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment and continuing commitment to maintain the highest standards of financial accountability. In achieving this specific recognition, the City's CAFR has been judged by an impartial panel to meet the highest standards of financial reporting including demonstrating a constructive "spirit of full disclosure" to clearly communicate and educate readers regarding the financial condition of the City.

The GFOA is a nonprofit professional association providing technical assistance and education for approximately 17,500 government finance professionals throughout the US and Canada.

CITY'S 'A CLOSER LOOK' SERIES WINS NATIONAL AWARD

Alternate iframe text The City of Dover's storm management episode of its series, "A Closer Look," was recognized recently by the National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA), during its 30th annual Government Programming Awards in San Diego, California. Awards were presented on Friday, Sept. 11. Dover's entry, which offers an in-depth look at the City's storm management operations during Winter Storm Juno and the subsequent storms, took second place in the "Profile of a City or County Department" category. First through third place were awarded, along with two honorable mentions.

Dover's entry was among more than 800 received for this year's awards, and the only entry to win from New Hampshire.

The awards program honors excellence in broadcast, cable, multimedia and electronic programming produced by local government agencies. Entries are submitted by local governments across the country.

"A Closer Look" is produced by the City of Dover's DNTV and offers a more in-depth look at municipal operations, programs and services, in a documentary style.

POLICE CHIEF APPOINTED CHAIR OF NH POLICE STANDARDS AND TRAINING COUNCIL

In August 2015 Chief Anthony Colarusso was appointed by Gov. Maggie Hassan as Chair of the New Hampshire Police Standards and Training Council. Chief Colarusso was first appointed by Gov. John Lynch as a council member, representing city police chiefs, in 2009.

The Council certifies both full- and part-time police officers, probation and parole officers and State corrections officers. The Council appoints a Director who oversees all day to day operations.

Policies, curriculum and certification standards are set by the 14-member Police Standards and Training Council which meets normally at 9 a.m. on the fourth Tuesday of each month at the NH Police Standards and Training Facility in Concord. Council meetings are posted in advance and are open to the public, unless it becomes necessary to hold a non-public session under conditions that are authorized under RSA 91-A, the New Hampshire Right-to-Know law.

The council makeup is as follows: two town police chiefs, two city police chiefs, two county sheriffs, two judges of courts with criminal jurisdiction, the Chancellor of the Community College system of New Hampshire or his/her designee, the Director of the State Police or his/her designee, the Attorney General or his/her designee, the Commissioner of the Department of Corrections or his/her designee and two public members.

WHITE HOUSE NAMES YOUTH TO YOUTH ADVOCATE FOR ACTION

During the month of February 2015, the police department was informed that Dover Youth to Youth had been selected as an Advocate for Action by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) due to their “exemplary work in furthering the goals of the President’s National Drug Control Strategy.” The work that Dover Youth to Youth does will be profiled in the National Drug Control Strategy which is ONDCP’s annual publication of the Obama Administration’s efforts to reduce illicit drug use and its consequences in the United States. There were a total of nine recipients of this recognition out of more than 225 nominees.

Vicki Hebert and two youth members of Dover Youth to Youth traveled to Washington, DC to receive the award at the White House. Youth to Youth was recognized for taking action over the past year, including presentations to more than 2,000 youth and parents in the community about substance use issues, creating 10 radio public service announcements (PSAs), shooting two video PSAs that aired on New Hampshire’s ABC affiliate, proposing and testifying for a city ordinance banning smoking in Henry Law Park, speaking before the New Hampshire Senate against the legalization of marijuana, and convincing a gas station near a school zone to remove 15 tobacco advertising signs.

Dover Youth to Youth was also cited for its work helping other coalitions and youth groups, both locally in NH and around the country. “I am pleased to honor the work Dover Youth to Youth is doing to make our communities healthier and safer,” said ONDCP Director Botticelli.

2014

CITY FINANCE DEPARTMENT WINS RECOGNITION FOR EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPORTING

For the 10th consecutive year, the City of Dover was awarded a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA). This award is for the City's fiscal year 2013 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR). The CAFR is deemed proficient in all 17 major grading categories.

Dover was one of the first communities in New Hampshire to be recognized with this achievement beginning in 2004 and is now one of only a few communities in the state to consistently receive the award each year.

The GFOA is a nonprofit professional association providing technical assistance and education for approximately 16,000 government finance professionals throughout the US and Canada.

CITY LAUDED FOR PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT EXCELLENCE

The International City/County Management Association (ICMA) has recognized Dover, New Hampshire for its performance management efforts with a Certificate of Achievement from the ICMA Center for Performance Analytics.

“The certificate program recognizes the principles of performance management,” said Randall H. Reid, ICMA Director of Performance Initiatives. “Jurisdictions meeting the qualifications have demonstrated leadership in continuous improvement and community engagement, and they serve as examples for other governments to follow.”

ICMA assesses a local government’s performance management program and encourages analysis of results by comparing to peers and gauging performance over time. Performance management aids in cost reduction, program prioritization, and quality improvement. It also encourages accountability and transparency. Certificates are awarded at the levels of Achievement, Distinction, and Excellence. Dover is among nine jurisdictions receiving the Certificate of Achievement, and one of 49 recognized overall.

Criteria for the Certificate of Achievement include:

Reporting of performance data to the public through budgets, newsletters, and/or information provided to elected officials;
Data verification efforts to ensure reliability;
Staff training.

City of Dover Director of Planning and Community Development Christopher Parker, AICP, said the Certificate of Achievement is recognition of Dover’s longstanding commitment to a management framework that instills performance excellence.

“We’re pleased to be recognized by ICMA for performance management excellence,” Parker said. “All City of Dover staff are dedicated to a core set of values that dictate how we operate, including customer-focused service, integrity, innovation, accountability and stewardship. These core values are the foundation of our mission to provide affordable, high-quality municipal services and responsive local government.”

Parker added the City of Dover continually reviews its operations and performance metrics to maintain and improve efficiency.

“We regularly review our metrics to better assess and improve customer service,” Parker said. “In addition, this information is shared with elected officials and the public. The City’s website includes several years of best practices recognition, much of which is the result of our continued assessment of services, and City Manager J. Michael Joyal, Jr., includes even more detailed information in his report to the City Council each month. These reports are also available to the public online.”

Dover is one of fewer than 10 communities nationwide to receive the Certificate of Achievement from the ICMA Center for Performance Analytics.

“It’s rewarding to be recognized as one of a handful of communities that excels at best practices in performance management,” City Manager J. Michael Joyal, Jr. said. “Although we’re constantly evaluating how we can improve customer service, this recognition is the result of the hard work and dedication of City staff and department leaders committed to the City’s mission and core values.”

DOVER'S STEVE BIRD NAMED PLANNER OF THE YEAR

Dover City Planner Steve Bird was named 2014 Professional Planner of the Year by the New Hampshire Planners Association, on Thursday, June 4, at an annual conference in Durham.

The New Hampshire Planner’s Association (NHPA) award annually recognizes one professional planner from New Hampshire for leadership, innovation, and commitment to community involvement through planning initiatives. The NHPA promotes, assists, and supports the professional planner in the goal of achieving planning excellence to improve the quality of life today and tomorrow in New Hampshire’s communities.

Bird’s nomination forms, submitted by Dover resident and fellow planner Jack Mettee, recognized Bird for his attention to detail, his dedication to public service, his ability to communicate plans and the communities vision to planners, and the public with ease, respect and a strong depth of knowledge.

Bird’s nomination and recognition was also based upon his passion for open space protection that has helped the Conservation Commission and Open Lands Committee preserve 800 acres of land in Dover.

2013

DOVER NAMED NEW ENGLAND WATER WORKS UTILITY OF THE YEAR

The City of Dover was recently named New England Water Works Utility of the Year by the New England Water Works Association. The award was presented during the NEWWA annual conference in September, 2013. Superintendent of Public Works and Utilities Bill Boulanger accepted the award during the conference. In a letter nominating the City of Dover for the award, New Hampshire Water Works Association Executive Director Stephen Del Deo noted that Dover boasts excellent water quality, despite challenges from iron and manganese, and maintains a water main flushing program that is "second to none." The letter pointed to the City's reliability, source protection, capital investments, education and training, and asset management as significant contributing factors in selecting Dover.

"NHWWA believes that the Dover Water Department is truly an 'effective utility,' one which in many ways is a model to other utilities and New Hampshire's drinking water community at large," Del Deo wrote.

Dover is one of only a handful of medium-sized municipalities in New Hampshire that solely rely on groundwater.

The NEWWA Utility of the Year Award recognizes utilities which make significant improvements to the water system infrastructure, customer service, staff training, and operations that further protect public health.

The New England Water Works Association is a nonprofit, independent, member organization dedicated to serving the region’s water works professionals and the public interest. It is the oldest and most active regional water works association in the United States.

CITY OF DOVER WINS GRANITE STATE QUALITY COUNCIL AWARD FOR PERFORMANCE EXCELLENCE

The Granite State Quality Council (GSQC) recognized the City of Dover during its 2013 Granite State Quality Awards and Recognition Program.

These recognition is based on the Baldrige Criteria for Performance Excellence which is recognized around the world as the standard for organizational performance excellence.

The GSQC’s Quality Awards and Recognition Program recognizes organizations that have developed a foundation for continuous improvement and excellence. For the City of Dover, this includes its clearly identified vision, mission, values, key services, and strategic challenges and advantages. In addition, the City’s Master Plan supports alignment of its key objectives and budget with the mission and vision to identify efficiencies that benefit all of the City’s stakeholders.

The process for earning both the Achievement of Excellence and Profile recognitions involves the submission of an application which is evaluated by a team of volunteer examiners trained in the Baldrige Criteria. The Achievement of Excellence recognition also involves an intense on-site review conducted by the examiners to verify and clarify what is included in the application. All applicants receive a confidential feedback report with strengths and opportunities to support continued improvements based on the best practices of world class organizations.

Anne Warner, Executive Director of the Granite State Quality Council said, “we congratulate the City of Dover on the achievement. Earning this recognition is a great milestone, which comes with the additional benefit of a deepened understanding of how to become even more effective, efficient, and innovative in achieving (its) goals.

CITY OF DOVER RECOGNIZED FOR WORKFORCE HOUNSING INITIATIVES

The Workforce Housing Coalition of the Greater Seacoast recently honored the City of Dover Department of Planning and Community Development for its workforce housing charrette.
At the coalition’s annual celebration on Sept. 26, 2013, the City of Dover was presented with the Municipal Leadership award. The award recognizes a city or town that works to improve the development of workforce housing within the community through its planning process, land use ordinances, project approval process or other mechanism.

Rick Jones, Dover’s Community Development Coordinator, accepted the award on behalf of the City of Dover.

Dover was recognized for a design session, which focused on the block of buildings along Fifth and Sixth streets between Central Avenue and Chestnut Street. A charrette is a design session, where input from property owners and residents is used by professional architects, development professionals and urban planners to draft a concept of what could be created through redevelopment.

Dover used this opportunity to bring together the property owners for those buildings to build off the design and commercial success of the Centrix Bank building. The concepts developed work on the idea of developing multi story buildings along Sixth Street with parking accessible in the back of the buildings, accessed of Chestnut and Fifth Streets. The buildings had commercial uses on the first floor and residential units above.

Dover’s context sensitive zoning downtown, allows property owners to be creative in their designs, and also allows flexibility in uses.

CITY OF DOVER EARNS NINTH STRAIGHT YEAR OF RECOGNITION
FOR EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPORTING

For the ninth consecutive year, a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting has been awarded to the City of Dover by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA). This award is for the City's Fiscal Year 2012 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR). Please join me in recognizing and congratulating our Finance Department staff as this recognition is a testament to their diligence ensuring leading practices for providing timely and accurate financial information for those interested in the operations of our City.

Dover was one of the first communities in NH to be recognized with this achievement beginning in 2004 and is now one of only a few communities from NH to consistently receive the award year after year.

The GFOA is a nonprofit professional association providing technical assistance and education for approximately 16,000 government finance professionals throughout the US and Canada.

DOVER YOUTH TO YOUTH RECOGNIZED FOR EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICES

Dover Youth to Youth becomes the first drug prevention program in New Hampshire receive an evidence-based designation by the state of New Hampshire.

Prevention program coordinator Dana Mitchell said the distinction is an affirmation of their work, based on a review by state and national experts and evaluation of the group's effectiveness at drug prevention.

The designation also means other communities can access Dover Youth to Youth resources, including radio and television spots.

According to Mitchell, many communities reach out to Y2Y for assistance with prevention programs.

VERMETTE INDUCTED INTO SELECT SOCIETY OF SANITARY SLUDGE SHOVELERS

Ray Vermette, the facility supervisor of Dover's wastewater treatment plant, was selected as an inductee of the New England section of the Select Society of Sanitary Sludge Shovelers (5S). Nominations for induction in the Society are only accepted from existing 55 members and selection into the Society is done by a ballot vote of the Society members attending the 55 Luncheon held during the NEWEA Annual Conference. Selection is based on a majority vote of those attending the lunch. Membership in the Society is a highly sought honor. In an April 2013 letter to Vermette, it was stated that his commitment and dedication to the Association and the water environment field exemplifies his nomination and election for induction.

Formal induction into the Society was during the annual NEWEA Spring Meeting in June 2013.

DOVER OFFICER EARNS PATROL CASE OF THE YEAR AWARD

On April 8, 2013, Officer Timothy Keefe and K9 Grinko received the Patrol Case of the Year 2013 Award from the Working Dog Foundation. They were recognized for tracking a suspect who fired a gun at another subject in Somersworth, NH. During that investigation, Officer Keefe and Grinko were used for the perimeter, tracking and locating the suspect. They also covered another K9 and two other officers while tracking the suspect.

2012

POWERS, WWTP, RECEIVE EXCELLENCE AWARD FROM EPA

Arnold "Arnie" Powers, the City of Dover's Lab Supervisor and and Industrial Pretreatment Coordinator at the Wastewater Treatment Plant, recently received the Industrial Pretreatment Program Regional Excellence Award from Region 1 of the Environmental Protection Agency.

The award is presented to operations that exceed state and EPA requirements. Dover's wastewater treatment facility was one of only two recipients of the award this year. There are 519 facilities in the New England region, Region 1.

FIRE & RESCUE HONORED FOR FIRE VICTIM RESCUE

The members of Dover Fire & Rescue's “B” Shift received a “Unit Citation” from the New Hampshire Committee of Merit, sponsored by the New Hampshire Fire Academy & EMS for the rescue of a resident of 33 Third St., who was found unconscious in his apartment last September.

Rescue members entered the basement window before a hand line was in place to remove the victim who was transported to the hospital with extensive burns. The shift was recognized for their teamwork and bravery in completing the rescue.

YOUTH TO YOUTH RECOGNIZED FOR MEDIA CAMPAIGN

Dover Youth to Youth was selected by the New Hampshire Association of Broadcasters (NHAB) to receive its Media Campaign of the Year Award. The students were recognized for their series of three radio public service announcements that encouraged quitting tobacco and promoted the 800 number and web site that provides free quitting resources to smokers.

The award was presented October 18th at the annual “Granite Mikes” award ceremony held at Southern NH University. It was presented jointly to the student group and their media partner, radio station WOKQ and its affiliated stations WPKQ, The SHARK WSHK and WSAK. The students created and acted in the radio spots. The station provided professional production services and studio time in their facility to record the 30-second and 60-second PSAs.

This is not the first time the NHAB has recognized the Dover students. In 2002, Youth to Youth also took home the Public Service Campaign of the Year Award. In addition, the students also won the award for best Public Service Announcement of the Year in 1996, 1999 and 2000; as well as the NHAB Merit Award in 2009.

CITY RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPORTING

The City of Dover's Finance Department has been awarded a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for an eighth consecutive year by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA).This award is for the City's most recent Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR).

Dover was one of the first communities in New Hampshire to be recognized with this achievement, which began in 2004. Dover is now one of only a few communities from New Hampshire to consistently receive the award each year. The Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting awarded by GFOA is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting. It represents a significant accomplishment and continuing commitment to maintain the highest standards of financial accountability. In achieving this specific recognition, the City's CAFR has been judged by an impartial panel to meet the highest standards of financial reporting including demonstrating a constructive "spirit of full disclosure" to clearly communicate and educate readers regarding the financial condition of the City.

The GFOA is a nonprofit professional association providing technical assistance and education for approximately 16,000 government finance professionals throughout the US and Canada.

DOVER NAMED AS A TOP COMMUNITY BY MOTHER EARTH NEWS

The City of Dover was recently recognized as one of the top best-kept secrets in the country by Mother Earth News. The website and magazine selected eight communities that have a clear vision for the future and are among the best communities to live.

The article can be viewed here.

DOVER NAMED ONE OF TOP COMMUNITIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE SECOND YEAR IN A ROW

Dover was named one of America’s Promise Alliance’s 100 Best Communities for Young People presented by ING. Dover is the only community in New Hampshire to receive this national award which recognizes its outstanding and innovative work in addressing the high school dropout crisis and for its programs and services that make it an outstanding place for youth to live, learn and grow.

Dover, a second-time 100 Best winner, offers a number of community programs for youth dedicated to ensuring their health and safety. The Dover Coalition for Youth, a nonprofit organization that aims to prevent substance abuse, has raised community awareness of drug issues through radio ads, school presentations on underage drinking and tobacco compliance checks in local stores. This coalition hosted prescription drug “take-back” events, which have collected over 400 pounds of medication. Dover also hosts Youth to Youth, an after-school drug-prevention program coordinated by the Dover Police Department’s Community Outreach Bureau. Education remains a top priority in Dover as well where the Chamber of Commerce, local businesses and educators collaborate to improve the quality of education and reduce the dropout rate.

“Being named one of America’s Promise Alliance’s 100 Best is significant and meaningful to the entire community,” said Police Chief Anthony Colarusso. “So many dedicated people and programs contributed to this win and it further reinforces our belief that a focus on youth pays dividends to the entire community.”

A WMUR report of the award can be viewed here. A webcast and press conference announcing the recognition can be viewed here.

VERMETTE RECOGNIZED IN NATIONAL TRADE JOURNAL

The September 2012 edition of Treatment Plant Operator recognizes Dover's Ray Vermette, the facility supervisor of Dover's wastewater treatment plant, for his innovation and dedication, as well as bridging his background in the private sector with the City's needs for the public good.

According to the article, "Vermette says his experience is unique because he has been at the same facility for two decades. 'My heart was always here,' he says. 'I've had the opportunity to be at one facility and use the benefits of both public and private operations models. I've been very fortunate.'"

Vermette was named New Hampshire Operator of the Year by the New England Water Environmental Association (NEWEA) in 2011.

To read the article in TPO, click here.

ABOVE AND BEYOND AWARD

The Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve presented the "Above and Beyond Award" to the City of Dover. The award was presented on behalf of the men and women of the National Guard and Reserve Forces, for outstanding service and continuing support to the National Defense.

PATRIOTIC EMPLOYER AWARD

The Office of Secretary of Defense, Employer support of the Guard and Reserve recognizes Dover Fire & Rescue as a Patriotic Employer for contributing to National Security and Protecting Liberty and Freedom by Supporting Employee Participation in America's National Guard and Reserve Force.

DOVER WASTEWATER TREATMENT FACILITY GENERATES GREEN ENERGY

In the May 2012 issue of Town & City, a publication of New Hampshire Local Government Center, Raymond Vermette, the City’s Wastewater Treatment Facility Supervisor, produced an article, Dover Wastewater Treatment Facility Generates Green Energy. This article provides insight to the new cost saving technology our Wastewater Treatment Facility is spearheading.

DOVER COMMUNITY SENIOR CENTER RECEIVES AWARD FOR THE DANCING WITH THE DOVER STARS

The Dover Community Senior Center has received an award from The National Council on Aging (NCOA) for its Dancing with the Dover Stars program. The award was presented as part of NCOA’s National Institute of Senior Centers' 2011 Programs of Excellence.

Dancing with the Dover Stars is a fundraiser that was first held in March 2011, pairing local celebrities with professional dancers in a hometown version of the hit TV show, hosted by WOKQ’s Don Briand. The standing-room only audience cheered on their favorite stars as they tangoed, disco danced, waltzed, and hip-hopped to the beat, each trying to out-dance the others for the first-place trophy. That prize ultimately went to the Dover Fire Department’s former Chief Perry Plummer.

The event was such a hit that the DCSC is doing it all over again this year on March 10, 2012 with all new celebrities. “The unique thing about Dancing with the Stars is that it brings together the whole community in this one wonderful event,” said Linda Jarvis, co-chair of the event. “Local businesses contribute raffle prizes, flowers, and services. The DHS basketball boosters provide the intermission refreshments, the Dover Seniors run the show by selling tickets and passing out programs, and of course the local officials and dancers donate their time and energy. It’s a great event for a great cause.”

Krista Trefethen, a co-chair of the event and Dover’s Assistant Recreation Director, added, “We like to say that with this event, we put the fun in fundraising.”

The Dover Community Senior Center is a member of the National Institute of Senior Centers (NISC), a program committed to supporting and strengthening the nation’s 11,000 senior centers. NISC offers best practices, professional development, advocacy, research, and national standards and accreditation.

“Senior centers play a vital role in helping older adults to stay healthy and connected to their community,” said Jim Firman, president and CEO of NCOA. “We congratulate the Dover Community Senior Center on its innovative programs for older adults which can serve as a nationwide model to assist seniors across the country."

RAYMOND VERMETTE HONORED AS OPERATOR OF THE YEAR

Ray Vermette, the facility supervisor for the City's wastewater treatment plant, was recently named the 2011 New Hampshire Operator of the Year by the New England Water Environmental Association (NEWEA).

Officials from the state Department of Environmental Services presented the award to Vermette at a ceremony on Feb. 3, 2012. City Manager J. Michael Joyal, Jr., and Community Services Director Douglas Steele were also in attendance.

The award is given each year to someone who shows a high interest and performance in wastewater operations and makes a significant contribution to the wastewater field, including environmental improvements, odor control, cost-effective operations, safety and training.

Vermette's career in wastewater began in high school as part of a summer jobs program at the Somersworth wastewater treatment plant. Vermette joined the City in 1991 as a laborer at the City's former wastewater treatment plant. When the City's new plant opened in 1991, Vermette was promoted to maintenance technician. Operations of the plant were contracted to a private company in 1992. Vermette remained at the plant, rising in the ranks over the seven years the plant remained with the private contractor. In 1999, when operation of the plant returned to the City, Ray was named chief operator. He was promoted to facility supervisor in 2000.

Vermette was also recognized at the ceremony for recently completing the New Hampshire Wastewater Management Candidate School program. Vermette has been an active member of the New Hampshire Water Pollution Control Association (NHWPCA) for 20 years and NEWEA for over 10 years. He served on the NHWPCA board of directors for six years until 2007, when he became president. Vermette is serving a second year as the New Hampshire director for NEWEA, where he co-chairs the plant operations committee. In 2003, Vermette won the Alfred E. Peloquin award from NEWEA.

CITY CLERK/TAX COLLECTOR RECEIVED CERTIFICATION

The Dover City Clerk/Tax Collector, Karen Lavertu, obtained certification as a Certified NH Tax Collector from the NH Tax Collectors’ Association (NHTCA) and NH City & Town Clerks’ Association (NHCTCA) joint certification program. The Tax Collector Certification is a three-year program. The City Clerk Certification is a four-year program. Karen is scheduled to complete the City Clerk Certification in 2012.

PLANNING DIRECTOR CHOSEN TO PARTICIPATE IN THE 2012 LEADERSHIP SEACOAST PROGRAM

Based in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, the Leadership Seacoast program provides existing and future community leaders the opportunity to engage with the people and organizations that shape the Seacoast’s economic structure and social fabric. Leadership Seacoast offers its participants unique insight into how business, community, and politics integrate to create successful societies and how small actions can have a significant impact on the greater global good. Leadership Seacoast alumni make a difference in their communities through networking, active involvement, and personal action. Since its inception in 1988, Leadership Seacoast has created a strong foundation that values diversity of opinion and consensus building to find solutions to challenges affecting the Seacoast’s community and its future.

Participants are chosen from among all applicants based on merit by the committee, with consideration for each applicant’s enthusiasm, community involvement, and vision for the Seacoast.

2011

100 BEST PLACES TO LIVE IN AMERICA

The City of Dover, New Hampshire is featured in Money Magazines September 2011 issue as "100 Best Places To Live In America." Settled in 1623, this riverfront town an hour from Boston is home to families that have been here for generations. Dover also attracts young families and students from the University of New Hampshire, just 10 minutes away. Another draw to this classic New England town: a family-oriented atmosphere. The Children's Museum of New Hampshire is located in the center of downtown Dover. Some of the historic Colonial, Georgian, and Victorian buildings have been converted to modern condos and offices.

CHRISTOPHER PARKER NAMED NORTHERN NEW ENGLAND PLANNER OF THE YEAR

Christopher G. Parker, AICP, has been named the Professional Planner of the Year for 2011, by the Northern New England Chapter of the American Planning Association (NNECAPA). This award covers the states of Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont, and was presented by the association on Sept. 8, 2011, at its annual conference in Burlington, Vermont. Parker, Dover’s Planning Director, was recognized for his leadership, innovation and commitment to community involvement in the planning process.

This award recognizes Parker’s leadership, regionally, in the field of planning. According to the nomination form, Parker is readily available to other planners in the state of New Hampshire and the region. He was also recognized for his innovative implementation of the City’s downtown re-zoning in 2009. Finally, the Association recognized the many ways that Parker works to involve the community in the planning process.

In June of 2011, Parker was named a recipient the Professional Planner of the Year award for the State of New Hampshire by the New Hampshire Planners Association. That award automatically nominated him to the regional level by the New Hampshire Planners Association. Parker was unanimously selected by the award committee.

At the award presentation in Burlington, Julie LeBranch, NNNECAPA-New Hampshire State Director, praised Parker, stating that the selection committee recognized Parker’s public outreach and involvement as exemplary. The committee thought Parker embodied how the planning profession has needed to broaden its scope over the years in response to changing political and environmental needs. Specifically, Parker’s use of social media, press release development, the use of the video, Dover Download and other outreach opportunities were given as examples.

"Being named professional planner of the year for New Hampshire was a shock, this award is even more so,” Parker said. “I am very thankful for the award and the opportunity I have to work with the Dover community to facilitate the growth and development that Dover experiences. On a daily basis, I see the fruits of my labor through the involvement and investment this community makes in itself, and to win an award for helping facilitate that is incredibly gratifying.”

“Having Chris recognized for his creativity and inclusiveness by both his New Hampshire and New England peers is a reflection of the professionalism and commitment he delivers to the Dover community day in and day out”, said J. Michael Joyal Jr., Dover’s City Manager. “Our community has positively benefited from his ability to engage our citizenry in the development and application of a comprehensive approach to community planning.

This will be the second award from NNECAPA that Parker has received. In 2010, the City of Dover’s Form Based Code initiative was named the project of the year for the region by the Association. Parker has been employed by the City of Dover since 1998 in various capacities, including Director of Planning and Community Development since 2007. He holds a Master’s Degree in Community Planning and Development, and lives with his family in Dover.

DONNA LANGLEY IS THE RECIPIENT OF 'THE SHERRY VERMILYA AWARD'

The City of Dover's Assistant City Assessor, Donna Langley, is the 2011 recipient of “The Sherry Vermilya Award” presented by the Northeast Regional Association of Assessing (NRAAO) in Recognition of Outstanding Service to the Assessment Profession and the New Hampshire Association of Assessing Officials. The award is given by the NRAAO, to one member from each participating Province or State. The "Sherry Vermilya Award" is for outstanding service to the assessment profession and in honor and memory of Sherry Vermilya's support of NRAAO principles and his untiring efforts to assist assessors throughout the entire country and in particular the northeast. The award is given on an annual basis, and started in 1994.

DOVER IS ONE OF THE NATION'S 100 BEST COMMUNITIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

The 100 Best honors communities large and small, rural and urban, that are making progress to help young people achieve their potential, which includes earning a high school diploma, securing a good job, and playing an active, productive role in America’s economic vitality. In a celebration of America’s young people and the communities most dedicated to helping local youth graduate from high school, America’s Promise Alliance has announced the 2011 list of 100 Best Communities for Young People presented by ING. This year, more than 300 communities in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., were nominated for the competition. The winners come from 39 states. Twenty-two communities are now five-time winners and 29 communities are first-time recipients of the honor. They were chosen by a distinguished panel of judges that included some of the nation’s most well-known civic, business and nonprofit leaders.

Dover was one of over 300 communities to apply for the designation, this is the first year that Dover has been recognized. The Dover Coalition for Youth, coordinated by the Dover Police Department, wrote the application. The organizations that were highlighted in the award were the Dover Police Department’s Youth to Youth program, the Dover Teen Center which is run by the Dover Police Department, the Seymour Osman Community Center which is assisted by a Dover Police Officer, the Dover Middle School’s After School Enrichment Program, and Strafford County Head Start.

CHAMBER NAMES DOVER FIRE & RESCUE THE 2011 VOLUNTEERS OF THE YEAR

The Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce names the officers and firefighters of Dover Fire and Rescue the 2011 Volunteers of the Year for their countless efforts benefiting the community. It was said that it would be hard to find a group that was more dedicated to serving its community, recognizing some of the many activities the employees of the department have been involved in. Mentioned was their assistance in setting up various events throughout the city such as Apple Harvest Day and the Cochecho Arts Festival.

"These events would not happen without the manpower that our friends with Dover Fire and Rescue provide."

It was said that their personal connection to the community is quite strong, and that the department has pulled through time and time again to aid the city in ways that go beyond their medical and emergency duties.

NH PLANNER'S ASSOCIATION NAMES CHRISTOPHER PARKER PLANNER OF THE YEAR

The city's Director of Planning and Community Development was recently honored as Professional Planner of the Year by the New Hampshire Planners Association. He was nominated by his peers and coworkers who praised Parker for his countless efforts to better the city through clear and concise planning initiatives.

"This award is not something I ever contemplated receiving or being nominated for, and it means so much to receive it," said Parker. "It was very unexpected and at the same time almost overwhelming."

Parker was nominated by Sustainability Coordinator Michele Alexander who sought to nominate Parker as recognition for his contributions to the city since he began his work for the Planning Department in 1997.

As director, Parker works to provide oversight to the city's land use, zoning and the community development block grant programs, and he oversee many sustainability efforts while collaborating with committees and boards. Parker is continually attending seminars, courses and meetings on planning so that he stays current with planning and development efforts. In her letter of recommendation, Alexander praised him for communicating with surrounding communities, as he is able to provide Garrison City staff and committee members with insight as to what others are attempting and achieving. Alexander wrote Parker "is both a model citizen in the community and a model Professional Planner in the state of New Hampshire."

"When Dover speaks, Chris listens," she wrote. "In fact, on a day-to-day basis Chris creates opportunity for community dialogue."

Parker is the face behind the Planning Department's online initiative, as he continually blogs and uses social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter to keep the public in the know about what planning related projects are taking place. He also uses Google Maps to identify the exact location of projects under way, as well as where meetings are taking place so that the public has easy access to such things. Aside from online efforts, Parker has scheduled film screenings and focus groups between students, residents and business owners to encourage collaborative discussion on planning-related topics.

"Over his career, Chris has shown that he has the creativity, foresight and the vision that is needed by any successful community planner," said City Manager J. Michael Joyal, Jr. Joyal also wrote a letter to the NHPA in support of Alexander's nomination of Parker, highlighting the director's efforts to develop and implement innovative ways to garner public awareness and understanding of community development.

"As the economy continues to change and other growth opportunities present themselves, because of Chris' foresight and leadership, Dover is going to be in a much better position," said Joyal. "I felt that was noteworthy, and with this award he is recognized for that."

Parker said Alexander's nomination as well as Joyal's letter was "extremely gratifying," and that he was very humbled by both of their comments. Aside from Parker's coworkers, members of the city's Planning Board were thrilled to hear he had received the award.

"Chris is, I do believe, the most innovative planning director I've ever seen anywhere throughout the country," said Ron Cole, who has served on the Planning Board for 20 years and has worked with Parker since Parker started with the city. "His creativity is unparalleled, and his concern for the city in which he lives in is unparalleled."

Planning Board Vice Chair Franklin Torr said Parker does an excellent job communicating not only with the public and his coworkers, but with board members alike.

"Planning doesn't happen over night, and the changes we want to see don't happen overnight," said Planning Board Chair Marcia Gasses. "Chris understands this and is very good about reaching out and getting buy-in from the community."

DOVER POLICE RECEIVE SPECIAL AWARD OF COMMENDATION

The Dover Police Department received a Special Award of Commendation from the Maine State Police. This award resulted from critical assistance provided to the Maine State Police by officers and detectives from the Dover Police Department as the Maine authorities investigated a triple homicide. When it was discovered that the possible suspect had arrived in Dover, Maine detectives came here and Dover officers assisted in making contact with the subject. A few days later, after the subject was identified as the prime suspect, Maine State Police detectives returned to Dover, and with the assistance of Dover Police detectives and patrol units, executed search warrants and a further interview of the suspect, which led to his arrest for the murder.

DOVER RECOGNIZED FOR COMMUTE GREEN PARTICIPATION

City of Dover residents, employees, and volunteers were recognized recently for joining other communities across the state to reduce vehicle miles traveled during the 2011 Commute Green New Hampshire Challenge. The City registered a team in the event and encouraged residents and staff to use commuting options, such as walking, biking, carpooling, telecommuting and using public transportation. The Commute Green New Hampshire challenged employers, municipalities and schools to reduce 50,000 vehicle miles traveled from May 16-20 as part of the statewide challenge. Participants exceeded that goal, logging 64,731 miles.

The Dover team from the University of New Hampshire’s Gregg Hall was recognized as the school with the highest percentage of students participating. Dover resident John Pelletier was recognized as the individual who traveled the most miles by transit, 340 miles. Pelletier, also an avid cyclist, volunteered to assist to plan the event locally. Woodman Park School participated in the event as part of the Safe Routes to School program, with staff volunteers leading walking school buses, pledge forms and prizes.

“The Dover Department of Planning worked locally to plan this event in conjunction with communities across the Seacoast who hosted the challenge and breakfast events, in an effort led by the Strafford Regional Planning Commission, Rockingham Planning Commission, UNH, SABR and COAST,” said Michele Alexander, Dover Sustainability Coordinator, and event staff liaison. Local sponsors came out in full force in support of the event. The annual Commute Green week traditionally culminates in a free breakfast event for commuters as a tie-in to the National Bike-to-Work Day. Holy Rosary Credit Union and New Hampshire Coffee Roasting Co. sponsored breakfast at the Chestnut Street Dover Downtown Transportation Center, C&J sponsored coffee and doughnuts for commuters at the Exit 9 Park-N-Ride, and Adelle’s Coffeehouse next to City Hall in downtown Dover offered any customer arriving on a bike a free small coffee during morning event.

EAST REGIONAL YOUTH ADVOCATE OF THE YEAR

Paige Niler, a member of the Dover Police Department’s Youth to Youth program, was named the East Regional Youth Advocate of the Year by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids for her leadership in the fight against tobacco.

ENFORCING UNDERAGE DRINKING LAWS YOUTH LEADERSHIP AWARD

The Dover Police Department’s Youth to Youth program was selected to receive the Enforcing Underage Drinking Laws Youth Leadership Award for its leadership in the fight against underage drinking. The group received the award at a large national conference on underage drinking prevention in Orlando, Florida.

2010

CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT FOR EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPORTING

A Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting was presented to the City of Dover for its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2010 by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada.

This award is presented to government units and public employee retirement systems whose comprehensive annual financial reports (CAFRs) achieve the highest standards in government accounting and financial reporting.

CITY OF DOVER RECEIVES PLAN NH AWARD FOR FORM BASED CODE

Adopted in 2009, Dover has the first Form Based Code in the state of New Hampshire. Yet even while it was being formulated, Summit Land Development saw the possibilities in its philosophy, and proposed a development that would eventually exemplify what a new approach to zoning could and would produce.

Form Based code (or Smart Code of New Urbanism) reflects, in part, how early development of New England towns actually happened, with density in the centers and “rings” of lesser density and then more rural going away from the core. With Form Based Code)(FBC), each section has different regulations, but the most important characteristic is that new buildings and their uses are in sync with what is already there – keeping to the “rhythm” of the neighborhood. In Dover, this meant that new buildings would be consistent with what was already there in Dover – in look and feel, setbacks – even, to a certain extent, materials used.

This particular project was an in-fill of mixed uses and demonstrates that it can be done and done well. It brings new vitality to an underutilized section of town, and the Dover FBC is flexible enough to allow an array of services in future projects necessary to residents and workers alike.

The jury found that this project was “an innovative rethinking of the purpose and mechanics of zoning and that it is noteworthy for presenting an example of theory in practice.”

PLANNING DEPARTMENT RECOGNIZED FOR PROJECT OF THE YEAR

The Form Based Code initiative of the Department of Planning and Community Development in the City of Dover received the Project of the Year award on April 22, 2010, from the New Hampshire Planners Association. The award recognizes the City's downtown re-zoning effort as a significant advancement for planning in the state and applauds the use of intense public involvement. Dover was the first community in the state and Northern New England to implement and adopt Form Based Code in 2009.

“Form Based zoning promotes consistency in design to assist new construction in fitting with the existing fabric of the community, ensuring that development elements fit cohesively with those that came before it, preserving the historic character of the City of Dover, ” said Christopher Parker, Director of Planning and Community Development. “Form Based Code ordinances promote mixed-use development within the downtown business district by promoting constructing a new building beyond the intent of its first use.”

Parker, on behalf of the City of Dover, and Steve Whitman, Senior Planner for Jeffrey H. Taylor & Associates, a consultant during the 18-month process, received the award in Concord at the Local Government Center.

The award was the second for the Form Based Code initiative received by Dover's Department of Planning and Community Development. Last month, Plan NH, a nonprofit organization promoting innovative planning in the state, honored Dover's Form Based Code with a 2010 Merit Award Project, recognizing the initiative for promoting downtown vitality and innovative and progressive planning. The City won the award previously for the McConnell Center revitalization project in 2008.

“Both the Form Based Code and McConnell Center project serve as models for other communities in the state as they work to preserve the historic character of their downtown environs while promoting progressive development, ” Parker said. “It is an honor for planning efforts in the City to be recognized statewide, and we urge other communities to follow our lead in placing emphasis on stakeholder and community involvement in planning.”

CHIEF COLARUSSO AWARDED OUTSTANDING ENGAGEMENT AWARD

Chief Anthony Colarusso was awarded the Outstanding Engagement Award by the New Hampshire Chief’s Association. The award was given for the Chief’s ability to successfully collaborate with law enforcement agencies which benefited law enforcement throughout the State of New Hampshire.

DOVER PD AWARDED MERITORIOUS AWARD

The Dover Police Department was reaccredited and again achieved Flagship status through CALEA and was once again awarded the Meritorious Award for 15 or more continuous years of accreditation.

DOVER FORENSIC LAB ACCREDITED

The Dover Police Department achieved accreditation from ASCLD-LAB (American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors/Laboratory Accreditation Board) with the designation of “Crime Scene and Latent Processing”. There are only 387 forensic labs accredited nationwide. Of those, 80 have a crime scene designation. There are only 12 labs nationally that are only accredited in the area of Crime Scene services.

OFFICER PETRIN AWARDED EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE AWARD

Officer Scott Petrin was awarded the Dover Police Department’s Exceptional Service Award.

Officer Petrin was recognized for his efforts during a structure fire at the Tuttle Square apartments by putting his life on the line to run through the apartment, knocking on doors to awaken anyone who might be inside. As firefighters fought the blaze, Officer Petrin continued to assist by evacuating neighboring residences.

FRIENDS OF CHILDREN AWARD GIVEN TO OFFICER LENO

Officer Mark Leno received the annual Friends of Children Award from Seymour Osman Community Center. Every year the SOCC recognizes an individual, business, or other community partner who has helped make a difference in the lives of our children and youth.

That year, Officer Leno was recognized for his decades as a Dover Police Officer serving the families of the Dover Housing Authority.

OFFICERS TURNER and JOSLIN RECEIVE EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE AWARD

Officers Gregory Turner and Bobby Joslin each received the Dover Police Department’s Exceptional Service Award for their efforts to locate and save a suicidal man who had cut himself and was threatening to hang himself. The officers searched the wooded area behind and found him in the act of attempting to hang himself. The officers took immediate action to stop his efforts and get him medical help.

OFFICER KHALSA AWARDED LOOKING BEYOND THE TRAFFIC TICKET AWARD

Officer Dev Atma Khalsa was awarded the Looking Beyond the Traffic Ticket award for 2010 by the New Hampshire Police Standards and Training Council.

The statewide award recognizes Officer Khalsa’s attention to traffic enforcement and his dedication to thorough investigations which often begin as routine traffic encounters only to lead to the discovery of evidence of other crimes.

EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE AWARD PRESENTED TO OFFICER KENNEDY and OFFICER NADEAU

Officers Sean Kennedy and Mark Nadeau were both awarded the Dover Police Department’s Exceptional Service Award for their response to a structure fire at 33 Belknap St. When the officers arrived, they were told that people might be trapped in the building. The officers forced their way into the third floor apartment and found that it was fully involved. They then checked the rest of the apartments to ensure that everyone had gotten out.

DOVER POLICE DEPARTMENT AWARDS OUTSTANDING PARTNER AWARD

The Dover Police Department Outstanding Partner award is awarded to a person and/or organization that has helped the agency accomplish its mission in the community in a manner that is considered to be above and beyond routine in nature.

The award was presented to Dover Fire & Rescue based on the following:

The Dover Fire Department has been extremely helpful over the past year in providing space for training, such as their state of the art classroom or sally port area;
They provide medical back-up to some of our more intense police training sessions;
Provide EMT service whenever needed, such as sending one EMT to Police Standards and Training Council when a new hire needed a special fitness test in order for him to be hired;
Allowing use of their facility requires them to change parking in their lot, for their emergency vehicles, etc.;

They participate in the regional Tactical Team, providing medical support in critical incidents. Our professional relationship with the DFD has truly become a partnership to better serve the citizens of Dover.

2009

EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE AWARD PRESENTED TO OFFICER WATKINSON AND OFFICER TARMEY

Officer Lance Watkinson and Officer John Tarmey each received the Dover Police Department’s Exceptional Service Award for their efforts to disarm a suicidal man armed with a knife.

The officers spoke with the man for nearly an hour before persuading him to drop the knife and accompany them to the hospital for an evaluation.

ANN LEGERE, PURCHASING AGENT, OBTAINS CERTIFICATION

City of Dover's Purchasing Agent, Ann Legere, obtained certification as a Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB) from the Universal Public Purchasing Certification Council. Congratulations to Ann.

NEWSMAKER OF THE YEAR GOES TO YOUTH TO YOUTH

The Dover Police Department’s Youth to Youth program was selected as the Foster’s Daily Democrat “Newsmaker of the Year”.

In making the decision, Foster’s wrote, “This group, made up of student volunteers and adult coordinators, is dedicated to educating the public about the dangers of alcohol and tobacco abuse and preventing underage access to those products. The organization's impact has been felt nationwide and its efforts have garnered numerous awards”.

CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT FOR EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPORTING

A Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting was presented to the City of Dover for its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2009, by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada. This award is presented to government units and public employee retirement systems whose comprehensive annual financial reports (CAFRs) achieve the highest standards in government accounting and financial reporting.

OFFICER KEEFE and K9 NORMAN TAKE 6TH PLACE IN DETECTION

Officer Timothy Keefe and his K9 Norman competed in the annual competition for the US Police K9 Association.

Out of about 100 dog and handler Teams from all over North America, Officer Keefe and Norman finished in 6th place in the detection category. In order to qualify for the competition, they had to first qualify through a regional competition proving that they were competing against truly elite K9 teams.

2008

YOUTH ADVOCATE OF THE YEAR AWARDED TO MERRITT MCLAUGHLIN

The Washington, DC-based Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids has recognized individual Youth to Youth students several times in its annual Youth Advocacy Awards Program. Merritt McLaughlin, a member of the Dover Police Department’s Youth to Youth program, was named the East Regional Youth Advocate of the Year by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids for her leadership in the fight against tobacco.

BREATHE NEW HAMPSHIRE'S ROBERT B KERR AWARD GIVEN TO DANA MITCHELL

Dover Police Prevention Coordinator Dana Mitchell was awarded Breathe New Hampshire’s Robert B. Kerr Award. The award is the highest award given by the organization and is presented to an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to furthering lung health in New Hampshire. The Kerr Award is awarded annually to a New Hampshire person who has consistently demonstrated a selfless professional or personal commitment to furthering lung health in the region. In choosing him, the organization noted that Dana Mitchell has been a strong tobacco prevention advocate, role model, and leader in this state for many years.

SERGEANT MALSBURY RECEIVES WILLIAM H. SPURGEON III AWARD

Dover Police Sgt. William Malsbury received the William H. Spurgeon III Award. This is the highest national award presented to an adult volunteer or organization that has contributed significant leadership to the Police Exploring program. Sergeant Malsbury is the department’s coordinator for the Explorer Post and was responsible for developing the program as part of the department's community policing efforts in 1992. This is the first time a Dover Police Officer has received this prestigious award.

CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT FOR EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPORTING

A Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting was presented to the City of Dover for its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2008 by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada. This award is presented to government units and public employee retirement systems whose comprehensive annual financial reports (CAFRs) achieve the highest standards in government accounting and financial reporting.

2007

DOVER POLICE DEPARTMENT AWARDED COMMISSION FLAGSHIP AWARD

The Dover Police Department, as part of its reaccreditation process through CALEA (Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies) was awarded the Commission’s Flagship Award. Additionally, the agency was awarded the Meritorious Award for being continuously accredited for 15 or more years.

CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE GOES TO OFFICER KEEF AND HIS K9 NORMAN

Officer Keefe and his K9 Norman were awarded the New England Narcotic Enforcement Officers Association Certificate of Excellence.

This certificate was awarded to the team for their assistance with a Drug Enforcement Administration investigation that took them to Somersworth. The investigation resulted in a seizure of crack and powder cocaine, and heroin.

CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT FOR EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPORTING

A Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting was presented to the City of Dover for its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2007 by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada. This award is presented to government units and public employee retirement systems whose comprehensive annual financial reports (CAFRs) achieve the highest standards in government accounting and financial reporting.

2006

TWO YOUTH TO YOUTH STUDENTS WIN NATIONAL AWARDS

Two members of Dover Youth to Youth, Kaitlyn Reilly, 17, and Emily Martuscello, age 16, have been awarded 2006 Youth Advocate of the Year Awards from the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids for their leadership in the fight against smoking and tobacco. It is the first time two students from the same organization have won awards in a single year.

Kaitlyn Reilly was named the overall National Youth Advocate of the Year. Accompanying the award is a $5,000 scholarship, a $500 grant to her anti-drug group, and an all expense paid trip to Washington, DC where she will be recognized at an awards banquet. Reilly, a senior at St. Thomas Aquinas High School, is a seven-year member of Dover Youth to Youth, has worked on several legislative proposals by the students.

Emily Martuscello, a freshman at Dover High School, will be awarded the East Regional Youth Advocate of the Year. She has been in Youth to Youth for four years where she has been particularly involved in educating and mentoring younger students. Martuscello will receive a $2,000 scholarship and a $500 grant for Youth to Youth to use on tobacco prevention efforts in the community. She will travel with Reilly to receive the award in May.

The teens were honored with the winners from the other regions of the United States at the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids' Eleventh Annual Awards Gala in the nation's capital. As the national winner, Reilly gave a speech at this event, which attracts more than 400 public health, civic leaders, and members of Congress.

OFFICER LENO NAMED AS DOVER MAIN STREET VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

Dover Police Officer Mark Leno, now retired, was named the Dover Main Street Volunteer of the Year for 2006. This recognition was for his help with the annual Revealed fundraiser that raised $10,000 for Dover Main Street program with the Factory On Fire reenactment fire presentation at the One Washington Street mill.

He had assisted with the writing of the script, made a documentary of the fire and helped to organize the event that included over 100 actors.

HIGH PLACEMENT FOR OFFICER KEEFE & K9 NORMAN IN DETECTION CATEGORY

Officer Timothy Keefe and his K9 Norman competed in the annual competition for the United States Police K9 Association. Out of about 100 dog and handler teams from all over North America, Officer Keefe and Norman finished in 7th place in the detection category. In order to qualify for the competition, they had to first qualify through a regional competition proving that they were competing against truly elite K9 teams.

CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT FOR EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPORTING

A Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting was presented to the City of Dover for its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2006 by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada. This award is presented to government units and public employee retirement systems whose comprehensive annual financial reports (CAFRs) achieve the highest standards in government accounting and financial reporting.

2005

YOUTH TO YOUTH RECEIVE EXCELLENCE AWARD

The Dover Police Department’s Youth to Youth program received the 2005 New Hampshire Governor's Traffic Safety Commission's Excellence Award for its work in passing the Party Host Law.

PRESIDENT'S SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD GOES TO YOUTH TO YOUTH

NAADAC, The National Association for Addiction Professionals, honored the Dover Police Department’s Youth to Youth program with the President's Special Recognition Award citing the program's positive accomplishments and constructive leadership.

KAITLYN REILLY NAMED EAST REGIONAL YOUTH ADVOCATE OF THE YEAR

Kaitlyn Reilly of Dover Police Department’s Youth to Youth program was named the East Regional Youth Advocate of the Year by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids for her leadership in the fight against tobacco.

At the time of the award, Kaitlin was a six-year member of Dover Youth to Youth, a Dover Police Department program which works to reduce youth tobacco alcohol and drug use. She was a team leader within the group and has traveled across the country leading presentations at state and local youth summits, as well as national conferences.

CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT FOR EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPORTING

A Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting was presented to the City of Dover for its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2005 by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada. This award is presented to government units and public employee retirement systems whose comprehensive annual financial reports (CAFRs) achieve the highest standards in government accounting and financial reporting.

LIEUTENANT BILL SIMONS SELECTED AS J. STANNARD BAKER AWARD RECIPIENT

Dover Police Lt. Bill Simons, now retired, was selected as a 2005 recipient of the J. Stannard Baker Award, sponsored by International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and the Northwestern University Center for Public Safety. This national award recognizes individual law enforcement officers and others for their lifetime contributions to traffic safety. Capt. Simons was selected for his sustained, continuous, and career-spanning extraordinary initiative and creativity in developing and promoting traffic safety programs within and beyond the City of Dover, New Hampshire, and for the benefit of all highway users.

TWO AWARDS GIVEN TO OFFICER KEEFE & K9 NORMAN

Officer Timothy Keefe and his K9 Norman were twice awarded the New England Narcotic Enforcement Officers Association Certificate of Excellence. One of the certificates was for a crack cocaine seizure of over two pounds. The other was for a seizure of nearly 400 pounds of marijuana.

2004

YOUTH TO YOUTH AWARDED FOR LEGISLATION EFFORTS

The Dover Police Department’s Youth to Youth program received the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Region One Teen Safety Award for its efforts to promote Party Host Legislation.

Best Practices Recognition

2023

2022

2021

2020

2019

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

2008

2007

2006

2005

2004