Announcements

Dover Area Woman's Club organizes food drive

posted on 9/26/2023
The Dover Area Woman’s Club will hold a food drive on Saturday, Sept. 30, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at two locations in Dover. Donations will be accepted at the Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce and Shaw’s Supermarket, located on Central Avenue. The drive is part of the club’s National Day of Service.
Donations will benefit the Dover Food Pantry and End 68 Hours of Hunger. Most needed items include boxed macaroni and cheese, peanut butter, jelly, canned fruits and vegetables, canned beans, boxed pasta, and pasta sauce.
The food drive is the Dover Area Woman’s Club's major service project for the year....more
Council to consider warming center funds, Community Services facility expansion

posted on 9/25/2023
The City Council will consider a resolution at its Wednesday, Sept. 27 meeting that would authorize the City Manager to enter into an agreement with Somersworth, Rochester, and Strafford County to operate the Warming Center. It would also allow the city to expend up to $70,000 in federal ARPA grant funds to help fund operations for this winter. The resolution notes that Strafford County and the tri-cities are seeking proposals from entities capable of operating the Warming Center on an as-needed basis during the 2023- 2024 winter months. The City of Dover owns the Warming Center at 30 Willand Drive, which it purchased in 2020 with grant funds. The Warming Center is intended to provide for the safety of those in need during extreme winter weather events.
The City Council will also consider a resolution that would award a bid to Martini Northern for design-build services for an expansion of the public works facility on Mast Road for office space for Inspection Services. The city has investigated the space issues needed for Inspection Services and found them ineffective. Inspection Services’ space needs was discussed at a June 7 City Council workshop, available here....more
NHDOT Ten Year Plan public hearings on the Seacoast
posted on 9/21/2023
The Governor’s Advisory on Intermodal Transportation (GACIT), will hold three public hearings in the Seacoast area for the New Hampshire Department of Transportation’s draft 2025-2023 Ten Year Plan. The draft plan is available at https://www.dot.nh.gov/projects-plans-and-programs/ten-year-plan.
The Seacoast public hearings:
- Durham: Tuesday, Sept. 26, at 3 p.m., Durham Town Hall, 8 Newmarket Road
- Dover: Thursday, Sept. 28, at 7 p.m., Dover City Hall, 288 Central Ave.
- Rochester: Thursday, Sept. 28 at 4 p.m., Rochester City Hall, 32 Wakefield St.
GACIT hearings are occurring this month and next around the state. The complete schedule is available at https://www.dot.nh.gov/about-nh-dot/calendar.
GACIT is comprised of the Executive Council and the NHDOT commissioner. The purpose of these hearings is to receive public comments/testimony on transportation projects and priorities included in the draft plan, as recommended by NHDOT to GACIT. Those not able to attend the meetings can submit written testimony by 4 p.m. on Nov. 3, 2023....more
Informational session on Community Power to be held Monday at City Hall

posted on 9/22/2023
The Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire is now enrolling residents and businesses into the Dover Community Program.
To help inform the public about the program, the City of Dover is hosting an informational session on Monday, Sept. 25, at 6 p.m. in City Hall's Council Conference Room.
This week, informational mailers about the Dover Community Power Program were sent to city residents and businesses.
Residents with the default supplier service from Eversource will be automatically enrolled in the program, which will begin in November. Residents not wanting to enroll must contact Community Power to opt out. The current Community Power default rate is 10.9 cents per kilowatt hour; the default Eversource rate is 12.582 cents per kWh.
Residents utilizing a competitive supplier will not be automatically enrolled; however, these customers may opt-in anytime....more
City Council recognizes Constitution Week, DAR, with proclamation

posted on 9/21/2023
Dover Mayor Robert Carrier recently proclaimed the week of Sept. 17 as Constitution Week in the city.
At a recent City Council meeting, Carrier presented the proclamation to Christine Down, regent of the Margery Sullivan chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
The proclamation recognizes the 236th anniversary of the drafting of the Constitution on Sept. 17, 1787. It calls on citizens to learn about, understand, and defend the founding document.
Carrier noted that the Constitution became the law of the United States on June 21, 1788, when New Hampshire became the ninth state to ratify it.
The weeklong celebration was first declared in 1956 through a resolution passed by the U.S. Congress and signed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. The observation aims to encourage the study of the historical events that led to the framing of the Constitution in September 1787....more
Citizens Leadership Academy offers behind-the-scenes look at how local government works

posted on 9/19/2023
The Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the City of Dover, will once again produce the Citizens Leadership Academy this October. The free program offers Garrison City residents a firsthand look at local government and municipal operations and provides attendees an opportunity to help shape the city's future.
The 2023 Citizens Leadership Academy will meet on Oct. 12, 19, 26, and 28, and Nov. 2 and 9. Each year, this program brings together people from diverse segments of the community interested in meeting and working with others to address key issues critical to maintaining and improving Dover’s quality of life. It will increase citizens’ knowledge of the community and introduce them to opportunities to become active community members.
“Citizens Leadership Academy graduates are encouraged to initiate discussions with other residents as well as business and government leaders and contribute their knowledge, imagination, and energy towards the betterment of the community,” says Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce President Margaret Joyce.
This year’s Citizens Leadership Academy will include presentations from City Manager J. Michael Joyal, Jr., Deputy City Manager/Development and Strategic Initiatives Christopher G. Parker, Director of Planning and Community Development Donna Benton, Library Director Denise LaFrance, Superintendent of Schools Dr. William Harbron, Fire Chief Michael McShane, Police Chief Bill Breault, Community Services Director John Storer and Recreation Director Gary Bannon....more
Dover Police Chief gives overview of illegal drug issues at Council workshop

posted on 9/15/2023
At a City Council workshop this week, Dover Police Chief William Breault gave a presentation on the city's illegal drug issues and the police department's strategies to combat them through enforcement, prevention, and outreach assistance.
Chief Breault stated that illegal drug use, particularly of opioids like fentanyl, remains a major problem in Dover and the Seacoast region. He noted that drug overdose deaths statewide increased 11.5% from 2021 to 2022, reaching record highs, with fentanyl being involved in most cases. Dover has seen seven fatal and 35 non-fatal overdoses so far this year.
Chief Breault said the department takes a hardline stance on enforcement, partnering with state and federal agencies on task forces to go after major drug dealers and traffickers. He cited major seizures of drugs, cash, and firearms from these operations. However, he acknowledged challenges like bail reform that quickly put dealers back on the street.
For prevention, Chief Breault highlighted the department's youth programs, media campaigns, and community partnerships aimed at stopping drug abuse before it starts. But he warned that prevention competes against influential pro-drug messaging and the perception that drugs are not dangerous....more
NHDOT seeks public input on Route 108 improvements at upcoming meetings

posted on 9/15/2023
The New Hampshire Department of Transportation invites the public to attend and ask questions about the improvements under consideration along Route 108 between Dover and Rochester. Three meetings will be held next week, one in Dover, Somersworth and Rochester.
NHDOT is conducting a preliminary engineering and environmental review of proposed improvements to a five-mile section of Route 108 of its Dover-Somersworth-Rochester 29604 project.
NHDOT is holding three Informational meetings, which will contain the same overall presentation but will have more details about the project for the host city. Each meeting begins with an open house where improvement plans will be displayed, followed by a formal presentation and opportunities for the public to ask questions....more
Court and Union Reconstruction Project neighborhood meeting on Sept. 21

posted on 9/13/2023
Engineering staff from the City of Dover’s Community Services invites the public to a neighborhood meeting about the updated design plans for the Court and Union Streets Reconstruction Project on Thursday, Sept. 21. The meeting will be held at 6 p.m. at the Facilities, Grounds and Cemetery office at 145 Court St.
At the meeting, staff from the city and Wright-Pierce, the contracted design consultant, will present its updated project design that includes feedback gathered from the first neighborhood meeting on July 16, 2022, and a subsequent online poll.
For more information, contact Community Services at 603-516-6450....more
City to auction bicycles on Saturday, Sept. 23

posted on: 9/12/2023
The City of Dover will hold a public auction of bicycles on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023.
The auction will begin at 9 a.m. and will take place at the Community Services facility, 271 Mast Road. A total of 32 bicycles will be auctioned off.
Bicycles may be previewed after 8:30 a.m. on the day of the auction.
Children 18 and under will be allowed to bid against other children 18 and under on a bike until all children have won one bike for themselves, after which all other bikes will be open to bidders of any age.
The auction will occur rain or shine. Only cash or checks will be accepted.
A list of items can be viewed here....more

Master Plan panel seeks public feedback on their ‘one wish for Dover’s future’

posted on 1/4/2023
The Planning Board’s Master Plan subcommittee is working on updating the Master Plan’s Visioning Chapter and has a one question survey for the public: “What is your one wish for Dover’s future?”
Survey feedback is part of community outreach the Vision Chapter Steering Committee will conduct over the coming months as it works to update the chapter. The steering committee, appointed by the Planning Board chair, selected “Distinctly Dover: A Community Vision for 2035” as the chapter’s title.
The survey is available here. Your one wish for Dover’s future could be a specific feature, event, or overall quality; anything that you feel would contribute to a future that is Distinctly Dover.
The city’s Master Plan is its strategic plan and is used to shape city and policy decisions. It doesn’t include rules and regulations; instead, it forms the basis for developing rules and regulations and providing direction for capital investment and long-term budget priorities. In Dover, every ten years or so, the Master Plan’s chapters or elements have been reviewed and updated, usually with one chapter reviewed and updated each year....more
Barrington fourth grader gathers donations at school for Willand Warming Center

posted on 1/3/2023
Benjamin Deely, a fourth-grader at Barrington Elementary School, recently delivered several boxes of donated goods to the Willand Warming Center, the result of a donation drive at his school.
According to Ben, the idea came to him over Thanksgiving dinner. He said his mom, Laura, asked everyone around the table, if they could only receive one gift this holiday season, what would it be?
"My grandma went first," Ben said. "She said she wanted donations for the warming shelter." Ben's grandmother, Wendy Whittle, is a volunteer at the Willand Warming Center.
Ben said he raced upstairs, grabbed a $5 bill from his wallet and set it down on the table. When he returned to school after the Thanksgiving holiday, he said he asked to speak to Barrington Elementary School Principal Rich Boardman about starting a donation drive at the school.
According to Ben's mother, Laura Deely, Boardman is a strong proponent of empowering and engaging students, and quickly supported the idea. Boardman and Ben met several times to coordinate the project, which aimed to collect socks, hand warmers, hot chocolate packets and paper goods. Ben’s friends helped decorate boxes that were displayed in the school lobby. It didn't take long for the boxes to fill up.
Ben and his family, including his grandmother, delivered the donations to the warming center on Friday, Dec. 23.
“We really appreciate Ben’s donations," said Tory Jennison, Population Health Systems Chief for Strafford County. "His project showed his school community how one person can have a huge impact on the comfort and safety of others."...more
School Board to continue budget deliberations Jan. 4

posted on: 1/3/2023
The School Board will hold its fourth budget workshop on Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2023, and continue deliberations as the board prepares to adopt a budget for fiscal year 2024.
The workshop begins at 6 p.m. in School Board Chambers, Room 306, at the McConnell Center. The workshop agenda can be viewed here.
The School Board's last budget workshop included a review of enrollment data and the possibility of reallocating staffing positions in the schools based on enrollment trends.
Videos of the budget workshops and the documents reviewed by the School Board are posted on the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Revealed webpage....more
Upcoming New Year's Day holiday hours for City facilities

posted on: 12/30/2022
City administrative offices, including City Hall, will be closed on Monday, Jan. 2, 2023, for the New Year's Day holiday. Regular hours will resume on Tuesday, Jan. 3.
The Public Library will be closed on New Year's Eve, Saturday, Dec. 31, 2022; New Year's Day, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023; and Monday, Jan. 2.
The Dover Ice Arena will be closed on New Year's Eve, Dec. 31, 2022, and New Year's Day, Jan. 1, 2023.
The McConnell Center Recreation facilities will be closed New Year's Day, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023.
The Dover Community Senior Center will be closed on New Year's Eve, Saturday, Dec. 31, 2022; New Year's Day, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023; and Monday, Jan. 2.
The Dover Indoor Pool will be closed on New Year's Eve, Dec. 31, 2022, and New Year's Day, Jan. 1, 2023.
Because New Year's Day falls on a Sunday, there is no delay for curbside trash and recycling pickup....more
Read and win prizes from the Dover Public Library this winter

posted on 12/28/2022
Experience all the feels this winter with Dover Public Library’s Winter Reading Challenge.
Beginning Sunday, Jan. 1, all ages (yes, you too adults) are invited to sign up and receive an emoji bingo card. For every hour read or activity completed, cross off an emoji on your bingo board. Get a bingo in any direction on your card and win a $5 gift card to La Festa, Lickee’s and Chewy’s, or Harvey’s Bakery and Coffee Shop (while supplies last). The fun doesn’t stop with bingo. Complete your entire bingo card and be entered into the grand prize raffle.
The Winter Reading Challenge lasts until Tuesday, Feb. 28. Miss the start date? Sign up is welcomed and encouraged throughout the program.
Participants can pick up a physical bingo board at the library to do by hand, or they can visit the library’s Beanstack website (doverpublic.beanstack.org) to participate virtually. Through Beanstack, participants can choose to record on their computer or through an app on their phone.
Looking for a longer challenge? Join Dover Public Library’s 2023 Book Challenge. Also available in-person or virtually through Beanstack. Can you read all 16 themed books in a year? Expand your world view by reading books and genres outside your usual stack. Win books for completing a bingo and filling out your board. This challenge takes place Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2023....more
School Board to continue budget deliberations Jan. 4

posted on 12/27/2022
The School Board scheduled its fourth budget workshop for Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2023, to continue its deliberations as the board prepares to adopt its budget for fiscal year 2024.
The School Board held its third budget workshop on Dec. 19, reviewing enrollment data and considering reallocating staffing positions in its schools based on enrollment trends.
Videos of the budget workshops and the documents reviewed by the School Board are posted on the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Revealed webpage.
Click here for the School Board’s Jan. 4 workshop agenda....more
Respiratory illnesses on the rise, including influenza and Covid-19

posted on 12/27/2022
Fire Chief Michael McShane, who serves as the city’s Emergency Management Director, reminds the public that respiratory illnesses are rising, including influenza (flu), common colds, and Covid-19. With the winter holidays, there are more public gatherings, providing more opportunities for these illnesses to spread with ease.
McShane urges the public to use common sense and remember that respiratory illnesses, such as colds, flu and Covid-19, spread the same way.
“Wash your hands,” McShane said. “Cover your mouth when you cough. Stay home if you feel sick, and wear a mask if you must interact with others.”
McShane said those who have had fevers should not return to a public setting until they’ve been without a fever for 24 hours without using fever-reducing medication.
“The more diligent we are in taking care of ourselves, the better we will come out of this flu season without taxing our health care system,” McShane said....more
Christmas holiday hours for city facilities and services

posted on: 12/23/2022
City administrative offices, including City Hall, will be closed on Monday, Dec. 26, for the Christmas holiday. Regular hours will resume on Tuesday, Dec. 27.
The Public Library will be closed on Christmas Eve, Saturday, Dec. 24; Christmas Day, Sunday, Dec. 25; and Monday, Dec. 26.
The Dover Ice Arena will be closed on Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, and Christmas Day, Dec. 25.
The McConnell Center Recreation facilities will close at 12 p.m. on Christmas Eve, Saturday, Dec. 24, and will be closed on Christmas Day, Sunday, Dec. 25.
The Dover Community Senior Center will be closed on Christmas Eve, Saturday, Dec. 24; Christmas Day, Sunday, Dec. 25; and Monday, Dec. 26.
The Dover Indoor Pool will be closed on Christmas Eve, Saturday, Dec. 24, and Christmas Day, Sunday, Dec. 25.
The Recycling Center on Mast Road will close at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 24.
Because Christmas falls on a Sunday, there is no delay for curbside trash and recycling pickup....more
Salted sand available to residents

posted on 12/22/2022
The city provides free salted sand to residents of Dover. The salted sand is located at the intersection of Piscataqua and Drew roads.
Residents must bring their own supplies, such as buckets, bags and shovels. Please note that when temperatures are below freezing, the pile can harden and be more difficult to work with.
For more information, contact Community Services at 603-516-6450....more
Put a freeze on winter fires
posted on 12/21/2022
Heating, holiday decorations, winter storms and candles contribute to an increased fire risk during the winter months. It’s fun to decorate for the winter holidays, but holiday decorations can increase the risks of home fires. Dover Fire and Rescue Chief Michael McShane reminds residents that as you deck the halls this season, be fire smart.
- Half of the home decoration fires in December are started by candles;
- Candles start more than one-third of home decoration fires;
- Christmas is the peak day for candle fires; Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that burns;
- A dry Christmas tree can burn very hot and very fast – make sure yours is well watered; More than one in every five Christmas tree fires was caused by a heat source too close to the tree;
- Read the manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands to connect;
- Ensure your tree is at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, space heaters, candles or heat vents. Also, make sure your tree does not block exits;
- Get rid of your tree after Christmas or when it is dry.
...more
Chestnut Street bridge work begins next month, requiring bridge closure

posted on 12/16/2022
The City Council this week awarded a $2.1 million bid for the rehabilitation of the Chestnut Street bridge to New England Infrastructures, LLC.
The project consists of removing the pavement, membrane and sidewalks on the bridge, repairing deteriorated concrete in the bridge deck, cold-planing of the pavement, reconstructing the bridge sidewalks, and installing new bridge membrane, new bridge pavement and new wearing-course pavement.
Work on the project is expected to begin next month, and the contractor is authorized to close the bridge to all vehicular and pedestrian traffic through May to complete the work. The Transportation Advisory Commission reviewed and approved the closure plan at its May 23, 2022, meeting.
More details of the project schedule will be posted next week after a preconstruction meeting with the contractor.
Sign-up for email alerts
The project will significantly affect traffic, and the City of Dover will release regular updates about the project and related traffic impacts. To sign-up for these updates, visit https://bit.ly/dovernewsletters and add “Project update: Chestnut Street bridge repairs” to your current email subscription list....more
School Board continues budget deliberations on Monday

posted on 12/16/2022
The School Board will meet for a budget workshop this Monday, Dec. 19, at 6 p.m. in School Board Chambers, Room 306 of the McConnell Center.
At the workshop, the School Board will review its fiscal year 2024 budget and may make its final decisions on its FY2024 budget priorities.
Business Administrator Michael Limanni provided the School Board with updated budget documents at the board’s Dec. 12 meeting. That and other budget documents provided to the board are posted on the FY2024 Budget Revealed webpage.
School Board agendas for this and previous meetings and workshops are posted here.
The School Board will next meet on Monday, Jan. 9, for a regular meeting where the board may adopt the FY2024 budget, with a fallback adoption date the following week....more
Dover Fire Toy Bank seeking donations

posted on 12/15/2022
The 2022 Dover Fire Toy Bank continues to collect toys for its annual toy bank.
The Dover Fire Toy Bank has been coordinated by current and retired members of the Dover Fire and Rescue for more than 43 years. The Toy Bank started out all those years ago helping a dozen families in the city, it has now grown to help over 350 families. While Christmas typically conjures up visions of Santa and toys, the Toy Bank also provides educational aids, warm clothing, and boots to many children in Dover.
The Dover community - area businesses, seniors, families, school groups, civic groups and others have been very supportive and generous in the past. Donations of toys, games, clothing, personal hygiene items, gift certificates, and monetary donations have enabled us to help those less fortunate. The Toy Bank would not be successful without continued help from the community.
Here's how to help:
Collect new toys within your organization for age groups from newborn to 12 years old. If looking for a specific need to fill, the infant and 9-12 age groups are always in need for both boys and girls. If you need a collection box, please call 603-516-TOYS, leave a message, and we will get you one for your business.
Purchase gift cards to area businesses, mall stores, and grocery stores are always appreciated.
Shop for hats and mittens, gloves and scarves that are needed for the cold winter. These gifts help ensure each child receives these essentials. Collecting monetary donations within an organization and shopping for gifts helps greatly. If you don't have time to shop for these items, the Toy Bank will do it for you....more
Santa’s Castle returns this Friday

posted on 12/14/2022
Dover Youth to Youth will host its 15th annual Santa’s Castle at the McConnell Center in downtown Dover for three days during the Christmas season. Each night children and their families will be able to tour several rooms in Santa’s Castle and meet Santa and many of his elves.
During the first weekend, the event will be held on Friday, Dec. 16 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 17 between the hours of 2 and 6:30 p.m. The Castle will conclude on Friday, Dec. 23, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.
During the tour, students from Youth to Youth, acting as elves will guide visitors through Rudolph’s stable, Santa’s toy room, Mrs. Claus’s Kitchen and other parts of the Castle. The tour culminates with a visit with Santa. Along the tour, children will be entertained by the elves and will collect small gifts in each room. Families are welcome to bring a camera and take pictures or video during the tour and with Santa.
Pre-registration is required. Groups making a reservation must be no larger than six people and include family members only. To insure the safety of all guests and performers, the tour will be spaced out more than in the past.
To make a reservation, visit...more
Public hearing on draft electric aggregation plan for Dover Community Power on Dec. 14

posted on 12/13/2022
While many New Hampshire residents saw a dramatic spike in electric utility rates this fall, the City of Dover and Dover Energy Commission have been working towards providing all ratepayers the best possible rates with expanded choices that will include renewable energy.
Dover became a charter member of the Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire (CPCNH) with the primary objectives of creating savings for customers, supporting local businesses, and reducing fossil fuel consumption while enhancing electricity grid reliability. CPCNH works like a cooperative, utilizing the combined purchasing power of participating customers within the active communities. Given that membership already includes 24 municipalities and one county, the Dover Energy Commission believes that very competitive rates are likely achievable.
The City Council has charged the Dover Energy Commission with overseeing the creation of the plan that will form a foundation for how the city interacts with CPCNH to purchase electric power on behalf of the municipality and participating customers citywide. The commission has approved a draft plan and is now soliciting public input during the second of two public hearings....more
Chestnut Street bridge repairs, Community Trail expansion before City Council

posted on 12/12/2022
The City Council meets on Wednesday, Dec. 14, for its only regular meeting of the month.
Agenda items include a resolution to authorize the city to contract with New England Infrastructures, LLC. to make repairs to the Chestnut Street bridge for $2.1 million.
The project consists of removing the pavement, membrane and sidewalks on the bridge, repairing deteriorated concrete in the bridge deck, cold planning approach pavement, reconstructing the bridge sidewalks, and installing new bridge membrane, new bridge pavement and new wearing course pavement.
If the project receives authorization, work is expected to begin in the coming weeks, and the contractor will create a traffic control program as part of the work. The contractor is authorized to close the bridge to all pedestrian and vehicular traffic through mid-spring to complete the work, which was reviewed and approved by the Transportation Advisory Commission at its May 23, 2022, meeting.
The repair project was put out for bid in March 2022; however, it was not awarded due to higher bid pricing than planned. The bid was revised, and more funding was added to the Fiscal Years 2024-2029 Capital Improvements Program adopted by the City Council in October 2022. The project was rereleased for bid in October, with New England Infrastructures, LLC., of Hudson, Massachusetts as the sole responder.
Other agenda items include authorizing...more
State certifies Dover tax rate; tax bills to be mailed soon

posted on 12/9/2022
The New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration (DRA) certified the City of Dover’s property tax rate for fiscal year 2023 (tax year 2022) Wednesday, Dec. 7, at $19.84 per $1,000 assessed valuation.
The Finance Department is preparing for tax bills to be mailed out Friday, Dec. 16, with the first half of the tax bill due Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2023. The second half of the tax bill would be due Thursday, June 1, 2023.
The tax rate set by the DRA represents a decrease of $1.86 or an 8.6% decrease over the prior year.
“It should be noted that the overall tax rate would have been $1.18 more than last year’s rate if assessments had remained unchanged given solely the budgetary impacts of $0.16 for the City portion of the tax bill, $1.02 for the School portion and $0.00 (no impact) for the County,” City Manager J. Michael Joyal, Jr. said to the City Council in an email. “The certified rate for this year was instead significantly reduced due to the overall increase in assessed value of 14.3% realized from the combination of increased market value and the new construction value added within the community this past year.”...more
School Board, City Council discuss tax cap, wage study

posted on 12/9/2022
The City Council and the School Board met in a joint workshop on Dec. 7 to receive preliminary budget estimates and a preliminary tax cap calculation.
The joint budget session occurs annually at the beginning of the budget season to help the School Board and City Council with budget planning. In the workshop, Finance Director Daniel Lynch discussed the tax cap and how it is calculated.
The tax cap will not be finalized until early 2024 when the Consumer Price Index for Boston-Cambridge-Newton MA-NH and the net construction/demolition permit value for Dover are finalized for 2022.
The School Board and City Council also discussed the recent findings of the teacher salary benchmark survey, which the City Council had requested during the fiscal year 2023 budget adoption process.
The School Board is in the process of creating a budget for fiscal year 2024. The School Board has met the last two Mondays for budget workshops and will continue budget discussions at its meeting on Monday, Dec. 12, followed by another budget workshop on Monday, Dec. 19. The School Board plans to adopt a budget at its Monday, Jan. 9, regular board meeting, with a fallback adoption date the following week....more
City unveils land acknowledgment plaque

posted on 12/8/2022
On Monday, Nov. 28, the City of Dover unveiled a replica of a bronze plaque bearing a land acknowledgment to the area's indigenous peoples. The ceremony, held at the Dover Public Library, was attended by city officials, members of the indigenous community, and members of the Racial Equity and Inclusion Committee.
The bronze plaques are made possible thanks to a generous grant by the New Hampshire Humanities Council. They will be installed at city facilities.
The unveiling was followed by a special presentation on indigenous land stewardship, with guest speakers Paul and Denise Pouliot, the Sag8mo and Sag8moskwa (Male and Female Head Speakers) of the Cowasuck Band of the Pennacook Abenaki People; and Kathleen Blake, affiliate faculty of the University of New Hampshire Native American and Indigenous Studies Minor. The presentation can be viewed here: https://dovernh.viebit.com/player.php? hash=MsYAc1myDkHp.
The New Hampshire Humanities Council grant, which was approved by the City Council earlier this year, helped create Indigenous Dover, an initiative to help better understand and appreciate the history of the indigenous peoples who were here in what is now called Dover, thousands of years before the first European settlers....more
Dover Police now accepting names for Christmas Basket Program

posted on 12/5/2022
The Dover Police Department is now accepting names, addresses and phone numbers of needy families residing in Dover for the annual Christmas Basket Program. The Police Department conducts this program through Dover Police Charities each December to provide a Christmas dinner to families in Dover.
Last year, 125 baskets of food were distributed to families throughout the community. In addition, a large quantity of food was provided to the Dover Children’s Home and My Friend’s Place.
In order to make this year's program a success, donations are needed from the community. Nonperishable food items, canned goods, or monetary donations will be accepted at the Dover Police Department, 46 Chestnut St. (Checks should be made payable to Dover Police Charities.) If you cannot deliver your food donations to the police station, call 603-742-4646 and pick-up will be arranged.
Employees of the Dover Police Department and their families will prepare and deliver the baskets on Saturday, Dec. 17....more
City Council, School Board hold joint workshop on budget development, tax cap

posted on 12/5/2022
The City Council and School Board will meet jointly on Wednesday, Dec. 7, to discuss the development of the fiscal year 2024 budget and receive a preliminary calculation of the FY2024 tax cap.
The tax cap is calculated annually, as the city’s charter requires. “The City Council shall adopt the annual municipal budget for city and school purposes to limit the property tax levy on taxpayers to the property tax levy from the previous tax year increased by the amount of inflation calculated from the Consumer Price Index-Boston and the net increase in new construction,” the charter states in Limitation on Property Tax Levy Increase, with inflation calculated on the last three years of CPI data. The charter allows the tax cap to be overridden by a two-thirds majority vote of all elected City Council members.
The workshop will also include a discussion of the teacher salary benchmark survey. The School Board and City Council approved the Dover Teachers’ Union one-year contract in September. During the adoption of the FY2023 budget, the City Council requested the School Department conduct a wage study....more
Seacoast Chamber Alliance Mental Health Summit Dec. 8

posted on 12/5/2022
The second annual Mental Health, Wellness and Recovery in the Workplace Summit, underwritten by Kennebunk Savings and sponsored by Harvard Pilgrim Health Care and Granite United Way, will take place Thursday, Dec. 8 at the McConnell Center Cafeteria in Dover from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.
The summit is presented by the Seacoast Chamber Alliance, the Dover Mental Health Alliance, and the Recovery Friendly Workplace Initiative. Registration is $10 for chamber members and $15 for nonmembers. To register, visit dovernh.org/wellnesssummit.
The Mental Health, Wellness & Recovery in the Workplace Summit is designed to help employers learn about the steps they can take to reduce the stigma around mental health in the workplace. Topics include the state of mental health and substance abuse in the workplace, how to recognize potential mental health or substance abuse issues, providing a safe environment to seek help, and resources available for employers.
The keynote speaker is Charla Stevens, owner of Charla Stevens Consulting. Stevens is currently the chair of the Granite United Way Board of Directors, trustee of Solution Health, a commissioner of the New Hampshire Lawyers' Assistance Program, and serves on the American Bar Association's Task Force on Mental Health and Wellness. She will be joined by several panelists: Brad Paige, Kennebunk Savings president and CEO; Kate Skouteris, vice president of N.H. Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare; Peter Fifield, manager of Integrated Behavioral Health and Substance Use Disorder Services at Wentworth-Douglass Hospital; Kaitlyn Jones, social worker with the City of Dover Police Department; and Katie Soule, associate director of Childcare and Day Camp Services, Granite YMCA....more
School Board budget review continues

posted on 12/2/2022
The School Board will hold its second budget workshop on Monday, Dec. 5, at 6 p.m. in the McConnell Center’s School Board Chambers, Room 306.
Last week, the School Board heard from department heads on the need for the new positions they proposed for the fiscal year 2024 budget. At its Nov. 14 meeting, the School Board received its preliminary budget from Superintendent William Harbron and Business Administrator Michael Limanni.
Videos of budget discussions and related documents are posted on the FY2024 Budget Revealed webpage https://www.dover.nh.gov/government/open-government/budget-revealed/fy2024-budget/.
The School Board has a regular meeting on Monday, Dec. 12, and another budget workshop on Monday, Dec. 19. Meetings and workshops are televised live on Channel 22 and online at dovernh.viebit.com, where they will also be available for on-demand viewing....more
Dover Main Street rings in holiday season

posted on 12/2/2022
Dover Main Street has several events planned this holiday season.
Santa Claus Is Coming to Town
Dover Main Street, in coordination with Dover Fire and Rescue, and Dover Police, will escort Santa Claus through many Dover neighborhoods on Sunday, Dec. 11, from 1 to 4 p.m. Keep posted on Santa’s route by visiting the Dover Main Street website at dovermainstreet.org and viewing the map and live GPS tracker.
Annual Food Drive
Please help others by donating food at Dover Main Street's annual food drive. Between now and Dec. 17, while enjoying dinner at one of Dover’s restaurants or finishing your shopping at one or all of Dover’s finest retail stores, please leave a canned good or other non-perishable food item for those in need. Members of Dover Main Street will collect the donation and deliver to the Dover Food Pantry.
Businesses accepting donations of nonperishables include: Bending Bodhi Yoga, Chapel & Main, Doug’s Hoagies, Dover Police, Dover Jewelers, Earth Harmony Wellness, Edward Jones, Envoy Mortgage, Erin Claire Boutique, Fat Dog Kitchen, The Groovy Witch, Harvey’s Bakery, Inside Out Beauty Salon, Jewelry Creations, Just The Thing, The Colwell Ellis Group at Keller Williams Coastal Realty, The Lesniak Home team at Keller Williams Coastal Realty, Lexie’s, Market Square Jewelers, Moe’s Subs, The Nook, Pro Nails, Ross Furniture, The Sassy Biscuit, Suits With Style, Tri-Star Gymnastics and TDBank....more
Dover’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting is Dec. 2

posted on: 11/30/2022
The 37th annual Christmas Tree Lighting in Henry Law Park will be held on Friday, Dec. 2, 2022 at 6 p.m.
Nancy Gurick will lead attendees in singing popular Christmas songs around the tree.
Everyone is encouraged to attend this family tradition, held each holiday season, and to bring a weather-appropriate ornament to hang on the tree.
Please dress warm and join in for some caroling around the tree.
Event organizers are also holding a food drive for local food pantries during this year's event. Nonperishable food items will collected at Henry Law Park, during the tree lighting festivities.
For more information, contact the Recreation Department at 603-516-6401....more
Downtown Dover Holiday Stroll on Dec. 1

posted on 11/28/2022
On Thursday, Dec. 1, Dover businesses will stay open late for an evening of festive fun. A group of downtown business owners has coordinated the event to celebrate Dover’s downtown and to promote all of Dover’s small businesses.
The event will take place from 4 to 7 p.m., and participating stores will have special promotions such as in-store sales, refreshments, snacks, gifts, and more. Get some hot cocoa, shop, write letters to Santa and enjoy the beginning of the Holiday Season.
The Downtown Dover Holiday Stroll is a light-hearted and fun community event, and all are invited to participate in the fun while supporting the Dover business community.
All updates and special promotions being planned by Dover businesses will be posted on the Facebook event page...more
Public hearing, vote on Tax Anticipation Note resolution at Nov. 30 special meeting

posted on 11/28/2022
The City Council, at a Wednesday, Nov. 30 special meeting, will hold a public hearing followed by a vote on a resolution to authorize the city to borrow up to $10 million to meet its cash flow needs through a Tax Anticipation Note. A workshop will follow the special meeting.
The potential need for a TAN is to make two significant payments for the FY2023 fiscal year next month before the city receives property tax revenue from tax bills. One is a $4,026,966 payment for mid-year debt service payments; the other is to the Strafford County government for $9,848,433. Strafford County residents pay a county portion of their property taxes to their local government, which is distributed to the county in a lump sum each December.
“Typically, we strive to have a certified tax rate from the Department of Revenue Administration and have tax bills mailed by mid-November with a due date for the first half tax payment no later than mid-December,” Joyal told the City Council earlier this month. “The timing for the receipt of the certified tax rate and our issuance of tax bills is critical to ensure we have sufficient cash receipts on hand to make a debt service payment on Dec. 15 and the county tax bill, due in full, on Dec. 16 of each year.”
Any interest costs for the TAN would be made from existing appropriations for bond issuance costs.
The city does not anticipate receiving a certified tax rate from the DRA until at least Nov. 30. If the DRA certifies the tax rate then, the first half of the FY2023 tax bill would likely be issued on Dec. 8 with a due date of Jan. 9, 2023. Typically, the bulk of property tax revenue arrives about two weeks after the bills are mailed, which would be after the two significant payments are due this year....more
School Board budget workshop is Monday

posted on 11/25/2022
The School Board continues its fiscal year 2024 budget discussions with a budget workshop on Monday, Nov. 28.
Superintendent William Harbron and Business Administrator Michael Limanni presented their preliminary budget at the Nov. 14 School Board meeting. They said the budget was still being refined and a more thorough budget would be presented on Nov. 28. The preliminary budget, which includes a list of requested positions, is available here.
At the budget workshop, department heads will be on hand to discuss the new position requests with information on the positions, why they are requested, and the data to support the need for them, Harbron told the School Board on Nov. 14. The School Board has until Jan. 15, 2023, to finalize its FY2024 budget.
The workshop begins at 6 p.m. in School Board Chambers at the McConnell Center. Click here for the complete agenda. Please note, Citizen’s Forum comments are limited to agenda items only as it’s a workshop and not a regular meeting....more
Thanksgiving holiday hours for City offices and facilities

posted on: 11/22/2022; updated: 11/23/2022
City administrative offices, including City Hall, will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 24, and Friday, Nov. 25, 2022, for Thanksgiving. In addition, city administrative offices will close at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 23.
The Public Library will close at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 23, and will be closed on Thanksgiving Day and Friday, Nov. 25. The Library will also be closed on Sunday, Nov. 27, for the Holiday Parade.
The Recycling Center on Mast Road will be closed on Thanksgiving Day.
The Dover Community Senior Center is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Friday, Nov. 25.
The Dover Arena and Indoor Pool will be closed on Thanksgiving Day. Both facilities will be open during regular hours on Friday, Nov. 25.
Inspection Services, located at the North End Fire Station, will be closed on Thanksgiving Day and Friday, Nov. 25.
Curbside trash and recycling pickup will be delayed one day on Thursday and Friday only....more
New land acknowledgment plaques to be installed at city facilities

posted on 11/21/2022
On Monday, Nov. 28, the City of Dover will unveil the first of several bronze plaques bearing a land acknowledgment to the area's indigenous peoples. The ceremony will be held at the Dover Public Library, beginning at 6 p.m. The bronze plaques are made possible thanks to a generous grant by the New Hampshire Humanities Council. The unveiling will be followed by a special presentation on indigenous land stewardship, with guest speakers Paul and Denise Pouliot, the Sag8mo and Sag8moskwa (Male and Female Head Speakers) of the Cowasuck Band of the Pennacook Abenaki People; and Kathleen Blake, affiliate faculty of the University of New Hampshire Native American and Indigenous Studies Minor.
The New Hampshire Humanities Council grant, which was approved by the City Council earlier this year, helped create Indigenous Dover, an initiative to help better understand and appreciate the history of the indigenous peoples who were here in what is now called Dover, thousands of years before the first European settlers.
The City Council adopted a land acknowledgment last year, which had been proposed by the Council’s ad-hoc Committee on Racial Equity and Inclusion (CREI). Dover's land acknowledgment at city facilities will state:
“This facility is located at Cochecho (CO-chi-co) within N’dakinna (n-DA-ki-na), now called Dover, New Hampshire, which is the unceded traditional ancestral homeland of the Abenaki (a-BEN-a-ki), Pennacook and Wabanaki Peoples, past and present. We acknowledge and honor with gratitude the land, waterways, living beings, and the Aln8bak (Al-nuh-bak), the people who have stewarded N’dakinna (n-DA-ki-na) for many millennia.”...more
City seeks to rebid waterfront public improvements after receiving no bids

posted on 11/18/2022
City of Dover staff are working on repackaging the bid for the public improvements to the city-owned waterfront development site after none of the four prequalified firms submitted a bid for the project.
Project Manager Steve Bird updated the Cochecho Waterfront Development Advisory Committee (CWDAC) Tuesday on some reasons why no bids were received learned from conversations with the firms following the Oct. 26 bid closing date.
Bird said that all of the firms expressed concern about not being able to complete some of the required shoreline work by the March 15, 2023, deadline set by the permit issued by the Army Corps of Engineers. Other reasons include not getting the cost estimates from subcontractors and the firms being too busy with other work to begin the waterfront work by December or early January.
Bird said the city is working with the Army Corps of Engineers to transfer the existing permit to a new one, allowing work from September through March 15, 2024. Engineers are also revising the bid in response to some of the questions raised by the potential bidders....more
Dover Holiday Parade is Nov. 27

posted on 11/16/2022
Cochecho Friends, a local volunteer organization, will present the 2022 Dover Holiday Parade on Sunday, Nov. 27 at 3 p.m. This year’s theme is “Holiday Countdown to Celebrating our Past, Present, and Future.” The parade route will begin by the Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce on Central Avenue and continue to Cleary Cleaners, across from Pine Hill Cemetery.
During the parade, look for the new Dover Holiday Parade logo. Cochecho Friends recently announced the winner, Mya Kageleiry, a seventh grader at Dover Middle School, who plays on the basketball and softball teams.
The parade is presented by Dover Honda and is sponsored by DF Richard; Hopkins Enterprises; Martel Plumbing and Heating; Broadview Animal Hospital; Weibrecht and Ecker, PLLC; and Burns, Bryant, Cox, Rockefeller and Durkin. ...more
EPA completes five-year review of Tolend Road Superfund site

posted on 11/14/2022
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has completed its comprehensive review of the site cleanup of the former municipal landfill on Tolend Road, a National Priority List site known as a Superfund site. The EPA's review was one of 14 in New England conducted this year.
The review, completed on Sept. 19, 2022, is the EPA's second five-year review of Dover's former municipal landfill, with the first finished on Sept. 25, 2017. The two reports and associated documents related to the site are available at www.epa.gov/superfund/dover. The reviews' purpose is to evaluate the implementation and performance of a remedy to determine if the remedy is and will continue to be protective of human health and the environment.
The Superfund program, a federal program established by Congress in 1980, investigates and cleans up the country's most complex, uncontrolled or abandoned hazardous waste sites and endeavors to facilitate activities to return them to productive use. In total, there are 123 Superfund sites across New England....more
Energy Commission to hold public hearing on draft Electric Aggregation Plan for Dover Community Power program

posted on 11/10/2022
The Energy Commission will hold its first of two public hearings on the draft Electric Aggregation Plan (EAP) at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 16, in the McConnell Center cafeteria, the first step of creating a Dover Community Power program. Following public input, the Energy Commission will schedule a second public hearing.
The EAP would serve as the Dover Community Power program’s operation blueprint. The Energy Commission, which Dover’s City Council designated as the city’s Electric Aggregation Committee (EAC) for the program, will take feedback at the public hearings and finalize its recommendations for the City Council’s consideration. If approved by the Council, implementing the EAP would require further steps, including review by the Public Utilities Commission. The draft EAP is available at www.dover.nh.gov/government/city-operations/planning/resilient-dover/community-power/.
The Community Power program is authorized under state law RSA 53:E. It allows municipalities and counties to aggregate retail electric customers to “access to competitive markets for supplies of electricity and related energy services” on a voluntary basis. The program will only launch if it can initially offer residential default electricity rates lower than those provided by Eversource. The program will be self-funded through revenue generated by participating customers and not use taxpayer funds to cover program expenses.
“Drafting the Electric Aggregation Plan is a crucial step forward in creating a Community Power program for Dover, and it is critical for the public to be involved in the process,” said Resilience Manager Jackson Kaspari, who provides staff support to the EAC. “By joining forces with communities across the state, the program, if authorized, has opportunities to bring new value and expand representation for participating customers.”...more
Dover's election results, voter turnout posted to 2022 election page

posted on 11/9/2022
More than 15,000 votes were cast by Dover residents in the Nov. 8, 2022 election, a voter turnout of 66.3% election.
The election results and the voter turnout for each of Dover's six wards are available on the 2022 General Election page. Certified election results for federal, state and county races will be posted to the New Hampshire Secretary of State's Election Division webpage, www.sos.nh.gov/elections, when available.
Ward 3 had the highest voter turnout, with 70.9% of registered voters casting a ballot. Ward 1 had the lowest turnout, with 60.3% of registered voters casting a vote.
The turnout for the Nov. 8 election was similar to the Nov. 8, 2018, non-presidential general election, where 66.4% of registered voters in Dover cast a ballot. The 2014 non-presidential general election had a 52.4% voter turnout. ...more
Citizens' Leadership Academy graduates its 2022 class

posted on 11/8/2022; updated: 11/22/2022
The Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce's Citizens' Leadership Academy graduated its 11th class on Nov. 3 after six sessions that provided an in-depth look at the City of Dover's municipal operations.
Mayor Robert Carrier and City Councilor Lindsey Williams were on hand to thank the graduates for their commitment to the course. They encouraged them to become involved with the City, such as becoming a member of the many boards and commissions.
Sponsored by the Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce, Eastern Bank and the City of Dover, the Citizens' Leadership Academy provides residents with an opportunity to see City of Dover operations up close. The Academy met for six sessions beginning Oct. 6.
The sessions included a basic government overview hosted by City Manager J. Michael Joyal, Jr.; a tour of police operations with Police Chief William Breault; a tour of Dover Fire and Rescue with Chief Michael McShane; a tour of the public works facilities with Community Services Director John Storer; an overview of Dover's public education system with Superintendent William Harbron; and a session focused on culture, recreation and quality of life presented by Library Director Denise LaFrance, Recreation Director Garry Bannon, and Director of Planning and Community Development Donna Benton.
The 2022 graduation members are Melina Schuler Gambino, David Emery, Betsy Haley, Katie Smith, PJ Whitney, M. Keniston, Chris Lawrence, Maureen Raeside, and David Beaulieu....more
City Council considers resolution authorizing tax anticipation note as tax rate setting is delayed

posted on 11/7/2022
At its Wednesday, Nov. 9, meeting, the City Council will hold a first reading and schedule a public hearing for Nov. 30 on a resolution that would authorize the issuance of a tax anticipation note (TAN). The potential need for a TAN is due to a delay in the School Department's submittal of required documents to the state. The city cannot produce and issue tax bills for the current tax year until the Department of Revenue Administration (DRA) certifies the city’s tax rate.
City Manager J. Michael Joyal, Jr., notified the Council that while he seeks authorization for the TAN, the city would only proceed if needed before tax receipts begin arriving.
“Typically, we strive to have a certified tax rate from DRA and have tax bills mailed by midNovember with a due date for the first half tax payment no later than mid-December,” Joyal wrote to the Council. “The timing for the receipt of the certified tax rate and our issuance of tax bills is critical to ensure we have sufficient cash receipts on hand to make a debt service payment on Dec. 15 and the county tax bill, due in full, on Dec. 16 of each year.”
Tax anticipation notes are authorized by state law; a TAN requires a public hearing and a twothirds affirmative vote of the City Council to authorize. Joyal said the delay in obtaining a certified the tax rate is due to the delay in finalizing School Department forms for estimated revenue and prior-year financial information to the state, which the DRA requires to proceed with the issuance a certified tax rate....more
State General Election is Tuesday

posted on 11/4/2022
The state general election will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022, and polls in Dover will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Absentee ballots are available to voters who cannot make it to the polls that day.
The election ballot includes races for federal, state and county offices, including Governor, U.S. Senator, Representative in Congress, Executive Councilor, State Senator, State Representative, Sheriff, County Attorney, County Treasurer, Register of Deeds, Register of Probate and County Commissioners. The ballot also includes two constitutional questions.
Information about the election, including sample ballots, can be found on the City of Dover's 2022 General Election page or the New Hampshire Secretary of State's elections page. In addition, City Clerk Susan Mistretta appeared on a recent Dover Download podcast to discuss the upcoming election, and what voters should know. The podcast can be heard here or wherever you get your podcasts....more
COAST to offer free rides on Election Day

posted on 11/3/2022
COAST will offer free rides to anyone on their way to vote on Tuesday, Nov. 8.
While the COAST public transit system does not provide transportation to each individual polling station directly, their hope is to encourage voters to get to the polls and participate in voting by eliminating the barrier of transportation costs.
All passengers need to do is tell their driver that they are on their way to vote, or on the way back from voting, and they will not be charged for the ride. COAST will be following an honor system.
Not sure where your polling place is? See the 2022 General Election page, or visit the Secretary of State's website at https://app.sos.nh.gov/viphome.
ADA, Route 7 On-Demand, and Portsmouth Senior Transportation Clients: Please call TripLink for details 603-834-6010....more
Dover Olympians honored in Faces of Dover historical marker
posted on 11/3/2022
Those who have visited Henry Law Park recently have likely noticed a new historical marker with photos and brief bios of seven Dover-connected Olympians.
The marker, part of the Faces of Dover history project, was installed last month at the top entrance of the park at 6 Washington St., near the corner of Henry Law Avenue and Washington Street. It is a partnership Recreation Advisory Board, Dover 400 Committee , Faces of Dover , Dover Main Street and the City of Dover.
The Olympians honored on the marker:
- Ted Vogel, Marathon, 1948 London;
- Barbara Marois, Field Hockey, 1988 Seoul and 1996 Atlanta;
- Jennie Marshall, Rowing, 1988 Seoul;
- Cathy Schiro O'Brien, Marathon, 1988 Seoul, 1992 Barcelona;
- Jenny Thompson, Swimming, 1992 Barcelona, 1996 Atlanta, 2000 Sydney, 2004 Athens;
- Jessica Parratto, Synchronized Platform Diving, 2016 Rio de Janeiro, 2020 Toyko;
- Liza Corso, Running, 2020 Toyoko Paralympics.
Discussions to create a marker began in earnest with the Recreation Advisory Board, starting in June 2021, just ahead of the Toyko Olympics, where two Dover athletes competed: Jessica Parrato and Liza Corso....more
City Council adopts FY2024-29 Capital Improvements Program

posted on 11/1/2022
At its meeting on Oct. 26, the City Council approved three resolutions to adopt the FY20242029 Capital Improvements Program (CIP). The CIP was first presented to the City Council and Planning Board in September. Following public hearings and a workshop, the Planning Board adopted the CIP earlier in October, recommending the proposal to the City Council, which held additional public hearings prior to the Oct. 26 vote.
The CIP prioritizes all capital spending of $25,000 or more for items with a useful life of three years or longer. Based on City Council financing policy, funding for these items includes bonding, the annual operating budget or other types of financing. This six-year program links infrastructure spending to the goals and values outlined in the city’s Master Plan. Through this process, the city identifies projects within the six-year timeline, based on the priorities established in our Master Plan.
The first year of the adopted CIP will be included in the proposed citywide operating budget, which will be presented to the City Council in February....more
Dover Police issues scam alert

posted on 10/31/2022
Chief William Breault of the Dover Police Department would like to alert the public regarding scam phone calls being perpetrated by individuals posing as members of the Dover Police Department.
On Oct. 31, 2022, numerous Dover residents called police after receiving a suspicious phone call in which the caller told residents that they were “under investigation” or “missed jury duty” and would be fined $3,500. The residents were instructed to pay the fine immediately to avoid arrest.
This type of scam has been used nationally. The caller(s) pose as representatives from various law enforcement agencies and threaten arrest, prosecution, and imprisonment unless paid. They will demand payment via QR code, gift card, or ask for personal information such as a social security number or date of birth. Suspects often target the elderly and can be aggressive on the phone....more
SOS awarded contract to operate Tri-City warming center beginning in November

posted on 10/28/2022
Strafford County, through a partnership with the cities of Dover, Somersworth and Rochester, has contracted with SOS Community Recovery Organization to operate the warming center on Willand Drive in Somersworth on an emergency basis, from Nov. 25, 2022, through March 31, 2023.
SOS estimates it will be open 70 to 90 nights through the winter season. When activated, the warming center will be available for those seeking shelter from 5 p.m. through 9 a.m. the following morning. SOS is partnering with area agencies, including Red's Good Vibes, which will help provide food. SOS will also need volunteers and support from local restaurants, supermarkets, and agencies involved in food insecurity to provide nutritious meals and snacks.
Volunteer training sessions
SOS will conduct at least three volunteer trainings at the warming center before Nov. 25. Those seeking to volunteer should complete a volunteer application available on SOS's warming center page www.sosrco.org/what-we-do/willand-warming/. SOS states that volunteers will be required to have COVID-19 vaccines and flu shots, among other vaccinations. When activated, all staff, volunteers and participants must wear a mask inside the warming center. When activated, the warming center will open at 4 p.m. for staff and volunteers and 5 p.m. for participants. It will remain open and will remain open until 9 a.m. the following morning for participants, with volunteer and staff clean-up through 10 a.m....more
After 'putting Dover first' for 35 years, Bill Boulanger retires

posted on 10/27/2022
Bill Boulanger, deputy director of Community Services, who began his career as an entry-level laborer in the sewer division and worked his way up through the ranks to become an expert in drinking water and an innovator in public works, retired last week after 35 years of service to the city.
"He always put the city first, sometimes to the detriment of his family," said Community Services Director John Storer, who has relied on Boulanger for his institutional knowledge of the city since Storer became director in 2017.
For years, whenever a water main breaks or a sewer fails, Boulanger was at the scene, regardless of the weather or time of day. "A lot of times I wasn't home for Christmas, wasn't home for birthdays," Boulanger said. "When they call, you had to go."
Water breaks are particularly common during long spells of frigid weather when the frost line deepens. Working in those temperatures are the events that stay with him and others working with him.
"I can remember one stretch – it was like every year we were working Christmas Day or Christmas Eve for water breaks or other issues," he said, crediting the support of his wife and children for his career and success. "I couldn't do what I do without her."...more
Friends of the Dover Public Library's annual book sale begins Oct. 28

posted on 10/26/2022
The Friends of the Dover Public Library are having a book sale beginning on Friday, Oct. 28, through Sunday, Oct. 30 in the Library Lecture Hall. All leftovers will be free on Monday, Oct. 31.
Hours will be Friday and Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m. The Library will have hundreds of items for sale including fiction and non-fiction books, biographies, DVDS, CDs, children’s books, cookbooks and more. Prices range from 50 cents to $3, and all proceeds go to the Friends of the Dover Public Library.
You can also get a piece of history at this year’s book sale. The Dover Public Library recently replaced the slate roof that was original to the building built in 1904-1905. The Friends are selling the old slate for $15 for one or $10 each when buying multiples. They are being sold as is and will come with a certificate of authenticity with some history of the library. They all have holes drilled in them so they could make a nice wall hanging, garden decoration, or other repurposed use. ...more
COAST Bus resumes afternoon services on bus routes 1 and 33
posted on 10/25/2022
The region’s public transit system resumed nearly all weekday afternoon services on bus Routes 1 and 33 beginning on Oct. 24. COAST has run reduced afternoon services on these routes since late-May because of a shortage of bus operators.
“At this point we have added enough bus operators to be able to add a new driver shift and resume these runs,” said Rad Nichols, COAST Executive Director. “Unexpected departures of staff can of course affect these plans,” he added.
Specific bus runs that are resuming, by route, are as follows:
- Route 1 – 2:30 p.m. northbound, 2:55 p.m. southbound, 4:30 p.m. northbound, 4:55 p.m. southbound, 6:30 p.m. northbound, and 6:55 p.m. southbound
- Route 33 – 1:30 p.m. outbound, 1:59 p.m. inbound, 3:30 p.m. outbound, 3:59 p.m. inbound, 5:30 p.m. outbound, 5:59 p.m. inbound, 7:30 p.m. outbound, and 7:44 p.m. inbound. The 4:30 p.m. outbound and 4:59 p.m. inbound runs will be suspended for now.
An adjustment will also be made to the Route 34 schedule because of the resumed services on Routes 1 and 33. The 7:57 p.m. Route 34 outbound run will resume once again.
COAST, like many public transit systems across the country, has struggled to hire enough staff to maintain their full bus schedules....more
Council set to vote on CIP, public syringe disposal program

posted on 10/24/2022
The City Council is set to discuss and possibly vote on three resolutions related to the proposed Capital Improvements Program for fiscal years 2024 to 2029 at its Oct. 26 meeting next week.
One resolution is to adopt the six-year CIP document, which outlines the projects the City of Dover plans to complete over the next six years. It's a document that can be modified and does not appropriate funding nor authorize bonding. This resolution requires a simple majority vote to pass.
The second resolution is to authorize non-debt financed projects for FY2024 only. This resolution would appropriate capital reserve funds to finance portions of the CIP, such as the police cruiser and heavy equipment replacement programs. The total amount of proposed non-debt finance projects for FY2024 is $3,088,825. This resolution requires a two-thirds majority vote by the Council to pass.
The third resolution is to authorize bonding for debt-financed projects slated to begin in FY2024, which totals $22,220,000. These include reconstruction projects for Court and Union streets and Fifth and Grove streets. It also provides funding for rehabilitating the Chestnut Street bridge deck and the Portland Avenue retaining wall. This resolution also requires a two-thirds majority vote by the Council to pass....more
City mails updated property assessments following citywide valuation

posted on 10/20/2022
The City of Dover's Tax Assessment Office has completed its annual review of property valuations and mailed updated valuations to property owners whose valuations changed in the past tax year.
As stipulated by state law, property valuations reflect market conditions as the property existed on April 1, 2022, the first day of the 2022 property tax year in New Hampshire.
The city's overall assessed valuation for the 2022 tax year increased by $633,130,490 to $5,222,817,620, a 13.8% increase over the 2021 tax year, comprised of three categories: Residential, commercial and industrial, and public utilities.
Overall residential assessed values increased 14.7% to $3,882,439,840. Overall public utility valuations increased 5% to $101,380,200, and overall commercial and industrial properties valuations increased by 11.7% to $1,238,997,580. The commercial and industrial category includes apartment complexes, which increased by 5.1% to $459,564,400. General commercial and industrial properties, excluding apartment complexes, increased by 15.7% to $806,210,750.
The average single-family residential assessment increased by $57,888 to $471,406, a 14% increase. The average commercial assessment, including apartment complexes, increased by $126,113 to $1,279,956, a 10.9% increase. The valuations for all properties in the City of Dover are posted in the Tax Year 2022 List of Assessed Values report available at https://www.dover.nh.gov/government/city-operations/finance/tax-assessment/assessment-reports/.
Residential valuations make up 74.3% of all valuations for tax year 2022. Last year, it was 73.7%. Commercial valuations make up 23.8% of all valuations for this year, compared to 24.2% last year. Public utility valuations are now 1.9% of overall valuations, compared to 2.1% last year.
The updated assessments will be reflected in the upcoming 2022 property tax bill. The City of Dover's tax rate has not yet been set by the New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration but is anticipated to occur around mid-November. ...more
Supervisors of the Checklist in session on Nov. 1

posted on 10/18/2022
The Supervisors of the Checklist for Dover will be in session on Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2022, from 7 to 7:30 p.m. at the City Clerk's office at City Hall, 288 Central Ave. It's the last supervisors meeting before the 2022 General Election held on Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022.
During this session, supervisors will register new voters and make corrections that may be necessary to the checklist, such as changes of address and name changes.
For more information, contact the City Clerk's office at 603-516-6018....more
Design engineers seek additional input, clarification for Fifth and Grove reconstruction project through online survey

posted on 10/17/2022; updated 10/18/2022
City of Dover engineers seeks additional feedback from the public through an online follow-up survey on the Fifth and Grove Reconstruction Project currently under design.
The objective of the follow-up survey is to clarify resident preferences related to the proposed roadway improvements within the project area based on feedback from the initial survey in August. Respondents to the previous survey indicated the importance of tree selection, and many requested the city consider more native tree options, which are included in the follow-up survey. There are also clarifying questions regarding travel preferences and on-street parking.
The survey is available at https://polco.us/sfrddd. Completing the survey requires an email address and zip code. The deadline to complete the survey has been extended to 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2022.
Fifth Street and a section of Grove Street are targeted for a reconstruction project to create a consistent roadway layout, provide sidewalks on both sides of the street, and define parking areas. It also includes reconstructing Fifth Street, restoring Grove Street, and replacing the water main and storm drainage. Click here for the project webpage, where you can find more information about the project, view the neighborhood meeting presentation slides, and signup for project email updates....more

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