In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Dover's Facilities and Grounds Superintendent Mark Colonna, Planning Department intern John DesRoches, and Dover's Resilience Manager Jackson Kaspari about Dover's street tree replacement program. They discuss the multiple benefits of street trees, including aesthetics, drainage, reducing heat island effects, and improving public health. The conversation covers the origins of the project, the process of replacing trees, funding sources, and the importance of species diversity in urban forestry. The team explains how they're addressing the issue of ash trees infested with emerald ash borer through a phased removal and replacement approach. They also touch on the logistics of planting and maintaining new trees, including watering practices and the option for residents to donate trees. The discussion highlights the city's effort to create a resilient and diverse urban canopy by planting various species. Later, Parker and Kaspari discuss Dover's Community Power program, explaining the new electricity rates effective from August 2024 to January 2025. They outline the different renewable energy options available to residents, ranging from 24.3% to 100% renewable content, and how customers can easily switch between tiers. The conversation emphasizes the program's flexibility and its role in promoting clean energy adoption in New Hampshire.

In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Vicki Harris, the Police Department's Prevention Services Unit Supervisor, and three Youth to Youth program participants about their recent campaign launch and press conference. Harris explains that the Youth to Youth program, initiated by the Dover Police Department over 30 years ago, empowers young people to address substance abuse issues in their community. The program involves various activities, including summer camps, after-school teams, and advocacy efforts. Three student participants -- Megan, Iris, and Annabel -- discuss their involvement in the "Dealer Is Not a Doctor" campaign, which aims to raise awareness about the dangers of counterfeit pills and fentanyl. They share their experiences speaking at a press conference, interacting with media, and participating in advocacy efforts. The students emphasize the importance of peer-to-peer education and youth involvement in community activism. They also touch on other aspects of the program, such as presenting at conferences and testifying at the state Capitol. In This Week in Dover History, we learn about efforts to establish a consolidated courthouse in Dover in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The segment covers the various proposed locations, funding challenges, and eventual construction of the new Dover District Court (later Dover Circuit Court) on Saint Thomas Street, which opened in 2002.

In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Police Lt. Marn Speidel, the traffic coordinator from the department, and Kelley Tidball from the Police Records Bureau about the process of obtaining permits for community events in Dover. They discuss the recent change in administering these permits, which has moved from the City Clerk's office to the Police Department, utilizing an electronic permit portal. The conversation covers various types of permits, including those for parades, road races, block parties, and other public events. Speidel and Tidball explain the importance of these permits in ensuring public safety and managing potential conflicts between events. They emphasize the streamlined process, which has reduced turnaround times for permit approvals. The discussion also touches on the role of the licensing board, the importance of early planning for larger events, and the need for additional permits like health licenses for food vendors. Listeners are encouraged to reach out to the Police Department for guidance on whether a permit is needed for their planned activities. In This Week in Dover History, we learn about M&M Bakeries, founded in the 1920s, which made history in 1925 with the first aerial delivery of fresh bread in New England. The segment also covers the bakery's expansion, innovative techniques, and labor challenges in 1941.

In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Brian Early from Media Services about recent meetings of the city's public boards, committees and commissions. They discuss the ratification of seven union bargaining agreements, updates on the Inspection Services building construction, and waterfront development projects. Parker then speaks with Planning Director Donna Benton and Building Official Jim Maxfield about the evolution of Inspection Services in Dover and the new building under construction. They discuss the challenges of their current space, the benefits of the new location, and the transition to a paperless permit system. The conversation highlights the importance of early involvement in the planning process, the need for flexible space in city buildings, and the efficiencies gained through electronic permit submissions. Maxfield expresses his excitement for the new purpose-built space, which is expected to open in 2025.

In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Planning Director Donna Benton about recent development activities in Dover. Benton provides an overview of various projects approved by the Planning Board in the first half of 2024, including housing developments, commercial projects, and amendments to existing plans. They discuss the challenges of balancing housing needs with conservation efforts, particularly in relation to Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) requests. Benton highlights the ongoing work on the city's Master Plan, including updates to the Conservation and Open Space chapter and plans for the Land Use chapter. The conversation touches on the Community Trail's expansion and various art projects along the trail. Benton also mentions the progress of the Community Housing Needs Committee and their work on regulatory audits to support attainable housing. The discussion covers the difficulties faced in the Capital Improvements Program due to rising costs and inflation. Throughout the conversation, Parker and Benton reflect on the changes in Dover's planning processes over the years and the increasing public engagement in planning matters. In This Week in Dover History, we learn about the devastating fire that destroyed Dover's City Hall on August 3, 1933. The segment describes the grand opera house that was part of the building and mentions the construction of the current City Hall, which opened in 1935.

In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Rob Dapice, the director of the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority. They discuss the role of the authority in supporting affordable housing initiatives and the challenges facing the housing market in New Hampshire. Dapice explains how the organization works with partners to create housing solutions, including homeownership programs and rental assistance. They explore the changing demographics and preferences in housing, noting that millennials and empty nesters often desire similar living spaces. The conversation touches on the impact of the pandemic on housing trends, the interconnectedness of rental and homeownership markets, and the challenges posed by current interest rates. Dapice highlights the importance of understanding the complexities of housing development and finance for policymakers and community members. In This Week in Dover History, we learn about Marilla Marks Ricker, a pioneering woman from Dover who became the first female admitted to the New Hampshire State Bar in 1890. The segment highlights her achievements as a suffragist, freethinker, and advocate for prisoners' rights and her candidacy for Governor of New Hampshire in 1910.

In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Erin Bassegio, Outreach Coordinator for the Planning Department and Office of Business Development, and Jackson Kaspari, the city's Resilience Manager, about the ongoing update to the Conservation and Open Space chapter of Dover's Master Plan. They discuss the chapter's last update in 2012 and the current efforts to incorporate advanced GIS techniques, story mapping, and community feedback into the new version. The conversation covers the makeup of the steering committee, the timeline for completion (expected in the fall), and the various ways residents can engage with the project, including through a new interactive story map. They also touch on the challenges of balancing land preservation with housing needs and the importance of public access to conservation lands. The team highlights recent conservation successes, such as the Ekola family's land donation, and discusses the process of evaluating and acquiring conservation properties. In This Week in Dover History, we learn about the first sitting U.S. President to visit Dover.

In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Jane Bard of the Children's Museum of New Hampshire and Jonathan Nichols of the Woodman Museum about upcoming events and developments. Bard discusses a new exhibit called "Opposites" that is opening in July and features artwork from 11 New England artists. She also reveals plans for a major expansion project starting in September, including a new "Little Farmers" exhibit for young children and a "Play Loft" for active physical play. Nichols announces the upcoming "Birthplace of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" exhibit opening on Aug. 10, featuring artwork and interactive elements in collaboration with creator Kevin Eastman. Both guests discuss their volunteer programs and community engagement efforts. They also touch on their involvement with the "Discover Dover" initiative, aimed at increasing tourism to the city. The conversation highlights the importance of these museums in attracting visitors to Dover and their role in the community's cultural landscape. In This Week in Dover History, we learn about the public execution of Andrew Howard in 1846 for the murder of Phebe Hansen. The event, which took place behind what was then the Silver Street jail, drew thousands of spectators and marked Dover's second and final public execution.

In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with representatives from the Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce about the upcoming Cochecho Arts Festival. Margaret Joyce, Cliff Blake, and Jed Allen discuss the festival's lineup, which includes Friday night headliners, children's shows, and a Creative Arts Showcase. They highlight the event's free admission, community involvement, and the importance of volunteers and sponsors. The conversation covers the festival's schedule, button benefits, and its role in making arts accessible to all community members. Parker then speaks with Brian Early and Erin Bassegio about recent city government activities. They discuss a City Council workshop on energy initiatives, including community power and potential solar arrays. The Planning Board's recent approvals are covered, including housing developments and environmental permits. Updates on the Community Housing Needs Committee and Zoning Board are also provided.

In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with City Attorney Joshua Wyatt about transparency and the public's right to access government records under New Hampshire's Right-to-Know law (RSA 91-A). They discuss the process of handling public records requests, the legal exceptions and redactions that may apply, and the importance of transparency in government operations. Wyatt explains that while the statute provides guidelines, the underlying constitutional right to access public information is paramount. He emphasizes the city's commitment to transparency and proactive disclosure of frequently requested information. In This Week in Dover History, we learn about Tifft, a man who lived in the mid-20th century and was known only by his surname, a rare occurrence at the time. Mike Gillis shares details about Tifft's unique name, his customized farmhouse dubbed "Tifft Top," and the eventual renaming of the road leading to his property.

In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Denise LaFrance, the Director of the Dover Public Library, about the upcoming renovation plans for the historic library building. LaFrance explains that after over 30 years since the last major renovation, the building needs upgrades to its infrastructure, accessibility, and meeting spaces to better serve the community. She emphasizes the importance of preserving the historic character and architectural features of the 120-year-old building during the renovation process. LaFrance discusses plans to improve sightlines, create a more unified entrance, add handicapped-accessible bathrooms, and expand meeting room spaces. The library will need to temporarily relocate its services and programming for approximately a year during construction. In This Week in Dover History, we learn about the historic visit of the Marquis de Lafayette to Dover in 1825, as he was nearing the end of his tour across 24 American states. The town welcomed the Revolutionary War hero with grand celebrations, processions, and ceremonies, including a ceremonial dinner and party at the home of William Hale.

In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Rob Simmons, the director of development at Cathartes (the private developer for the Dover waterfront project), and Jamie Stevens, the city's project manager. Simmons discusses the construction timeline and plans for the first phase, which includes 220 residential units across five buildings (with a mix of studios, one, two, and three-bedroom units, including townhouses), as well as ground-floor commercial space. He highlights the collaboration between the city and Cathartes, with the city handling public infrastructure like roads and utilities while Cathartes focuses on vertical construction. Stevens provides updates on the city's progress with site work, shoreline stabilization, utility installation, and coordination with the nearby private residences. Both note the aggressive construction schedule and anticipate visible "vertical" progress soon. In This Week in Dover History, we continue on the topic of the waterfront with recent history and the sale of waterfront parcels to Cathartes for $1.3 million, a key milestone allowing private development to begin alongside public improvements. The segment traces the long history of plans to revitalize Dover's historic waterfront area.

In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Brian Early from Media Services and Erin Bassegio from the Planning Department to discuss the recent activities of various boards and commissions in the city of Dover. Early shares updates from the City Council agenda, including budgetary resolutions, the acceptance of a grant for an electric vehicle, and the completion of the Pudding Hill Water Treatment Plant. Bassegio provides updates from the Arts Commission, Zoning Board of Adjustment, Conservation Commission, Planning Board, and Community Housing Needs Committee. Topics covered include local art projects, trail improvements, wetland buffer impact proposals, site plan amendments, a new telecommunications facility, and a regulatory audit on current land use policies. In This Week in Dover History, we learn that in June 1792, Dover served as the capital of New Hampshire, with the state legislature seated at the courthouse on the corner of Court and Hanson streets. The historic courthouse hosted notable figures like Daniel Webster and served as both the Strafford County courthouse and the United States District Court.

In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Community Services Director John Storer and City Engineer Ken Mavrogeorge about the various construction and infrastructure projects happening in Dover during the summer months. Storer highlights the new Pudding Hill Water Treatment Plant, a $15 million project that has brought the Pudding Hill aquifer back into service, and the construction of a new 1 million gallon water tower. Mavrogeorge discusses the Fifth and Grove Street reconstruction project, the Portland Avenue retaining wall project, and the annual street paving program. They also touch on sewer projects, including a $9 million upgrade to the River Street Pump Station and efforts to consolidate and reduce the number of pump stations in the city. In This Week in Dover History, we learn that on May 28, 1927, Dover celebrated Poppy Day, a special observance to honor and support disabled and needy veterans and their families, organized by the local Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion posts.

In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Rad Nichols, the Executive Director of COAST Bus, a public transit system serving Dover and the Seacoast region. Nichols shares that after years of driver shortages, COAST is now fully staffed, allowing them to restore services that had been temporarily suspended, resulting in a 38% increase in ridership. They discuss COAST's plans for a new $20 million facility, with $14 million already secured through federal funding. Nichols highlights the value COAST provides in connecting people to employment, education, and essential services, emphasizing its role as an economic driver and lifeline for many. Parker commends COAST's recognition as the Greater Dover Chamber's 2024 Nonprofit of the Year and the community's strong support for the organization. In This Week in Dover History, we learn about Foster's Daily Democrat's 50th anniversary in 1923, which coincided with Dover's 300th anniversary. The newspaper published a special edition commemorating both milestones, providing a comprehensive look at Dover's past and present.

In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with City Engineer Ken Mavrogeorge and Director of Community Services John Storer to celebrate Public Works Week. They discuss the behind-the-scenes work involved in maintaining the city's infrastructure, such as streets and sidewalks, and ensuring safe drinking water and proper sewage treatment. Mavrogeorge and Storer highlight the importance of the diverse team of professionals required to keep the city running smoothly. Storer and Mavrogeorge also invite listeners to attend the Public Works Open House on Saturday, May 18th, where interactive displays and activities will showcase the various aspects of their work. In This Week in Dover History, we learn about a 1923 event where prominent Dover residents shared reflections on their mothers in honor of Mother's Day.

In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Police Chief Bill Breault and Police Lt. Alex Mitrushi about National Police Week and the changing role of law enforcement. The chief and lieutenant discuss how policing has evolved from primarily responding to crimes to addressing social issues like mental health, substance abuse, and homelessness. They highlight the department's social work unit, which connects people with services, and the importance of mental health training for officers. Breault emphasizes treating people with respect and improving their quality of life. Mitrushi encourages community members to attend events, do ride-alongs, and engage with officers to learn about the job. They also share how the new police facility accommodates their expanded roles and programs. In This Week in Dover History, we learn about a controversy in 1887 where a student newspaper accused the School Board of corruption and discrimination. The accusations sparked a heated public meeting and an investigation.

In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Fire and Rescue Chief Michael McShane and staffers Erin Bassegio and Brian Early. Parker and McShane discuss the evolving role of firefighters, from traditional firefighting to a broader emergency response and community health support. McShane highlights the challenges of staffing and recruitment, as well as the increasing demands on firefighters due to climate change and severe weather events. They also touch on the history of the Dover Fire Department, including the oldest active fire station in the state, and celebrate International Firefighter Appreciation Day on May 4. Later, Bassegio provides updates from various boards and commissions, including the Zoning Board of Adjustment, Energy Commission, Community Trail Advisory Committee, Conservation Commission, and Planning Board. Early covers City Council meetings, discussing topics such as a milfoil treatment grant for Willand Pond, waterfront development resolutions, a cease-fire resolution, merging advisory committees, and the annual street paving program. He also mentions the School Board's adoption of new curriculums.

In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Gary Bannon, who is retiring after 34 years as the Director of Recreation for the City of Dover. They discuss Bannon's decision to retire now and his reflections on his long career with the city. Bannon shares how he ended up in Dover, initially applying for the job after seeing an ad in the newspaper while working in Rhode Island. He talks about the various programs, facilities, and infrastructure improvements he has overseen during his tenure, highlighting how community input and partnerships were crucial in making many of these projects a reality. Bannon emphasizes the importance of embracing the public, serving people, and providing opportunities for quality of life. In This Week in Dover History, in 1997, Gary Bannon announced plans to launch the city's July 4th fireworks from Garrison Hill instead of the traditional location at Dover High School's football field, as part of the city's 375th anniversary celebration that year.

In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Deb Clough, a local volunteer who leads the Dover Doers group focused on beautifying downtown Dover through projects like planting and maintaining flower boxes on the Central Avenue Bridge and along the Community Trail. Clough shares how the group started modestly with just a few flower boxes, but grew in popularity and support from the community. She emphasizes the importance of volunteerism in building a sense of community and bringing people together for a common purpose. Clough welcomes anyone to get involved, even if it's just for an hour a month, and stresses that volunteering is a rewarding and fulfilling experience. In This Week in Dover History, we learn about an incident in 1923 when the bronze sword held by the sailor figure on the Soldiers and Sailors Civil War Monument was found bent, leading to a police investigation.