Beverly Donovan

This Capital Improvements Plan for the Town of Derry, New Hampshire, outlines a strategic roadmap for managing and developing public facilities from FY2026 to FY2031. It details a multi-year schedule of municipal projects and their associated costs, aiming to resolve existing deficiencies, anticipate future demands, guide annual budgeting, stabilize property tax rates, and prioritize improvements. The plan anticipates investing $78.7M across General Fund, Water, Wastewater, and Cable projects, emphasizing funding stabilization and addressing inflationary impacts.

The council discussed and approved several items, including resolutions related to a Police Canine Program and tax deeds. They also addressed the appointment of a new Town Councilor and members to the Derry Public Library Board of Trustees and the Derry Housing & Redevelopment Authority. Updates were provided on the Fire Station's nearing completion, water main installation, and the Exit 4A project. The council also discussed the CART service and potential funding for extended service hours.

The meeting included legislative updates on energy projects and PUC changes. The town is negotiating with Standard Power to extend their contract into 2026 for the landfill solar project, which is progressing with construction expected to be completed in September, followed by three months of testing. The town received grants for new Electric Vehicles. The July and August bills for the two EVCS stations were reviewed, and there was discussion about potential new EVs for DPW. Kearsage Energy made an unsolicited offer for electricity supply, which is not of interest due to the landfill solar project. The schools have completed a portion of their upgrade, including LED lights, new windows, and HVAC upgrades, and received rebates. There was a recommendation to add Net Zero Task Force accomplishments to the Town of Derry/Net Zero web page.

The meeting included discussions and actions on several topics. The council addressed a resolution to authorize the Conservation Commission to accept a Conservation Easement, which was ultimately tabled indefinitely. The Town Administrator reported on correspondence received regarding registered sex offenders living near schools, including the legal challenges and policy considerations of residency restrictions. Updates were provided on Derryfest, the 10-year plan meeting with NHDOT, and various infrastructure projects. Recognition was given to Tina Guilford for earning the Certified Municipal Clerk designation and to Derry Police Captain David Michaud for graduating from the FBI National Academy. Councilor Granese announced their departure from the council, and the process for filling the vacancy was outlined.

The 2022 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for the Regional Economic Development Center (REDC) focuses on promoting sustainable economic development and opportunity in southern New Hampshire. Key areas of focus include infrastructure development, workforce attraction and retention, housing diversification, and sustainable living practices. Strategic goals involve investing in infrastructure improvements, attracting a skilled workforce, developing diversified housing options, and fostering a strong sense of community through sustainable practices. The plan also addresses economic resilience, natural disaster planning, and the region's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.