A news round-up from the Town of Henniker, NH
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I know the 4th of July may have passed already but here in the United States of America we are lucky to be able to celebrate "Independence Day" every day of the year. Today as you read this I think its important that we look back at how it began.
244 years ago, the great American experiment of a republican form of government began with 56 patriots. They mutually pledged their lives, fortunes and sacred honor to stand firm in declaring independence from a powerful king and country more than 3,000 miles away. The ideals that “all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed…” expressed on that fateful day would have effects on future generations.
It is difficult to imagine what life would be like today had the original 13 colonies not unified and stood against tyranny. The idea of self-government was blessed with a victory in the Revolutionary War, followed by the miracle of unifying all the states with a written Constitution that guarantees to all citizens those inalienable rights. George Washington, who had every opportunity to become king of the new world, resigned his commission at the conclusion of the war and returned to civilian life. And, after having been duly elected as our first President, chose to step down from that office in 1797, therefore setting an important precedent and proving that this new nation would never be governed by a single person, but rather keep the power in We the People.
Benjamin Franklin once stated, “The U.S. Constitution doesn’t guarantee happiness, only the pursuit of it. You have to catch up with it yourself.” The 4th of July is a celebration of our Independence but also the celebration of the American dream. I recognize our nation has struggled to ensure equal protection of rights, resulting in a civil war and amendments to our Constitution. We have come a long way in the realization of the ideal that every individual is born with the same God-given rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Our success as a nation comes not in guaranteeing equality in outcome, only equality in opportunity. And that American dream is attainable by everyone and anyone willing to work towards that pursuit and catch up with it.
I want to leave you with some words John F. Kennedy said in his inaugural address “…the same revolutionary beliefs for which our forebears fought are still at issue around the globe – the belief that the rights of man come not from the generosity of the state but from the hand of God. We dare not forget today that we are the heirs of that first revolution.” Let us stand together to continue the progress made by those who came before us, live a life worthy of their sacrifice, and promote freedom and equality of opportunity to everyone. America the beautiful is full of possibility and together we can create a better world for our children and future generations.
Joe
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If you know of others who might benefit from reading "Henniker Happenings" and the ongoing COVID-19 information and resources the Town provides as relevant information becomes available, please pass this email along. It's possible to sign up to receive them directly on the Town of Henniker web page at
https://www.henniker.org/general/page/sign-non-emergency-alerts
. or use cell phone to join, text HKNEWS to 22828 to get started.
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July 15, 2020 at 6pm at the Henniker Community School.
We want to thank everyone who came out to Town Meeting on June 6, 2020. Your patience, support and understanding was amazing. We had our fair share of technical difficulties, and we appreciate everyone for working with us.
Since we adjourned to a new date (JULY 15 @ 6pm) we will continue with the warrant
articles at that point.
Thank you again!
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UPDATE FROM THE HENNIKER TRANSFER STATION:
The Swap Shop is open again!! Currently, we are only opening on Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. We are still looking for volunteers as well. If you would like to help to make sure the Swap Shop stays open or have a question, please contact
Kristen at the Swap Shop for more info:
HennikerTransfer@TDS.net
Operational Guidelines
- The Swap Shop is open for donations that are safe, hygienic, and not broken.
- Items should not be handled or removed from the Swap Shop until evaluated by Transfer Station attendants or Swap Shop volunteers and placed for display in appropriate locations within the facility.
- Items in the Swap Shop carry no guarantee and will be taken at one's own risk.
- Transfer Station attendants or Swap Shop volunteers have discretion to refuse items.
- Users of the Swap Shop are encouraged to remain at the facility for no longer than thirty minutes during any one visit to allow other residents an opportunity to view and take items.
- Residents are expected to cooperate with the request of Swap Shop volunteers or Transfer Station attendants while utilizing the facility.
Acceptable Items - Items must be clean, dry and in good working condition
- Household items (glasses, silverware, pots & pans, folding chairs, etc.)
- Toys, games, puzzles (not broken or missing pieces)
- Tools (garden, mechanical, etc.)
- Lawn and garden equipment (bird feeders, hand tools)
- Sports equipment
- Baby/Child equipment
Non-Acceptable Items
- Child safety equipment, car seats
- Large and/or upholstered furniture
- Electronics, televisions
- Appliances
- Freon Items
- Clothing, Shoes, Bedding (linens or pillows)
- Lawnmowers, snowblowers, other motorized equipment
- Mattresses
- Carpets
- Household hazardous materials (paints, varnishes, etc.)
- Demolition/Construction materials
- Food
- Anything broken or missing parts
Items Not Listed
The acceptability of any item that is not specifically identified under the Acceptable or Non-Acceptable items will be determined by the staff.
A Valid Henniker Transfer Station sticker is REQUIRED to use the facility. The Current color is BLUE dated 2020-2022. If you have an Orange or Clear sticker stop into the recycling building with your vehicle registration and $1.00.
You MUST be a Henniker resident to obtain a sticker, please be aware the attendant will put the sticker on your vehicle.
Update on Recycling
We are pleased to announce now that restrictions have been lifted from COVID-19 and the Henniker Transfer station will begin accepting all recyclables.
This includes:
- Corrugated Cardboard: NO waxed boxes and please flatten your boxes.
- Mixed paper: Includes junk mail & magazines, egg cartons, food/cereal boxes, phone books & paperbacks, office/school paper, newspaper. (Staples, paper clips & window envelopes are OK!)
What we accept for plastics has changed. Please note plastics must be sorted.
- #1 PETE (Polyethylene terephthalate) plastic bottles & jars any transparent clear, green, or blue colored. Bottles are to be no larger than 2.5 gallons or smaller than 5oz.
- #2 HDPE (high-density polyethylene) plastic bottles (any pigmented or unpigmented bottles).
Please be aware that there are people inside the windows sorting the recycling, so please do not toss items in you may hurt someone.
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HENNIKERHELPS
The COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic is an unprecedented health crisis that has disrupted our local, national, and worldwide economy. This disruption is creating significant financial hardships and potentially lasting economic impacts that affect Henniker residents, businesses, and nonprofits. To assist in overcoming the financial and emotional challenges many are experiencing now and, in the weeks, and months ahead, a number of programs and services are already in place or being implemented by the Town of Henniker. These measures are being coordinated with federal, state, and private efforts, and provide economic support and financial relief to all residents, businesses, and nonprofits affected by the COVID-19 crisis and in need of assistance.
Henniker HELPS (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) is a comprehensive and continually updated list of programs, services, and assistance available to the community during these difficult times.
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Town Hall has reopened to walk-in customers
In accordance with the latest guidance from the state, the Henniker Town Offices reopened to the public on Monday, June 22nd, for our regular hours. Signs at the entrance will instruct you on the process: one way foot traffic, mask use advised, etc.
A few basics things you should know:
- There is a limit of THREE people in the lobby and TWO people in the vestibule, so please plan accordingly.
- Social distancing is required, both indoors and in the outdoor waiting line.
- A mask, covering your nose and mouth, is requested if you come into the building. Children under 2 years excepted.
- Please bring your own pen.
Residents are still encouraged to utilize
online services
whenever possible. These online services include vehicle registration renewal, dog licenses, vital statistics, zoning applications, abatement and tax cards. We still also have a drop box at the front entrance of Town Hall if you prefer.
If you have a physical condition that prohibits the use of a face mask, please call our offices for options for obtaining service:
Town Clerk/Tax Collector 603-428-3240
Assessing 603-428-3221 ext. 2
Planning/Zoning 603-428-3221 ext. 1
Town Administrator's Office 603-428-3221 ext. 5
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UPDATE FROM THE TUCKER FREE LIBRARY
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TRAFFIC/CONSTRUCTION ADVISORY
Town of Henniker Highway Department 2020 Roads Program Improvements
Please be advised that the Town of Henniker Highway Department's roadway contractors for the 2020 Roadway Improvement Project will begin roadway and drainage construction improvements requiring alternate lane traffic patterns, detours and delays for vehicle traffic, weather permitting. The following roads are included in the 2020 program:
- Patterson Hill
- Pearl St.
- Union St.
- Water St.
- Gould St.
- Goss Dr.
Access to residences and businesses will be maintained for homeowners and authorized vehicles including deliveries, guests, business patrons, etc., however minor delays may occur. Traffic control personnel will be in place and motorists are asked to proceed with caution and/or seek alternate routes when possible. Thank you for your patience and cooperation.
Please contact Highway Superintendent Leo Aucoin at 428-7200 for more information.
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2020 Town-Wide Statistical Revaluation
Revaluation Summary
The Town of Henniker has selected Vision Government Solutions to assist with the town-wide 2020 revaluation project. Vision’s Appraisal division will be working closely with the Assessing Department to make the process successful for the Town.
A revaluation will determine the fair market value of every property in town and equalizes the values of all properties for the purpose of a fair distribution of the tax burden.
The major phases of a municipal revaluation are:
- Sales Data Collection
- Market Analysis
- Valuation
- Field Review
- Informal Hearings
You can visit the Vision Government Solutions website for information explaining each stage of the revaluation process as well as answers to Frequently Asked Questions by clicking here:
Phases of the Revaluation
Sales data collection began in June. Vision will proceed with exterior field review. This data collection is critical, as it enables us to ensure accurate measurements both on main structures and outbuildings and to visually verify exterior characteristics of the property and condition. This is the most time-intensive phase of the project, but the most critical for data accuracy and integrity.
The Town of Henniker continues to actively monitor the evolving health situation regarding COVID-19 (coronavirus) and is deeply committed to the continued health and safety of our residents. Based on the recommended social distancing protocols established by the Center for Disease Control, the Town will be delaying interior inspections until it is deemed safe again to resume these procedures. This approach accomplishes the goal of ensuring the utmost safety of our residents and data collectors by aligning with the social distancing protocols that are recommended at a federal and state level.
In order to ensure continued accuracy in data, data collectors will go to each sale property and physically inspect the exterior only, to verify the measurements of each building as needed. The data collector will note a building’s size, condition, quality of construction, improvements, topography, utilities, and numerous other characteristics. Data collectors will not enter any structure. All data collectors will be wearing reflective clothing, carry an identification badge and a letter of introduction, have an “Assessor’s Office” sign posted in the vehicle window, and their cars will be registered with the Police as well as the Assessor’s Office in the Town Hall.
The Town will continue to delay all interior inspections, until the Department of Public Health and local officials have advised that special precautions to limit the exposure of the novel coronavirus are no longer necessary.
After the initial Sale Data Collection phase, market analysis and valuation will begin, followed by field review of properties to check and re-check values to ensure uniformity and accuracy of information. This will be followed by a Notice of New Values mailed to each property owner and an Informal Hearings phase, which enables anyone with questions concerning the revaluation process an opportunity to meet with a member of Vision’s staff to discuss their property value.
If you have any questions about the revaluation process or need additional information, please contact the Assessor’s Office at (603) 428-3221 or hennikerassessing@tds.net
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2020 HENNIKER CONCERT SERIES
IS BACK!!!
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GUIDELINES FOR 2020 HENNIKER SUMMER CONCERT ATTENDEES
Welcome to the 2020 Henniker Summer Concert Series. Due to COVID-19, things look and feel different this year, but our overall goals are for everyone to have a great time and remain safe.
The park will be fenced in on concert nights with two clearly marked entrances/exits. Concert committee members will be at the entrances to assist you in finding a spot to set up your blankets or chairs. Blankets should be closer to the stage, chairs behind so no one has an obstructed view.
We will be practicing Social Distancing inside the park and have marked off squares. Once those areas are full, no one else will be able to enter the park. Families and small groups who arrive together may occupy one or more of these squares.
Dancing is allowed but dancers should observe the 6 foot distancing recommendations.
Please do not approach the bands either before or after the concert this year.
BRING YOUR MASKS
We recommend you wear face coverings upon entering/exiting the park or if you choose to visit with a neighbor in the park. Once you are seated in your space, it is not necessary to wear your mask. Children need to remain with parents this summer. There will be no opportunity to play in the Flynn’s yard.
You are encouraged to bring your picnic supper or to purchase take out from one of the Henniker businesses. As always it is carry in, carry out.
SAFETY FIRST
If you have recently traveled or used public transportation and have any symptoms of illness, such as fever, cough, chills, shortness of breath, or if someone in your family or with whom you have visited recently has these symptoms --- please stay home.
The Community Center bathroom and the porto potty are available. Each is equipped with hand sanitizer, soap and paper towels for your use.
If we all follow these guidelines, we will have a great summer series. If, however, we notice there are unsafe practices occurring, the committee reserves the right to cancel subsequent concerts.
Let’s all do our part to insure we have a safe, music filled summer in Henniker on Tuesday evenings.
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FALL OPENING PLANS FOR NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE
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TOWN INFORMATION DURING COVID-19
We are continuously updating our coronavirus web page with information and resources. You can access it here:
Henniker COVID-19 Updates
PDFs with information for residents and businesses are available via this link.
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FARMERS' MARKET
Henniker Community Market
Every Thursday 4 - 7 pm
Community Center Park
57 Main Street
Henniker
During these challenging times, more and more people are realizing the value and resilience of a local food system. We are committed to providing our community with access to locally grown food. Products will include certified organic fruits and vegetables, pasture raised pork, beef, lamb, and chicken, eggs, maple syrup, goat milk & yogurt, and soap.
Stay safe and see you at the market!
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EVERSOURCE OFFERS ASSISTANCE FOR CUSTOMERS UNABLE TO PAY THEIR ELECTRIC BILLS DUE TO COVID-19
As New Hampshire moves forward with phased re-openings under the state of emergency declaration, Eversource remains committed to providing whatever support it can to customers who may be experiencing financial hardship during these uncertain times.
Eversource is still offering flexible payment plans to all customers who are having difficulty paying their energy bill during the COVID-19 pandemic. While customers are not currently at immediate risk of losing service, these plans provide them with an important option whenever moratoriums on disconnections expire.
Eversource has begun proactively reaching out to its customers in need, who have a $75 past-due balance for more than 35 days, across multiple communication channels to ensure they are aware of and can participate in the company’s programs and protections – especially in advance of the phased re-openings. Eversource will not be reaching out to customers who are already on a payment plan.
Even if they’ve never needed help before, Eversource customers may call 1-800-662-7764 to discuss various payment plans, etc.
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EVERSOURCE DRONE LINE INSPECTIONS
Eversource has announced that it has hired Mesa Associates to conduct inspections of its transmission lines using drones, due to the quality of the information gathered using this method. Mesa Associates crews have recently started or will soon be performing these inspections on a transmission line in Durham. Flight times are between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., weather permitting.
At this time, Eversource is not mailing notices to property owners who abut their transmission corridors since the inspections are being performed entirely within the right-of-way. They are also low profile; crews use regular pick-up trucks and spend about five minutes at each transmission structure.
A member of the drone inspection project team is monitoring the daily locations of crews and reaching out to property owners with general information as the inspections continue.
View more information describing the scope of work and Frequently Asked Questions
HERE
.
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NHDES WANTS RESIDENTS TO TAKE CARE OF THEIR SEPTIC SYSTEMS
T
he New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) urges residents to be cautious with the use of strong antibacterial cleaning materials and disposing of those materials in septic systems. Introducing large volumes of these cleaning agents to septic system can have detrimental effect on the bacteria that are vital to the function of a healthy system. Without the essential bacteria in a septic tank and/or in the effluent disposal area (leachfield) the system will prematurely fail resulting in the system having to be replaced. Replacing a system in failure can be a very expensive undertaking that could be avoided with careful and proper use.
NHDES has noticed increased percentage of applications to replace failed individual sewage disposal systems (septic systems) over that last few months as compared to 2019. During the spring months, NHDES normally receives higher numbers of applications for the replacement of failed systems most likely due to amount of rain and snow melt. However, this year due to the coronavirus pandemic, many people are now working remotely from home. A hydraulic overload on systems (too much water) resulting from the increased use of home septic systems may be contributing to the increased number of failures. Equally important to consider is the disposal of strong cleaning materials in septic systems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the New Hampshire State Government encourage regular personal hygiene and extensive cleaning of homes and businesses to deter the spread of the virus, but be careful as to the amount of these cleaning solutions go down the drain to your septic system.
If you have not yet, please also read the NHDES Press Release dated March 24, 2020 regarding what materials should and should not be flushed down the toilet. This press release can be found at
https://www.des.nh.gov/media/pr/2020/20200324-flush.htm
. Additionally, NHDES wants to remind residents that septic tanks should be pumped every three to five years. More information about proper septic system maintenance can be found at
https://getpumpednh.com/
.
If you have additional questions, please contact Jim Martin, NHDES Public Information Officer, at
james.martin@des.nh.gov
or (603) 271-3710.
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Drought conditions are developing across the nation due to lack of recent rainfall and snowpack from this winter. As of July 7, Henniker is experiencing moderate drought conditions. Precipitation for Henniker is about 5.68 inches below average for this time of year.
Currently there are no water restrictions in place for Henniker. However, water conservation is strongly encouraged. Please use water wisely. Be mindful of your water use, especially outdoors.
Henniker's water supply is healthy, but we advise water customers to conserve use as a proactive measure to manage our water resource. Simple measures to take when conserving water include minimizing irrigation, lawn watering, and inspecting systems for water leaks. Practice watering at night or early morning to minimize evaporation and consider using weather-based irrigation controllers to avoid unnecessary watering.
Also, due to drought conditions only Category I and II (camping and cooking) burn permits are being issued. Please exercise extra caution and make sure all fires are completely distinguished before leaving unattended. Permit website:
https://nhdflweb.sovsportsnet.net/
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Conservation Tips
Did you know that less than 1% of all the water on Earth is available for human consumption? The average American uses over 80 gallons of water a day and clean drinking water is becoming a vanishing resource. It’s important to preserve water resources and conserving water can help.
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- Car Washing - Wash your car in sections and rinse with short spurts from the hose. If you need to wash often, go to a car wash that recycles water. Try to wash cars near plant life to allow overflow to benefit the greenery.
- Planting - Select native species that don’t need as much water. Mulch heavily. Let grass grow higher in dry weather – saves burning and saves water.
- Irrigation & Lawn Watering - Practice smart watering. Water slowly and as infrequently as possible. Water at night or early morning to minimize evaporation, preferably between the hours of 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. Inspect lawn irrigation systems annually to prevent misaligned heads from wasting water. Keep a close watch on wind shifts while using sprinklers. Consider a weather based controller instead of a clock based timer. Try using a rain barrel as a source of irrigation water.
- Pool - Cover the swimming pool when not in use to prevent evaporation. Avoid over-filling to prevent spilling.
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- Toilet - Do not flush to dispose of trash. Save water by flushing when necessary. Consider upgrading your toilet to a WaterSense labeled model, which requires less water when flushing. Displace water in the tank to save water by using plastic bottles or bags filled with water and weighted with pebbles. Check for leaks by listening for running water or by adding food coloring to the water tank. A leak is present if the coloring appears in the toilet bowl within the hour without flushing.
- Shower / Tub - Turn off water while lathering and try to shower for less than five minutes with a light spray. A full tub can hold 50+ gallons of water, so if you use the tub do not overfill and try to use less than half. Check faucet for leaks and replace faulty fixtures.
- Sink - Clean shaving razors and toothbrushes with an occasional burst of water. Do not keep the faucet running. Check faucet for leaks and replace faulty fixtures.
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- Garbage Disposals - Use sparingly. Dispose waste in the garbage to minimize water use.
- Washing Fruits & Vegetables - Use a vegetable brush for fruits and vegetables. Spray sparingly with short bursts of water.
- Defrosting Food - Plan ahead to thaw frozen foods naturally without using water.
- Washing Dishes - Pre-clean dishes by wiping them with paper napkins from your meal. Rinse everything all at once. Soak pots and pans overnight if necessary. Use a dishwasher for full loads only. Check faucet for leaks and replace faulty fixtures.
- Drinking Water - Store water in the refrigerator or use ice cubes to get your water cold. Avoid running water at the tap to get cold water. Recycle any unused drinking water for other purposes.
- Appliances - Use appliances that use the least amount of water and energy. Check connections for leaks.
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- Cleaning - Try to catch running water that you are warming up in a bucket and use this water for household cleaning.
- Pipes - Reduce waste by insulating hot water pipes to avoiding waiting for hot water at the tap. Inspect water pipes regularly for leaks in connections or pinholes. A pinhole leak can waste up to 170 gallons of water a day.
- Washing Machine - Newer machines typically allow you to select load cycles and water levels. Select minimal water use, or only wash full loads. Use cold water to save energy and money.
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Joe
Joseph R. Devine, Jr - Town Administrator
Town of Henniker
a: 18 Depot Hill Rd., Henniker, NH 03242 USA
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