City officials should keep open the lines of communication

Well, it looks as though the Coffee With the Mayor public hearing between Dover citizens (some estimate as many as 100) and community leaders was a success, with it actually running over an extra 30 minutes.

Although mentions have been made about there previously being others like it, this was in actuality a first time (and hopefully not last) gathering in effect called by, or caused by the concerns of the residents.

Mrs. Doin’s and I were about 3,000 miles away in Mexico City, but heard much about the interactions.

Dover, thought by most to be the fastest growing municipality in the state has, not surprisingly, been experiencing growing pains. Taxes, parking, exorbitant appearing upcoming condos have all been discussed widely and often on the 21st century version of the back fence telegraph, social media pages. In this current buzz word world of transparency it appeared to many that the city’s leaders didn’t seem to care what they thought. Therefore the meeting was called.

There were many positives in clearing the air.

With both City Manager Mike Joyal and Assistant City Manager Chris Parker at the helm, one thing became apparent to many attendees — the rule of law must be followed. They were given an understanding of the planning process, showing that it is an exhaustive one.

An application goes through many steps before action is taken by the Planning Board following the legalities of both state and local rules. Many were not aware of the Master Plan and what it does, but are now. It was also explained that the suggestions of rent control were not legal under New Hampshire law. There was discussion on workforce housing. Discussion also took place about bicycle traffic with responses that it needs to be looked at. Laws once again referenced.

The upshot of the meeting was pretty simple. All seemed to be in agreement that the city needs to do a stronger job bringing in commercial development to help balance the residential challenges. This has been an ongoing process for most communities for years.

Of course, social media had its responses for the meeting and thoughts. Here are some in capsule form:

1. There is not much parking as before.

2. “I don’t mind change, but just don’t like the tax increases.”

3. ”It is no longer Dover.”

4. “I have been here for 86 years – don’t only look at the negatives, try to see the positives.”

5. Instead of being a complainer, be an encourager.

6. If you want your voice heard go to meetings or don’t and just complain on Facebook.

7. I was very impressed with the number of people who showed up and how many care about their community.

8. I hope they have another meeting; there are more concerns to be heard.

My personal estimation is that for a first effort it went well. Now, it is apparent that what Dover needs to do is keep those lines of communication open and expand them. With local elections just around the corner what occurred on Aug. 10 is a perfect example of what citizens can do — run for office.

It was very apparent that the city councilors and leaders are really looking for help and input from residents on the budget. There are ample opportunities available for you to contribute your thoughts and suggestions.

Remember, we have discussed this before. If you have a question or a suggestion, contact your city councilor. That’s why he or she ran for the office — to help.

One more suggestion from Doin’s. The meeting went well and should be continued on a regular basis, perhaps every six months?

Here is a suggestion for those of you considering a run for public office. While constructing your platform, what better way to attract voter attention than to tell them that once you are elected you will make yourself available to the public at least once a month or a quarter through a social media page or in Foster’s Daily Democrat.

After all, the elected position is there to help your constituents. What better way to keep in touch with them?

Taking this suggestion a little further. It could/should also be done by local city departments. This seems to be so simple. Why isn’t it being done?

And now for a little congratulations and thanks.

On Wednesday Aug. 14, 45 Dover students received backpacks, lunch boxes, school supplies as well as gift cards for back to school clothing.

In order to earn these things, each had to perform a community service in addition to trying their best academically and behaviorally. According to Stacey Kearns, director of family services of the Seymour Osman Community Center/Dover Housing Authority, the Dover Rotary Club was involved in this $10,000 effort “to help them start the school year on the right foot.”

All these folks are doing the right thing and in addition, it begins to educate the kids on the importance public service.

Keep the faith folks and remember empathy means that although it is sometimes not easy, try to understand rather than criticize.

Ron Cole can be reached by emailing mrdoverdoins@gmail.com.