From:	Karen Edwards
Sent:	Tuesday, February 03, 2015 8:57 AM
To:	Karen Edwards
Subject:	FW: Support for DBP project



Karen Edwards
We have recently moved our offices.  
Please note new address below.

Town of Durham
8 Newmarket Road
Durham, NH 03824
(603) 868-8064
www.ci.durham.nh.us

From: Cathy Leach []  
Sent: Monday, February 02, 2015 2:13 PM 
To: Michael Behrendt 
Cc: Karen Edwards; Todd Selig 
Subject: Support for DBP project

To Michael and Planning Board:

We are writing in support of the Eldercare proposal for the Durham Business Park. We encourage Town 
staff and the Board to work in whatever way is necessary to make this project work.

Here are just a few reasons why we support this proposal:

1.	It is a reputable and known builder and staff that have all worked successfully with the Town in 
the past;
2.	The property has sat idle for over 10 years since its designation as a “business park.” It is time to 
allow for a reasonable development there;
3.	It has been communicated that Durham’s residential population is aging. This type of project 
may allow long-time, elderly residents the opportunity to remain in 
Durham once independent living is no longer an option;
4.	The design itself is outstanding – trails, a gazebo, better entrance, and attractive buildings;
5.	It would add significant revenue into the Town’s tax base annually. 

We understand there is again concern about what the project will look like from Rte. 4 and from the 
water. The design shows landscaping in front that looks like it would block most, if not all, of the 
buildings from view of Rte. 4. The larger buildings are at the back of the lot, so the distance encourages 
an unencumbered view. We may hear the usual “gateway” argument – but let’s be realistic – it’s Rte. 4, 
there’s trees, a treatment plant, and DPW on either side of the road before the exit to Durham. As for 
lamenting the view from the water – it’s hard to be accept that as a reasonable argument if you aren’t 
fortunate enough to have a boat that allows you to be on the water. That’s not an argument that 
represents the majority of Durham residents.

We know there is a question regarding the density and/or allowable uses that is yet to be resolved. 
Again, we encourage the Town staff and the Board to work through these concerns with the ultimate 
goal of making the project doable. Although there may need to be slight changes, the Board can make 
adjustments in a way that doesn’t shut down the project. We are certain that the developer and staff 
will work with and be sensitive to any immediate abutters.

In summary, we support this project and encourage discussions to take a positive approach for the 
project, not one that focuses on potential negatives, especially if they are views of a limited few.

Thank you.

Cathy and David Leach
Fairchild Dr.