SOMERSWORTH — A special primary election is planned for next week to choose a new state representative The election is to replace Democrat Dawn Evans according to a representative of the city clerk's office The primary election will be held on Tuesday The general election will be held on Tuesday Deputy City Clerk Ammy Ramsey said three people have filed their intentions to fill the seat Democrat Billie Butler is running unopposed Republicans Ken Hilton and Nick Boyle will compete in the primary with the winner facing Butler in June Where to voteCity of Somersworth Polling Locations Ward 3 - Somersworth High School Cafeteria Ward 4 - Idleshurst Elementary School Cafeteria InDepthNH.org (https://indepthnh.org/2025/04/25/notable-new-hampshire-deaths-former-somersworth-mayor-meserve/) The Franklin Cemetery in Franklin holds the remains of several national political figures Congressman Warren Fisher Daniell (1826 to 1913) Congressman Robert Milton Leach (1879 to 1952) who filled out an unexpired term; U.S Goerge Higgins Moses (1869 to 1944) a chief editor at the Concord Evening Monitor; U.S Austin Franklin Pike (1819 to 1886) a lawyer who served in the U.S Senate until his death at age 66; and U.S Congressman Cyrus Adams Sulloway (1839 to 1917) who served in the U.S and 1915 until his death in 1917 at age 77 including the Ed Houle Memorial Academic Athlete Award Joseph Regional Junior High Outstanding Student Award and the Bishop Libasci Outstanding Student Scholarship in 2022 She was ranked first in her class at Trinity High School for three consecutive years and was recently elected vice president of the National Honor Society She was a student ambassador at Trinity and an orientation leader in her junior year She was an adjunct professor of early childhood education and development and edited and co-authored textbooks on the subject She played clarinet in the Gilford Community Band and in productions at Gilford High School (Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services) Get unbiased nonprofit watchdog news sent directly to your inbox He worked for the state Department of Transportation for more than 23 years He was a pilot for People’s Express and Delta Airlines He was an accident investigator on several major aviation accidents After retiring from Delta as an international captain in 2005 he was chief financial officer of SA Technologies He led a crisis response team for the American Red Cross in 2005 after fires floods and tornados across Cobb County in Georgia Verne Wood Funeral Home – Buckminster Chapel) rising from salesman to vice president of sales He served on several Epping boards and committees He was head coach for the Epping High School basketball team and Sanborn Youth Hockey League He was a Korean War veteran with a Purple Heart and served as a Rye selectman He was involved with the conservation of Parson Park in Rye and was president of Parsons Park Corporation a coalition of 149 investors who purchased the land and retained it until the town could take ownership as permanently conserved recreation lands (Remick & Gendron Funeral Home-Crematory) he was a helicopter pilot flying Hueys and Cobra Gunships in Vietnam He was an attorney who had a successful legal career that spanned four decades in New York At least three of his cases at the New York state appellate court level are binding precedent where past judicial decisions act as guiding authority for future cases (Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home) He was an accident reconstructionist who investigated the cause of motor crashes for the state and then as a private businessman He started his career as a journalist for Foster’s Daily Democrat in Dover He served on the Somersworth City Council before serving as mayor and as a member of the N.H He was a member of Dover Elks Lodge 184 and past secretary and ER at Kona Elks Lodge 2616 She worked at Monadnock Paper Mills for 48 years starting as a secretary and retiring as controller in the accounting department She was Bennington town treasurer for 39 years and then deputy town treasurer for more than 11 years She was an operating room nurse for Littleton Regional Healthcare and volunteered with the LRH Auxiliary for many years She volunteered for hospital events including the fashion show and Dance on Top of Cannon and she also hosted the auxiliary membership luncheon at her home for Christmas.  She scheduled Christmas caroling each year at local nursing homes Air Force veteran and worked for Northeast Airlines He owned and operated Moore’s General Store with his brother He created a vacation rental business and was a licensed real estate agent He was a skilled craftsman and painter and spent many years racing for the Attitash ski team He later became a freestyle coach at Attitash he taught high school history in Lebanon and then at Winnacunnet High School in Hampton He became a guidance counselor and served on boards at the high school and for the state He was named outstanding counselor of the year in New Hampshire He was active in masonry and was a Master Mason in Saint James Lodge No of Hampton in 1973 and served as Worshipful Master in 1978 and New Hampshire Society of Veterans Freemasonry He was installed as the 107th Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New Hampshire in May of 2000 She operated a private practice in myofunctional therapy and became a distributor of materials sought by speech therapists the regional board for the developmentally disabled and helped with activities at the local baptist church WORDS OF WISDOM: “We have realized that we are on the same boat each of us in need of comforting the other.” – Pope Francis born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina 2025 (who delivered these remarks while praying for an end to the coronavirus pandemic in St This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License A generous gift in any amount helps us continue to bring you this service InDepthNH protects independent journalism that holds government accountable to the people Our investigative reporting prompts civil discourse that spurs citizens to action corruption and influence-peddling while giving voice to the disenfranchised InDepthNH fulfills the press’ watchdog role as envisioned by the founders of our democracy InDepthNH.org is published by the New Hampshire Center for Public Interest Journalism Built with the Largo WordPress Theme from the Institute for Nonprofit News The crying from the infant room inside this Somersworth child care center made clear: Naptime was over cradled 4-month old Harper and walked until her wails stopped When Collins settled into a chair in another classroom she was surrounded by curious 3-year-olds with questions “Do her fingers wiggle?” “Is she a baby?” “Is she sleeping?” nothing about this scene at Thriving Roots Childcare seems extraordinary it represents a leap of faith — a solution devised by parents to fill the gap left by the abrupt closure of their previous child care provider “There were a couple times where things felt rocky one of the parents who helped to bring the new child care center to life “I will not hear anything that says this might not work because it's going to work was as shocked as the families about the owner’s decision to raise rates “No one could or should afford that for childcare,” she said Some families left or reduced the number of days they used the center 24: The owner of Little Steps told families he was closing the next day That put the center on a list of nearly 220 others in New Hampshire to shutter since the pandemic Little Steps’ parent company, PMC Medical Group, at one time billed itself as a “fast growing multi-specialty healthcare organization” whose portfolio included a family medicine practice addiction treatment provider and a pain management center NHPR reached out to its owner seeking comment on the closure of the childcare center the Little Steps families divided the center’s remaining 26 children between four homes and rehired the center’s teachers to care for them whose 2-year-old daughter had attended Little Steps and there are like seven babies in our house,” Rouse said that wasn’t going to be a long-term solution But the Little Steps families saw another option They got to work on a business plan for a new nonprofit child care center that would be run by a board And they’d raise $40,000 to cover the lease and other start up costs parents reached a deal with the owner to buy its toys families say he hired a crew to toss everything into the dumpster instead They worked with the landlord and the dumpster company and got permission to claim the items for their new center Rouse said they even cleared their plan with the local police decide who you want to play you in a movie because it just keeps getting weirder,” Rouse said the families reopened their own center in the same space under a new name: Thriving Roots Childcare They carried the theme into the classrooms “I held on because I believed in this community so strongly,” she said Their determination to make this work despite all the obstacles underscores how desperate New Hampshire’s childcare landscape is Centers operate on razor thin margins and that will only become more precarious this year with the end of critical pandemic assistance And state officials are considering other cuts Even for long-standing businesses in this area Cora Hoppe has been executive director of Rochester Child Care Center for the last seven years and she helped the Thriving Roots parents navigate the challenges of opening their center When she faced a $600,000 budget shortfall during the pandemic she worked with Rochester city officials to secure a $200,000 community development grant She also cut staff and launched a fundraising campaign “I still don't feel the current climate for any type of business right now is safe but certainly not for child care in a failing market.” The parents at Thriving Roots know the economics of child care are against them The board rolled back most of the tuition increase and most of the Little Steps families who left after the rates increased have returned Rouse said the board has thought about making space for more but is hesitant to expand too quickly Rouse agrees — she’s hoping the center can remain sustainable at its current size and meet the fundraising goals it needs to stay afloat certainly we need so much more child care,” Rouse said “I don't know if that's my hill to climb.” We rely on readers like you to support the local and international coverage on this website Your support makes this news available to everyone A monthly donation of $5 makes a real difference (This story has been updated with new information.) was found dead outside apartments at 97 High St He died from a single gunshot to the chest Authorities are investigating whether Prouty was killed in self-defense following an argument and Somersworth Police Chief Timothy McLin Authorities did not release the name of a second man was was found suffering from what "appeared to be non-gunshot wounds in a common hallway" in the building The autopsy was conducted Tuesday in Concord by state Chief Medical Examiner Jennie V Police said all the parties involved have been identified and there is no known threat to the general public Investigators are asking for the public’s assistance.  Several witnesses were present during the argument between the two men moments before the shooting, but then left the area without speaking with responding officers, authorities said.  Investigators are asking any and all individuals who saw the event but have not yet spoken with police to call the New Hampshire State Police Major Crime Unit at (603) 223-3856 or send an email to MCU@dos.nh.gov People may also call the Somersworth Police Department at (603) 692-3131 More information will be released as it becomes available without impacting the integrity of the investigation The intersection of Highland and High streets was taped off with crime scene tape and police turned traffic away from the area as they investigated Monday night New Hampshire State Police and Somersworth police responded State Police Major Crime Unit investigate the scene at 97 High St. where one man was found shot and another injured on Monday night Authorities have revealed the identity of the man killed in Monday night’s shooting in Somersworth as Jeffrey Prouty First responders were called to an apartment building at 97 High St on Monday after receiving calls of a reported shooting outside Responders arrived at the scene to find Prouty with a gunshot wound to his chest Prouty was taken to a hospital and later pronounced dead was found in a common hallway of the apartment building with non-fatal and non-gunshot-related wounds He was taken to a hospital and has since been released was driving by the incident when she arrived at a stop sign and saw a man on the ground receiving CPR “I was watching CPR be performed for what felt like forever,” Rose said but I remembered before walking out of my house The homicide remains under investigation by the New Hampshire State Police Major Crime Unit with the assistance of the Somersworth Police Department Self-defense is being looked at as a potential cause “Evidence revealed to date (shows) that both men were involved in a verbal argument immediately prior to the shooting and the investigation currently includes determining whether the person who shot Mr Prouty acted in self-defense,” a news release from the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office stated The Attorney General’s Office could not confirm the identity of the shooter as of Tuesday afternoon the investigation is not yet ruling out any possibilities Senior Assistant Attorney General Benjamin J A Tuesday morning autopsy of Prouty confirmed the cause of death as a single gunshot wound to the chest Investigators ask that anyone with information about the incident who has not yet spoken with police to contact the Somersworth Police Department at 603-692-3131 Email notifications are only sent once a day Your browser is out of date and potentially vulnerable to security risks.We recommend switching to one of the following browsers: Account processing issue - the email address may already exist Would you like to receive our daily news? Signup today Invalid password or account does not exist Submitting this form below will send a message to your email with a link to change your password An email message containing instructions on how to reset your password has been sent to the email address listed on your account president of the Somersworth Association of Clerical and Aides said they intended to share a message of unity "We will walk hand in hand into our schools to remind elected leaders that we will protect our students and defend our public schools," said Lainez "America's students need more opportunities to succeed and we need to strengthen our public schools where 90% of students — and 95% of students with disabilities — learn And American families need community programs and resources to thrive." organized by the National Education Association union More: NH Republicans vote to remove income limits on 'education freedom' vouchers which provides public money to fund vouchers for private school and religious school tuition or homeschooling Republicans in New Hampshire have touted the vouchers as supporting "school choice" for families about cuts to vital services New Hampshire students depend on in their public schools Educators in Somersworth vow to fightSpeakers at the event included Lainez and Erich Ingelfinger vice president of Somersworth Association of Educators from Somersworth High School and Nikki Kinneavy from Maple Wood from Somersworth Association of Educators Lainez said they will never stop fighting for students and their schools "Most Americans believe that every student deserves opportunity and support to reach their full potential no matter where they live or how much their family earns," said Lainez "Public schools and the Department of Education exist because students in every state and neighborhood have the right to an education that imparts academic lessons Public education is the cornerstone of our democracy - and right now More: Trump cuts Education Department in half after laying off 1,300 workers Lainez said students deserve a Department of Education that’s fully staffed and fully funded Department of Education is the backbone of public education in the United States," she said "All students benefit from programs run by the Department of Education Dismantling the Education Department and firing up to 50 percent of its employees will have a profound effect on schools in New Hampshire If Congress doesn’t stop the effort to dismantle the Department of Education More: Trump cuts to Department of Education spark divided reaction in New Hampshire Lainez is concerned about negative results including hundreds of millions of dollars in funding for grants She said the impact could also include larger class sizes loss of funding for public schools in lower income areas loss of services for students with disabilities and loss of employment for educators Somersworth School Board Chair Maggie Larson stood with those taking part in the walk-in event "This demonstration highlights the critical importance of public-school funding and resources that benefit all students particularly those with disabilities and from low-income families," Larson said "This effort resonates strongly with our local community's values and priorities Our educators are advocating for the resources they need to serve our students and families effectively The School Board recognizes that strong public schools are essential to our community's future and are working collectively to protect educational opportunities for all Somersworth students." John Shea commentary: 'Education freedom' vouchers bill is a step toward giving up on NH public schools Larson said peaceful demonstrations before school hours reflect a shared commitment to public education like many others in New Hampshire burdened by an over-reliance on property taxes deserves well-resourced schools that prepare every student to thrive," she said Public schools touted as vital to democracyIngelfinger who said he has been a teacher SHS for 15 years said public schools are "the heart of our communities and our democracy Further reductions in state and federal funding to our public schools are forcing impossible choices on our community and others like ours Do we run classes designed to help students who have fallen behind catch up Or do we run classes to help students get into the college or job of their dreams?" Ingelfinger said if the current attempts to reduce state and federal funding to public education succeed "These cuts will force the community to make ever increasing tough choices and fewer opportunities for Somersworth families and their children," he said Removing federal funding or state funding means raising property taxes." SOMERSWORTH — Leaders of Seton Academy, currently located at the Holy Rosary church in Rochester, are looking to move the private Catholic school to a building of its own in Somersworth one of the founding members of Seton Academy is scheduled to appear before the city's Site Review Technical Committee on Wednesday He is seeking the committee's feedback for a proposed religious private educational institution at 255 Route 108 Campbell said he is looking for feedback from the city as a courtesy but said it isn't required He said the school leaders hope to be ready for students for the 2025-2026 school year Campbell said the school has a signed purchase and sales agreement to acquire the building "There is a New Hampshire law that protects religious structures," said Campbell "We are taking over the former Pinewood Medical Center three buildings that we will convert to our needs we are simply a new tenant moving into the vacant property." Ridge phase 2 in Rochester: 222 housing units, gym/entertainment, restaurants, more Campbell said the school hopes to add grade levels each year in the future until it offers a full four years of high school Seton Academy opened in 2022-23, months after the Manchester diocese announced it was closing the more than century-old private St. Elizabeth Seton School in Rochester The decision was part of a consolidation of Catholic schools in the Tri-Cities area SOMERSWORTH — Thirty employees earned more than $100,000 21 on the city side and nine school district employees This look at Somersworth's city salaries and school salaries comes as city leaders are about the enter budget season when they will determine how much money they will bill taxpayers for the upcoming fiscal year Searchable database: Here are all Somersworth city employees and their salaries in 2024 planning and development director and engineer are at the top of the city wages list as are members of the Police Department overtime pay for police and fire staff pushed their pay over six figures director of finance and administration earned $135,784 Five members of the police department round out the top 10: detective Richard Campbell SAU 56 Superintendent John Shea has the highest salary in the school district at $148,500 but he doesn't top the 2024 list because he started the job halfway through the year Searchable database: Here are all Somersworth school employees and their wages for 2024 The highest wage earner of 2024 in Somersworth schools was business administrator Katie Krauss at $125,255; followed by Somersworth High School Principal Chris Tebo at $116,365; Kately Carrington at $107,125; athletic director Stephen Hodsdon at $106,603; Somersworth Middle School Principal James Lampron $103,282; Maplewood Elementary Principal Devin McNelly $103,951; Idlehurst Elementary Principal Liza Cocco SOMERSWORTH — Developer Ben Stebbins is looking to bring a second large apartment project to Green Street Somersworth's director of planning and community development The street name and address changed to meet emergency 911 needs Stebbins said Procon is the general contractor on both projects "It's too early in the process to estimate (rent prices)," he said "Our goal is to get started here in the fall so the construction is not too disruptive to the new tenants coming into the almost completed project (at 22 Green St.)." More development in Somersworth: Condos replace pickleball court plan in Somersworth Stebbins said the 135-unit project currently under construction is on track to be completed in the first quarter of 2026 It will feature a mix of studio apartments and one- The site was formerly home to a vacant garage and a parking area for the former General Electric plant in Somersworth Stebbins said his company is working with Tidemark Horizons Engineering of Littleton is also involved Mears said the land is located in the city's Form-Based Code Overlay district Somersworth police said a caller reported he had been fired on at about 10:45 a.m a second caller reported they had fired a gun at someone who was trying to break into their home Police said they responded to both calls and determined the incidents were connected the two people are known to each other and Leandry had fired a gun It was shot in the general direction of the other person and into the air near other homes Police said the gun was seized and remains in police custody stating there is no longer a risk to public safety Leandry is facing two counts of reckless conduct which are Class B felonies because the incident involved a firearm It was not immediately known if Leandry has an attorney SOMERSWORTH — Pressed Cafe has set its sights on opening a new restaurant and building a new retail plaza with four to six tenants on High Street Miri Shpindler and her husband Roi of Nashua are the owners and founders She said Pressed Cafe already has nine locations in New Hampshire and Massachusetts "My husband and I started the business about 10 years ago," Shpindler said and we are always getting emails asking us to bring a Pressed Cafe to their town or city We heard a lot from Somersworth over the years We bought the property and the Pressed Cafe would be a good anchor." is currently the location of a single-family home the city's director of planning and development It sits between The Dollar Tree and BP Gas Shpindler said the location has room for the development they're planning Mears said a conceptual plan has been submitted and will go before the city's technical review committee on Wednesday A site plan is expected in time for the March 19 meeting of the city Planning Board Nashua and Bedford in New Hampshire and in Boston Pressed Cafe bills itself as offering fast service with a menu built on fresh ingredients with a Mediterranean flair as well as smashburgers and chicken sandwiches "We say it's higher end fast food," said Shpindler "We are a QSR (quick serve restaurant) establishment with a 3-5 minutes ticket time to get your food So in the same time as other fast food restaurants More restaurant news: La Carreta, The Brunch Club opening at The Ridge in Rochester Shpindler said she and her husband are also in the real estate business Somersworth city and school salaries: Here's full list of all employees in 2024 "The plan will go to the Planning Board with comments and recommendations from the technical review," said Mears "The planners will be able to add their comments and questions on March 19." SOMERSWORTH — The investigation into a shooting death on Monday night is continuing Jeffrey Prouty, 36, who was found dead outside apartments at 97 High St. on Dec. 30, was not a resident of the former Grand Army Republic building spokesperson for the New Hampshire attorney general Prouty died from a single gunshot to the chest following an argument A second man connected to the incident was a resident of the building The 31-year-old was found Monday night with what "appeared to be non-gunshot wounds in a common hallway" in the building Several witnesses who were present during the argument between the two men moments before the shooting but left the area without speaking with officers Investigators are asking witnesses to call the State Police Major Crime Unit at (603) 223-3856 or send an email to MCU@dos.nh.gov People may also call the Somersworth Police Department at (603) 692-3131 An autopsy was conducted on Prouty Tuesday in Concord by state Chief Medical Examiner Jennie V who died in 1862 from wounds sustained in the Civil War in Virginia 8 was organized in Somersworth in March 1868 Littlefield was a carpenter who built many homes in Somersworth More: Grand Army Republic was city's first veterans group SOMERSWORTH — City officials are inviting residents to weigh in on what qualities they would like see in the next city manager A search is being conducted through Municipal Resources Inc. to replace current City Manager Bob Belmore who announced last year he will be retiring To assist with the process, MRI has established an email address for input from community stakeholders (somersworthsearch@mrigov.com) Members of the community can share the traits and skills they’d like to see in the next Somersworth city manager Any input goes directly to Municipal Resources but will help determine applicants’ “fit” with the community The deadline to apply for the position is Feb. 12. The salary is listed as up to $170,000 in the online job posting for the position The ad states the "ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree master’s preferred in a related field and five to seven years of progressively responsible executive level municipal experience or equivalent combination of education and experience that demonstrates likely success in the position." Details on the job and how to apply are found at mrigov.com/careers/Somersworth-NH-City-Manager-268 SOMERSWORTH — Dogs at large will no longer be allowed in the city. The City Council has approved its first dog leash ordinance Mayor Matt Gerding said the council voted to approve a leash law and set fines for violations "Dogs must be on leashes whenever they are in public spaces," he said "The fines will be not less than $100 and up to $1,000 depending on the situation and the number of violations." Dogs still can run off leash in the city's dog park and their own yards The decision was made after two public meetings of discussion with much input from both the council and residents Council members delayed approving it previously because they wanted to be sure the leash law would be enforceable in court even though other cities and towns have leash laws More local news: Developer plans 2nd apartment project on same Somersworth street "We took the latest recommendation from the public safety committee and adopted the ordinance changes," Gerding said Dog owners said they want to keep their pets safeThe main issue was concerns of residents who said their leashed dogs have been attacked by dogs at large They wanted the council to help keep their dogs safe has been attacked several times by off leash dogs a dog must be under voice control of the owner," said Lavoie "My dog and a neighbor's dog were injured by unleashed dogs I have been approached twice while walking Lavoie said she wanted to see a leash law and fines increased I have been left crying and shaking after incidents who sits on the city Planning Board and the Conservation Commission "And Nashua has set fines higher than those in the state statute," Rhodes said "I would support a leash law and incremental fines for violations." Councilor Robert Gibson said he has had two dogs attacked Councilor Laura Barry said she supported fines Councilor Paul Goodwin said he looked up the state RSA "It makes sense that a community can have a more restrictive policy," he said SOMERSWORTH — A new automobile auction business was approved Wednesday by the city Planning Board Manheim Remarketing Inc. will bring a wholesale vehicle auction (automobile sales) business to 221 Route 108 in the city's commercial/industrial district director of planning and commercial development for Somersworth told the board the project received a variance from the zoning board of adjustment (ZBA) "They are using a location that was previously an auto sales and maintenance site," Mears said "An auto auction business is not a use that existed in our zoning ordinances and that is the variance that was needed." a spokesperson for Manheim said the company is the nation’s leading provider of end-to-end wholesale vehicle solutions How auto auction business will operate in SomersworthBob Stowell stating they call for a weekly wholesale auction and a site for maintenance auction vehicles will be stored in a designated area on site transporter vehicles will deliver and pick up vehicles The western side of the property will be used as a dealership The majority of the board said that they felt comfortable with the plan even offering opinions that it would improve the intersection of Route 108 and Blackwater Road 5 Somersworth developments in 2025 Hundreds of apartments, indoor sports venues are coming to city Two areas of concern were easily agreed upon by Stowell They agreed to use black or green coated galvanized fencing instead of the standard steel chain link fence proposed after board member Jeremy Rhodes lauded the landscape plan "They do nothing for the environment and they smell really bad when flowering," said Rhodes SOMERSWORTH — Detective Capt. John Sunderland will be sworn in on Monday, March 24 as chief of the city's Police Department, taking the helm of the department when Chief Tim McLin retires excited for the possibilities," said Sunderland "There are a lot of things I am looking forward to doing I want to help move the department forward Sunderland said he has been with the Somersworth department for 16 years He grew up in Rochester and called the department his second home He lives in New Durham with his wife Darcy How Sunderland got into law enforcementSunderland holds a bachelor's degree from Southern New Hampshire University and an associate's degree in criminal justice from Savannah Technical College in Georgia "I began as a patrolman and worked my way through detective detective sergeant to my current position as detective captain," he said More Somersworth news: Pressed Cafe eyes new restaurant and retail plaza Sunderland said his law enforcement career began in 1997 After that he was employed by the Hinesville police department and then the Liberty County "Then I returned to the area and went to work for Somersworth," he said I will strive to treat people in a procedurally just fashion." The biggest challenges Sunderland sees for Somersworth and the Tri-City area in general are the housing crisis and substance misuse I fear we are going to price people out of the area," he said "Captain Sunderland is a forward-thinking law enforcement professional who will continue to move the Department forward as Chief When I was division commander of investigations and he has performed well as captain of investigations I am confident that he will continue our community policing concepts and interactions and maintain our level of excellent police services I wish him and the whole department success City Manager Robert Belmore praised the incoming chef's skills ""I look forward to John joining the city's management team," said Belmore "I am confident as chief he will continue to move the police department forward providing the necessary leadership and guidance necessary to maintain our present level of excellent police services and community engagement." "I am so excited about the promotion of Captain Sunderland to be the city’s new police chief," said Gerding with a distinguished career in both the armed forces and law enforcement as well as energy and expertise to the role has already been a critical member of what makes the Somersworth Police Department one of the most desirable departments in the state and will further enhance our city’s safety and well-being." SOMERSWORTH — Stricter leash laws could be coming to the city Leaders are considering changing the current ordinance which allows dogs to be off leash in public spaces provided they are under the voice control of their owner(s) a resident speaking to the City Council in favor of changes said her dog was attacked last February by an unleashed dog Lavoie was one of two residents who described dog attacks by unleashed dogs on their leashed dog The topic of dogs at large garnered a lot of conversation at Tuesday night's City Council meeting both from the audience and from councilors City Councilor Crystal Paradis-Catanzaro proposed requiring dogs to be leashed unless they are in a place like the city dog park Paradis-Catanzaro also proposed eliminating a line from the proposed ordinance change stating the city has a right to "dispose of an animal" if a satisfactory resolution to an infraction is not found Somersworth Police Chief Tim McLin pointed out the same wording is included in the state statute governing unleashed dogs "Most of the complaints we receive involve dogs with no owner around," McLin said those with voice control over their dogs seem to do it well." who serves on the city Planning Board and Conservation Commission but he thought it did not fully address the problem He said the proposed ordinance put duress on the Police Department for enforcement Inside Strafford County jail: What it looks like for ICE detainees Councilors recognized the need to address issues they are seeing involving unleashed dogs but they sent the proposed ordinance to the city's legal department for review Councilor Martin Pepin has a 100-pound German shepherd He said his dog has been trained to stay within the boundaries of his property He asked if the ordinance changes would require him to leash the dog on his property McLin said the ordinance only refers to public spaces Mayor Matt Gerding said another public hearing will be scheduled once the ordinance has been looked at by the city's legal department SOMERSWORTH — Frank Gauthier, 65, of Somersworth, has pleaded guilty to one Class B misdemeanor count of disorderly conduct in connection with an incident at the polls on Election Day last November Gauthier arrived at the Somersworth Ward 3 poll at Somersworth High School after the polls closed at 7 p.m When election workers told Gauthier he had arrived too late to vote he became disorderly and began shouting and making obscene statements He said Gauthier's disorderly behavior continued after election workers asked him to leave Gauthier was charged with recklessly creating the risk of a breach of the peace Gauthier pleaded guilty and was ordered to pay a $500 fine with a $120 penalty assessment He was also ordered to complete 50 hours of community service to write apology letters to the Ward 3 moderator and an election volunteer and to have no further contact with either of them for two years More Somersworth news: City approves dog leash law with fines for violations This case was prosecuted by Assistant Attorneys General Matthew Conley and Brendan O’Donnell of the Election Law Unit The investigation was conducted by Election Law Unit investigator Cristina Ostrowski and the Somersworth Police Department Lydia’s House of Hope to host food drive at Somersworth Market BasketFoster's Daily DemocratSOMERSWORTH — Lydia’s House of Hope will hold its annual community food drive The event will be held at the Somersworth Market Basket Donations of non-perishable food items and gift cards will be collected to support the Community Food Pantry of Somersworth the Seeds of Faith Food Pantry of Rollinsford and Lydia’s House of Hope in Somersworth "This commitment from several organizations in the community is not just about food distribution," an announcement about the event states "It's about laying the groundwork for a strengthened community and raising awareness around the severity of hunger and homelessness on our doorstep For information about contributing or participating in the food drive event, contact Rebecca via email at adminassistant@seedsoffaithnh.org. To make a financial contribution, visit lydiashousenh.org/donate Lydia’s House of Hope thanked the following supporters: Somersworth Police Department Stewart's Ambulance Service and Market Basket of Somersworth SOMERSWORTH — An alleged assault on a poll worker Tuesday night has been turned over to the New Hampshire attorney general's office for investigation Matthew Duval confirmed there was an altercation between a resident and poll worker but he deferred further comment to the AG's staff said its election law unit has an active investigation He said there are no new public updates or additional comments to provide at this time Election roundup: Gov.-elect Kelly Ayotte says NH won't become Mass. 'on my watch' "At this point we have noted the following," he said "We received a report that a male assaulted an election worker at the Somersworth Ward 3 location which is at the high school and that Somersworth police was dispatched to the location Our office will be investigating the incident." SOMERSWORTH — City Manager Robert Belmore will present a fiscal year 2026 budget of just over $18.1 million to the City Council on Monday That figure does not include the Somersworth school district's budget request of more than $34.2 million Total appropriations proposed for the city side of the budget are $18,113,462 representing an increase of $1,036,200 or 6.07% over the fiscal year 2025 budget The city portion falls under the Somersworth tax cap according to City Manager Bob Belmore and school Superintendent John Shea The budget will go through council deliberations with changes likely to be made before it's finalized later this spring How would budget impact Somersworth taxpayers?Belmore explained what the tax rate would be if the city budget He said the property tax rate would be $19.27 per $1,000 of assessed property value That would be an increase of 3.04% or 57 cents over the current tax rate of $18.70 Belmore said the owner of a Somersworth home assessed at $400,000 would see their property taxes would rise $228 but tax bills have not: Here's whyThe tax rate in Somersworth went down last year from $29.30 to $18.70 because Somersworth completed a property revaluation in 2024 The update sent property values up about 68% "similar to increases seen across the entire state of New Hampshire,” Belmore said More local news: Pressed Cafe eyes new Somersworth restaurant and retail plaza Belmore said the overall net assessed value of city properties increased from nearly $1.15 billion to more than $1.9 billion Somersworth city-side budget proposal in relation to tax capBelmore said the proposed city budget complies with the city’s tax cap “This year’s budget proposal is limited to a maximum increase in real estate tax revenue of $1,488,502,” he said “The budget I am presenting for your consideration is estimated to increase real estate tax revenue by $1,488,491 which is slightly less than the amount allowed under the tax cap limitation.” Superintendent John Shea said the school district is asking the city for a 2025-26 school budget of $34,228,278 "This would be a 6.2% increase over this year's budget," said Shea It is basically the budget we need to offer our students next year what we offered them this year The increase is due primarily to special education costs Shea said the maximum increase permitted by the tax cap is $903,744 the proposed increase is $1,035,686 above the tax cap More: Somersworth educators speak up for public schools in face of Trump cuts, NH legislation "We are also required to submit a 2025-26 school budget that meets the city's tax cap guidelines," Shea said "This proposed budget (labeled the "tax cap compliant budget") is $33,192,592 And this would be a 3% increase over this year's budget we would need to make significant cuts to current staffing and resources — totaling over $1 million (or precisely $1,035,686)." "If the City Council approves a final budget for next year below the tax cap compliant budget that we submitted we would need to make additional cuts," Shea said "If the council were to approve/finalize a zero percent increase (over the current budget year) then the cuts identified above would essentially need to double." DERRY – For the briefest of moments the Somersworth High School volleyball team was facing the possibility of history repeating itself More: Which 19 Seacoast teams can hoist a state championship this fall? Here's what we see 1 and unbeaten Hilltoppers dropped the first set in Saturday’s Division II state championship match at Pinkerton Academy but then came back with a vengeance to win the next three to capture the title Somersworth (22-0) returned to Division II in 2024 after spending two seasons in Division III The Hilltoppers won the 2002 Division III title but last year their undefeated season was snuffed in the championship by a shocking 3-0 Inter-Lakes sweep Milford (17-3) was trying to do the same thing Saturday when it broke a 23-all tie with the final two points to go up 1-0 on the mistake-prone Somersworth Somersworth coach Steve Hodsdon was direct with his team “In the first huddle I said ‘girls you’re the better team," Hodsdon said "We have to do what we do and keep the pressure on We can’t turn into the tip queens like we did last year Don’t change a thing.’ They stepped up in two Led by 6-foot-1 senior outside hitter Sya McKay and 5-foot-11 sophomore middle Paige Demers Somersworth pulled away in Game 2 to even the match at one apiece McKay ended the match with 16 kills and 15 digs while sophomore setter Kylie Pettengill had 33 assists “That first game immediately brought me back to last year,” said McKay who plans to play volleyball in college at either Plymouth State or Southern New Hampshire University “It was close with a lot of unforced errors The next two sets we showed how far we’ve come from that game I just stayed positive and knew we had to play our game We used the past seasons as lessons learned.” “I think they got a little scared and a little intimidated,” said Milford coach Haley Patch “We knew it was going to take a lot to defeat them We needed to be on our 'A' game all the time We lost a little bit of steam and momentum and it was hard to rally that back.” The Hilltoppers led from start to finish in the third set to roll to the 25-16 win as McKay had five kills Milford closed to 13-10 after trailing 12-6 but Somersworth ended the set on a 12-6 run to go up 2-1 Demers and junior Savanna Comeau are the big hitters for the Hilltoppers which meant they needed to adjust their lineup Versatile senior Katelyn Whiteman rotated in for Runions and junior lefty Dominique Boles was slotted into Whiteman’s back row defensive spot Both were pivotal in the decisive win in the fourth set Boles served for six straight points to give the ‘Toppers an early 7-1 lead that they never relinquished Whiteman contributed two kills in support of Demers and McKay who had 11 between them “She was our unsung hero,” Hodsdon said of Whiteman She came in (for Runions) and got two kills on three swings The opening set was a struggle for the Hilltoppers who made too many mistakes and had trouble handling Milford’s effective tipping game The Spartans closed out the game with two points on a ‘Topper hitting error and a kill by Beth Brooks regained their footing and then did what they had done in the previous 21 matches “We just had to get out of our heads,” Whiteman said of being down 1-0 InDepthNH.org (https://indepthnh.org/2024/11/05/ag-investigates-election-worker-assault-in-somersworth-ward-3-300-hotline-inquiries/) Exactly 300 hotline and e-mail inquiries between 6:00 a.m Notable Election Day Issues:We received a report that a male assaulted an election worker at the Somersworth Ward 3 Location which is at the High School and that Somersworth Police was dispatched to the location Our office will be investigating the incident (This story was updated to add new information.) SOMERSWORTH — A fire in his home was not the cause of death for 63-year-old Kevin Shea who was found dead in his residence at 79 Crystal Springs Way Friday Firefighters responded to a blaze reported in the mobile home about 11:39 a.m according to the New Hampshire state fire marshal determining his death was not related to the fire Somersworth Fire Chief Matt Moore and Somersworth Police Chief Timothy McLin stated in a press release the investigation into the origin and cause of the fire is active and ongoing by all three agencies the investigation into the cause and origin of the fire continues between all entities," said Somersworth Police Chief Tm McLin in a prepared statement "I anticipate being able to release more on the death after we receive the final cause of death report and toxicology results from the medical examiner's office I can tell you that there is no cause for any concern to the public and no other persons were involved in the incident." The fire was reported Friday at 11:39 a.m. through a 911 call that reported smoke billowing from the mobile home Somersworth firefighters arrived first and confirmed flames were showing and requested assistance from mutual aid partners As crews entered the home to suppress the fire The fire was knocked down and determined to be under control at 12:25 p.m Firefighters from the communities of Somersworth Members of the Somersworth Police Department Milton Fire Department and the Rollinsford Fire Department also provided assistance Authorities ask anyone with information to contact investigator Nicole Lutz of the New Hampshire state fire marshal’s office at (603) 223-4289 or FMO@dos.nh.gov SOMERSWORTH -- The city has received $100,000 from the state toward its efforts to create more affordable housing the council accepted a grant agreement with the State of New Hampshire's Department of Business and Economic Affairs for a Housing Opportunity Grant through the Invest NH Municipal Planning and Zoning grant program to analyze and update the city's land use regulations on his desire to bring more affordable housing into the Hilltop City "The plan is to use the funds to analyze and update our land use regulations," said Gerding "It’s my understanding that we can use these to update our internal regulations as well as our zoning ordinances Now that the funds are officially approved we will likely begin the planning process for the details of how to use these funds."  Director of Planning and Community Development said the $100,000 InvestNH Phase 3 Housing Opportunities Planning Grant will be used to hire a consultant to revise existing zoning regulations to expand housing opportunities "It is based off the work of Phase 1 Master Plan Chapter and Phase 2 Regulatory Audit," said Mears Bob Belmore said the grant will allow the city to analyze and create new regulations to expand housing opportunities in the city The grant was an outcome of Master Plan revisions including an audit of the housing sections completed working with the Strafford Regional Planning Commission SOMERSWORTH — A new indoor pickleball facility with eight courts could be coming to the city A conceptual plan for developing 136 Route 108 was received favorably by the city's Planning Board Wednesday night Great Falls Pickleball LLC was represented by Dover lawyer Francis X who told the board he was hoping to get feedback from the board and from abutters as they work towards a more formal plan The 2.5-acre property is located in the commercial/industrial zone but abuts several residential properties "We have followed the news and know noise with outside courts has been an issue We believe an indoor facility can work well More Somersworth news: 148 new apartments at mills takes big step forward Only one couple spoke at the public hearing Patricia and John Eaton said their home is behind the property proposed for the facility the city's planning and community development director read one resident's letter in opposition to the plan The letter was from an abutter who is concerned about noise She also wrote she felt it would devalue homes in the vicinity Tensions rise in Rochester: Public safety problems at homeless camps In addition to eight indoor pickleball courts the facility would have changing areas and vending machines Parking would be in the front of the facility and the property would be fenced and landscaped Bruton said developers will take abutters' needs into consideration as they plan landscaping but we want to make it look attractive," said Bruton "We are in the same vicinity of the famous sports dome and The Works athletic facility." More: Sports dome in Somersworth opening is in sight: in Somersworth The Planning Board members offered suggestions on lighting and buffers the next step in the process in the near future SOMERSWORTH — City Manager Bob Belmore is about to begin leading the search to find his own replacement Belmore became Somersworth's city manager in 2005 and plans to retire in 2025 it authorized Belmore to contract with MRI (Municipal Resources Inc.) of Plymouth to begin a search for the Hilltop City's new manager The council authorized Belmore to "sign a comprehensive recruitment contract with MRI for $13,250 and to take any other actions relative to this contract determined to be in the best interest of the City." Belmore acted on the recommendation of city's Government Operations Committee who met Sept Gould went over what they could offer the city in their search for a new city manager Gould introduced himself to the committee and told them that MRI has a lengthy list of clients ranging from up to the Canadian Border down to Georgia noting that they mostly specialize within the New England area the committee voted to move the recommendation to the city council for a vote "The MRI contract is up for a vote at the Oct "Advertisements will be placed in January/or early February of 2025." A Somersworth man was arrested Sunday after running naked through traffic on Route 16 in Dover following a crash Police said 35-year-old Shawn Weiner crashed his vehicle on Varney Road in Dover later learning it had been reported stolen from Somersworth Officials said Weiner took off his clothes while fleeing the scene leaving them on the side of Route 16 before crossing all lanes of travel Weiner was charged with indecent exposure and lewdness two counts of disorderly conduct and littering He is scheduled to appear in Dover District Court on May 13 WTPL ONLINE PUBLIC FILE WTSN ONLINE PUBLIC FILE WEMJ ONLINE PUBLIC FILE FCC APPLICATIONS EEO DOVER UNIT EEO CONCORD-LAKES UNIT EEO NASHUA-MANCHESTER UNIT CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Privacy Policy If you need help accessing the online public file due to a disability, please contact us SOMERSWORTH — City police were investigating the circumstances surrounding a man who sustained a gunshot wound to his hand Tuesday Police responded at approximately 10:33 a.m "I can confirm that we responded to 225 Main Street, Smokey Hollow Common for a report of someone that had a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to their hand," said Somersworth police Capt "Somersworth officers are on scene conducting an investigation There is no further threat to the community."  Duvall said Somersworth Fire and Stewart's Ambulance also responded several other people were inside the apartment along with the person who was wounded The identities of those involved have been withheld Anyone with information related to this case is asked by Somersworth policeto call the department at 603-692-3131. Tips can be reported anonymously by phone at 603-692-9111 or at somersworth.com/police/webforms/submit-tip SOMERSWORTH — A flag-raising ceremony on Aug 16 raised awareness about the upcoming annual Indonesian Festival and raised hopes that efforts to create a Little Indonesia district in Somersworth can get back on track With more than 2,000 residents claiming Indonesian heritage New Hampshire's smallest city with roughly 12,000 people has among the highest percentage of Indonesians living outside the island nation itself a leader of the Somersworth Indonesian community provided updates on both the Indonesian Festival 14 and the status of the Little Indonesia initiative "Join us as we proudly mark 11 years of showcasing the vibrant Indonesian culture in New Hampshire andbeyond," Raychel said "This year's festival promises to be an exciting celebration commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Indonesia and the United States bilateral partnership and relations the seventh anniversary of ICC(Indonesian Community Connect) and honoring the third year of the Little Indonesia project initiatives." The ICC had an office and market place on High Street, but vacated the space about a year ago. Raychel said they are moving, at least for now, to an online presence, at Indonesianconnect@gmail.com and on Facebook at facebook.com/IndonesianConnect More local news: Somersworth breaks ground on NH's first solar farm at Superfund site from June 2023 through July 2024," said Raychel "We had only been budgeted for the High Street space for two years We are looking for an office space but mostly we'll be online right now." What has not changed is the highly anticipated Indonesian Festival "The Indonesian Festival is a vibrant annual cultural festival and community celebration showcasing a rich tapestry of Indonesian food vendors and cinematic jewels of cultural tourism," she said this event serves as a pivotal platform for promoting Indonesian culture within the wider New Hampshire community and beyond." What to expect at this year's festivalThe festival will be held noon to 4 p.m The festival will open with a cultural parade and ribbon cutting "The Indonesian food is always amazing," she said "This year we decided to open it to other local Asian cuisines We have been receiving inquiries to do this We will have traditional dance and other performances featuring talent throughout New England We are planning to show the rich diversity that exists from east to west in Indonesia." Some of the food vendors include Mpo Ida's Kitchen from Somersworth, and Mici's Kitchen from Massachusetts Festival attendees will be treated to entertainment and performers including Indonesian singers and dance demonstrations Another focus this year at the festival will be to bring in federal state and local resources to help Indonesian residents looking to start or expand businesses in the area so much for people to learn about us," said Raychel As for the ICC (Indonesian Community Connect) Raychel said they are very much still pursuing one of their initial goals "We have seen the Indonesian community continue to grow and that has welcomed us so easily," said Raychel "Part of taking time to look at our goals and our priorities has been to find a path forward to making this community happen." beginning this year and for the next few years will be to look at housing opportunities for the people who want to come here and establish a home local and federal on an issue I know is not special to us," she said "Housing is an issue everywhere in the country We are looking at things such as tiny houses to bring places to live for people wanting to bring their business their crafts and culture here to share with people We play a huge role in food distribution and connecting our people to the resources they need We are excited about finding ways to sustain this community." Raychel said their first action plan working toward Little Indonesia has started "We are already working with the city of Somersworth "We will be working with the Indonesian government as we begin moving to the next phase." Raychel said they are learning about the land use boards and how to work together "I am more than thrilled to see the ICC taking steps to move the Little Indonesia project forward," said Mayor Matt Gerding will be an asset to the entire Somersworth community and has the potential to bring numerous cultural and economic development opportunities to our city I’m happy to be a champion for this project as they continue to partner with Somersworth."  Gerding said city leaders have not met formally with ICC yet "Our meeting with ICC is scheduled for next week so I cannot yet fully comment on their plans and efforts," he said "The meeting is an initial overview of the new ideas for the Little Indonesia project and they have specifically asked us to discuss available land in the city Raude has shared some thoughts beyond this with me I’ll hold off on commenting on specifics until after the meeting."  "But we strongly believe we can make this happen and that it will be good for the Indonesian people Anyone who is interested in getting involved can send ICC email at IndonsianConnect@gmail.com Dahab Falafel is looking to transform the existing 1,456-square-foot building into a Middle Eastern fast-food restaurant and bakery according to an application submitted to the city Planning Board for conceptual review The restaurant would feature counter service The kitchen also would be utilized to prepare food for the Durham food truck Duong Trang Thao is the current property owner of the Somersworth site according to county property records and the application for the restaurant project Here's what Planning Board says about restaurant and bakery proposalA concern raised by the Planning Board Wednesday night was the limited amount of existing parking The building currently has eight parking spots More: Seacoast NH and Maine restaurants that opened or closed in 2024 "We are looking to expand into a brick and mortar We're looking at potentially buying this property and then not be able to convert it into what we want to do there," said Adorian Adorian also raised a concern about how abutters to the property would feel about the restaurant I'm not terribly concerned about conflict with the residential abutters I think about intensity of uses and I don't see a bakery as being terribly intense use," said Deputy Mayor David Witham Witham said he had a question in regard to parking about the function of the proposed restaurant there may be an issue of congestion in the parking lot Adorian said the restaurant will have solely counter service He also said he's been in touch with an owner of a dentist office next door negotiating to see if the restaurant could potentially use some of the parking spaces Witham said he'd like to see a formal parking plan if Adorian comes with a formal proposal for review before the board stating specifically there should be parking for staff off-site I am extremely happy that you have already thought of the parking and ways to alleviate the strain of staff parking as well that would have been the only real concern that I would've had with this," said Jeremy Rhodes and I would personally be extremely happy to see you come [to Somersworth.]" Adorian did not comment in detail on the proposal when contacted by a reporter Thursday stating nothing has been finalized and he has not purchased the building He said he would have a better timeline in January regarding the status of the building and potential sale What's on Dahab Falafel's menu?Dahab Falafel features four main menu items at its food truck in Durham a chickpea spread with tahini and spices and Baba Ghannoush a roasted eggplant spread also made with tahini and spices Single-family homes are currently located near a gas station in that area Dover lawyer Francis X. Bruton, representing Opaque Melody LLC, presented the condo plan to the city's Zoning Board of Adjustment Wednesday night The board granted his request for a variance to allow multifamily housing on the property which is partly in a commercial/industrial zone and partly in a residential zone Bruton still needs to submit a site plan and seek approval from Somersworth's Planning Board In November last year, Bruton presented plans for an indoor pickleball facility with eight courts at the same location, representing the same LLC, which is registered with his name as the principal in state business records More local news: Here's what Somersworth's 2026 budget would mean for city taxpayers The indoor pickleball facility was approved by the city's Planning Board but is now off the table Neighbors concerned about condo developmentTina Stewart attended the Zoning Board meeting Wednesday night stating she was there to speak on behalf of her mother who lives in a single-family home at 134 Route 108 "My mom is 78 and has lived in her home for 56 years," Stewart said and she is concerned about traffic because it is hard to get in and out now." Stewart said her mom was less concerned when the site was planned as a pickleball facility "I don't like that my mom is feeling unsafe and I hope you (the board) take her concerns into account," she said suggested fencing or another type of buffer on the property line a recommendation that will be passed to the Planning Board He said the fact the condos would not be rentals should be reassuring "We are promoting home ownership," Bruton said "We will respect these comments when we go to the Planning Board." Bruton said the property is surrounded by multifamily developments including one 11-unit condominium and a 144-unit apartment building The plans call for three buildings of five units and a fourth building with three condos They would all be three levels with a garage on the ground floor Bruton said the "project is similar to one I represented that was approved here a couple of years ago SOMERSWORTH — A groundbreaking this week was held for a 135-unit apartment building at 85 Elm St that is being touted by developers as designed to serve the “missing middle” housing market Tidemark and BOD Holdings LLC stated the "modern residential project will offer surface parking and state-of-the-art amenities." Developers said the apartments wil provide housing for shipyard employees There will be a mix of studio apartments and one- and three-bedroom apartments at the site that was formerly home to a vacant garage and old General Electric plant parking area Tidemark and Procon’s design-build team for the ceremony and we are excited about how this project supports the redevelopment and revitalization of our downtown,” Somersworth Mayor Matt Gerding said in a prepared statement and we are excited about how this development will positively impact our city.” The project is expected to be completed in the spring of 2026 “With the groundbreaking for these new apartments we are not only expanding housing options in Somersworth but also setting a new standard for urban living in the area,” stated Joe Geoghegan “Our goal is to create a community that offers modern conveniences and a high quality of life for all residents.” "This project will provide much-needed residential options with all the comforts and amenities of contemporary urban living for Seacoast residents,” stated John Stebbins A 65-year-old Somersworth man has pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct for causing a disturbance at a polling location during last November’s general election Frank Gauthier entered his plea in Dover district court on Tuesday to the Class B misdemeanor according to New Hampshire Attorney General John M Authorities said Gauthier arrived at the Somersworth Ward 3 polling place after polls closed at 7 p.m When poll workers informed him he was too late to vote Gauthier began shouting and making obscene statements continuing his disruptive behavior after being asked to leave Gauthier was ordered to pay a $500 fine plus a $120 penalty assessment He must also complete 50 hours of community service and write apology letters to Ward 3 Moderator Thomas Curtain and election volunteer Kerry West The court ordered him to have no contact with either election worker for two years Assistant Attorneys General Matthew Conley and Brendan O’Donnell of the state’s Election Law Unit prosecuted the case which was investigated by the Somersworth Police Department DERRY - The Somersworth High School volleyball team had its championship pedigree on full display in Wednesday night's Division II semifinal matchup against Oyster River who played in the previous two Division III state championships 3-0 and earned a spot in Saturday's championship game 2 Coe-Brown in Wednesday's early semifinal "We talked all year about wanting to practice on the last possible day we can practice," Somersworth head coach Steve Hodsdon said "(Wednesday) was a fun and exciting game." "It's the most relieving possible feeling," Somersworth's Emily Runions said of advancing to the state championship but trailed 21-17 in the second set when Hodsdon called a timeout and I said 'you've got this,' and they said 'we know,'" Hodsdon said and we always say big-time players make big-time plays." Somersworth ended up winning the second set and then completed the sweep with a 27-25 win in the third-and-final set Somersworth's Sya McKay said the team just took it one point at a time "It doesn't really matter who has the lead Oyster River head coach Cassandra Doore said her team shook off some nerves in the first set and really executed well in the second and third sets "I switched my lineup three times in three sets," Doore said "It is what it is; trying to figure out how we're going to be most effective and I think that was it at the end