“State of the City – 2018”
Portsmouth City Manager John P. Bohenko was our Guest Speaker. Former Mayor Peter Weeks, a fellow Rotarian of 30 years, called him a “seasoned” 21-year City Manager. The Plainville, Ct., native arrived here in 1995, filling a difficult vacancy in the city’s leadership role. Two prior managers had lasted less than a few years. (I remember his arrival and wishing him the “best” in taking the challenge!).
Since then, his record of achievement is noteworthy and very accomplished by city manager standards. First, his fiscal policies and management of funds led to successive increases in the City’s Bond Rating. Today, the City is rated AAA by Standard & Poor.
Secondly, John commandeered the City’s development as a tourist destination, historical “hot spot,” and cultural hub, statewide and nationally. And, despite recent Taxpayer Association response to an increase in the tax rate, John has managed fiscal challenges well. He has also juggled large projects like the Foundry Place Garage, McIntyre Building and several lodging and hotel developments. By way of comparison, Portsmouth holds a low equalized tax rate, ranking #37 out of 230 taxable communities.
In addition to managing the budget, there are many long-range issues and plans concerning infrastructure and environmental matters. Re-development of the McIntyre building and monitoring the Coakley Landfill are high priorities.
Transportation initiatives include electric vehicle charging stations, Zagster Bike Share Program and upgrading key traffic corridors. Maplewood Avenue, Islington and Market Streets are also in the mix just to name a few. Connecting the North and West Ends offers opportunities to economically revitalize these areas for businesses and residents.
Portsmouth’s sustainable master plan focus addresses the impact of climate change, namely rising sea levels and coastal storms. South End residences, Strawberry Banke, Prescott Park and historical cemeteries are vulnerable to these destructive forces.
By the time John decides to retire from public service he will have forged an envious legacy for Portsmouth. I have seen dramatic improvement since arriving to the area in 1993. Thanks to John’s oversight, skill, and professional determination, he will leave a huge vacancy in Portsmouth’s corner office.
Announcements.
Paul Harris Fellowship Award: Leo Gagnon and Marie Brownell joined to introduce Susan Gold as our latest PHF. Susan was honored for her endless volunteer activities and major leadership efforts on the Communications Committee.
Ted Alex introduced Lian Hampton, a budding guitar student of Portsmouth Music & Arts Academy, as this year’s scholarship recipient. Lian played his rendition of several popular songs easily recognizable. His award means a full year, pre-paid tuition, lasting the next four years.
50/50: Won by Deborah Rourke - $51, No Bonus Paid – The nest egg of $275 continues to grow…
GOLF Tournament: Sponsorships are still for sale. Contact Peter Grace about donated items, advertising or any questions you may have.
Guests: Alan Gold joined wife Susan.
Adrian Gray, in town on business, joined his father, Larry Gray.
Treasurer, Joe Bove, passed out Club Dues Invoices for July 1. Consider making a little extra donation to the Rotary Foundation this fiscal year (before Ben passes the reins to Cleo).
Respectfully submitted, Dick Seery
