Ward 4 candidate
Peter M. Lester
Age: 50, Dover res. 43 yrs.
Occupation: research grant & contract admin, UNH
Public Experience: None

Age: 50

Occupation: Research Grant & Contract Administrator, UNH

How long have you lived in Dover: Since childhood, 1964

Have you served on any boards, councils or committees? No

As Dover becomes a more desirable place to live, how can the city keep it an affordable place for low-income residents? 

The city cannot control the real estate or rental market but city real estate taxes contribute to the overall cost of a residence. During the last 7 years Dover homeowners have seen an average increase to their tax bills of 9% per annum, increasing by 81% in 7 years. This has placed an undue financial burden on everyone but especially low-income families and seniors.  City spending must be reigned in to keep Dover affordable.

What have you accomplished for Dover that you are most proud of and what would you like to accomplish if you are elected?

My life work has been spent on service to country and state and I am now turning my attention to my community. I would like to bring our city spending and thus our property tax cost under control.

What is an important environmental issue facing Dover?

The cleanup of the Tolend Landfill must not be allowed to languish.  Pollution threatening to contaminate various city wells must also be addressed and new sources of water must be explored.

What is the most recent cultural or artistic event that you have attended in Dover? 

Apple Harvest Day

What type of new businesses would you like to see come to Dover?

Clean industries with as little impact to the overall environment as possible.  Clean industries that bring good jobs.

Do you support a tax cap for Dover? 

Yes 100%.  The tax cap is designed to limit city spending but always allow the budget to grow by a reasonable amount each year.  If projects or other events occur that require spending greater than the tax cap allows only 1 additional vote on the council is required for a tax cap override.  (Currently it takes 5 votes on the council to approve a budget, under the tax cap 6 council votes would be required for a tax cap override).

Dover has a growing art community. What can the city do to support arts and artists?