Press Releases/What’s New

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DPW Water Department Asks Residents for Voluntary Water Restrictions

August 24, 2020

This past May, the state activated its Drought Management Task Force; and last week elevated New Hampshire’s drought conditions in the Seacoast area from Moderate to Severe Drought (D2) conditions. The Seacoast has received only 8 inches of precipitation since the beginning of May, compared to the 14-inch average usually experienced in that time. The Drought Management Task Force has advised public water systems including Portsmouth’s to implement outdoor water use restrictions where needed.

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City Clerk Opens Voting Center in City Hall Council Chambers

August 24, 2020

The Absentee Ballot process is now open for the Fall 2020 Election Season and Absentee Ballots are now available for the September 8 NH Primary election from the Portsmouth City Clerk.

To assist residents with what is expected to be high demand for absentee voting due to COVID-19, the City Clerk’s Office has set up a Voting Center in Council Chambers at City Hall. The Voting Center opens Tuesday, August 25 and will be open during regular City Hall hours (Mon, 8 am – 6 pm; Tues-Thurs, 8 am – 4:30 pm; Fri, 8 am – 1 pm) from now through November 2.

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Portsmouth Water Division Requests Voluntary Water Restrictions

August 24, 2020

The Drought Monitor issued on August 18, 2020 elevated New Hampshire’s drought conditions in the Seacoast area to Severe Drought (D2), up from Moderate Drought conditions set on June 23, 2020. The New Hampshire Seacoast has received only 8 inches of precipitation since the beginning of May compared to the 14 inch average. The State has activated the Drought Management Task Force and has advised public water systems including Portsmouth’s to implement outdoor water use restrictions where needed.

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City Clerk Announces Changes in Ward 3 & Ward 4 Voting Locations

August 22, 2020

Portsmouth City Clerk Kelli Barnaby is now assisting residents to prepare for the fall 2020 Election Season. The NH State Primary election takes place on September 8 and the General Election on November 3. Residents may register on the day of the elections and through posted hours on September 1, 2020. Absentee ballot applications are now available from the City Clerk and actual absentee ballots for the NH Primary are also available.

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City Implements Canada Goose Control Program

August 21, 2020

The Department of Public Works Parks and Greenery Group plans to implement a program to control the impact Canada Geese are having at Four Tree Island, Prescott Park, and the new Gateway park on Market Street.

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City Clerk Details Steps for Absentee Voting

August 20, 2020

The Absentee Ballot process is now open for the fall 2020 Election Season. This week, NH Secretary of State Bill Gardner is sending a letter to all NH households advising residents of the requirements to register to vote and cast an absentee ballot. That information is also available here,