Codes and Ordinances Committee
Regular MeetingRochester, NH · March 5, 2026
Minutes
City of Rochester Codes and Ordinances Committee
Draft March 5, 2026
Members Present
Councilor Walker, Chair
Councilor Fontneau, Vice Chair
Councilor Gianotti
Councilor Rice
Councilor Richardson
Mayor Grassie
Others Present
Councilor Horne
Katie Ambrose, City Manager
Jim Grant, Director of Building and Licensing Services
Andrew Kroeckel, Assistant City Attorney
Lauren Krans, Director of Recreation
Marie Lejeune, Library Director
Gary Boudreau, Chief of Police
John Burns, Executive Director of SOS Recovery Community Organization
Doctor Kerry Nolte, Associate Professor of Nursing at UNH
Lauren McGinley, Executive Director of the NH Harm Reduction Coalition
Jake Berry, Senior Vice President of New Futures
Jason Lucey, Assistant Professor at MGH Institute of Health Professions
Ashely Wheeler, Manager of the Strafford County Public Health Network
David Camire, resident
Christopher Rice, resident
Brian Strong, resident
Janice Perry, resident
CODES AND ORDINANCES COMMITTEE
of the Rochester City Council
Thursday, March 5, 2026
Council Chambers
6:00 PM
Minutes
1. Call to Order
Councilor Walker called the meeting to order at 6:00 PM.
2. Roll Call
Kelly Walters, City Clerk, took the roll call attendance. All regular
members and Mayor Grassie were present. Councilor Horne was also in
attendance.
1
City of Rochester Codes and Ordinances Committee
Draft March 5, 2026
3. Public Input
Councilor Walker asked if any member of the public had come to speak
on matters that were included in the agenda. No members of the public came
forward at this time.
6. Building & Licensing Services
6.1. Compliance Update and Data Review
Councilor Walker declared that this item would be moved forward on the
agenda.
Jim Grant, Director of Building and Licensing Services, provided an
overview of complaints received and addressed by his department in January
and February 2026.
4. Acceptance of the Minutes
4.1. Acceptance of the Minutes: February 5, 2026, Codes and
Ordinances Committee
Councilor Rice MOVED to ACCEPT the minutes of the February 5, 2026,
Codes and Ordinances Committee meeting. Councilor Gianotti seconded the
motion. The MOTION CARRIED by a unanimous voice vote.
5. Discussions
5.1. Discussion: New Article III of City Ordinances Chapter 94
(Syringe Service Program and Needle Disposal)
John Burns, Executive Director of SOS Recovery Community
Organization, spoke about the recovery support, family services, and syringe
services provided by the organization. He explained that syringe services go
beyond needle exchange to include cleaning and dressing wounds related to
drug use, as well as screening for Hepatitis C and connecting patients with
Hepatitis treatment. He described the “safer smoking supplies” initiative to
provide clients with safer alternatives to injecting narcotics. He claimed that
research shows individuals who access syringe services are six times more
2
City of Rochester Codes and Ordinances Committee
Draft March 5, 2026
likely to access treatments and five times more likely to stop using drugs
altogether.
Director Burns went on to address the proposed ordinance specifically,
predicting that it would increase (rather than decrease) the amount of needles
discarded in the city. He explained that the rate of drug use in the community
is the result of larger systemic factors, such as the opioid epidemic and the
housing crisis; and that the presence of syringe services in the community
does not create drug use, but does equip the community with better tools to
address the problem. He proposed pausing deliberations on this ordinance
while his organization conducts a trail of public needle disposal boxes and
better data is collected on the incidence of improperly discarded needles. He
discussed statistics around the impact of syringe services which were further
detailed in a handout distributed to the Council, and explained how limiting
these services can encourage unsafe needle use and an array of related health
complications.
Councilor Horne inquired if any studies of syringe services had been
conducted in New Hampshire or in the New England region. Doctor Kerry
Nolte, Associate Professor of Nursing at the University of New Hampshire,
described a number of recent studies conducted across syringe services and
harm reduction programs in New Hampshire. She discussed statistics
specifically gathered from Rochester’s drug-using population and noted that a
significant majority have access to health insurance but have not sought help
from a primary care physician due to stigma or trauma. She explained the
important role of organizations like SOS in bridging that gap.
Doctor Nolte went into detail on a study conducted over the past three
years on public needle disposal boxes installed in the city of Dover. She
explained how this disposal program had apparently reduced the incidence of
improperly disposed needles by 42% city-wide, and by 61% within a 200-
meter radius of the disposal boxes.
Councilor Walker inquired if SOS had statistics on the number of needles
the organization had distributed. Director Burns answered that those numbers
are reported quarterly, and that the organization usually collects around 85-
90% of the number of needles it distributes. Between July 1, 2024, and June
30, SOS collected 206,000 needles in Rochester.
3
City of Rochester Codes and Ordinances Committee
Draft March 5, 2026
Councilor Gianotti asked about the statistic that the majority of
overdoses are treated by individuals and not by emergency services. Director
Burns explained that naloxone is distributed by SOS and other services
statewide, and that broader access to naloxone is another benefit of such
services. He explained that any individual using their syringe services is
offered naloxone as well as the training to use it to counteract a potentially
fatal overdose.
Councilor Fontneau inquired what percentage of SOS’s clients utilize
syringe services specifically (as opposed to other recovery and support
services). Director Burns answered that the organization does not record
which individuals utilize syringe services to protect the privacy of those
individuals.
Councilor Fontneau inquired whether SOS operates a mobile syringe
service. Director Burns answered that the organization operates a hotline
providing mobile access to all of its services, making collection and delivery of
supplies available to neighboring rural communities. Councilor Fontneau asked
to clarify that SOS did not have a van or mobile station that would set up and
operate their services in a specific location. Director Burns answered that this
was correct, but that their mobile service does proactively visit common sites
of encampments for the unhoused.
Councilor Richardson asked to clarify why a 1-for-1 needle exchange
would not be considered ideal. Director Burns answered that it would prevent
syringe services from providing any clean needles to individuals who came to
them without needles to exchange. He explained how creating barriers that
encourage individuals to share needles or to seek out needles from unsafe
sources is proven to increase the incidence of communicable diseases like HIV
and Hepatitis and additionally makes these diseases more difficult to track and
manage.
Councilor Horne brought attention to the New Hampshire Drug
Monitoring Initiative, whose website provides data on drug overdose incidence
across the state.
Councilor Fontneau inquired about the city of Manchester, which recently
changed its ordinances to restrict the hours of operation for syringe services
and enforce a 1-to-1 needle exchange. Director Burns deferred to Lauren
4
City of Rochester Codes and Ordinances Committee
Draft March 5, 2026
McGinley, Executive Director of the New Hampshire Harm Reduction Coalition,
to speak on the subject.
Director McGinley spoke about the work that her organization does to
fund, advocate for, and educate people around harm reduction services.
Additionally, the NH Harm Reduction Coalition operates services in specific
communities across the state; in Rochester, Somersworth, and Dover, that
takes the form of Hand Up Health Services, a mobile syringe service that
provides safe needle exchange, education, and connection with treatment
services. Director McGinley explained how a flexible mobile setup has allowed
the organization to better meet the needs of these communities and work
directly with other community action groups.
Director McGinley went on to address the proposed ordinance
specifically, explaining how limiting syringe services will not decrease syringe
litter, which is driven primarily by factors such as housing instability and the
lack of public disposal options. She additionally cited a study showing that
two-thirds of all needles entering municipal waste systems came from
individuals managing medical conditions at home. She highlighted the
importance of understanding the sources of syringe litter and working to
structure disposal systems to meet those sources. She cautioned that making
multiple, significant changes to the way syringe services are allowed to
operate will make it more difficult to understand the impact of those changes.
She reiterated the harmful impact of 1-to-1 needle exchanges, stressing that
friction which causes individuals to disengage from the needle exchange
service likewise causes them to disengage from disease monitoring, treatment
options, and pathways to recovery that that organization could otherwise
provide.
Councilor Fontneau inquired about the hours of operation and the
number of clients for the mobile syringe service in Rochester. Director
McGinley answered that the Hand Up Health Services van typical operated for
4-6 evening hours each week in the city, during which time it might serve
anywhere between 30-100 individuals.
Councilor Fontneau asked about the impact of recent changes to the
syringe service ordinance in Manchester. Director McGinley explained that the
first draft of that new ordinance would have severely limited or even
eliminated her organization’s services in the city, and that Manchester was
5
City of Rochester Codes and Ordinances Committee
Draft March 5, 2026
fortunately willing to work with her organization to revise the ordinance with
a better understanding of the scope of their services. However, the city of
Manchester still moved forward with a 1-to-1 needle exchange limit, which
has already reduced engagement in the Queen City Exchange and encouraged
some residents to return to buying and sharing needles for more reliable
access. Because the ordinance came into full effect in January 2026, there has
not yet been enough time to judge the long-term implications; however, the
historical pattern for other communities making similar moves has been an
increase in public health risks like Hepatitis and a decrease in engagement
with support and recovery services. Councilor Fontneau inquired if Manchester
had a public disposal box program, like Dover. Director McGinley answered
that no, the new ordinance also prevents public disposal boxes.
Councilor Fontneau noted that the City had at one time considered a
proposal from the Strafford County Public Health Network to install public
syringe disposal boxes, but that the funding had been allocated to other opioid
abatement programs. He expressed support for considering expanded disposal
options, but stressed finding a balance with addressing the sources of syringe
litter as well.
Councilor Gianotti asked if clients came to Hand Up Health Services
exclusively for the needle exchange program. Director McGinley answered that
no, the organization offers many support services, and even individuals who
are recovered or are in the process of recovery will make use of those services.
Councilor Horne inquired what kind of medical care syringe services can
provide to clients who have wounds related to drug use. Director McGinley
answered that all of her organization’s locations are equipped to provide
supplies and educational materials to help individuals mitigate potential
wounds and treat smaller wounds. Additionally, their care coordinators are
connected with medical providers where they can bring clients in need of more
urgent or more comprehensive care.
Councilor Fontneau inquired if, statistically, rates of drug overdose and
the opioid epidemic as a whole were on the decline. Director McGinley
answered that, yes, the incidence of fatal overdoses in recent years had been
reduced at even better rates than expected; however, non-fatal overdoses are
still occurring at a similar rate, and will present a more complex challenge to
reduce. She highlighted that it is important to remember the dramatic
6
City of Rochester Codes and Ordinances Committee
Draft March 5, 2026
reduction in fatal overdose rates is the result of many years of public health
services working toward this goal, and that a change to how those services
operate now could reverse some of those gains.
Mayor Grassie inquired about statistics around rates of addiction in the
state. Director McGinley did not have those statistics available. Mayor Grassie
inquired about statistics around rates of Hepatitis in the state. Director
McGinley answered that the testing to provide that date is largely being carried
out by syringe service providers like SOS, which need engagement in order to
collect useful data.
Councilor Richardson asked to clarify if the decline in fatal overdose
rates was a nationwide trend. Director McGinley confirmed that it was.
Jake Berry, Senior Vice President of New Futures, a Concord-based non-
profit organization focused on health policy and advocacy, expanded on some
of the previous discussions. He cited that fatal overdose rates in New
Hampshire specifically had decreased 50% since 2019, taking the state from
the 3rd highest overdose rate in the country to the 21st highest in 2022. He
attributed this dramatic success in large part to the multitude of services and
connections provided by syringe service providers. He additionally noted that
limiting these services does not appear to limit the number of needles
circulating a the community, but only to limit the number of clean needles
available in that community. He expressed his organization’s support for
working with the City to find solutions that address public safety concerns
without undermining gains on public health issues.
Jason Lucey, Assistant Professor at the Massachusetts General Hospital
Institute of Health Professions, spoke about his experience in harm reduction
services. He stressed the importance of syringe services and their connected
care services in reducing fatal overdoses and the spread of blood-borne
pathogens. He offered to provide the Council with research materials which
overwhelmingly indicate that a compassionate approach to substance abuse
problems is more effective than the alternatives.
Doctor Nolte expanded on the negative impact that 1-for-1 needle
exchange limits have on overdose rates, explaining the pressures that might
lead an individual to inject drugs less safely the more limited their supply of
syringes becomes.
7
City of Rochester Codes and Ordinances Committee
Draft March 5, 2026
David Camire, resident, expressed concern about the syringe supply in
circulation.
Christopher Rice, resident, spoke about regulations for syringe service
providers. Councilor Rice inquired which body of City government he would
suggest to be responsible for overseeing stricter regulations. Mr. Rice
suggested the Board of Health. Councilor Rice asked if the Board of Health had
been consulted in the creation of the proposed ordinance. Councilor Walker
answered that the Board of Health had not yet been consulted, as the Board
typically meets only when specifically called upon by the City. Councilor Rice
suggested that the Board of Health should consider meeting on a more regular
basis. Mayor Grassie clarified that these kinds of matters are usually run
through the City’s Health Officer, rather than the Board of Health.
Ashely Wheeler, Manager of the Strafford County Public Health Network,
spoke on behalf of her organization, which facilitated the public needle
disposal boxes in Dover and has worked on Rochester’s Opioid Abatement
Committee, among other public health initiatives. She explained that she
relies on expert opinions from peer-review medical journals to inform her
work, and that the best practices put forward by those sources are
overwhelmingly against the idea of a 1-for-1 needle exchange limit. She
expressed that her organization would be open to expanding the public needle
disposal box program to Rochester and offered to be involved in future policy
conversations to encourage evidence-based solutions to public health
problems. She reiterated and supported the arguments made by previous
speakers for the negative impacts of limited harm reduction services.
Councilor Fontneau asked for more information about the public needle
disposal boxes in Dover. Ms. Wheeler explained that the Strafford County
Public Health Network facilitated the creation of the program, which is now
managed by SOS. She noted that SOS has identified the funding necessary to
bring a similar program to Rochester and has offered to operate that program.
She added that, when SOS staff maintain and empty these disposal boxes,
they have found needles used for treatment of diabetes or severe allergies
and at-home blood tests, indicating that more accessible disposal options are
useful to the broader community.
8
City of Rochester Codes and Ordinances Committee
Draft March 5, 2026
Councilor Richardson inquired how the public needle disposal boxes in
Dover are funded. Ms. Wheeler answered that funding does not come from
the city of Dover; the Strafford County Public Health Network receives and
manages funds from the Wentworth-Douglas Hospital Community Health
Foundation to cover the operating costs of the program. A similar program in
Rochester would be funded in the same manner.
Councilor Rice asked for further details about the public needle disposal
boxes in Dover. Ms. Wheeler answered that there are currently two
permanent, tamper-proof boxes installed in the city, which SOS purchased for
$900 and $1,200. Councilor Rice asked where the waste from these disposal
boxes is removed to. Ms. Wheeler answered that the syringes do not enter the
city’s waste system or landfills, but are deposited with a medical waste
disposal program which properly incinerates the materials.
Mr. Camire asked for clarification on what the Strafford County Public
Health Network is. Ms. Wheeler answered that her organization is one of 13
regional health networks in the state of New Hampshire, which are funded
primarily by the Department of Health and Human Services and receive grant
funding from the Bureau of Drug and Alcohol Services specifically for
addressing issues around mental health and addiction. The network is not an
operation of county government, but is a collaborative partnership between
healthcare providers in the region and various community stakeholders.
Brian Strong, resident, expressed concern about the syringe supply in
circulation.
Janice Perry, resident, expressed concern about the syringe supply in
circulation.
Mr. Burns addressed concerns raised about needle stick injuries and
encouraged the City to examine its own public health and police reporting on
the issue to inform its decision-making. He cited a study showing that the
majority of needle stick injuries are incurred by first responders, not by
members of the public, and that the rates of such injuries decrease in
communities with syringe services.
Katie Ambrose, City Manager, brought attention to a memo she
submitted to the Council with data compiled by city staff regarding the
9
City of Rochester Codes and Ordinances Committee
Draft March 5, 2026
potential impacts to city services from syringe litter and the associated
cleanup. City Manager Ambrose reviewed the data contained in the memo.
(see Addendum A)
Councilor Fontneau expressed concern that even if the incidence of
needle stick injuries in public spaces is rare, the perception of syringe litter
could negatively impact people’s willingness to use those public spaces.
Lauren Krans, Director of Recreation, shared that many parents had expressed
concern to her about visiting parks and common areas in the city. Marie
Lejeune, Library Director, shared similar concerns from parents regarding the
Rochester Public Library and added that her staff generally does not call the
Police Department to address syringe litter but performs regular sweeps of the
library grounds themselves.
Councilor Richardson asked Gary Boudreau, Chief of Police, to speak on
the data presented by the City Manager. Chief Boudreau discussed his
department’s experience involving syringe litter cleanup. He clarified that the
Police Department handles cleanup on public property, but cleanup on private
property would be the responsibility of the property owner.
Councilor Fontneau expressed interest in hearing the reasoning behind
the recent changes to the syringe services ordinance in Manchester. Councilor
Walker noted that Sanford, Maine, had made similar changes to its syringe
services ordinance as well.
Councilor Fontneau expressed interest in pursuing public needle disposal
boxes in the city. Mayor Grassie indicated that he would direct the City
Manager to work with the Strafford County Public Health Network on bringing
forward a new proposal for that program.
Mayor Grassie suggested holding the ordinance in draft form and
continuing to revise it while implementing the public needle disposal boxes to
see if the impact of the boxes would inform the Council’s decision. Councilors
Walker and Richardson expressed opposition to delaying the ordinance.
Councilor Rice requested a revised draft of the ordinance before the next
meeting of the Committee. There was some discussion about what should be
included in the revised draft, including changes to the needle exchange rate
and the limits on mobile syringe services, but discussion was inconclusive.
10
City of Rochester Codes and Ordinances Committee
Draft March 5, 2026
5.2. Discussion: City Ordinances Chapter 7 Article XI, Code of
Ethics and Conduct for Elected and Appointed Officials
Discussion was postponed to the next regular meeting of the Codes and
Ordinances Committee.
7. Other
Councilor Rice noted that there were multiple items she hoped to bring
before a future meeting of the Committee, including an item related to use of
the fairgrounds and an ordinance for drone operation in the city.
8. Adjournment
Councilor Rice MOVED to ADJOURN the Codes and Ordinances
Committee meeting at 8:47 PM. Councilor Gianotti seconded the motion. The
MOTION CARRIED by a unanimous voice vote.
Respectfully submitted,
Austin S. Leavitt, Deputy City Clerk
on behalf of Kelly Walters, City Clerk
11
Addendum A
City of Rochester, New Hampshire
Office of The City Manager
31 Wakefield Street • Rochester, NH 03867
(603) 332-7500
www.RochesterNH.gov
MEMORANDUM
TO: Codes and Ordinances Committee
FROM: Katie Ambrose, City Manager
DATE: March 3, 2026
SUBJECT: Requested Data on Municipal Impact of Discarded Syringes
At the February 5, 2026, Codes and Ordinances Committee meeting, members requested additional
data on the potential impacts to City services related to discarded needles and the cleanup thereof.
The following is a summary of information documented over the past 5 years regarding syringe-
related service calls, departments and staff affected, and a quantification of the discarded materials
collected:
Emergency Services Response (2021–2025)
Annual Service Calls
Year Service Calls PD Disposals EMS Disposals Fire Disposals DPW Disposals
2021 190 86 9 1 1
2022 155 72 5 1 —
2023 111 60 1 — —
2024 104 72 — — —
2025 82 42 — — —
Five-Year Total (2021–2025 full years):
• 560 service calls
• 290+ documented disposal incidents
The quantity of emergency personnel responses for these discarded needle calls includes
circumstances with both confirmed needles and reports where needles were not located in the area
where staff were directed:
• 2021: 10 public location reports (library, parks, schools) where no needles were found
• 2022: 9 not found
• 2023: 6 not found
• 2025: 10 not found
Even when no syringes are ultimately recovered from a call, emergency personnel must respond,
investigate, and document these cases. Although the calls for service have steadily declined over the
past 5 years, they remain a regular occurrence for police, fire, and EMS staff.
Police staff participated in a 9/20/2024 cleanup of several encampment sites as well as cleanups of
multiple areas/streets where needles have been known to be discarded.
This cleanup resulted in:
• 2 full sharps containers collected, with primarily uncapped needles (These sharps containers
hold 100+ needles.)
• Multiple empty syringe 10-pack wrappers recovered
Click HERE to view pictures from these cleanup locations.
Police staff also report communications from residents in the area of United Methodist Church
regarding ongoing issues with discarded syringes. In one incident, it was reported that a dog
ingested a syringe that had been discarded into its owner’s yard.
Since 2015 (as reported in THIS Foster’s article), Rochester Fire, Police, and EMS have
implemented sharps container placement in first-responder vehicles to aid and streamline in disposal
and address recurring weekly calls for found needles.
There have been documented syringe/needle cleanups or identifications in the following public
locations. This excludes the encampments and street cleanups mentioned prior:
• Spaulding High School
• William Allen School
• School Street School
• McClelland School
• Rochester Middle School
• Rochester Community Center
2
• Rochester Public Library
• James W. Foley Memorial Community Center
• Rochester Common
• Dominicus Hanson Park (The Pines)
• Gonic Trails
• Emmanuel Childcare Center
Rochester Public Library
The Rochester Public Library has installed permanent sharps containers on each floor of the facility.
Library staff have reported the need for routine needle disposal involving the Custodian, Patron
Services Supervisor, and Library Director.
Exterior:
• An average 3–5 needles are found most mornings (except during winter months)
• Likely associated with overnight occupancy of unhoused people on the ramp leading to the
entrance
Interior:
• 1–3 needles found daily in trash cans
• It has been a necessity for the public bathrooms to be shut down multiple times per week due to
blood splatter.
• There have been 2 separate incidents which required toilet removal to clear flushed needles,
which necessitated the help of 3 Buildings and Grounds staff
In the warmer months when the library offers Outdoor Children’s Programming, staff reports that prior
to the programs:
• 15–20 minutes is spent sweeping grounds for needles and paraphernalia before participants
are allowed in the area (3 Library assistants, 2 lead librarians, and patrons services supervisors
all involved in these reviews)
• 2–4 needles found on average during each sweep
In 2025, the library reported that they had 68 outdoor programs scheduled. Without the
aforementioned pre-program sweeps, this outdoor programming would not be feasible due to the risk
posed to participants. There is no winter programming scheduled outdoors, not primarily due to the
weather, but rather due to risk of concealed needles under snow.
Human Resources
In recent years there have been 2 reports of employee needle stick injuries when removing trash
bags from restrooms in city buildings.
3
Public Buildings and Grounds
Since 2020, SERVPRO has been contracted by the City 21 times for the clean-up of encampment
sites, the total cost of which was $53,391 or approximately $10,679 per year.
Although there is not individual syringe data for each cleanup, following one such October 2024
ServePro cleanup event at The Pines, Buildings and Grounds reported that there were 75–100
needles collected and discarded.
Recreation
Since November 2024, there have been 21 documented needles disposed of by Recreation staff in
The Pines, with numerous needle caps found without an associated syringe.
An additional attendant was assigned in January 2025 with a focus on The Pines and the
Squamanagonic areas.
Needle disposal is now an ongoing maintenance function within Parks operations through three
facilities positions. Click HERE to view a photo of needles found at the Common Playground in the fall
of 2023.
NEEDLE EXCHANGE PROGRAM DATA (SSP)
Based on Reporting through DHHS:
“Hand up Health Services” NH Harm reduction coalition (serving Dover, Rochester*, and
Somersworth)
o There was an average of 32,828 needles distributed quarterly (or approximately 8,207 per
month) amongst these three communities.
o There was an average of 31,120 needles taken back.
o An average of 1,708 needles, or 5.3% of those needles distributed, not returned.
*Please note that this data is not Rochester specific, but takes into account three communities served
by this organization.
“SOS” (serving Dover, Rochester*, Exeter, and mobile SSP program)
o There was an average of 98,697 needles distributed quarterly in Rochester (or approximately
24,674 a month)
o There was an average of 78,632 needles taken back.
o An average of 20,065 needles, or 20.4% of those needles distributed, not returned
4
Agenda
Attention: The Codes Packet has been revised to add an addendum to item 5.1
CODES AND ORDINANCES COMMITTEE
of the Rochester City Council
Thursday, March 5, 2026
Council Chambers
6:00 PM
Agenda
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Public Input
4. Acceptance of the Minutes
4.1. Acceptance of the Minutes: February 5, 2026, Codes and
Ordinances Committee
5. Discussions
5.1. Discussion: New Article III of City Ordinances Chapter 94,
Syringe Service Program and Needle Disposal
5.2. Discussion: City Ordinances Chapter 7 Article XI,
Code of Ethics and Conduct for Elected and Appointed Officials
6. Building & Licensing Services
5.1. Compliance Update and Data Review
7. Other
8. Adjournment
1 of 14
City of Rochester Codes and Ordinances Committee
Draft February 5, 2026
Members Present
Councilor Walker, Chair
Councilor Fontneau, Vice Chair
Councilor Gianotti
Councilor Rice
Councilor Richardson
Mayor Grassie
Others Present
Councilor Horne
Christopher Rice, resident
Renee McIsaac, resident
Justin McIsaac, resident
David Camire, resident
David Walton, resident
CODES AND ORDINANCES COMMITTEE
of the Rochester City Council
Thursday, February 5, 2026
Council Chambers
6:00 PM
Minutes
1. Call to Order
Councilor Walker called the meeting to order at 6:00 PM.
2. Roll Call
Austin Leavitt, Deputy City Clerk, took the roll call attendance. All
regular members and Mayor Grassie were present. Councilor Horne was also
in attendance.
3. Public Input
Councilor Walker asked those present to hold public comments related
to specific agenda items until the relevant portions of the meeting.
Christopher Rice, resident, shared his grievances regarding City staff.
4. Acceptance of the Minutes
1
2 of 14
City of Rochester Codes and Ordinances Committee
Draft February 5, 2026
4.1. Acceptance of the Minutes: January 12, 2026, Codes and
Ordinances Committee
Councilor Fontneau MOVED to ACCEPT the minutes of the January 12,
2026, Codes and Ordinances Committee meeting. Councilor Gianotti seconded
the motion. The MOTION CARRIED by a unanimous voice vote.
4.1. Acceptance of the Minutes: January 29, 2026, Codes and
Ordinances Committee Special Meeting
Councilor Richardson MOVED to ACCEPT the minutes of the January
29, 2026, Codes and Ordinances Committee special meeting. Councilor
Gianotti seconded the motion. The MOTION CARRIED by a majority voice
vote.
5. Discussions
5.1. Discussion: New Article III of City Ordinances Chapter 94
(Syringe Service Program and Needle Disposal)
Renee McIsaac, resident, expressed concern that the ordinance as
proposed was overly punitive and overly restrictive toward the population that
would be making use of syringe services. Ms. McIsaac cited a journal article
demonstrating the positive impact of effective syringe services, which she
offered to the Council for their review. Councilor Rice asked for clarification on
one of Ms. McIsaac’s claims regarding the financial impact of these services.
Ms. McIsaac cited a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC), which found that every $1 spent on these programs equated to $7 in
savings on municipal services and health care. Councilor Rice asked for Ms.
McIsaac to elaborate on the barriers the proposed ordinance might create to
accessing these services. Ms. McIsaac explained that a 1-for-1 needle
exchange, among other measures, increases both the risks and restrictions
for well-intentioned individuals trying to access these services.
Justin McIsaac, resident, expressed concern that the ordinance as
proposed was overly punitive and overly restrictive. Mr. McIsaac specifically
drew attention to the prohibition on mobile needle exchange service as failing
to meet the needs of the affected population.
2
3 of 14
City of Rochester Codes and Ordinances Committee
Draft February 5, 2026
David Camire, resident, expressed concern regarding needle exchange
programs that currently exist in the City. Mr. Camire asked for additional clarity
on the exclusion map proposed with the ordinance. Councilor Richardson
explained that the attached map outlined the boundaries of specific land
parcels (such as those containing churches or childcare facilities), and that the
zone where syringe services would be excluded from operating would extend
an additional 750 feet around the boundaries of the identified properties.
Christopher Rice, resident, expressed concern with the level of
specificity in determining the exclusion zones. Additionally, Mr. Rice expressed
concern with the reporting requirements for organizations operating syringe
services. Councilor Richardson clarified some of the requirements outlined in
the proposed ordinance, which Mr. Rice explained he had not read. Councilor
Fontneau clarified how the exclusion zones were determined and explained
some of the complications to extending those zones.
David Walton, resident, expressed concern with the proposed ordinance
and with syringe services more broadly.
Councilor Rice expressed interest in better understanding the role of the
Strafford County Drug Court.
Councilor Richardson directed attention to a presentation given at the
02/02 meeting of the Planning Board, which he cited in support of the level of
restrictions in the proposed ordinance. Councilor Richardson argued that the
proposed ordinance would be preferable to having no regulations regarding
syringe services.
David Camire, resident, returned to the podium to express additional
concerns.
Renee McIsaac, resident, returned to the podium to express concern
with the lack of evidence-based arguments being offered to the Council.
Councilor Rice inquired if Ms. McIsaac was employed by a syringe service
provider (SSP). Ms. McIsaac answered that she did not have a professional
interest in the subject, and was approaching the Council as a concerned
citizen.
3
4 of 14
City of Rochester Codes and Ordinances Committee
Draft February 5, 2026
Councilor Fontneau noted that this proposed draft of the ordinance
seemed like a good start, but needed to be refined with additional revisions
based on research into the subject or information from surrounding
communities. He expressed some support for syringe services generally, but
also expressed concerns about the visible impact of these services.
Mayor Grassie suggested revisiting and possibly easing some of the
restrictions included in the proposed ordinance, such as the 1-to-1 needle
exchange limit and the prohibition on mobile needle exchanges. Mayor Grassie
additionally brought up the need to collect data to inform future revisions of
the ordinance. Councilor Richardson noted that the current proposal includes
a quarterly reporting requirement for SSPs. Councilor Walker expressed
support for making the reporting requirement monthly, in the interest of being
able to revisit the ordinance and make informed revisions sooner.
Councilor Richardson identified that the word “daycare” in the list used
to create the exclusion zone for the ordinance should be changed to “childcare”
more broadly. Councilor Rice suggested elder care should be added to the list
of excluded properties.
Councilor Fontneau inquired how the Council might collect additional
information to guide its work on the proposed ordinance. Councilor Walker
suggested that representatives from all current SSPs should be invited to
address the Committee. Councilor Richardson identified two SSPs currently
operating in the City: SOS Recovery Community Organization and Hand Up
Health Services. Councilor Fontneau inquired which City department(s) were
responsible for needle cleanup. Councilor Walker answered that he would
consult the City Manager to identify those departments and invite their
representatives to address the Committee. Councilor Rice suggested inviting
local volunteers engaged in needle cleanup.
Councilor Fontneau inquired about gathering information from other
communities with SSPs. Mayor Grassie responded that he would reach out to
the New Hampshire Municipal Association to initiate that process.
Councilor Walker suggested the Committee should gather more
information before making any changes to the proposed ordinance, and
forwarded the matter to the next meeting of the Codes & Ordinances
Committee.
4
5 of 14
City of Rochester Codes and Ordinances Committee
Draft February 5, 2026
5.2. Discussion: City Ordinances Chapter 7 Article XI, Code of
Ethics and Conduct for Elected and Appointed Officials
Christopher Rice, resident, shared additional grievances regarding City
staff. Mr. Rice brought up his removal from the City Council in 2022 after
allegations of harassment, false statements, and retaliation were deemed
credible by the City. Mr. Rice suggested that City staff should not be involved
in addressing situations of this nature.
Councilor Richardson suggested that the City Council should be capable
of independently policing its own members. Councilor Walker clarified that the
ordinance under discussion was originally intended to provide some
mechanism for the Council to address ethical issues, as the City Charter alone
may not have provided the means to address such cases sufficiently.
Christopher Rice, resident, shared further thoughts on the structure of
the Board of Ethics (BOE) that reviews ethics charges. Councilor Walker
proposed creating the BOE from a randomized selection of Council members.
Mayor Grassie suggested the Committee should review the procedures
developed by other communities to inform their decision. Councilor Walker
expressed reservations with how the existing ordinance could allow for
conflicts of interest on the BOE. There was some discussion about how to
obtain an unbiased BOE. Councilor Rice proposed creating an elected BOE.
Mayor Grassie reiterated the importance of considering different options.
Councilor Fontneau expressed favor for the existing structure of the
ethics investigation process under the ordinance, which includes multiple
different bodies reviewing a charge at different stages. However, Councilor
Fontneau expressed interest in changing the makeup of those groups and
avoding involving City staff in the process. There was a brief discussion about
budgeting for the City to hire an independent attorney or investigative officer.
Christopher Rice, resident, shared further thoughts on the matter.
Councilor Walker suggested changing the standard of evidence for ethics
investigations, expressing dissatisfaction with the standard that an allegation
is “more likely than not” to be credible. Mayor Grassie clarified that this
standard is applied to the preliminary stage of the process, the sufficiency
5
6 of 14
City of Rochester Codes and Ordinances Committee
Draft February 5, 2026
review that determines whether or not an allegation is worth investigating;
further, that a higher standard such as “a preponderance of the evidence” is
unlikely to exist until an actual investigation is undertaken.
There was a discussion about what might constitute grounds for removal
from the City Council, including intent and level of harm.
Councilor Horne expressed support for the Council policing its own
members more proactively.
Christopher Rice, resident, shared his thoughts on the City exercising
stricter information control regarding ethics investigations. Mayor Grassie
clarified that, under RSA 91-A, much of the information around these
procedures is a matter of public record.
Christopher Rice, resident, shared additional grievances with City staff.
Councilor Walker suggested the Committee should gather more ideas
before making any changes to the ordinance, and forwarded the matter to the
next meeting of the Codes & Ordinances Committee
6. Building & Licensing Services
Jim Grant, Director of Building and Licensing Services, could not be
present to provide an update to the Committee.
7. Other
There were no other items brought before the Committee.
8. Adjournment
Mayor Grassie MOVED to ADJOURN the Codes and Ordinances
Committee meeting at 7:37 PM. Councilor Richardson seconded the motion.
The MOTION CARRIED by a unanimous voice vote.
Respectfully submitted,
Austin S. Leavitt
Deputy City Clerk
6
7 of 14
SYRINGE SERVICE PROGRAM AND NEEDLE DISPOSAL
PURPOSE AND NEED.
Whereas, the regulation of Syringe Service Programs ("SSPs") and disposal sites is
necessary to ensure that such programs operate in conformity with New Hampshire law,
demonstrate a plan and implementation for injection drug users to seek treatment for
substance abuse, and require the removal of syringe litter from public and private
property; whereas the City of Rochester is attempting to coordinate all local agencies,
organizations, and providers into a comprehensive prevention program to best facilitate
these practices; and whereas the purpose of this subchapter is to protect the health, safety,
and welfare of the public and of the use of the environment by coordinating syringe service
programs and needle disposal sites.
DEFINITIONS.
The following words shall have the meanings ascribed to them unless the text requires or
specifies a different meaning:
CITY. The City of Rochester, New Hampshire.
DRUG PARAPHERNALIA. All equipment, products, and materials of any kind that are used
or intended for use in planting, propagating, cultivating, growing, harvesting,
manufacturing, compounding, converting, producing, processing, preparing, testing,
analyzing, packaging, repackaging, storing, containing, concealing, injecting, ingesting,
inhaling, or otherwise introducing into the human body a scheduled drug in violation of
R.S.A. 318-B:1 et seq.
FACILITY. A building or area within a building, which is a permanent structure, having
one or more floors and a roof, which is used for the housing or enclosure of persons or
property.
MOBILE OR POP-UP EXCHANGE. Syringe service programs conducted through a variety of
delivery methods which include, but are not limited to: mobile vans, cars, motorcycles or
mopeds, and backpacked pedestrians; these terms also refer to the delivery of program
services in any way other than in a fixed facility.
NEEDLE DISPOSAL CONTAINER. Any rigid puncture-resistant container used for the
collection of discarded needles or other sharps.
OPERATOR. The contracted provider of a syringe service program.
8 of 14
SAFE OR SUPERVISED INJECTION SITES. Medically supervised facilities designed to
provide a hygienic environment in which drug addicts are able to consume illicit
recreational drugs intravenously.
SYRINGE SERVICE PROGRAM (SSP). A sterile needle and needle exchange program
authorized by R.S.A. 318-B:43.
LIMITATION ON SYRINGE SERVICE PROGRAM (SSP)
SSP Will be allowable ONLY on a ONE FOR ONE NEEDLE EXCHANGE within the city of
Rochester
LIMITATION ON THE LOCATION OF NEEDLE DISPOSAL CONTAINER SITES.
Needle disposal containers must not be visible to the general public from any publicly
owned space or right-of-way.
LIMITATION ON THE LOCATION OF SSP OPERATION.
(A) An SSP may operate at a fixed, secure facility approved by the City of Rochester
(B) A mobile or pop-up exchange SSP program is NOT PERMISSABLE within the city of
Rochester.
(C) No SSP facility will be allowed to operate within 750 feet of any playground, library,
or state-licensed daycare facility; and no SSP facility shall be located within a drug-free
school zone as defined in R.S.A. 193-B:1, II. For these purposes, the city will publish,
maintain and update an accurate and up-to-date map identifying the location and address
of parks, playgrounds, libraries, state-licensed daycare facilities and drug free school zones
within the City of Rochester.
(D) For the purpose of this section, measurements shall be made in a straight line,
without regard to the intervening structures or objects, from the nearest portion of the
building or structure used as a part of the premises for a needle exchange program to the
nearest property line of a church, library, daycare center, or to the nearest boundary of a
park or playground.
REGISTRATION INFORMATION TO BE PROVIDED BY THE SSP OPERATOR.
9 of 14
(A) An SSP shall file with the City of Rochester a full copy of all the registration materials
provided to the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services and reports
pursuant to R.S.A. 318-B:43, II.
(B) An SSP shall maintain a list of all staff and volunteers of the SSP.
(C) An SSP shall register with the City of Rochester within 30 days of registering with the
NH Department of Health and Human Services.
DAYS AND HOURS OF OPERATION OF THE SSP.
(A) An SSP facility, in coordinating with local agencies pursuant to R.S.A. 318-B:43, II (b),
may propose but shall only operate on days and hours approved by the City of Rochester.
(B) A request by an SSP to amend the days and hours of its operation may be submitted
to the City of Rochester to be considered in conjunction with the days and hours of
operation of other SSPs to minimize the duplication of effort. In the event of a Public
Health Emergency or outbreak of disease, the City of Rochester may adjust days and hours
of operation to best address public health needs.
SECURITY OF FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT.
Criteria for a fixed facility include, but are not limited to:
(A) A primary entrance and emergency exit with doors and locking mechanisms;
(B) Needle disposal containers for securing previously used needles and other
paraphernalia;
(C) Must be accessible to vehicle and foot traffic, to include legal parking areas;
(D) Must have ADA access for consumers;
(E) Must have electricity and running water availability;
(F) Must be a commercial type property and not residential;
(G) Must be in a well-lighted area for both primary entrance and emergency exits, for
safety issues;
(H) The fixed facility will not be used for a "safe or supervised injection site" of any
nature in the city; and
10 of 14
(I) The operator shall provide for the safety and security of the site where needles are
exchanged and of any equipment used under the needle exchange program, and shall
establish written security procedures. These security procedures shall be included in the
operator's training and on-boarding process for all contractors, employees, and volunteers
assisting in the needle exchange program.
SYRINGE SERVICE PROGRAM OPERATIONS.
(A) An SSP shall operate in the city only if registered with the NH Department of Health
and Human Services pursuant to R.S.A. 318-B:43, II.
(B) All SSPs shall coordinate with the City of Rochester to create a comprehensive
prevention program for people who inject drugs to minimize duplication of effort. Such
coordination shall include following the City of Rochester’s direction in response to a public
health emergency or outbreak.
(C) An SSP shall supply its list of all staff and volunteers of the SSP to the City of
Rochester. Any changes to the list will be immediately updated and reported to the city of
Rochester. An SSP will Provide the forementioned list immediately upon request of the city
of Rochester.
(D) An SSP shall operate to an exchange-only basis of a ONE FOR ONE EXCHANGE
whereby an SSP participant shall receive sterile needles and needle units only by providing
the SSP with a used one, and only in the same quantity received. An SSP shall provide only
the drug paraphernalia permitted under R.S.A. 318-B:43.
(E) Whenever needles are exchanged or provided, the SSP shall offer educational
materials regarding the transmission of HlV, viral hepatitis, and other bloodborne diseases,
as well as educational materials regarding available treatment and recovery services.
(F) SSPs shall not knowingly distribute syringes to persons less than 18 years of age.
(G) SSPs shall comply with all New Hampshire statutes, rules, and regulations.
(H) SSPs shall not accept any form of remuneration from consumers for delivering
exchange service program services.
(I) Staff and their representatives shall carry identification and a copy of their SSP's
registration while conducting SSP business.
(J) SSPs shall provide consumer enrollment guidelines that include notifying all
consumers regarding rules and laws applicable to SSPs.
11 of 14
DATA AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS FOR SYRINGE SERVICE PROGRAM.
An SSP shall provide to the city on a quarterly basis a copy of the reports submitted to the
State pursuant to R.S.A. 318-B:43, II(f), and shall provide additional data by agreement. No
personal identifying information of an SSP participant shall be submitted for any purpose.
An SSP will provide on a quarterly basis to the city of Rochester a report detailing the
number of needles distributed, needles collected, number of people participating in the
program, age group of participants, 18-30, 31-40, 41-50, 60+. An SSP report will also
include the residency of participants, as well as gender.
LAWFUL PARTICIPATION
Pursuant to R.S.A. 318-B:44 it is an affirmative defense, to prosecution for possession of a
hypodermic syringe or needle, as provided in R.S.A. 626:7, that the item was obtained
through participation in a syringe service program. Nothing in that section shall be
construed as an affirmative defense for any offense other than as set forth under R.S.A. 318-
B:26, Il(f). SSPs shall comply with all applicable laws.
ENFORCEMENT AND PENALTIES.
(A) This subchapter shall be enforced by City of Rochester, the Department of Public
Works. Such enforcement authority is in addition to, and shall not restrict, the authority
currently possessed by any City Department including, but not limited to, the Manchester
Police Department to enforce the requirements of this subchapter.
(B) Anyone found guilty of violating any provision of this subchapter shall be subject to a
fine of not less than $100 nor more than $1,000. Each day such a violation occurs shall
constitute a new and separate offense.
12 of 14
City of Rochester, NH
§ 7-81 § 7-83
ARTICLE XI
Code of Ethics and Conduct for Elected and Appointed Officials
[Added 12-5-20231]
§ 7-81. Board of Ethics.
A. A Board of Ethics ("BOE") is hereby created. This BOE shall consist of three persons: one
member shall be appointed by the Mayor from the City Council, one member shall be
appointed by the Chair of the School Board from the School Board, and one member shall be
appointed by the Chair of the Police Commission from the Police Commission.
B. Each BOE member selected is required to serve unless the BOE member is the subject of the
complaint, has a conflict of interest, or is excused due to unavailability or exceptional causes
(such as a health issue).
C. The BOE members shall elect a chairperson and the BOE may adopt such rules for the
conduct of its business as it sees fit. The BOE shall have the power to draw upon City
departments for reports and information and stenographic and clerical help.
§ 7-82. Ethics Investigation Officer.
A. The position of Ethics Investigation Officer ("EIO") is hereby created. The City Manager
shall have the power to identify and retain an EIO, with approval from the BOE, to assist with
the investigation and prosecution of any complaint which has been referred for investigation.
The EIO, with approval of the BOE, shall have sufficient experience and training to conduct
the investigation.
§ 7-83. Complaints, investigations, and hearing.
A. Complaint requirements. Any City official may submit a written complaint alleging one or
more violations of the Code of Ethics and Conduct for Elected and Appointed Officials
("Ethics Code"). Such complaint must be based on personal knowledge, and set forth facts
with enough specificity and detail for a determination of sufficiency for investigation. The
written complaint must be signed under oath. The complaint shall be delivered to the City
Attorney with a copy to the Mayor and City Clerk. The City Attorney shall promptly provide
a copy of the complaint to the charged party.
B. Review for sufficiency.
(1) A review for sufficiency of the complaint will be completed within 30 days of receipt.
This review will be based on the allegations contained in the complaint and the
immediately available public meetings or records referenced in the complaint.
(2) The City Attorney, Mayor, and Superintendent in the case of a City Board, the City
Attorney, Mayor, and Police Chief in the case of the School Board, or the City Attorney,
Mayor, and City Manager in the case of the Police Commission shall conduct the review
of sufficiency. Complaints against the Mayor, School Board Chair, or Police
1. Editor's Note: This amendment was effective 1-1-2024.
Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/RO2619 on 2026-01-22
13 of 14
City of Rochester, NH
§ 7-81 § 7-84
Commission Chair shall be reviewed by the City Attorney and the Deputy Mayor,
School Board Vice Chair, or Police Commission Vice Chair, respectively.
(3) If the complaint is deemed insufficient, the complainant will be notified in writing of
that decision with a copy provided to the charged party. A complaint will be deemed
sufficient if it is determined that the complaint establishes on its own that it is more
probable than not that a violation of the Ethics Code may have occurred.
(4) If the complaint is deemed sufficient for further investigation, it shall be referred to the
EIO for further action and all parties will be notified of this step through communication
in writing.
C. Investigation phase.
(1) The EIO shall be provided the full cooperation of the City government to conduct such
investigation as may be necessary to determine whether any violation may have occurred
and next steps. The charged party shall have an opportunity to provide a response to the
complaint.
(2) The EIO's investigation shall be completed within 45 days of the date of referral unless
the charged party and the Chair of the BOE mutually agree to a longer period.
(3) The EIO shall provide a written report with the conclusions reached in the completed
investigation to the BOE. The EIO shall provide a nonbinding recommendation as to the
disposition of the complaint to the BOE. Thereafter, all action with regard to the
complaint shall be taken by the BOE.
D. Board of Ethics hearing.
(1) The BOE shall take no further evidence on any complaint, but shall make its
determination based upon the report received by the EIO. However, the BOE shall hold
at least one public hearing at which the EIO, the complainant, and the charged party shall
be afforded an opportunity to present oral and written argument to the BOE. The BOE
may hear from such other and further parties as it determines appropriate.
(2) Any party may be represented by legal counsel at his or her own expense at any stage of
proceedings related to the Ethics Code.
(3) The BOE shall issue a written decision within 30 days of the final public hearing with
findings and a disposition, dismissal, or referral for further action if a violation found. If
a violation has been found, the BOE shall recommend a sanction or penalty and refer the
matter to the City Council, School Board, or Police Commission for disposition,
sanction, or other action as set forth in the Ethics Code.
§ 7-84. Conflict between Ethics Code and this article.
To the extent a conflict arises between the Ethics Code and this article, this article shall prevail.
Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/RO2619 on 2026-01-22
14 of 14
City of Rochester, New Hampshire
Office of The City Manager
31 Wakefield Street • Rochester, NH 03867
(603) 332-7500
www.RochesterNH.gov
MEMORANDUM
TO: Codes and Ordinances Committee
FROM: Katie Ambrose, City Manager
DATE: March 3, 2026
SUBJECT: Requested Data on Municipal Impact of Discarded Syringes
At the February 5, 2026, Codes and Ordinances Committee meeting, members requested additional
data on the potential impacts to City services related to discarded needles and the cleanup thereof.
The following is a summary of information documented over the past 5 years regarding syringe-
related service calls, departments and staff affected, and a quantification of the discarded materials
collected:
Emergency Services Response (2021–2025)
Annual Service Calls
Year Service Calls PD Disposals EMS Disposals Fire Disposals DPW Disposals
2021 190 86 9 1 1
2022 155 72 5 1 —
2023 111 60 1 — —
2024 104 72 — — —
2025 82 42 — — —
Five-Year Total (2021–2025 full years):
• 560 service calls
• 290+ documented disposal incidents
The quantity of emergency personnel responses for these discarded needle calls includes
circumstances with both confirmed needles and reports where needles were not located in the area
where staff were directed:
• 2021: 10 public location reports (library, parks, schools) where no needles were found
• 2022: 9 not found
• 2023: 6 not found
• 2025: 10 not found
Even when no syringes are ultimately recovered from a call, emergency personnel must respond,
investigate, and document these cases. Although the calls for service have steadily declined over the
past 5 years, they remain a regular occurrence for police, fire, and EMS staff.
Police staff participated in a 9/20/2024 cleanup of several encampment sites as well as cleanups of
multiple areas/streets where needles have been known to be discarded.
This cleanup resulted in:
• 2 full sharps containers collected, with primarily uncapped needles (These sharps containers
hold 100+ needles.)
• Multiple empty syringe 10-pack wrappers recovered
Click HERE to view pictures from these cleanup locations.
Police staff also report communications from residents in the area of United Methodist Church
regarding ongoing issues with discarded syringes. In one incident, it was reported that a dog
ingested a syringe that had been discarded into its owner’s yard.
Since 2015 (as reported in THIS Foster’s article), Rochester Fire, Police, and EMS have
implemented sharps container placement in first-responder vehicles to aid and streamline in disposal
and address recurring weekly calls for found needles.
There have been documented syringe/needle cleanups or identifications in the following public
locations. This excludes the encampments and street cleanups mentioned prior:
• Spaulding High School
• William Allen School
• School Street School
• McClelland School
• Rochester Middle School
• Rochester Community Center
2
• Rochester Public Library
• James W. Foley Memorial Community Center
• Rochester Common
• Dominicus Hanson Park (The Pines)
• Gonic Trails
• Emmanuel Childcare Center
Rochester Public Library
The Rochester Public Library has installed permanent sharps containers on each floor of the facility.
Library staff have reported the need for routine needle disposal involving the Custodian, Patron
Services Supervisor, and Library Director.
Exterior:
• An average 3–5 needles are found most mornings (except during winter months)
• Likely associated with overnight occupancy of unhoused people on the ramp leading to the
entrance
Interior:
• 1–3 needles found daily in trash cans
• It has been a necessity for the public bathrooms to be shut down multiple times per week due to
blood splatter.
• There have been 2 separate incidents which required toilet removal to clear flushed needles,
which necessitated the help of 3 Buildings and Grounds staff
In the warmer months when the library offers Outdoor Children’s Programming, staff reports that prior
to the programs:
• 15–20 minutes is spent sweeping grounds for needles and paraphernalia before participants
are allowed in the area (3 Library assistants, 2 lead librarians, and patrons services supervisors
all involved in these reviews)
• 2–4 needles found on average during each sweep
In 2025, the library reported that they had 68 outdoor programs scheduled. Without the
aforementioned pre-program sweeps, this outdoor programming would not be feasible due to the risk
posed to participants. There is no winter programming scheduled outdoors, not primarily due to the
weather, but rather due to risk of concealed needles under snow.
Human Resources
In recent years there have been 2 reports of employee needle stick injuries when removing trash
bags from restrooms in city buildings.
3
Public Buildings and Grounds
Since 2020, SERVPRO has been contracted by the City 21 times for the clean-up of encampment
sites, the total cost of which was $53,391 or approximately $10,679 per year.
Although there is not individual syringe data for each cleanup, following one such October 2024
ServePro cleanup event at The Pines, Buildings and Grounds reported that there were 75–100
needles collected and discarded.
Recreation
Since November 2024, there have been 21 documented needles disposed of by Recreation staff in
The Pines, with numerous needle caps found without an associated syringe.
An additional attendant was assigned in January 2025 with a focus on The Pines and the
Squamanagonic areas.
Needle disposal is now an ongoing maintenance function within Parks operations through three
facilities positions. Click HERE to view a photo of needles found at the Common Playground in the fall
of 2023.
NEEDLE EXCHANGE PROGRAM DATA (SSP)
Based on Reporting through DHHS:
“Hand up Health Services” NH Harm reduction coalition (serving Dover, Rochester*, and
Somersworth)
o There was an average of 32,828 needles distributed quarterly (or approximately 8,207 per
month) amongst these three communities.
o There was an average of 31,120 needles taken back.
o An average of 1,708 needles, or 5.3% of those needles distributed, not returned.
*Please note that this data is not Rochester specific, but takes into account three communities served
by this organization.
“SOS” (serving Dover, Rochester*, Exeter, and mobile SSP program)
o There was an average of 98,697 needles distributed quarterly in Rochester (or approximately
24,674 a month)
o There was an average of 78,632 needles taken back.
o An average of 20,065 needles, or 20.4% of those needles distributed, not returned
4
Get email alerts for Rochester
A daily email when new agendas and minutes are posted.