Durham council appoints Julian Smith to Conservation Commission alternate seat after debate over dam-removal views

Durham — The Durham Town Council on March 2 appointed Julian Smith to an unexpired alternate seat on the Conservation Commission by a 5–4 roll call after extended discussion about his views on Mill Pond Dam removal.

Mr. Smith, who presented his long history of participation in local conservation efforts dating back to the 1960s, told councilors he wants the Conservation Commission to focus on post-removal planning and on public access to the town-funded dam-removal report. He said the report should be more readily available to residents, for example at the town library.

Opponents on the council, including Chair Joseph Friedman and Chair Pro Tem Sally Needell, questioned whether Mr. Smith’s vocal opposition to dam removal would make him an effective commission member, given the commission’s prior recommendation and years of work on the issue. Administrator Todd Selig told the council the $330,000 dam-removal report was prepared to provide the town’s best guidance and cited VHB’s experience on similar projects.

After a brief recess the council voted 5–4 to appoint Mr. Smith; supporters argued that the commission benefits from minority and dissenting viewpoints while critics said persistent opposition to a past decision could hinder commission work.

Vote - Appointment of Julian Smith as alternate member of the Conservation Commission (term to April 2027): passed 5–4.

What’s next Mr. Smith will serve as an alternate through April 2027; councilors and commission members noted the need to balance diversity of viewpoints with the commission’s ability to carry out its recommendations.