Charge:
In 2026, the United States of America will mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Durhams America 250 Committee purpose is to plan, develop and coordinate community events and activities surrounding the 250th anniversary.
In 2026, the United States of America will mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Durhams America 250 Committee purpose is to plan, develop and coordinate community events and activities surrounding the 250th anniversary.
State of CT Effort and Themes:
The State of CT along with CT Humanities is coordinating statewide efforts with a special emphasis on enhancing tourism, economic development, outdoor recreation, and historic education and preservation. The State has developed four key themes as inspiration for municipalities such as Durham in commemorating the 250th anniversary:
- Tell Inclusive Stories: Tell stories that represent all people, past and present.
- Power of Place: Highlight the unique identities and contributions of our place, Durham, Connecticut.
- Doing History: Invite the public to participate in the process of "doing history." Create a collaborative environment and provide access for all cultural experiences.
- For the Common Good: Encourage civic engagement to continue to build our communities, state, and nation using democratic ideals outlined in our founding documents.
Duties/Responsibilities:
- The Committee shall encourage and coordinate events and programs across Durham to ensure appreciation and understanding of Durham and Americas history
- Coordinate and engage with community groups, local businesses, civic organizations, cultural and religious organizations, Regional School District #13 and State of Connecticut’s America 250 | CT Commission
- Work with organizations to enhance existing town events (such as Memorial Day Parade) to promote American 250. Ensure events are inclusive, accessible, and collaborative.
- Create and distribute communications, including webpage updates and print pieces that promote America 250
- Develop a potential budget for the creation and publicizing of events, seek grants where applicable
Membership:
The Committee shall consist of 9 members who shall be appointed by the Board of Selectmen. Members’ terms shall expire December 31, 2026. The Committee shall elect its own Chairman, Vice Chairman, and Secretary and shall establish a regular meeting schedule. All records of the Committee shall be filed with the Town Clerk and open to public inspection in accordance with applicable State Statutes. Members shall serve without compensation. The First Selectman shall serve as Ex-Officio.
Membership should include one representative from the following: Durham Historical Society, Economic Development Commission, Durham Library Board of Trustees or Durham Library staff member, Durham Fair Association, the Town Historian, Durham Cemetery Company, Veteran Representative and two Public Member(s) including a Youth Student
The Committee shall consist of 9 members who shall be appointed by the Board of Selectmen. Members’ terms shall expire December 31, 2026. The Committee shall elect its own Chairman, Vice Chairman, and Secretary and shall establish a regular meeting schedule. All records of the Committee shall be filed with the Town Clerk and open to public inspection in accordance with applicable State Statutes. Members shall serve without compensation. The First Selectman shall serve as Ex-Officio.
Membership should include one representative from the following: Durham Historical Society, Economic Development Commission, Durham Library Board of Trustees or Durham Library staff member, Durham Fair Association, the Town Historian, Durham Cemetery Company, Veteran Representative and two Public Member(s) including a Youth Student
Meetings & Events
Upcoming
America 250 Committee
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Contacts
Staff
Brendan Rea
Dem
Rep
Ind
UNA
First Selectman, Ex-Officio
brea@townofdurhamct.org
Term:
Dec 2024
-
Dec 2026
Jaclyn Lehet
Dem
Rep
Ind
UNA
Executive Assistant, Town Hall
jlehet@townofdurhamct.org
860-349-3625
Term:
-
Carolyn Havrda
Dem
Rep
Ind
UNA
Receptionist, Community Center
chavrda@townofdurhamct.org
860-894-7837
Term:
-
Brian Medeiros
Dem
Rep
Ind
UNA
Recreation Director
bmedeiros@townofdurhamct.org
860-894-7836
Term:
-
Members
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Alternate Members
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