By Chris Frost Eagle Times News Editor
CLAREMONT – Claremont’s mayor sees more Saturday block parties ahead.
As part of his notes during the June 14 City Council meeting, Mayor Dale Girard said the city held its “Second Saturday on Pleasant Street” block party event as part of the Stevens High School Alumni Day celebration.
“I want everyone to be aware that we are going to continue along with them, and the next one is on July 8,” he said. “I know the [Greater Claremont] Chamber and the city will be happy to have you assist them and prepare for them.”
In other action, City Manager Yoshi Manale said the city would put out bid requests to demolish three city-owned properties that are eyesores, both 111 and 119 Main Street and 150 Chesnut Street.
“The demolition funding is from the state’s Invest New Hampshire Program, and we thank them for their support,” Manale said. “With an increase in people struggling to find housing in Claremont, Southwestern Community Services has a number of services that can help. If you know anyone who needs help, please contact Jim Doherty, the Outreach Specialist with Housing Stabilization Services at 603-477-6126, and inquire about eligibility for housing assistance.”
For those wondering when the state will upgrade the Claremont Boat Launch, Manale said the city was told that bids are going out later in 2023, with the hope that work will start on the upgrades in the spring and summer of 2024.
Manale also updated the Council on the work on the Bandstand in Broad Street Park.
“The Bandstand is being fixed for cost by our local contractor, WAL Masonry, which is working on the brickwork replacing the green paint on the exterior of the bandstand,” he said. “So far, it looks great, and it should be ready for the July 4 festivities.”
He said the Claremont Savings Bank Community Center, 152 South St., has sent out emails and posted increases for the membership fees. The increases are necessary due to inflationary impacts on the Center’s budget.
“Those fees will increase for any renewals and new memberships after July 1,” Manale said. “If you want to lock in the old rates, get your renewals in before the end of the month.”
Mayor Girard also presented a proclamation for Rural Pride Week, which was received by TLC (TLC Family Resource Center, Claremont) for June 19-24.
June is recognized as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LBGTQ+) Pride Month.
“All human beings are born free [with] equal dignity and rights and should be able to live without fear of prejudice, discrimination, violence or hatred based on race, religion, gender, identity, or sexual orientation,” Girard said. “LBGTQ+ individuals have had an immeasurable impact on our culture and civic and economic success; the City of Claremont is committed to supporting visibility, equality, and LGBTQ+ people in our diverse community.”
He added that celebrating Rural Pride raises awareness and provides support and advocacy for the county’s LGBTQ+ Community.
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