By DALE GIRARD
Mayoral Notes
At this point, most people are aware that there have been changes in City Hall. Transitions like these are never easy — not for the City Council, not for our employees, and certainly not for our residents. Change brings uncertainty, and I want to thank everyone for their patience and understanding as we move through this together.
We have been very fortunate that two of our directors have stepped up to help guide us during this time. Their leadership has been critical as we begin the process of finding Claremont’s next city manager.
At our next regularly scheduled City Council meeting on May 14, we will be discussing how to proceed with the search. In the past, the city has used a local search committee or an outside agency to handle this process, bringing forward final candidates for the council to review. One important point I’d like everyone to keep in mind is that a full executive search does take time. It is vital that we find the right fit for Claremont, and part of that conversation will include a review of compensation levels to make sure we are competitive.
Switching gears to another major topic from this past council meeting — Washington Street paving.
Many noticed that we added this item to the agenda at the last moment. Generally, we avoid doing this, but the situation required immediate attention, and we could not wait until the May 14 meeting.
To give some background, last December the council approved funding to repave Washington Street from Broad Street Bridge to Old Newport Road intersection — the full four lanes — at an estimated cost of $1.24 million. The project went out to bid in March 2024, and we were pleased that Pike Industries agreed to hold their labor prices, and we hoped materials costs would remain steady as well.
However, last Wednesday evening, our Public Works Director Alex Gleason informed the council that Pike Industries had reached out. As they prepared to begin work, they measured the project area and found it was larger than initially estimated. This adjustment in size led to an approximate 16% increase in the overall project cost.
I know many residents have asked: “How can this happen?” It’s an understandable reaction. However, after review, everyone agrees the original bid process was conducted properly, and the council had approved the funding. Sometimes, despite our best efforts, unexpected changes happen.
Rather than dwell on the increase, I hope we can move forward together. As a community, we recognize how important the paving of Washington Street is for residents and businesses alike. We are working on a plan to make necessary adjustments without compromising the quality or timeline of this critical project.
Some have suggested moving funds from other approved paving projects. While I appreciate the creative thinking, even if that were possible, it would likely delay other much-needed improvements that our hardworking DPW has spent months preparing for.
We will continue this important discussion at our May 14 meeting. I remain positive that, together, we can find solutions that keep Claremont moving forward. After all the outstanding work already done by our highway, water, and sewer departments to prepare the road, I know we all look forward to a smooth Washington Street soon.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to the council, or better yet, join us on May 14 to share your thoughts. Your voice matters, and together we can keep Claremont moving in the right direction.
