Belmont Selectboard appeals to Shaheen for congressional funding for school projects

BELMONT — While a majority of members were in attendance at Wednesday’s selectboard meeting, the board signed a letter of support for the Shaker Regional School District, whose leaders hope to secure congressional grant funding from Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), for projects related to the district's replacement of several heating and air conditioning units.

During the 10 a.m. meeting, Superintendent Michael Tursi presented the board with a letter of support, and shared details about the need for funding.

“We’re going after some congressional grant funding through Sen. Shaheen’s office to help offset the cost for major HVAC projects we’re having throughout the town of Belmont, as well as Canterbury Elementary School,” said Tursi. “We’re shooting for close to $1 million in grant funding to cover some of the HVAC units that need to be replaced at all three schools. Also we’re looking to replace the fire panel at Belmont High School, and do some bathroom renovations, as well.”

The Canterbury Selectboard signed a similar letter of support on Monday.

Board Chair Ruth P. Mooney was quick to share the board’s approach to grant funding.

“Obviously, this board has always supported and pushed for grants,” she said. “Thanks to our department heads, we receive a lot of grants. It’s been a godsend.”

The district has four schools in Belmont and Canterbury.

Houses around Belmont known to be currently in disrepair, or eyesores, were also discussed at the meeting, with updates on court cases and steps of action taken provided to the board by the code enforcement department, which took up most of the meeting time.

Reminders were also shared regarding upcoming Town Meeting on Tuesday, March 10. Voting takes place from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., at Belmont High.

There are several hot-ticket items on the ballot, including the $12 million operating budget. If the budget isn’t passed, the town will operate in a default budget for the third year in a row. Additionally, grant funding for a new fire truck will be lost.

To view the town Voter’s Guide, visit belmontnh.gov. To view the school Voter’s Guide, visit sau80.org.

•••

Katlyn Proctor can be reached at katlyn@laconiadailysun.com or by calling 603-524-0150.