Taking the oath to serve Laconia

Laconia city councilors and Mayor Andrew Hosmer were sworn in by City Clerk Katie Gargano at an inauguration ceremony on the third floor of the Belknap Mill on Monday night. Eric Hoffman, 44, is the youngest and most recently elected member of the council. In his remarks, Hosmer emphasized his love for the Laconia community, speaking of its resilience, proud rich history and boundless potential. Hosmer also talked about goals for his next term as mayor, naming his primary issues as housing and homelessness, economic development, property taxes and public safety. The mayor honored Kaye Hamel and Bob Hamel, her husband and longtime city councilor who died last year in office, as well as former Councilor Henry Lipman, who served nine terms since 2005 and served as Finance Committee chair for 18 years. Hosmer proclaimed Bob Hamel Day on Jan. 9, and Henry Lipman Day on Jan. 10. Temple B’nai Israel President Ira Keltz also spoke. “In Jewish tradition, we emphasize the importance of leadership grounded in compassion, justice and a profound commitment to community welfare,” Keltz said. “The Torah teaches us that leadership is not merely a position of authority, but a sacred trust bestowed upon individuals to serve the greater good.” Hosmer quoted Martin Luther King Jr. in his speech just ahead of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and diversity. “We will continue to work together with our faith community, helping to heal deep wounds and ensuring that every resident regardless of their race, age, ethnicity, gender, able-bodiedness, socioeconomic status, or who they love, feels safe, respected and valued,” he said. “Because you all are.”