Deirdre Connelly: Support Gilford Article 3 to improve bathhouse

To The Daily Sun,

Gilford Town Beach is a hot spot during the summer months, with Gilford residents enjoying every opportunity to soak up the summer sun and relax at the beach. The beach is also a selling point for Realtors in the area, as it offers something that many other New Hampshire cities and towns do not have, a town beach for resident use.

The bathhouse is home to all safety equipment and supplies needed for the lifeguards to man the beach, keeping all visitors safe. Whether a medical issue or a place to seek shelter when severe weather passes through, the bathhouse is where it happens. The building also has an area for concessions to be available for folks visiting the beach, which allows a fare of delicious food to pick from while enjoying their time at the beach.

The current bathhouse is 60-plus years old and is showing its age. Between ongoing issues with pests, plumbing that cannot be brought up to code due age, safety hazards and bathrooms in need of major updates, the current building itself makes it challenging for the lifeguards. The current building is truly in dire need of replacement to ensure the beach staff can work in a facility that does not pose hazards or risks to them daily.

The $650,000 bond proposed for funding the project over 20 years would cost a little over $.01 per $1,000 evaluation on property. That is just over $5 a year cost on a property valued at $500,000. The budget committee voted in favor 9-0 as well did the selectboard 3-0. The resident survey that was conducted was positive as well. It is my hope that Gilford residents see the value and need that surrounds the bathhouse project. Vote yes with me and many others on Article 3.

Deirdre Connelly

Gilford