Is school-trail link the best use of Lebanon’s money?

Excuse me for asking, but why are we talking about a sidewalk from Lebanon Middle School to the Northern Rail Trail (“Plans to link school, trail to start in summer,” Nov, 2)?

First of all, it would get minimal usage because the school is closed from mid-June to mid-September. Therefore, there would not be any usage by school children. Second, has anyone done a study on just how much usage or demand there is for this project? It seems that $250,000 could be better spent on a more worthy project.

We are about to start paying for a $75 million bond for a stormwater and sewage separation project. Perhaps we should start prioritizing where our tax money is being spent, especially during this pandemic. Just a thought from a concerned taxpayer of more than 50 years.

GARY SHEPARD

West Lebanon

Smoke alarms are available for Claremont homes

Fire Chief Bryan Burr and the Claremont Fire Department personnel are to be commended for their brave work in fighting the Bellic Street fire on Oct. 25. I observed the scene, and the conditions fire personnel had to work in were horrendous. Thanks to the fire department for their combined skills, bravery and rapid response. Sadly, pets were lost but I am thankful that no one was injured, citizens or fire personnel.

The house did not have working fire alarms. The Claremont Fire Department has a free smoke alarm program that will provide alarms for Claremont residents who are owners or occupants of a single-family home. Please call 603-542-7012 for more information.

JAMES M. CONTOIS

Claremont

The writer represents Ward II on the Claremont City Council.

Proud of the way elections were run in Newport

I want to thank the voters of Sullivan County for their votes in my race for Sullivan County Commissioner. While I did not prevail, I am humbled by your support. My opponent, Bennie Nelson, will be a good commissioner for you.

I also want to express my admiration to the election team in Newport where I also serve as moderator. Liselle Dufort, Jennifer Souliotis and Cheryl Eldredge in the Clerk’s Office, along with the supervisors of the checklist, are remarkable. They had everything in hand and the process when very well.

I would be remiss if I did not also recognize those “town forces” who moved many pounds of equipment and supplies to the Newport Middle High School gym to set up the voting area, and then to take it all down so that school could resume the next day. COVID-19 has really changed the electoral process. I also want to acknowledge the school district staff who were there helping and cleaning so that staff and students were safe.

We can be proud of how we run elections in Newport and Sullivan County. I hope that those of you who came out on Election Day and registered for the first time will continue to be engaged as we move our county and country forward.

VIRGINIA O’BRIEN IRWIN

Newport