City Manager Bob Belmore received formal thanks and tributes from the Somersworth City Council at his final meeting before retirement. Councilors and staff highlighted a two-decade tenure that included infrastructure projects, economic development and institutional leadership.

Mayor Matt Gurden opened remarks praising Belmore’s leadership and cataloged accomplishments including a new police station, a new fire station, improvements to the city’s wastewater and water treatment facilities, downtown revitalization projects, and work on housing and economic development. Multiple councilors and department heads offered personal remarks about Belmore’s accessibility, long hours and stewardship.

Belmore thanked staff and council and singled out long-serving department staff, noting Scott (Deputy/Finance staff) and Brenda (executive assistant) by name for long collaboration. He described the work as “an honor” and praised the city’s professional staff across departments.

Councilors also used the occasion to thank long-serving staff members and to note awards and recent city achievements referenced by Belmore, including a PrimeX recertification that yields a 2.5% insurance premium discount and Planner of the Year honors for Michelle Meyers, planning director.

Belmore’s retirement will trigger a transition the council said it will manage through the city manager search process and internal staff responsibilities. Councilors and staff indicated plans to present tokens of appreciation and to request continued engagement from Belmore in the community after his retirement.