Manchester, NH — Today, Mayor Joyce Craig announced the promotion of Shannon MacLeod as Chief of Staff. Currently Mayor Craig’s Policy Director, MacLeod will step into the role following the departure of Chief of Staff Lauren Smith.
“For the past two years, Shannon has led policy initiatives in my office with outstanding attention to detail and professionalism,” said Mayor Joyce Craig. “She is dedicated to progress and has proved time and time again her passion to make our community better.”
As Chief of Staff, MacLeod will direct all operations in the Mayor’s Office. Prior to joining Mayor Craig’s team in 2020, MacLeod was the New Hampshire State Director for Senator Kirsten Gillibrand’s presidential campaign and held senior positions in several statewide New Hampshire campaigns and organizations. She also served as Mayor Craig’s Finance Director for her successful 2017 election.
“I’m honored to continue to serve Manchester as Mayor Craig’s Chief of Staff,” said Shannon MacLeod. “Our city has made incredible progress throughout Mayor Craig’s time in City Hall, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to continue to work with the Mayor and City staff to continue to move Manchester forward.”
MacLeod is replacing Smith as Chief of Staff later this month. Smith joined Mayor Craig’s Office in 2018, and was promoted to Chief of Staff in February 2020.
“Lauren provided steadfast leadership through one of the most difficult times in our City’s history. I’m grateful for her work on behalf of our community and look forward to seeing the positive impact that she’ll continue to have on Manchester,” added Mayor Craig.
“I’m thankful for the opportunity to have served Manchester for the past four and half years alongside Mayor Craig – and I’m proud of what we accomplished,” said Lauren Smith. “Over the past two years, people across the Queen City stepped up to help our community come back from the pandemic stronger. I couldn’t be more thankful for the opportunity to work with all of them.”
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April 23rd event hosted in partnership with Manchester School District & Department of Public Works
MANCHESTER, NH - Mayor Joyce Craig, in conjunction with the Manchester Department of Public Works (DPW) and Manchester School District, is hosting an Earth Day Neighborhood Clean-Up on Saturday, April 23rd.
Residents are encouraged to clean-up across the city, and DPW will be stationed at four schools from 9:00am through 2:00pm:
- Jewett Street School, 130 S Jewett St, Manchester, NH 03103
- Northwest Elementary, 300 Youville St, Manchester, NH 0310
- Smyth Road School, 245 Bruce Rd, Manchester, NH 03104
- Beech Street School, 333 Beech St, Manchester, NH 03103
Each site will have clean-up materials, including trash bags and gloves, and will serve as a drop-off location for all collected materials.
“This is a great opportunity for folks across Manchester to celebrate Earth Day and give back to our community,” said Mayor Joyce Craig. “With the warmer weather, I know we’re all looking forward to spending time outside. We want to make sure we have clean, welcoming neighborhoods, parks and trails for our residents and visitors to enjoy.”
“We are excited to once again partner with the city and Public Works for this cleanup,” said Dr. Jenn Gillis, Interim Superintendent of Manchester School District. “This is a terrific opportunity to get out, get some fresh air and do our part to beautify our community. It’s also a great lesson for our students especially: In just a few hours of work, you can help ensure that everyone can enjoy our outdoor spaces.”
Same day sign-ups are welcome, but volunteers, organizations and businesses interested in participating can pre-register for the neighborhood clean-up here.
In addition to the city-wide Earth Day Neighborhood Clean-Up, Manchester Urban Ponds will be hosting clean-ups from 9am - 11am on April 23rd at Black Brook/Blodget Park, on April 30th at Stevens Pond, and on May 7th at Nutts Pond.
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As most of you are aware, back in December of 2021 Manchester Water Works converted our chloramine disinfection process to chlorine as a preventative maintenance measure. At the time, we indicated we would convert back sometime in the Spring of 2022. We have seen very positive distribution system water quality results and plan to convert back to chloramine on Monday, April 18th. We appreciate your cooperation through the conversion process. If you have any questions about this conversion or other concerns about your water quality please the MWW Laboratory at (603) 792-2855 (Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.).
Today, Mayor Joyce Craig delivered her 2022 State of the City Address at the New Hampshire Institute of Politics.
Speaking to a room of community members and business leaders, Mayor Craig outlined the work that has been done in the City of Manchester over the past year and announced exciting initiatives in public transportation, education and economic development.
“The pandemic tested every aspect of how we live and work. But though it all, we persevered, one step at a time. And we adapted to COVID-19 in ways that have enhanced our lives and our community,” stated Mayor Joyce Craig. “As we continue forward, we know things will be different. But, I know we’ll come out of this stronger, because that’s what Queen City residents do. We put in the work.”
Mayor Craig announced the launch of The Manchester Promise Program, an initiative to enable Manchester public school students, who normally wouldn’t have the opportunity and who have been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, to attend college debt-free.
She shared that in just two years, the City has exceeded their goal of reducing CO2 emissions by 50 percent – current reductions are 58.4% – thanks in large part to the City’s solar array.
In addition, Mayor Craig announced she is establishing an exploratory committee to bring hockey back to the Queen City.
“We’re putting in the work to create equitable futures for our students. We’re putting in the work to help our businesses recover and thrive. We’re putting in the work to build safe neighborhoods and empowered communities,” added Mayor Craig. “The state of our city is strong, because our residents are.”
Mayor Joyce Craig 2022 State of the City Summary
- In the coming weeks, the City of Manchester will launch The Manchester Promise, a program in partnership with Southern New Hampshire University, Manchester Community College, and Duet.
- This program will enable Manchester public school students, who have been negatively impacted by COVID-19 and who normally wouldn’t have the opportunity, to attend college debt-free.
- For the first time in Manchester’s history, the Health Department will collaborate with the New Hampshire National Guard to provide essential services for residents.
- Mayor Craig: “We know residents are concerned about gun crimes in the city. Gun violence is unacceptable, and I want to reiterate that the safety of our residents and visitors is our top priority.”
- The MPD is focused on reducing gun crimes, implementing new tactics to address this concerning issue. They established a community-focused gun crime problem-solving team, are holding bi-weekly meetings with internal stakeholders and law enforcement partners, and have deployed additional walking patrols to increase police presence and community engagement in neighborhoods. Their efforts are yielding results – in 2021, MPD seized 81 illegal guns off the streets.
- In two years, Manchester exceeded the goal set in Mayor Craig’s 2020 State of the City to reduce CO2 emissions by 50%. Today, the City has realized a 58.4% reduction in CO2 emissions, thanks to the solar array, plus building and energy efficiencies.
- Manchester was named a finalist for the Economic Development Administration’s Build Back Better Regional Challenge Phase 1. The Phase 2 application was submitted on March 15th.
- If awarded, the grant would bring $100M+ of federal investment into the region, accelerate job creation in tissue engineering and advanced aerial mobility; has the potential to create more than 20,000 jobs. The grant would also fund a pedestrian bridge over the Merrimack River connecting the Millyard to the West Side.
- The Economic Development Department will soon issue an RFP to update the City’s marketing and branding strategy, working with the state tourism board to continue solidifying Manchester’s place as a top destination in New Hampshire.
- Mayor Craig: “But one thing that’s been missing is hockey – Manchester is a hockey town. I’m pleased to announce that I’m establishing an exploratory committee to work to bring hockey back to the Queen City.”
- The City and MTA are committed to bring innovative forms of public transportation to Manchester, including micro-transit; the City is in the process of piloting a program for on-demand bus service, and hope to launch service in FY23.
- Mayor Craig: “Housing is one of New Hampshire’s biggest challenges, and we’re focused on increasing affordable housing locally.”
- The City allocated $8M dollars in federal funds to develop new affordable housing; includes $2.3M to construct 48 units at Kelley Falls (MHRA), renovate 101 units in the Elm Street Brownstones and Straw Mansion Apartments (NeighborWorks) and develop three studio apartments for young, at-risk adults (Waypoint).
- Established the Manchester Housing Commission to monitor housing stock and make recommendations to increase affordable housing options in the city.
- Currently finalizing proposals for 450+ new mixed-income apartments to be built on underutilized city-owned parking lots.
- The City is working with MHRA to offer additional incentives for landlords to accept Housing Choice Vouchers.
- Utilizing federal funds, the City hired the City’s first Director of Homeless Initiatives, Schonna Green.
- We’re working with the outreach teams to address the needs of those who are chronically homeless, and collaborating with non-profits, faith-based organizations, businesses, and residents.
- We’re also establishing new relationships with recovery service providers and to date, have helped over 30 individuals enter treatment.
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MANCHESTER, NH – Today, Mayor Joyce Craig and the City of Manchester announced the distribution of the first round of grants through the Manchester Small Business Grant and Program Assistance. First announced in February, the program was designed to help Manchester’s small business owners recover from the negative economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as assist with other fixed business costs to help increase resiliency, such as costs associated with transitioning to e-commerce business platforms, outdoor space upgrades, and other technical assistance needs.
“Our small businesses are the backbone of the Manchester community, but even as we begin to transition back into normal life, these businesses are still feeling the impacts of the pandemic,” said Mayor Joyce Craig. “This grant program not only gives them the boost they need right now, but helps them plan for the future.”
Barre Life, Café la Reine, Jumpp Chiropractic, Cesario’s Pizza, Blackwood Law, Manchester Acupuncture Studio, Willows Florist,Hospitality Sports Club, Zapata Trucking Express, LLC, Studio Verne LLC and Patz Deli LLC each received a $10,000 grant.
The City of Manchester has contracted with Deo Mwano Consultancy and the Greater Manchester Chamber for grant administration, marketing and outreach for the program.
Funds are offered through the American Rescue Plan funds. Eligible small businesses can receive a grant up to $10,000.
Additional grants are available for eligible businesses. For more information, email PCD-ARPA@manchesternh.gov. Eligible businesses can apply here.
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Eligible small businesses can receive up to $10,000 to help them recover from COVID-19
Today, Mayor Joyce Craig and the City of Manchester announced the relaunch of the Manchester Small Business Grant and Program Assistance. This grant initiative was developed as a resource to help small businesses recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The first iteration of the program, launched in 2020, provided grants to 53 Manchester businesses, created 16 jobs and retained 38 employees.
Small Business Grant and Program Assistance, funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) recommendations approved by the Board of Mayor and Aldermen in 2021, provides up to $10,000 to support small businesses with fixed business costs, including rent, utilities, and payroll, accrued during the pandemic, costs associated with transitioning to e-commerce business platforms, outdoor space upgrades, and other technical assistance needs.
“Over the past two years, small businesses across Manchester have experienced significant challenges as a result of COVID-19, from decreased revenues to staffing shortages,” said Mayor Joyce Craig. “Small businesses are the backbone of our community, and we must do everything we can to help them succeed. This program not only gives our small businesses a boost, but helps them plan for the long term sustainability of their businesses.”
Deo Mwano Consultancy, the Greater Manchester Chamber, The City’s Planning and Community Development Department and the Economic Development Office are partnering on the administration, marketing and outreach for this program. While these funds are available to all eligible small businesses, there will be an emphasis placed on outreach to minority owned businesses.
“We learned a lot working in collaboration to launch this program a year and half ago. The success we experienced came from putting the right inclusive and equitable measures that reflected the experiences of all business owners in our community,” said Deo Mwano, CEO, Founder and Managing Principal, Deo Mwano Consultancy. “We met the businesses where there were at a time things were very difficult. We provided resources that made the process much easier to navigate the challenges with certain federal requirements. This time around, we are excited there are more resources to go out to the businesses."
“Now more than ever, it’s essential to support our small, local, and minority-owned businesses. The City’s Small Business Grant and Program Assistance will be influential in the recovery efforts of local businesses as they respond to the negative impacts of the COVID-19,” said Jodie Nazaka, Director, Manchester Economic Development Office. “While the need for this program existed before the pandemic, we know that small and minority-owned businesses were among those hit the hardest. In response, we need to do all we can to help our business community rebound to pre-pandemic levels.”
Eligible businesses can apply online.
Completed applications can be emailed to PCD-ARPA@manchesternh.gov with the subject line “SBGPA Application”, or mailed to City of Manchester, Planning and Community Development, Attn: SBPGA Application, 1 City Hall Plaza, Manchester, NH 03101
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Today, Mayor Joyce Craig announced the approval of the City of Manchester’s Housing Commission nominees, first nominated on January 18, 2022. Mayor Craig proposed the creation of a Housing Commission following the recommendations made by the Mayor’s Affordable Housing Task Force last year.
The Affordable Housing Taskforce was made up of community stakeholders from all aspects of housing, including private developers, finance authorities, non-profit leaders, and city staff. In their final report, they recommended the creation of a Housing Commission through RSA 674:44-h in order to follow through on their recommendations and to continue to support the housing needs of Manchester residents.
We’ve already begun to make significant progress on the Affordable Housing Taskforce recommendations – moving forward with changes to zoning ordinances, developments on City-owned land, adding additional resources to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, and more,” said Mayor Joyce Craig. “The inaugural members of Manchester’s Housing Commission are uniquely qualified to continue this work. They bring a range of perspectives and backgrounds from housing advocacy, to development, to housing and homelessness service providers. I look forward to seeing all they accomplish.”
This Housing Commission will be responsible for following up on the many recommendations made by the Affordable Housing Task Force, and continue their work by “recognizing, promoting, enhancing, encouraging, and developing a balanced and diverse supply of housing to meet the economic, social, and physical needs of the City of Manchester and its residents.”
The founding members of the Manchester Housing Commission are as follows: Regular members, Jean Noel Mugabo, Zachery Palmer, Peter Capano, Jessica Margeson, Chris Wellington, and alternate members, Joseph Wichert, and Kate Marquis.
2021 Mayor’s Affordable Housing Taskforce Report
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Board of Mayor and Alderman unanimously approve nomination
This evening, the Board of Mayor and Alderman approved Jodie Nazaka as Economic Development Director for the City of Manchester. Ms. Nazaka previously served as Senior Planner in the City of Manchester’s Planning and Community Development Department.
“I’m thrilled the Board of Mayor and Aldermen voted to unanimously confirm Jodie Nazaka as Manchester’s Economic Development Director,” said Mayor Joyce Craig. “Ms. Nazaka is a bright and thoughtful leader whose passion will improve the economic well-being and quality of life in our community. In her new role, Ms. Nazaka will advance the City’s position as a hub for commerce and entertainment, work to expand our access to arts and culture, and help develop a strong community brand that fosters civic pride.”
“I am honored to be confirmed as the next Economic Development Director for Manchester,” added Jodie Nazaka, Economic Development Director. “I want to thank the Board of Mayor and Aldermen for their continued support and enthusiasm. I look forward to building strong relationships with our residents, business owners, local officials, developers, special interest groups, and the public to help lead Manchester in managing a healthy economic climate for years to come.”
Ms. Nazaka was nominated by Mayor Craig on January 18. She will assume the role of Economic Development Director on Monday, February 7.
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Residents can apply for grants up to $10,000 for community-based projects and events
Today, Mayor Joyce Craig and the Planning and Community Development Department announced the launch of Manchester’s Community Event and Activation Grant program, the first of its kind in Manchester.
Part of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) recommendations approved by the Board of Mayor and Aldermen in 2021, the Community Event and Activation Grant (CEAG) program, provides up to $10,000 to support and increase the number of community-based projects and events in an effort to help Manchester recover from the negative effects of COVID-19.
“This is a great opportunity for our community,” said Mayor Joyce Craig. “This program allows individuals, organizations, and neighborhood groups to apply for up to $10,000 for community-based projects and events. After two years of uncertainty as a result of COVID-19, Manchester residents are ready to celebrate the strength and resiliency of our community. Our residents know best what our city needs to thrive, and with the CEAG program, we’re empowering them to be proactive and make a positive impact.”
Applicants can apply for up to $10,000 per grant for community-based projects and events that contribute to economic development and tourism and support a vibrant and healthy community. All applicants are required to provide a 25% match for each project or event, which can include direct funding, in-kind donations or volunteer hours.
Examples of eligible projects include, but are not limited to, public art installations, outdoor seating or bike racks and events such as concerts in the park, a neighborhood block party or sporting event.
The CEAG program is funded in multiple rounds, and the first round application is due on March 31, 2022. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their application as soon as possible to expedite the application review process.
Apply for Manchester’s Community Event and Activation Grant program
Completed applications can be emailed to PCD-ARPA@manchesternh.gov with the subject line “CEAG Application”, or mailed to City of Manchester, Planning and Community Development, Attn: CEAG Application, 1 City Hall Plaza, Manchester, NH 03101
Email PCD-ARPA@manchesternh.gov or call (603) 792-6725 with any questions.
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Residents can apply for grants up to $10,000 for community-based projects and events
Today, Mayor Joyce Craig and the Planning and Community Development Department announced the launch of Manchester’s Community Event and Activation Grant program, the first of its kind in Manchester.
Part of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) recommendations approved by the Board of Mayor and Aldermen in 2021, the Community Event and Activation Grant (CEAG) program, provides up to $10,000 to support and increase the number of community-based projects and events in an effort to help Manchester recover from the negative effects of COVID-19.
“This is a great opportunity for our community,” said Mayor Joyce Craig. “This program allows individuals, organizations, and neighborhood groups to apply for up to $10,000 for community-based projects and events. After two years of uncertainty as a result of COVID-19, Manchester residents are ready to celebrate the strength and resiliency of our community. Our residents know best what our city needs to thrive, and with the CEAG program, we’re empowering them to be proactive and make a positive impact.”
Applicants can apply for up to $10,000 per grant for community-based projects and events that contribute to economic development and tourism and support a vibrant and healthy community. All applicants are required to provide a 25% match for each project or event, which can include direct funding, in-kind donations or volunteer hours.
Examples of eligible projects include, but are not limited to, public art installations, outdoor seating or bike racks and events such as concerts in the park, a neighborhood block party or sporting event.
The CEAG program is funded in multiple rounds, and the first round application is due on March 31, 2022. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their application as soon as possible to expedite the application review process.
Apply Manchester’s Community Event and Activation Grant program.
Completed applications can be emailed to PCD@manchesternh.gov with the subject line “CEAG Application”, or mailed to City of Manchester, Planning and Community Development, Attn: CEAG Application, 1 City Hall Plaza, Manchester, NH 03101
Email pcd@manchesternh.gov or call (603) 792-6725 with any questions.
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The Community Event and Activation Grants (CEAG) program, funded by the City of Manchester as an approved use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds is being launched to help Manchester recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through several rounds of funding, the grants will provide up to $10,000 per grant to organizations, individuals, and neighborhood groups for community-based projects and events contributing to community health and safety, bringing visitors to our City, and supporting and promoting the Manchester community. A total of $1,000,000 is funded through the end of December 2026, but funds must be expended by the end of December 2024.
The CEAG program will play a key role in Manchester’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. These grants are meant to empower local community groups to make quality of life improvements to their neighborhoods, and to put on events that bring people together. Quality of life improvements will contribute to public health, public safety, and local beautification, making our city a better place to live. Grant-funded events will bring people into the city, helping local commercial activity. Both of these aspects of the program will be driven by community members, encouraging collaboration and socialization that were limited by COVID-19. These grants are competitive and funding is not guaranteed. Community Activation Grants will make Manchester more livable, more vibrant, and help drive Manchester’s economic recovery.
Please note: Community Activation Grants cannot exceed $10,000 and require a 25% match of private funding, in-kind donations, and/or volunteer hours. Grant funds are not paid in advance. Grantees will submit receipts/invoices to an identified City of Manchester staff person as needed for reimbursement. Submission of application does not guarantee funding, as these grants are competitive. Please refer to Attachment A in the application for requirements.
Download the CEAG application.
Completed applications can be emailed to PCD-ARPA@manchesternh.gov with the subject line “CEAG Application”, or mailed to City of Manchester, Planning and Community Development, Attn: CEAG Application, 1 City Hall Plaza, Manchester, NH 03101
Please email PCD-ARPA@manchesternh.gov or call (603) 792-6725 with any questions.
Round one application deadline is March 31, 2022
The City of Manchester concluded the mandatory redistricting review and necessary amendment of ward boundaries on December 21, 2021. Updated ward boundary descriptions and new ward maps are now located on the Ward Lines webpage. Also available are the updated "Who is my Alderman?" and "Where do I vote? pages for a quick and convenient location to look up how these new changes may have affected you.
Still have questions? Please contact the City Clerk's Office at (603) 624-6455 or via email at cityclerk@manchesternh.gov.
Manchester is the second city in the nation to utilize 100% recyclable cart
Today, Mayor Joyce Craig and the Department of Public Works announced the City of Manchester has partnered with Rehrig Pacific to roll out new recycling carts made from ocean-bound recycled plastic.
Manchester is only the second city in the nation to utilize ocean-bound recycled plastic in their recycling carts. The OceanCore carts will replace broken or new carts for Manchester residents across the city.
“We’re thrilled to be the second city in the nation to partner with Rehrig Pacific in using their 100% recyclable cart,” said Mayor Joyce Craig. “Distributing recycling carts composed of reusable ocean-bound plastics is another way the City of Manchester is working to ensure our community remains healthy and sustainable for future generations.”
“We are undoubtedly excited to be taking another step into sustainability by issuing Rehrig Pacific’s OceanCore carts for our curbside collection,” stated Chaz Newton, Solid Waste and Environmental Programs Manager, Department of Public Works. “Partnering with Rehrig Pacific on their OceanCore cart signifies the commitment that the City possesses to achieve our waste goals.
The OceanCore cart is made from a blend of 40 percent post-consumer recycled material, 10 percent of which is recycled ocean-bound plastic found in and near lakes, beaches, and waterways on the way to the ocean.
Utilizing OceanCore carts is one of many ways the City is continuing to invest in environmentally-friendly practices and has made significant progress in recent years.
This includes the City’s recent sale of $46.5 million in green bonds, which will finance a portion of the City’s program to remove combined sewer overflows into the Merrimack River, resulting in cleaner water. These green bonds must be used to finance projects that have a positive environmental impact.
In addition, The City of Manchester recently finalized construction of a solar array on the former landfill. This project is now the largest municipal solar array in the state with more than 8,000 panels that will supply approximately 3.8 million kilowatt-hours of clean energy to the power grid on an annual basis
Over the past few years, the City has also added energy-efficient buses to the Manchester Transit Authority fleet, cutting emissions from diesel buses by 96% and converting city lights to LED, reducing the city budget and eliminating 2,000 tons of CO2 emissions.
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Solar array is now the largest municipal array in the state
Today, Mayor Joyce Craig, the Manchester Department of Public Works and partners announced the City of Manchester’s newest solar array is operational after over two years of preparation and planning.
This project is now the largest municipal solar array in the state with more than 8,000 panels that will supply 3.8 million kilowatt hours of clean energy to the power grid on an annual basis.
Covering 12 acres of underutilized land at the former Dunbarton Road landfill, the solar array is expected to offset more than 2,700 metric tons of CO2 per year—equivalent to the emissions from burning three million pounds of coal.
“We began this project back in 2018, and after years of planning I’m thrilled to announce the solar array is operational,” said Mayor Joyce Craig. “The electricity produced by these solar panels will be enough to power hundreds of homes annually across the city. I want to thank the hard work of the Manchester Department of Public Works and our partners, for their commitment to this project.”
“The Department of Public Works is proud to be part of another sustainable initiative,” added Tim Clougherty, Deputy Public Works Director. “When coupled with energy efficiency initiatives, Energy Star compliance, and participating in the EPA Better Buildings Challenge, this project represents the latest example of the City’s forward-thinking regarding conservation.”
In September 2021, U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm visited the site, praising the decision to place solar panels on non-productive land.
Key partners in this project, in addition to the Manchester Department of Public Works include Kearsarge Energy, Competitive Energy Services, AEGIS and Kingsbury Co.
Over the past few years, the City has made continued investments in clean energy. This includes adding energy-efficient buses to the Manchester Transit Authority fleet, cutting emissions from diesel buses by 96% and converting city lights to LED, reducing the city budget and eliminating 2,000 tons of CO2 emissions.
