Normand GamacheMunicipal General Election 2021 IncumbentMunicipal General Election 2021 Winner
Running forWard 11 Alderman
in 2021
Running as
Four-term alderman seeking a fifth term.
Current jobRetired from Manchester Fire Department, 33 years of service. Four term alderman seeking a fifth term. Retired from Manchester Fire Department, 33 years of service. Four term alderman seeking a fifth term. Retired from Manchester Fire Department, 33 years of service. Four term alderman seeking a fifth term. Retired from Manchester Fire Department, 33 years of service.
Best way to contact candidate603-669-5817
ngamache@manchesternh.gov
Why are you running?
I have served my country or community my entire adult lifetime. It is something that I take pride in.
What uniquely qualifies you to be an Alderman?
I have lived in this city, ward 11 for my entire life. I know the city and how to resolve constituent issues. I take pride in resolving any issues of those who reach out to me to do so.
What do you see as the main function of an Alderman?
To be a voice of and a resource for the residents of Ward 11. To be able to work across the aisle with my peers on the BMA regardless of the political party that they are affiliated with.
What do you see as the key solution to reducing homelessness in the city?
Affordable housing is one initiative that I have supported. Outreach services that offer support services to these individuals is another initiative that I am in support of. This problem is many years in the making. We will not correct this in the short term but these and some of the other initiatives I have supported, such as a homeless director are beginning to address this issue.
Do you feel that Manchester needs more affordable housing as defined by US HUD and NHHFA (costing no more than 30% of occupants' monthly income)? If so, how would you achieve this? If not, why not?
Our city is in need of more affordable housing. I pledge to continue to work with our Mayor and my peers on the BMA to accomplish this goal.
What are your thoughts on public safety in the city?
Coming from a public safety background this is one of my priorities. Our police and fire departments are working 24/7 to prepare and respond to emergencies of all types in our city. I am fortunate to have an open line of communication with both Chiefs and speak to each of them weekly. I want to assure that they have all of the tools that they need to keep their members safe while they deliver essential services to the residents and visitors of our community.
Please provide one or more examples of a person, organization, or business that exemplifies the spirit of Manchester.
The Franco-Americans who relocated to our city at the height of the textile industry in our city. They were welcomed and established residency predominately on the west side of our city. The courage to relocate your family to another portion of the state, or in some cases from another country took much courage and resilience.
How would you describe the city's current infrastructure and business climate?
There are a lot of exciting projects happening in our city, CMC’s expansion, delayed by the Covid pandemic is one example. The development of the south end of Elm St is a project, a long time in the making that I have supported.
What are the strengths and weaknesses of the Manchester School District? What is the top need for improvement or change?
Our buildings are aging and in need of repair. There are fixed costs associated with these older buildings, funds which could be better used to benefit students and faculty. Updated buildings will help us allocate funds more efficiently.
Do you support the budgetary autonomy of the Manchester School District's governing body? (currently known as the Board of School Committee, but proposed to be renamed as the Manchester School Board). If so, why (or why not?)
Yes, autonomy will help our school board focus more exclusively on students and the betterment of our schools, benefitting the entire community.
What is the greatest strength of your ward and what needs improvement? For at-large candidates, what is the greatest strength of the city as a whole and what is in need of improvement?
Ward 11 has seen generations of hardworking people making every effort to improve their lives and the lives of others. I am proud to call Ward 11 my home.