Catholic Charities NH: 'It was clear the Brickyard location is not a practical option'
Harrison Thorp 8:22 a.m.
ROCHESTER - Rochester city leaders didn't listen, but apparently Catholic Charities of New Hampshire did. Despite the unanimous voice of Gonicians against the complex during two recent public meetings, city planning director Shanna Saunders said at the end of last Thursday's "listening session" that Gonic residents could look forward to more chances to comment on their displeasure as the process to rezone the area and build the complex moved forward. While city leaders seemed bent on continuing the dialogue, it appears as though Catholic Charities NH decided to throw in the towel. The Rochester Voice today submitted Right to Know requests for any funds the city may pay or has already paid to defray Catholic Charities NH's costs while under the purchase and sale agreement signed in July; and also documentation showing that, in fact, the nonprofit voluntarily backed out of the deal. If the nonprofit did voluntarily back out, the city of Rochester would be entitled to the $10,000 deposit forked over by the nonprofit. Rochester Mayor Paul Callaghan, Economic Development Director Mike Scala and City Manager Blaine Cox were not immediately available for comment today.
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