Welcome To Town, Both New and "Seasoned"

A little more than 10 years ago, the Board of Selectmen appointed a group of residents to develop a "vision" for the town.

Drawing on input from several thousand residents through surveys, focus groups and large forums, this committee developed a "A Working Vision for Belmont's Future," to serve as a guide to the town and to "preserve and enhance" the qualities we value. The vision statement, a broad statement of values embraced by Belmont, was adopted by Town Meeting in 2001.

The Vision 21 Implementation Committee was subsequently established to help the town implement its vision, and the Committee has undertaken a wide variety of initiatives over the years.

One of the many values specified in the Vision declares that Belmont would be a "welcoming community."

Inspired by the Vision, the Implementation Committee — and its task force, Newcomers Network — developed the annual Meet Belmont information fair.

Initially intended especially to welcome newcomers, Meet Belmont has evolved into a town-wide event, engaging both to newcomers and more "seasoned" residents alike.

Now in its eighth year, Meet Belmont invites approximately 80 exhibitors to attend the event to explain their programs and answer questions, as guests move freely among the many tables, asking questions and gleaning information.

This year, Meet Belmont will be held from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 26, at the Chenery Middle School Cafeteria, 95 Washington St. It is free and open to the public, and is fully accessible.

The event has been moved from the high school to Chenery Middle School so participants may enjoy an air conditioned environment. The entrance to the event will be from the Parking lot behind the building.

Representatives from town departments and Public Schools discuss their programs and give helpful information. Newcomers can register to vote and apply for a library card. Representatives from churches, organizations, clubs, advocacy groups, and committees attend. Programs for children include spokespersons for local nursery and pre-schools and activities such as Boy and Girl Scouts.

Meet Belmont is organized and sponsored by the Vision Implementation Committee and is co-sponsored by the Belmont Public Schools. Corporate support is provided by the Belmont Car Wash.