The City of Concord has agreed to pay $450,000 to settle a lawsuit brought by a former firefighter, who alleged he was subjected to years of homophobic sexual harassment by co-workers and retaliation when he complained.

Christopher Golomb filed suit in April 2024 in Merrimack County Superior Court, alleging gender discrimination, hostile work environment, and retaliation under federal and state law. The city removed the suit to the US District Court for the District of New Hampshire. Here is our earlier coverage, including a copy of the complaint.

Golomb claimed he was repeatedly targeted with homophobic remarks referring to him as “gay” despite him being heterosexual. He alleged the harassment dated back to 2016, and that a 2020 internal investigation confirmed inappropriate behavior but failed to stop it.

Golomb resigned from the department in December 2023 and characterized his departure as a constructive discharge. His lawsuit sought damages for discrimination, hostile work environment, and retaliation under federal and state law.

According to the Concord Monitor, the settlement will be paid through the city’s insurance. The city did not admit liability. City Solicitor Danielle Pacik issued a statement emphasizing Concord’s commitment to maintaining a respectful workplace.

• The City denies the allegations of discrimination and retaliation, but agreed to resolve the litigation, without an admission of liability, to avoid the cost and disruption of prolonged litigation and to allow the members of the Fire Department to maintain its focus on serving members of the community.
• The City of Concord prides itself in being an inclusive and diverse workplace for all, and it remains committed to upholding a safe and respectful environment.

The case is now resolved with the settlement.