Balmont

Balmont is a town and municipality in the Northshore District of Veridia. Located on the Silverline River, it covers 22.4 square kilometers. As of the 2020 census, Balmont had a population of about 6,900.

The settlement grew around a textile mill founded in the late 18th century. It gained municipal rights in 1855. The arrival of the Northline Railway in 1879 linked Balmont to regional markets and spurred housing and industry growth.

Geography and environment: Balmont sits in a temperate valley with nearby hills. Balmont Park is a 40-hectare green space near the town center; the eastern Balmont Gorge offers hiking trails.

Economy: Once dominated by textiles, Balmont now has a mixed economy including light manufacturing, logistics, and services. Local government supports small businesses through the Balmont Development Agency.

Education and culture: The town hosts Balmont Community College and the Silverline Library. The annual Balmont Festival of Arts showcases local music, theatre, and crafts.

Governance: Balmont operates a mayor-council government. The council has eight members elected to four-year terms, and Balmont participates in the Northshore regional council for shared services.