Public Meetings - Nashua, New Hampshire

This meeting of the Nashua Planning and Economic Development Committee was held on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. in the Aldermanic Chamber. The primary focus was a presentation by Planning Manager Sam Durfee on updates to the zoning map and the proposed Green Score for landscaping. Committee members discussed non-conformities, height limits, and environmental incentives, providing feedback for future revisions. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered. Discussion Items - Zoning Map Update: Manager Durfee presented the rationale for updating the 2008 zoning map, highlighting widespread non-conformities in older neighborhoods (e.g., the "tree streets") due to lot sizes and setbacks that do not match current regulations. He showed maps indicating that most lots in those areas are non-conforming for density, lot size, and frontage. The goal is to bring 70% or more lots into conformity by aligning districts with existing character. The proposed map uses parcel-by-parcel analysis and introduces new base districts (e.g., Urban Residential) and redevelopment overlay districts (focused on downtown, East Hollis, Daniel Webster Highway, Amherst Street) to incentivize growth with affordable housing and green space. - Height Restrictions Debate: Several aldermen (Clemens, Thibault, Govea) expressed support for removing or increasing height caps in core areas (downtown, corridors) to allow market-driven development and avoid stifling future projects. Alderman Jetty and Alderman Klee cautioned about protecting existing neighborhoods from abrupt transitions in scale and preserving solar access. Alderman Govea noted that developers might choose Manchester if Nashua caps heights. Manager Durfee explained that the code uses transect zoning to gradually step up intensity, and that the urban core station area already permits up to 22 stories. The committee asked staff to return with potential language to raise or remove height limits in designated areas. - Green Score Introduction: Manager Durfee introduced the Green Score, a new method for evaluating landscaping based on soil depth, ground cover, native plants, tree preservation, and green infrastructure (e.g., rain gardens, bioswales). The formula is total landscape value divided by lot area. Developers must meet a minimum Green Score tied to building type; exceeding it offers no additional benefit. Aldermen asked about enforcement (e.g., bonds for maintenance, performance periods), applicability to residential rebuilds after disasters (Clemens proposed a waiver), and how it aligns with current practice. Durfee provided an example showing that a recent strip development on Amherst Street delivered a 0.337 score against a 0.2 requirement, suggesting the new standard is achievable. Key Outcomes - The committee directed staff to explore increasing height limits (or removing caps) in designated growth areas (downtown, corridors) and report back with proposed language changes at a future session. - Staff will provide additional data on how the Green Score would compare to current landscaping regulations and examples from other communities. - No votes were taken; the item remains under discussion. Manager Durfee noted the ordinance will not be introduced before the end of the current term due to the need for further public engagement and code refinement.

The Human Affairs Committee of the Nashua Board of Aldermen met on September 15, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. in the Aldermanic Chamber. Four members were present: Chair Tom Lopez, Vice Chair Shoshana Kelly, Alderman Chris Thibodeau, Alderman Tim Senate, and Alderman at large Gloria Timmons. Director Sullivan and a police department representative also attended. The committee considered three grant resolutions, discussed future meeting topics, and addressed constituent concerns. Consent Calendar - No items were on the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made; no members of the public were present. Discussion Items - R25201 – Granite Shield Substance Abuse Reduction Initiative (SARI) Grant - Motion to recommend final passage of a resolution accepting $650,000 from the New Hampshire Department of Safety into the Police Grant Activity for Fiscal Year 2026. The grant is a two-year award (typically $325,000 per year) used to combat substance abuse and trafficking, including investigations conducted jointly with Hudson Police. The funds cover overtime costs with no local match required. Committee members confirmed the grant is a state-level award, not a federal pass-through. Alderman Kelly and Thibodeau expressed support; the motion passed unanimously with all voting aye. - R25202 – New Hampshire Highway Safety Fiscal Year 2026 Grant - Motion to recommend final passage accepting $48,200 from the New Hampshire Department of Safety. This is a federal pass-through grant requiring a 25% local match, which has already been identified in the budget. Funds are used to enforce speed, distracted driving, and DUI laws based on crime analyst data. The grant runs through September 30, 2026, and is a regular annual award. No further discussion; motion passed unanimously. - R25204 – Transit Capital and Operating Match Funds - Matt Sullivan, Community Development Director, presented the resolution accepting $68,250 in capital match funds and $534,638 in operating match funds (split over two fiscal years) from the New Hampshire Department of Transportation. These state funds are used as the local match to draw federal FTA transit dollars. Capital funds will support upgrades at the transit center (electrical, sidewalk repainting, bus stop signage) and purchase of three ADA paratransit vans. Operating funds cover about 5–6% of the Nashua Transit System’s $4.3–4.7 million annual budget. Sullivan noted that state funding has remained level despite a tight budget, but warned of potential cuts in the upcoming GACIT (10-year transportation plan) hearings, scheduled for October 7 in Hudson. He encouraged attending or submitting letters to support Nashua projects. Committee members voted unanimously to recommend final passage. - Future Agenda Items - Chair Lopez announced plans to invite representatives from recovery housing programs for an October briefing, and to schedule a tenant rights session with city departments. Alderman Kelly noted that a requested list of supplies for the warming center (from prior meeting with Director Bagley) had not been received, and that the warming station is expected to open after Thanksgiving, not earlier. Key Outcomes - R25201: Approved to recommend final passage (unanimous aye). - R25202: Approved to recommend final passage (unanimous aye). - R25204: Approved to recommend final passage (unanimous aye). - Warming Center Supplies: Committee will follow up with Director Bagley for the list of needed items. - Crossing Guard Inquiry: Alderman Thibodeau was directed to the school department (Crystal Degree and Superintendent Andre) regarding a replacement for an outgoing crossing guard. - Upcoming Events: A housing forum hosted by Greater Nashua Interfaith Housing Justice and Granite State Organizing Project will be held September 17 at Main Street United Methodist Church. The committee adjourned at 7:27 p.m.

The Penacuck Water Special Committee met on September 11, 2025, at 7:03 PM in the Aldermanic Chamber. Committee members present: Alderman Gobaya, Alderman Moran, Alderman Clean, and Alderman Lori Wilshire (sitting in). Alderman Jetty was absent. Also present were CEO John Bovere, CFO George Torres, and COO Chris County. The meeting covered quarterly financial reports, a bond authorization for up to $99 million, an increase in a PFAS remediation loan, and updates on the merger and infrastructure improvements. Communications - Received and placed on file quarterly shareholder reports from Penachuck Corporation for quarters ending March 31, 2025, and June 30, 2025. - Received communication regarding resolution R-25-199 authorizing bonds up to $99 million. - Received communication regarding resolution R-25-209 increasing the state PFAS remediation loan. Discussion Items Quarterly Financial Report (Q2 2025) - CFO George Torres presented the report, noting a 4% revenue increase primarily due to a delayed QCPAC order for 2023 capital expenditures. However, operating expenses increased by over 10%, driven by higher general administrative costs (health benefits) and a significant rise in purification expenses. The latter was attributed to more frequent replacement of granular activated carbon (GAC) filter media due to PFAS regulations—now an annual $2.1 million expense instead of every 5–7 years. This shift from capitalized to operating expense contributed to a pre-tax loss and reduced EBITDA. Cash flow decreased due to the loss and a timing issue with a $1.8 million DES reimbursement received in August 2025. R-25-199: Bond Authorization Up to $99 Million - The resolution authorizes Penachuck Waterworks Inc. to issue bonds up to $99 million over a five-year capital plan. This covers expected capital projects including the refinancing of approximately $13.5 million in existing COBANC debt assumed from a prior merger. The prior five-year plan was $57.5 million; the increase reflects the larger merged entity (including PEU and Pittsfield) and the refinancing component. CFO Torres explained that refinancing COBANC debt at longer terms (30–35 years vs. 20 years) would generate cash flow savings for ratepayers despite slightly higher interest rates. The $4.5 million cost of issuance includes bond issuance costs, underwriting fees, and potential breakage fees for early retirement of COBANC debt. The resolution was a not-to-exceed amount to avoid future amendments. The committee voted unanimously to recommend final passage. R-25-209: PFAS Remediation Loan Increase - The resolution increases the loan from the New Hampshire DES PFAS remediation grant and loan fund from $11.45 million to $17.5 million. COO Chris County explained that the project, originally estimated in 2023, received bids well above expectations due to market conditions. Despite value engineering, the scope remained similar. The loan carries 1% interest during construction and about 3.5% post-completion, with low issuance costs. The committee voted unanimously to recommend final passage. General Discussion: Merger Update and Infrastructure - CEO John Bovere reported ongoing integration efforts, with no immediate ratepayer savings yet realized but future benefits expected from lower capital costs and reduced rate case frequency. CFO Torres noted that the April 2025 bond issuance already provided lower rates for PEU capital compared to COBANC rates. Alderman Wilshire praised the recent water pressure improvement project on Webster Street and noted better water quality (less brown water) although some sediment remains. The committee discussed that further infrastructure investment is needed. Key Outcomes - Resolution R-25-199 (bond authorization up to $99 million) recommended for final passage by unanimous vote. - Resolution R-25-209 (PFAS loan increase to $17.5 million) recommended for final passage by unanimous vote. - The quarterly reports were accepted and placed on file. - The meeting adjourned at 7:49 PM. Note: The meeting was originally scheduled for September 10, 2025 per transcript, but the instruction requires using September 11, 2025 as the date.

The regular meeting of the Nashua Board of Alderman was called to order on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. in the Aldermanic Chamber. Thirteen members were present, two were absent, and a quorum was established. Mayor Jim Donchus and Corporation Council Steve Bolton also attended. The meeting covered a wide range of topics including housing, downtown concerns, foreign property ownership, youth programs, and employee compensation. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the special board of alderman meetings of August 5th, August 7th, and August 12th, 2025, were accepted and placed on file. - Communications regarding surplus and overlay, committee changes, and Penetruck Waterworks bonds were accepted and placed on file. - Communications received after the agenda was prepared, including one regarding PFAS remediation funds and a request to re-refer R-25-151, were accepted without objection. Public Comments & Testimony - Lori Ortolano (41 Berkeley Street) expressed concern about the handling of minutes from a previous non-public session and also criticized O-25-060 (banners, flags, and signs), calling the indefinite postponement a political move. She argued the city's policies on public comment and banners are unconstitutional and urged the board to properly discuss the ordinance rather than table it. - Paula Johnson (15 Westborn Drive) opposed R-25-151, questioning the cost of the public works garage design (now $7.7 million total) and the stated building lifespan (20-30 years). She called for written maintenance policies and also urged indefinite postponement of O-25-060, arguing the chamber should remain the people's chamber and nonpartisan. - Greg Gately (106 Osgood, Milford; owner of 30 Main Street, Nashua – Kava Bar) spoke in support of Kratom, opposing a full ban. He shared positive experiences with his Kava Bar, emphasizing the social and health benefits of Kratom and thanking the board for listening to the community. Discussion Items - Mayor's Remarks on Downtown Homelessness: Mayor Donchus reported that downtown business owners have expressed very significant concerns regarding escalating homelessness, aggressive behavior, and its impact on revenues. He noted the police department is willing to assign an officer to downtown patrol six days a week for a two-month trial, discussed public restroom options, and mentioned Manchester's downtown cleanup ambassador program. He urged the board to arrange a meeting with downtown stakeholders. - Response to Mayor on Homelessness: Several aldermen spoke in support of the mayor's proposal. Alderman Lopez suggested opening the two public restrooms in City Hall as a simple solution and called for increased capacity for services as the weather gets colder. Alderman Senate noted the issue has been brewing for years and welcomed moving forward. Alderman Tebow noted the problem is not unique to Nashua and expressed support for creative solutions like public bathrooms. - Mayor's Remarks on Chinese-Owned Property: Mayor Donchus introduced R-25-208, seeking authority to write to state and federal officials for financial support regarding the purchase of Daniel Webster College, a 40-plus-acre parcel owned by a Chinese entity. He argued the property has sat unproductive for years and could be used for housing or other beneficial purposes. - Response to Mayor on Foreign Ownership: Alderman Lopez cautioned against fear-based reactions to foreign property ownership, noting that some investors were invited and engaged in economic development. He argued that such investments should be examined through normal zoning and planning processes, not by singling out specific countries. - Kratom Ordinance (O-25-051): Alderman Moran moved to amend the ordinance from a full ban to a prohibition on sales to persons under 21, which passed unanimously (13-0). He noted the Board of Health recommended the age restriction and that advocates on both sides found common ground. Final passage of the amended ordinance also passed 13-0. - Banners, Flags, and Signs Ordinance (O-25-060): Alderman Dowd moved for indefinite postponement, citing confusion at the committee level and lack of readiness. This motion passed 13-0. - Stop Sign Ordinance (O-25-061): Final passage of a stop sign on Weld Street at its intersection with Oldfield Road passed 13-0. - Unaffiliated Employee Salary Adjustment (O-25-063): A motion to table failed 5-8 after a lengthy discussion. Alderman Sullivan raised questions about costs and a phased approach, but Director Cummings appeared and provided answers, indicating a one-year implementation at approximately $450,000, plus about 15% in benefits costs. Final passage passed 13-0. - Permitted Parking Areas (O-25-064): Final passage of amendments to permitted parking areas passed 13-0. - Street Hockey Court Agreement (R-25-200): The board suspended rules to allow a second reading, then passed the resolution 13-0. The resolution authorizes an agreement with the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Nashua to upgrade the street hockey facility at Memorial Park using over $400,000 in privately raised funds. The city grants exclusive use for 12-15 hours per week, but the facility remains open to the public otherwise. Key Outcomes - O-25-051 Adopted as Amended: Ordinance prohibiting the sale of Kratom to persons under 21 passed (13-0). - O-25-060 Indefinitely Postponed: Ordinance prohibiting banners, flags, and signs was postponed (13-0). - O-25-063 Adopted: Unaffiliated employee salary schedule adjusted (13-0). - R-25-200 Adopted: Agreement with Boys and Girls Club for street hockey court upgrade approved (13-0). - R-25-151 Re-referred: Bond resolution for public works division garage design was re-referred to the Budget Review Committee (13-0) for additional information. - R-25-195 Adopted: Resolution authorizing deed waivers for certain properties passed (13-0). - O-25-061 Adopted: Stop sign on Weld Street authorized (13-0). - O-25-064 Adopted: Permitted parking areas amended (13-0). - Reappointments and New Appointments: Confirmed for Historic District Commission, Housing Revolving Fund Committee, Nashua Airport Authority, Cable Television Advisory Board, Downtown Improvement Committee, and Nashua Revolving Loan Fund Committee. - First Readings Assigned: Numerous resolutions and ordinances were introduced and assigned to appropriate committees for further review. - Board Went into Non-Public Session: Motion passed 13-0 to enter non-public session under RSA 91-A for legal advice and consideration of disclosing minutes of a prior non-public session.

The Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA) met on September 10, 2025 (the session began the evening of September 9). Chair Jay Mankara presided, joined by Vice Chair Josh Neely, Members Steve Lionel and JP Boucher, and alternate Joseph Potri (who voted). Planning Manager Sam Durfee was also present. The board heard a special exception for a city DPW sign and two variance requests: one for automotive dealership wall signs and one for a residential addition. DPW Sign Special Exception (City of Nashua, Applicant) Preliminary Determination: The board first granted a Fisher v. Dover motion, finding a material change of circumstances from a denied 2023 sign application. The board agreed the removal of the electronic messaging component (EMC), which was central to the prior denial, constituted a material difference. Applicant's Case: The Division of Public Works requested a special exception for a 33.8 sq ft, 9 ft tall ground sign (ordinance allows 10 sq ft, 6 ft tall) at 848 West Hollis Street. Attorney Andy Prolman and Director Lisa Foto cited the building's deep setback, the mixed-use character of West Hollis Street, winter snow operations, and public use of the building (permits, meetings) as reasons for the size. The sign features masonry block matching the building and downward lighting. Public Testimony: - In Favor: Aldermen Richard Dowd (Ward 2), Patricia Klee (Ward 3), and Michael O'Brien (At-Large) emphasized public safety, civic pride, and the building being set back to accommodate neighbors. Commissioner June Lemon, Superintendent Jeff LaFleur, and Director Foto testified the sign was not an eyesore, aided tractor-trailer navigation, and reduced dangerous turning maneuvers on the busy state highway. A letter of support from BPW Vice Chair Paul Shea was read. - Opposed: Several residents and letters opposed the sign. Speakers Paula Johnson and Justin Gerstenfield argued the sign was too massive, out of character with the residential neighborhood, and unnecessary given GPS. Letters from Nancy Kring Burns, Janine Levesque, Elaine Neusbaum, Denise Chong, Charles Fisher, Gloria McCarthy, Dave Leblanc, Peter Johnson, and Connie Page cited the size, character, and light pollution. A letter from Ward 5 Alderman Jetty urged denial, stating a conforming 10 sq ft sign would be adequate. Board Deliberations and Vote: Members Mankara, Boucher, and Potri supported the application, finding the sign consistent with other signs along the mixed-use corridor and emphasizing safety. Vice Chair Neely was initially undecided but found the safety presentation compelling. Member Lionel opposed the sign's massiveness. The board voted 4-1 to grant the special exception (Lionel dissenting). The approval stipulated the sign lighting must be turned off after 10 PM from May 1st to September 30th. Wall Sign Variance (McTomson Realty Inc. / Harvey Signs) Applicant's Case: Michael Harvey requested a variance to install a fourth wall sign (three permitted) for the Hyundai and Genesis dealership at 140 Daniel Webster Highway. The total proposed square footage (124.8 sq ft) is under the 150 sq ft limit. The fourth sign (a Genesis logo) is required for brand separation. The applicant argued the building's 60-degree orientation to the road, deep setback, and tree line created visibility hardships. Public Testimony: No members of the public spoke for or against the application. Board Deliberations and Vote: The board unanimously agreed that the building's unusual orientation and the branding needs of the automotive district constituted a valid hardship. The variance was approved unanimously. Residential Addition Variance (John Chatfield) Applicant's Case: John Chatfield requested a variance to encroach three feet into the required 30-foot rear yard setback for a 28 ft 8 in by 16 ft two-story addition (kitchen/dining and master bedroom) at 20 Jill Drive. He stated the addition was centered and could be reduced in depth, but the full size was preferred for a comfortable layout. Public Testimony: - Opposed: Abutters Sandra Mulgrew and Miles Shannon objected. Ms. Mulgrew cited the significant topographic height difference (Chatfield's lot is 3-4 feet higher) and that a new second story would directly overlook her yard, destroying her privacy. Mr. Shannon argued the hardship requirement for a variance was not met, noting the application was incomplete (page 3 missing). He also reported an existing shed on the applicant's property encroached on his lot. Board Deliberations and Vote: The board found no unnecessary hardship specific to the property. Members noted the applicant's testimony that the project could proceed without the full three feet of encroachment. The variance request was denied unanimously. Final Business The board reviewed the agenda for its next meeting on September 23 and deferred approval of the previous meeting's minutes to that date. The meeting was then adjourned.

The Nashua Planning Board convened on September 5, 2025, to consider several planning applications and other business. The board approved a lot line adjustment, a two-lot subdivision, and a site plan for four single-family homes after a public hearing. A favorable recommendation was made for a street discontinuance. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (July 10, 2025): The board unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting. - Lot Line Adjustment (A25-0120) – 456 & 458 South Main Street: The board approved a lot line adjustment transferring 282 square feet between two properties, finding the application met all criteria. A waiver for existing conditions was granted. No public testimony was offered. - Two-Lot Subdivision (A25-0124) – 3 Kirk Street: The board approved a two-lot subdivision splitting a parcel into two equal lots. Waivers were granted for existing conditions, underground utilities, sidewalks, and payment in lieu of sidewalks. No public testimony was offered. Public Comments & Testimony - Site Plan (A25-0121) – 2 & L Oldfield Street: Three abutters expressed concerns: - Cliff Banner (459 South Main Street) questioned the waiver for existing conditions, stormwater management, demolition prior to approval, and the preservation of trees on the adjacent paper street. He requested verification of fire truck turnaround functionality. - Linda Banner (459 South Main Street) raised concerns about lot size calculations, retaining wall height, and potential impacts to a gas line and wetlands. - Don Jetty (459 1/2 South Main Street) questioned the design of a catch basin and grading near his property. Discussion Items - Site Plan (A25-0121): The applicant, Tara Aquilina of SFC Engineering, presented a proposal for four single-family detached homes on a consolidated 1.55-acre lot, with a private drive (Stellos Drive), overhead utilities, stormwater retention, and a fire truck turnaround. The board discussed the waiver for existing conditions (190-273) and the sidewalk waiver (190-212) with a contribution in lieu. Additional conditions were added for wetland buffer markers and addressing engineering comments from the September 2, 2025 letter from Mark Saunders, Deputy City Engineer, and the August 29, 2025 letter from Joe Mondola, Senior Staff Engineer. - Other Business: The board reviewed the tentative agenda and found no proposals of regional impact. A referral from the Board of Aldermen for a petition to discontinue Major Drive and a portion of Spaulding Street (associated with the Maynard Homes redevelopment) was discussed. Staff noted that a public hearing would be held by the Infrastructure Committee. Key Outcomes - A25-0120 (Lot Line Adjustment): Approved unanimously with conditions from the staff report. - A25-0124 (Two-Lot Subdivision): Approved unanimously subject to conditions A through O as amended, including addressing engineering comments. - A25-0121 (Site Plan): Approved unanimously after granting two waivers (existing conditions and sidewalk, with sidewalk contribution per planning department standards). Conditions included: A through M as amended (sidewalk contribution), plus new conditions N (wetland buffer markers) and O (addressing engineering letter from Joe Mondola). - Regional Impact Determination: The board unanimously found no proposals of regional impact. - Street Discontinuance Referral: The board unanimously voted to give a favorable recommendation to the Board of Aldermen for the discontinuance of Major Drive and a portion of Spaulding Street.

On September 4, 2025, the City of Nashua hosted a benefits presentation featuring Margaret Cooper from Smart Shopper, a product of Anthem Healthcare Carrier. The session explained how employees can use the Smart Shopper program to compare costs of medical procedures, earn cash rewards, and help reduce overall plan costs. The presentation included a live demonstration and a question-and-answer period. Discussion Items - Program Overview: Margaret Cooper introduced Smart Shopper as a free benefit for City of Nashua employees enrolled in the Anthem health plan. She emphasized that the cost of the same medical procedure can vary dramatically even within the same network, and that shopping for care can save money for both employees and the city. Key features include: - Shopping online at smartshopper.com or by calling a concierge team (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., with early closure at 6 p.m. on Fridays). - Cash rewards for choosing cost-effective providers, with rewards ranging from $25 to $1,250 per procedure. Rewards are sent as a physical check about 60 days after the procedure. - Over 70 procedures are included, such as colonoscopies, mammograms, physical therapy, lab work, and some surgical procedures. Emergent care is excluded. - Q&A Topics: - Deductibles and Rewards: An employee asked whether rewards are still available after meeting the deductible. Margaret confirmed yes, shopping and choosing cost-effective care still earns cash rewards even if the plan covers 100% of costs. - Physician Choice: Employees do not need to change their doctor—only the facility where the procedure is performed. They can ask their doctor if they have admitting privileges at a lower-cost facility. - Ongoing Procedures: Each procedure must be shopped separately; one shop yields one reward. Shopping can be done the same day as the appointment (before the procedure) or up to a year in advance. - Radius and Travel: The search radius adjusts based on procedure cost and available providers. For example, a knee replacement might be worth traveling 40 miles for a $500 reward, while a mammogram may not. - Reward Limits: There is no annual cap on total rewards, but the maximum per single reward is $1,250. - Dental Excluded: The program covers only medical procedures through Anthem; dental is not included. - Survey Feedback: Employees who use the program receive a satisfaction survey, and results are reported quarterly to the city. Feedback on facilities is shared with Anthem’s contracting team. - Specialty Medications: Infusion drugs like Remicade are included; the Smart Shopper team may reach out to members on such medications. Key Outcomes - The city benefits representative confirmed that the presentation will be recorded and uploaded to YouTube, with the link and materials (including the flyer and presentation slides) shared via the wellness newsletter, which reaches approximately 1,400 employees and retirees. - The city’s benefits manager emphasized the goal of educating employees to use resources like Smart Shopper to reduce costs and keep money in their pockets. - Employees were encouraged to contact the HR office at City Hall for further support and to act as ambassadors for the program to ensure its continued availability.

The Finance Committee of the Nashua Board of Aldermen met on September 4, 2025, at 7 p.m. in the Aldermanic Chamber. Chair Clee presided. Members present: Aldermen Thibodeau, Gove, Moran, Clemens, and Clee. Mayor Doncius and Alderman Timmons were absent. A quorum was present. The committee considered multiple purchasing communications, including a contentious amendment for parking garage repairs, and held a general discussion on the approval process for change orders. Consent Calendar - Annual HVAC Preventative Maintenance: Approved a one-year contract with Palmer and Sicard Inc. for HVAC maintenance at all fire rescue facilities, amount not to exceed $25,196, funded from General Fund 50. Unanimous. - Parking Garage Office Design Amendment 2: Approved amendment with Randall Paulson for additional utility investigation and EV charging station design for the Elm Street parking garage office expansion, amount not to exceed $70,659, funded from Bond 53. Unanimous. - Hydropower Engineering Change Order 2: Approved change order with Van Dyce LLC for bathymetric and LIDAR surveys at Jackson Mills and Mines Falls hydroelectric facilities, amount not to exceed $41,700, funded from Capital Improvements 53. Unanimous. - Wastewater Hydraulic Gate Cylinder Repairs: Approved repairs to the screening and disinfection facility drain chamber hydraulic system by New Hampshire Hydraulics, amount not to exceed $79,650, funded from Wastewater Fund 54. (Note: Agenda misprinted amount as $41,700; corrected during meeting.) Unanimous. - Pavement Marking Change Order 3: Approved final change order for FY24 pavement marking contract with Markings Inc., amount not to exceed $162,000, funded from General Fund 54. Unanimous. - Sole Source Asphalt and Aggregates Purchase: Approved sole source purchase from Brock's Industries and Continental Paving, amount not to exceed $147,000, funded from General Fund 61. Unanimous. - Water Street Guardrail Repainting: Approved contract with Ed Swat Inc. to strip and repaint guardrails from Four Water Street driveway to the parking lot crosswalk, amount not to exceed $60,000, funded from Riverfront TIF Fund 54. Unanimous. - Record of Expenditures: Approved expenditures for the period August 15–28, 2025, as compliant with city charter. Unanimous. Public Comments & Testimony - None. Discussion Items - Parking Garage Repairs Amendment 1: Proposed amendment with Whiting-Turner Construction for unforeseen items (battery-powered emergency lighting, asbestos and lead abatement, security camera redesign, ground wire conduit replacement) at a cost not to exceed $526,972.53, funded from Bond 53. Alderman Moran questioned the large cost swing, and staff explained hidden hazardous materials. The initial vote failed 3–2 (Aldermen Thibodeau, Gove, Moran opposed; Aldermen Clemens and Clee in favor). Alderman Moran (or Clee? – transcript unclear) moved for reconsideration, which passed 4–1. The amended motion then passed 3–2 (three in favor, two opposed). - Owner’s Project Manager (OPM) Services Amendment 2: Approved amendment with Greenman-Pedersen Inc. (CPI) for continued oversight of the parking garage renovation project, amount not to exceed $142,832.20, funded from Bond 53. Alderman Clemens spoke in favor, noting the value of expert project management and that costs remained within the bond. The motion passed 3–2. General Discussion - Alderman Moran expressed concern about approving change orders after work had occurred, citing a need for better process and transparency. He noted that the body should not approve funds after the fact, and that the situation could be misconstrued by the public. - Alderman Clemens clarified that the project could not continue without the amendment, and that contingency funds exist for such unforeseen conditions. He emphasized that the finance committee’s primary role is to ensure funds are available, not to set policy, and that the project had already been approved by the full board. - Director of Administrative Services Tim Cummings acknowledged the conversation and offered to provide regular project updates at the Infrastructure Committee to improve transparency. He noted that the parking garage project does not fall under a joint committee process, which may contribute to the disconnect. - Alderman Gove explained his consistent no votes on parking garage items, stemming from his objection to the initial use of a spending cap exemption to fund the project, not the project’s administration. - Chair Clee thanked DPW for quick response over the Labor Day weekend to a constituent’s sewer basin cover issue. Key Outcomes - Approved unanimously: All items listed in the Consent Calendar, plus the record of expenditures. - Approved after reconsideration (3–2): Parking garage repairs amendment 1 ($526,972.53). - Approved (3–2): OPM services amendment 2 ($142,832.20). - Failed initially, then passed: The parking garage repairs amendment first failed 3–2, was reconsidered, and then passed by the same margin. - Directive: Director Cummings will provide regular parking garage project updates at the Infrastructure Committee.

The joint committee convened at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, in the Aldermanic Chamber to receive a project status update on the Nine Riverside building and to approve invoices and a change order. The project is on track and under budget. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of August 13, 2025 (motion by Alderman Clee, passed unanimously). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were present. Discussion Items - Project Status Update: Tim Lemaire of GPI reported that concrete work is 99% complete, structural steel for the new garage is 95% complete, roof trusses are on site, and interior security upgrades are 60% complete. EV charging stations are finished. - Financial Overview: Total authorized project cost is $3.5 million. Whiting Turner’s GMP remains $2.3 million; approximately $1.085 million has been invoiced (about 47%), with $1.063 million actually spent after retaining 10% retainage. The committee discussed retainage release and moving costs. Director Cummings confirmed the project is under budget. - Future Parking Lot Design: Director Cummings announced that a proposal to begin design of the campus parking lot will be brought to the next meeting, as contingency funds are now comfortable. - Status Reporting Tool: Alderman Dowd shared a one-page format used by the school department for project status; the committee expressed interest in adopting a similar format. Director Cummings said replication is feasible. Key Outcomes - Approved Whiting Turner Invoice: August 31, 2025 invoice for $166,017.43 (motion by Alderman Clee, carried unanimously). - Approved GPI Invoice: August 20, 2025 invoice for $1,396.00 (motion by Alderman Clee, carried unanimously). - Approved LaValle Brisinger Invoice: August 18, 2025 invoice for $8,020.17 (motion by Alderman Clee, carried unanimously). - Approved Change Order No. 4: Whiting Turner Other Change Order No. 4 (correction from agenda item No. 3) for $0, incorporating change notifications 14, 16, and 17 (lights, granite curbing, miscellaneous items). Cost captured within existing GMP (motion by Alderman Clee, carried unanimously). - Next Meeting: Scheduled for October 8, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the Aldermanic Chamber (no conflict with Finance Committee).