Public Meetings - Nashua, New Hampshire

The Nashua Zoning Board of Adjustment met virtually on August 13, 2025, to consider five variance applications and one special exception request. The board granted all six applications after public hearings and deliberations. The meeting also included the postponement of one case, public comment letters, and approval of prior meeting minutes. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar was presented. Public Comments & Testimony - Case 1 (Morgan Family Investments): Jim Livelmore of 8 Kirk Street spoke in favor of the revised plan, stating that two single-family homes are a much better fit for the neighborhood. - Case 2 (Friedman & Albert): A letter of opposition from William and Darlene Eldred (56 Dexter Street) was read, expressing concerns about privacy, light, and scale. No one spoke in person against the application. - Case 3 (LaLiberty & Destromp): No public comments were made. - Case 4 (Hart Creek Cattle Company): An email from Mike Draper was read opposing the sign, citing sidewalk blockage and dangerous conditions. No one spoke in person against the application. - Case 5 (Borges): No public comments were made. - Case 6 (PSP Contracting): Two emails of support were read: one from Russell Clement (non-Meadowbrook Drive) and one from Katrina and Richard Waterhouse, both citing safety and neighborhood improvement. No one spoke in opposition. Discussion Items - Postponement: The first agenda item (City of Nashua DPW sign special exception) was postponed to September 9, 2025. - Case 1 – Morgan Family Investments (3 Kirk Street, Unit 57): The applicant sought variances for minimum lot area (7,500 sq ft required, 5,891 sq ft proposed) and minimum lot depth (90 ft required, 78.86 ft proposed) to subdivide a 11,782 sq ft lot into two lots for single-family homes. Board members noted the property is unusually large for the neighborhood and the existing two-family dwelling is dilapidated. The plan aligns with surrounding lot sizes and was supported by an appraisal letter (McKeon Appraisals). All three members voted to grant the variances. - Case 2 – Friedman & Albert (66 Nagel Street): Requested a variance to encroach 3 ft into the required 7-ft left side setback for a 24x32 ft attached garage with an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) above. The breezeway connecting to the main house was cited as the reason for the encroachment. Board members found the request reasonable given the lot size and neighborhood character, and noted that the ADU would support family care. They voted unanimously to grant the variance. - Case 3 – LaLiberty & Destromp (82 Cox Street): Requested a variance to encroach 15 ft into the 20-ft front yard setback to replace a 9x10 ft shed with a 10x12 ft shed in the same location. The existing shed had been in place for at least 30 years. The board found that no alternative location on the property was feasible, and the new shed would improve aesthetics. The variance was granted unanimously. - Case 4 – Hart Creek Cattle Company (76 Lake Street): Requested a variance to exceed the maximum projecting sign size (10 sq ft allowed, 24 sq ft proposed) for a 4x6 ft sign. The applicant argued that a ground sign was not practical and the sign would help identify the business. Board members noted that the letter of opposition did not relate to the sign's impact, and the variance was granted unanimously. - Case 5 – Borges (15 Karen Avenue): Requested a variance to encroach 15 ft into the 25-ft front yard setback on the Celeste Street side to construct a 23x30 ft attached ADU addition. The property is a corner lot, and the addition was needed to accommodate an elderly mother. The board found that no other location for the addition was practical and that it fits the neighborhood. The variance was granted unanimously. - Case 6 – PSP Contracting (8 Meadowbrook Drive): Requested a special exception to work within the 75-ft prime wetland buffer of Salmon Brook to rebuild a single-family home on an existing foundation destroyed by fire. The project included native plantings and erosion control, and the Conservation Commission had issued a favorable recommendation with five stipulations. The board found that the proposal would not harm the environment and would improve safety. The special exception was granted unanimously. Key Outcomes - Variances granted (unanimous 3-0): - Morgan Family Investments (lot area and depth) - Friedman & Albert (side setback) - LaLiberty & Destromp (front setback) - Hart Creek Cattle Company (sign size) - Borges (front setback) - Special exception granted (unanimous 3-0): PSP Contracting (wetland buffer encroachment) - Approved minutes: Minutes from the July 22, 2025 meeting were approved with minor corrections. - Next meeting: Scheduled for August 26, 2025.

On August 12, 2025, the Nashua Board of Aldermen held a special meeting at 7:00 PM in the Old Dominic Chamber to receive a presentation from Administrative Services Director Tim Cummings and Treasurer Don Enright on capital project planning and debt management. The meeting included a review of existing debt, proposed five-year debt issuance plans, and discussion of future capital priorities. Thirteen aldermen were present, with two absent (Aldermen Lopez and Jenny). Alderwoman Kelly attended remotely due to medical reasons. Discussion Items - Director Cummings provided an overview of the ad hoc joint mayoral and Board of Alderman Committee on Capital Expenditures and Debt Service, emphasizing a target of approximately $25 million in new debt per year over a five-year period. He highlighted imminent projects: DPW garage (under design), Holman Stadium repair/renovation, Mohawk Tannery pedestrian bridge, hydroelectric improvements, deferred capital maintenance, fire department HVAC repairs (about $1.5 million/year), and school facility projects (about $2 million/year). Additional projects requiring further community engagement or study include Mount Pleasant elementary school renovation, auditorium, Court Street Theater, Riverside Athletic Fields, a new fire station, low-barrier shelter, passenger rail, city hall renovation, ERP system upgrade, police cell booking area, branding/wayfinding, Main Street reconfiguration (NHDOT match), and police parking lot. Newer projects not in the ad hoc process include fire training facility upgrade, annual sidewalk repair plan, pool repairs, HVAC library controls, and a truck wash. - Treasurer Enright presented a five-year general obligation bond sale plan and a 20-year debt service projection. Current debt service is $23.7 million in FY26, declining over time due to maturing debt. The plan aims to keep debt service relatively stable (between 3-5% year-over-year) by issuing new debt consistent with the $25 million target plus 3% inflation annually. The five-year total projected issuance is $114 million, below the $140 million inflationary target. - Alderman Teball asked why the city carries so much debt and how it impacts taxes. Treasurer Enright explained that managing debt at a consistent level maintains good credit and is responsible; eliminating debt is not realistic. He noted that $1.5 million in debt service equals approximately 1% on the tax rate, but consistent debt service does not increase taxes year-over-year. - Alderman Sullivan sought clarification on existing debt figures ($77 million in the budget vs. $23 million in the presentation). Treasurer Enright clarified that the $77 million includes enterprise funds paid by fees, while the $23 million refers to general obligation debt in the budget. Alderman Sullivan also asked about the difference between “issued” and “sold.” Director Cummings clarified that “authorized” means legal ability to pursue debt, while “selling” occurs when bonds are actually issued and affect debt service. - Alderman Senate asked about using surplus cash to fund design phases of projects (e.g., library, fire station) instead of bonding, and suggested the ad hoc committee meet sooner than late fall/early winter to discuss this approach. Director Cummings confirmed that using cash for design would require a supplemental appropriation and could support projects such as passenger rail study, ERP, placemaking, and police parking lot, but the board would need to decide on the threshold for cash vs. bonding. Key Outcomes - No formal actions or votes were taken on capital plans; the meeting was informational. - A motion to adjourn passed unanimously (13-0) at 7:30 PM. - Next steps include potentially reconvening the ad hoc committee in late fall/early winter to refine project priorities, discuss using surplus for design phases, and prepare for new debt authorizations during the spring budget process.

This was the second well session, focused on nutrition, led by Jacqueline Fedor, a registered dietitian with Nutrition Counseling of New England and a classically trained chef. The session provided practical strategies for meal planning, healthy eating, and the concept of volumetrics. The meeting was recorded for staff unable to attend. Public Comments & Testimony - An attendee asked about diet sodas. Jacqueline responded that while occasional consumption may not be harmful, regular intake of artificial sweeteners like sucralose, aspartame, and acesulfame potassium can be harmful. She recommended moderation. - Another attendee asked about stevia. Jacqueline explained that stevia is a more natural sweetener but still processed; occasional use is safer than artificial sweeteners, but frequent consumption of many stevia-sweetened foods is not ideal. - A question about preferred cooking oils: Jacqueline recommended extra virgin olive oil for most cooking, and avocado oil for high-heat applications. She advised avoiding oils that smoke. - An attendee asked about trans fats. Jacqueline stated that man-made trans fats (hydrogenated oils) are extremely dangerous and should be avoided entirely. She advised checking ingredient lists for "hydrogenated" and avoiding those products. - A final question about organic foods: Jacqueline noted that for processed packaged foods, organic often indicates no trans fats or high fructose corn syrup. For fruits and vegetables, she recommended the Environmental Working Group's "Dirty Dozen" list to decide which produce to buy organic. Discussion Items - Meal Planning: Jacqueline emphasized reducing impulsive decisions by having a simple plan (e.g., a weekly meal planning worksheet or notes app). She suggested keeping breakfast and lunch simple with 2–3 rotating options, and planning dinners with a mix of new recipes and family favorites. - Building a Balanced Plate: She introduced a visual of a menu stairs to success, with the majority of the diet coming from fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, followed by starches, healthy fats, grains, dairy, and occasional treats. She advocated an "all foods fit" mentality. - Meal Prep Ideas: Batch cooking grains, proteins, and hard-boiled eggs can save time. She shared examples of easy slow cooker meals (e.g., chicken with salsa, barbecue pulled pork, Italian chicken legs, steak fajitas). - Breakfast Ideas: Eggs prepared various ways, sweet potato hash, overnight oats, yogurt parfaits (using Greek or skyr yogurt), and protein shakes/smoothies. - Lunch Ideas: Leftovers, salads with lots of toppings, soups (she will share a "soup formula"), sandwiches (choose sprouted grain or 100% whole wheat bread), and bento boxes/adult lunchables. - Dinner Ideas: Stir-fries (quick cooking), meat sauce/bolognese (using food processor to mince veggies), pasta alternatives (e.g., Banza or Gorilla protein pasta), tacos (assembly meal), and slow cooker recipes with 5 ingredients or less. - Snack Ideas: Keep snacks small and simple (fruit, cheese, nuts, olives, protein balls). She recommended Kind bars, Lara bars, jerky, roasted chickpeas, and individual guacamole/peanut butter/hummus servings. - Volumetrics: Jacqueline explained Barbara Rolls' concept that people eat a consistent weight of food per day (women 3 lbs, men 5 lbs). Low energy density foods (high water, fiber, air) allow larger portions for fewer calories. She compared 16 Wheat Thins (140 calories, 40 g) vs. 3 cups of sliced strawberries (140 calories, 400 g). She also showed examples: 1 cup raisins (500 cal), 1 cup grapes (60 cal), 1 cup plain popcorn (30 cal), 1 cup M&Ms (1020 cal), 1 cup sunflower seeds (850 cal). The goal is to increase low-energy-density foods and be mindful of high-energy-density foods. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were taken. The session was purely educational. - Attendees received actionable tips for meal planning, meal prep, and healthier snacking. - Jacqueline Fedor offered her email and website for follow-up questions and one-on-one counseling. - The slide deck and recording will be shared with staff.

The Nashua Pension Board held a regular meeting on August 11, 2025, chaired by Maddie Greg with members Dave, Dan Hudson, Matt Duby, and Mary Woods. The primary agenda item was a presentation from RBC Wealth Management on the pension fund's performance, market outlook, and a comparative analysis against other municipal plans. The board also addressed routine business including approving minutes, personnel retirements, invoices, pension benefit adjustments, and refunds. A discussion on a potential one-time stipend for retirees was initiated, and the board noted an issue with the online portal for retirees. RBC Wealth Management Presentation - Eric Stubbs, Mike Gwynn, Jackie Kana, and Enrique Hyde from RBC Wealth Management presented the pension fund's status as of June 30, 2025, and updated figures through early August 2025. - As of June 30, 2025, the plan had $58,873,000 in assets, with 68% in equities. For the fiscal year ending June 30, the plan returned 10.77%; for the second quarter of 2025, it was up 6.95%. The three-year annualized return was 13.04%. - During the fiscal year, approximately $955,000 was paid out, and cash holdings of $2.77 million earned about 4%. - In response to tariff-related volatility in the first quarter of 2025, the board reduced equity exposure from 70% to 62%, then increased back to 65-66% as markets adjusted. - As of a week before the meeting, the portfolio value was $59.6 million, and on the day of the meeting it had just broken $60 million. The 12-month return as of early August was 15.2%, and the three-year annualized return was 11.11%. - The bond portfolio was repositioned to longer maturities (3-7 years) to benefit from potential Fed rate cuts, with 80% in high-quality U.S. Treasuries and agencies. - Economic outlook: Tariff uncertainty caused market volatility but has dampened; GDP grew 3% in Q2 due to a 35% drop in imports (not necessarily positive). Corporate profits were up 10% year-over-year. Expect modest GDP growth (1% per quarter) and stock market gains of 4-5% by year-end, with a possible dip in September-October. Employment indicators show softening (manufacturing and services employment index at 44, payrolls flat over three months). - AI impact: Minimal job loss so far, but likely to affect coding, paralegal, and other roles over next 3-10 years. - Questions from board: Discussed the effect of tariff revenue on deficits, the role of AI, and the impact of recent firings at the Bureau of Labor Statistics on data reliability. RBC noted that the BLS firing itself does not affect numbers unless the statistical process is politicized, which could destabilize pension planning. - Plan comparison (Enrique Hyde): The actuarial report (based on June 2024 data) showed an actuarial accrued liability of $58.3 million, actuarial assets of $51.6 million (smoothed over 5 years), unfunded liability of $6.7 million, and a funding ratio of 88% on actuarial basis (92% on market value basis). Current market value ($60M) likely brings the plan close to 100% funded. Compared to a national survey of 521 municipal/state plans, Nashua’s plan was in the top quartile (better than 72% of plans). For plans with assets $20-80 million (115 plans), Nashua was better than 78%. The plan’s 7% discount rate is slightly above the median of 6.9%. - Asset allocation: Nashua’s portfolio (65% equities, rest bonds/cash) is simpler and more liquid than many large public plans that invest in private equity and alternatives. RBC noted that large plans are reducing private equity due to disappointing returns. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Motion to approve minutes of June 2 regular meeting and June 12 special meeting. Approved unanimously. - Personnel Retirements: Recognized the retirements of Amy Jill (23 years) and Mark Jennings (11 years) from engineering. Approved. - Invoices: Two invoices from McLean Middleton totaling $3,575 ($1,560 and $2,015) for support on ordinance changes in June. Approved. - Pension Benefit Adjustment: Increase for retiree Judy Tooney from $1,611.35 to $2,644.19 per month, with retroactive payment and new amount starting September. Approved. - Refunds to Former Employees: Refunds of employee contributions for Jordan Gay, Adam Nato, Brian Palmer, and Alexis Cruz Gonzalez (short-service employees). Approved. Discussion Items - RFP Process: Board member noted that RBC had missed two items in their RFP submission and received no communication from the city. RBC confirmed they sent an inquiry but got no response. The board indicated they are conducting due diligence on management fees and may revisit the fee structure. RBC is open to adjusting fees if below market, noting their proposal was 35 basis points. - One-Time Stipend for Retirees: Discussion initiated on a potential one-time stipend (e.g., Christmas bonus) for retirees, given the fund’s strong funding status. RBC offered to model costs if provided with retiree demographic data (benefit amounts, age, retirement date). Board members expressed support for exploring the idea but wanted to understand the formula and sustainability before voting. No formal motion made; target goal set for May 2026. - IRS Plan Changes: Noted that changes would require board approval. - Online Portal Issue: Board members reported not receiving a PIN to log into the new retiree portal; instructions said only first-time users get a PIN. Members who previously logged on could reset. Board members asked to report back on their experience. Key Outcomes - Votes: All consent calendar items approved unanimously (minutes, retirements, invoices, pension adjustment, refunds). - Directives: RBC to provide cost modeling for a one-time stipend once retiree data is provided. Board to follow up on portal access issues. Board to continue fee analysis ahead of next meeting. - Next Steps: The one-time stipend discussion will be formalized at a future meeting; board expressed interest in a possible disbursement by Christmas but recognized the workload may push it to May 2026. Board to report back on portal feedback.

The City of Nashua hosted a wellness session on August 8, 2025, featuring Christina Flavin, a physician assistant in dermatology from Dartmouth Hitchcock in Manchester. The presentation covered sun damage, skin cancer risks, sunscreen types, and prevention strategies. The session included a question-and-answer period and concluded with an announcement of the next wellness session. Presentation Highlights - Sun Exposure and Skin Damage: Christina Flavin explained that ultraviolet (UV) A and B rays are carcinogens that contribute to skin aging and cancer. UVA causes aging (wrinkles, sunspots), UVB causes sunburns and DNA damage. Only 23% of lifetime sun damage occurs before age 18, so protection at any age is beneficial. - Sunscreen Recommendations: SPF 15 blocks about 93% of UV rays, SPF 30 and 50 block more (98% for SPF 50). Minimal SPF should be 15, with daily use in moisturizer. Broad-spectrum protection is essential. Mineral sunscreens (zinc or titanium dioxide) are recommended for sensitive skin and are environmentally friendly; chemical sunscreens are effective but may cause irritation and have absorption concerns. Reapplication every two hours is critical. - Skin Cancer Types: Basal cell carcinoma (most common, rarely metastasizes), squamous cell carcinoma (more aggressive), melanoma (deadly if not caught early). ABCDEs of melanoma: Asymmetry, irregular Borders, variable Color, Diameter 6mm, Evolving. The "ugly duckling" sign—a mole that looks different from others—is key. Early detection (depth <0.7mm) is crucial. - Risk Factors: Skin type (fair skin, freckles), medications (doxycycline, NSAIDs, diuretics), history of sunburns (5 or more doubles melanoma risk), immunosuppression. Indoor tanning increases melanoma risk, including ocular melanoma. - Myths Debunked: Melanin is not full protection; cloudy days still permit UV; makeup with SPF is insufficient; only burning once is still harmful. Questions and Answers - A question about mineral versus chemical sunscreens: Christina Flavin clarified that mineral sunscreens provide immediate physical barrier and are less irritating, while chemical sunscreens need 20 minutes to absorb. She personally uses chemical sunscreen in moisturizer daily but prefers mineral for extended outdoor exposure. - A question about UV and red light therapy: She noted that red light therapy shows potential for skin rejuvenation and hair growth but more long-term data is needed; she is not currently recommending it. - A question about self-tanning creams: She stated they are safe as they only stain the superficial skin layer and are not absorbed. - A question about frequency of dermatologist visits: The American Academy of Dermatology recommends annual skin checks, but for low-risk individuals, a primary care exam may suffice. High-risk individuals (family history, past skin cancer, immunosuppression) should see a dermatologist annually. Melanoma can occur in sun-protected areas. Key Outcomes - Attendees received informational handouts, coupons, and sunscreen samples. - The next wellness session was announced for August 12, 2025, at 12:30 PM, featuring Jacqueline Fodor, a registered dietitian, discussing "Getting Back on Track After Summer" with routines and healthy snacks. - Clarification on health insurance coverage for dermatology visits: Employees with Anthem insurance may need a referral from their PCP for specialist visits, though HSA plans may not require one. Further clarification will be emailed to attendees. Note: The original meeting agenda and minutes were not available; this summary is derived solely from the raw transcript.

This meeting featured a presentation by Lansing Melbourne Group (LMG) regarding their vision for redeveloping the former South Common area, adjacent to the Keefe Center. The presentation detailed the project's design, housing diversity, affordability components, and community integration. Following the presentation, the board voted to enter non-public session to discuss business terms. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were discussed. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were received during the public portion of the meeting. Discussion Items - LMG Presentation on Redevelopment Vision – Peter Floats, founder and president of LMG, along with architect Tim Engelberg, presented the preliminary concept for redeveloping the block that includes the former middle school site. Key elements included: - Housing diversity: studios, one-bedroom, two-bedroom units, and townhouses (13 for-sale affordable townhouses proposed). - Affordable housing component: 59 total affordable units (46 multifamily + 13 townhouses), based on available state funding. - Block design: bisecting the oversized 750' x 650' block into walkable quadrants, with buildings pushed to the street to create a village center. - Architecture: three- and four-story buildings, New England style, with townhouses scaled to match adjacent single-family homes. - Community spaces: a central courtyard with a pavilion, a small jewel park (potentially for a café or childcare), and a pedestrian spine connecting to Main Street. - Parking: dedicated spaces near the Keefe facility for drop-offs, with parking tucked behind buildings. - Project Background: Floats noted LMG's previous public-private partnerships in Nashua (High Street Flats, NIMCO, Bagshaw) and other cities (Concord, North Carolina; Kannapolis, North Carolina). He emphasized that affordability is increasingly important to public-private ventures and that NeighborWorks is a partner. - Market Context: Engelberg highlighted the 2024 RFP's call for housing diversity and the need to reimagine Nashua. He noted that commercial success downtown depends on residential density. Key Outcomes - Motion to Enter Non-Public Session: Alderman O'Brien moved to go into non-public session under RSA 91-A:3 to discuss business terms of the proposal. The motion was seconded by Alderman Tyler and passed unanimously by roll call: 10-0. The board entered non-public session at 7:56 p.m. - No other votes or decisions were taken during the public session.

The Nashua Board of Aldermen convened on August 8, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Aldermanic Chamber to receive presentations on two proposals for the redevelopment of the Elm Street Middle School property. The meeting began with a prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, and roll call establishing nine members present. Administrative Services Director Tim Cummings introduced the process, noting that the city had issued an RFP for the approximately nine-acre site and received two proposals: one from Penrose and another from LMG (to be presented later). The board heard from Penrose representatives, then voted unanimously to enter non-public session to discuss business terms. Discussion Items - Penrose Proposal Presentation: Ryan Kierkoff (Penrose) and Philippe Saad (Demella Schaefer Architects) presented two redevelopment schemes (A and B) for the historic Elm Street Middle School. The proposal aims to preserve the historic building, convert it into mixed-income housing, and add new construction. Key elements include: - Scheme A: 168 units, 230 parking spaces (1.37 per unit), preserving the Chestnut Street Gym and cafeteria. Unit mix would be predominantly studios and one-bedrooms in the historic portion, with some two- and three-bedroom units in new construction. Approximately 85% of units would be income- and rent-restricted affordable housing at various area median income levels, with the remainder market-rate. - Scheme B: 184 units, 262 parking spaces (1.42 per unit), demolishing the Chestnut Street Gym to allow larger new construction. - Community benefits: Maintaining the front lawn as public open space, preserving the Keefe Auditorium (with a potential future box office), providing on-site resident services coordinator, and dedicating amenity spaces (e.g., community room, fitness room, children’s play area). - The team highlighted their experience with historic school-to-housing conversions, citing the pride project in Boston (74 units of affordable senior housing) as a comparable example. - The presentation emphasized sustainable design (preserving embodied carbon in existing bricks) and long-term community engagement. - Procedural Discussion: After the presentation, Alderman Clemens suggested moving to non-public session to discuss business terms. Alderman O'Brien motioned to enter non-public session under RSA 91-A:3, which was seconded and approved unanimously (9-0). The board entered non-public at 6:37 PM. Key Outcomes - Motion to Enter Non-Public Session: Passed unanimously (9-0) to discuss business terms related to the Penrose proposal. The public portion of the meeting concluded at 6:37 PM. - Next Steps: Director Cummings indicated that a working group would continue vetting both proposals, with a recommendation expected to the board and mayor in early fall 2025. Further public presentations from LMG were anticipated later in the evening (after the non-public session).

The Finance Committee of the Nashua Board of Aldermen met on August 6, 2025, to approve a series of contracts, change orders, and purchases. All items passed, many with unanimous votes. Mayor Donchus presided. No public comments were submitted. Communication Items (Contracts and Change Orders) - Jackson Mills Hydroelectric Project – Change Order 6: Approved $85,979 to Maville Americans for storage and labor of equipment, funded from Bond 81. Deb Chisholm, Sustainability Department Manager, explained that delays were due to a FERC license exemption amendment and rainstorms. Unanimous. - Brownfield Site Environmental Engineering Contract: Approved $445,750 to Weston & Sampson for assessment and cleanup, funded by a grant. Deb Chisholm noted the vendor was selected via RFP. Unanimous. - Shakespeare Road Building Refurbishment – Change Order 1: Approved $17,380 to Green Mountain Communication for sandblasting and rubber membrane roof installation, funded from capital projects. Mr. Mansfield explained additional work was needed after pressure washing revealed paint damage. Unanimous. - VMware Cloud Foundation Subscription Renewal: Originally $132,240; CIO Nick Mysevich negotiated down to approximately $108,000. Alderman Clemens moved to amend the amount to not exceed $109,000, which was accepted. Discussion noted previous cost of $44,000. Approved with amended amount. Unanimous. - 2023 Sewer Rehabilitation Contract – Change Order 12: Approved $655,000 to RWC Enterprises for additional drainage improvements at multiple streets, funded from wastewater fund. City Engineer Dan Hudson stated this is the final change order under that contract. Unanimous. - Trash/Recycling Toter Purchase: Approved $145,000 to Toter Incorporated for curbside collection carts, funded from solid waste fund. Superintendent Jeff LaFleur noted carts are over 20 years old; about 3,000 carts could be purchased. Unanimous. - Landfill Phase 3 Temporary Cap – Amendment 2: Approved $42,000 to Sanborn Head & Associates for construction quality assurance, funded from bond. Jeff LaFleur explained the cap is temporary to allow future expansion. Unanimous. - Library Copier Lease: Approved $5,460 (five-year lease, $91/month) to Toshiba for a multifunction device at the library, funded from general fund. Assistant Director Jen Hosking stated it replaced a broken unit. Unanimous. - Riverfront Parks Path Reconstruction – Change Order 3: Approved $369,312 to Morrins Landscaping to connect new boardwalks to existing pathways along the northerly bank, funded from Riverfront TIF fund. Economic Development Director Liz Hannem confirmed this is within the overall $21 million budget. Unanimous. Record of Expenditures Approved the record of expenditures for July 11–31, 2025, as compliant with city charter and ordinances. Unanimous. General Discussion Alderman Clemens raised a procedural question about the “General Discussion” period, noting it may not be authorized in city ordinances and may duplicate “Remarks by Aldermen.” Alderwoman Clee confirmed she read the Board of Aldermen protocol, which does not include general discussion. No vote was taken; the discussion was informational. Public Comment None. Adjournment Meeting adjourned at 7:24 p.m.

The Nashua Conservation Commission met on August 6, 2025 (noted discrepancy: transcript indicates August 5, 2025) to hear a proposal from the City of Nashua Department of Public Works and Fire Rescue for a training facility accessed off Teak Drive. The commission reviewed wetland and buffer impacts, heard public testimony, and voted to recommend the project with several stipulations. Other business included updates on Eagle Scout kiosks, a pollinator event, and a wetland violation at Lovewell Pond. Consent Calendar - Approval of July 1, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes: Approved with corrections (page 2: “GOVE” instead of “GOVE”; page 5: attribution of discussion to Commissioner Darby; spelling of “Rivier”). Motion by Commissioner Darby, seconded by Commissioner Whithew. All in favor. - Site Walk Minutes for TEAK Drive: Tabled to the next meeting due to late distribution. Public Comments & Testimony - Mike LaRock (22 Teak Drive): Opposed the access road, citing deed restrictions stating the lots are “not buildable” and intended for drainage retention. He argued two access roads already exist within the landfill and that the road would harm the vernal pool, increase traffic, and breach the solid waste buffer. He requested the commission not recommend the project. - John Collins (20 Teak Drive): Questioned cost analysis of extending water from the landfill front versus building a new road. Expressed concern about future development once infrastructure is in place, and disruption to wildlife and neighborhood. - Patrick Poler (18 Teak Drive): Opposed the project, stating it would lower property values, damage foundations if blasting occurred, and harm his father’s health (COPD) due to burning. He suggested alternative sites (Splitbrook, landfill southern end, soccer field). He noted the deed restricts building and cited a letter from the city about vegetation protection. - Dan Rogers (address not given): Supported the need for a training facility but suggested an emergency road only, not a full access road, to preserve the family-oriented neighborhood. - Karen Morris (16 Hazel Lab): Requested that if the project proceeds, the city reduce property taxes for affected neighbors to compensate for lost property value. Discussion Items - Training Facility Access Road (25 Teak Drive): - Presentation: Brendan Quigley (Gove Environmental) and Fire Chief Steve Buxton presented. Chief Buxton explained the need for a new training site due to redevelopment of the existing landfill location, the need for two hydrants (NFPA standard), and a suitable access road for fire apparatus. The proposed road is 1,000 feet long with wetland impacts: 2,545 sq ft direct wetland, 9,533 sq ft buffer. Two wetland impacts: a stormwater basin and a crossing near a vernal pool. Revisions included a 48-inch embedded culvert with natural substrate to maintain connectivity, use of pollinator-friendly seed mix, and wildlife-friendly erosion control blankets. - Commissioner Sarno requested a conservation easement on an adjacent parcel to prevent future development and preserve forested habitat for vernal pool species. Mr. Quigley acknowledged the request but noted difficulty in identifying a location and mechanism due to city ownership. The chair noted that any conservation easement would require DPW and city approval. - Commissioner Darby questioned water runoff from training exercises, but Mr. Quigley stated that the training area is outside wetlands and runoff is contained within the landfill. Commissioner Darby also asked about alternative routes; Mr. Quigley said the alternative landfill road is longer and would have greater wetland impacts. - Commissioner Sarno asked about a grassland bird survey; Mr. Quigley confirmed a study is ongoing under a Fish and Game management plan and offered to request sharing results. - Eagle Scout Kiosks: Commissioner Sarno reported that the NRPC will provide free trail atlas maps for Northwest Sanctuary. Eagle Scout Harrison has raised $1,800 of $2,500 goal. Kiosks may be installed in August/September. The commission discussed promoting donations via Facebook. - Pollinator Identification Event: Scheduled for August 9, 2025, 10:00–11:00 AM at Buck Meadow Road and Cherrywood Drive. A preview walk was agreed upon for August 7. - Lovewell Pond Sculpture and Rain Garden: Commissioner Sarno reported that a new sculpture was placed within the wetland buffer (40–50 feet from wetland edge, 75-foot buffer) without authorization. Additionally, the rain garden was clear-cut (likely by DPW). Commissioner Sarno noted a conservation easement prohibits structures. The commission agreed to follow up with the sculpture committee and DPW, and to consider mitigation for the wetland disturbance. - Rivier Service Day: September 20, 2025, at Terrell Meadow (30–40 students). Commissioner Sarno will be absent, so a volunteer is needed to oversee. - Trail Maps: NRPC is finalizing Southwest Trails maps; a draft will be presented in September. Also, Northwest Sanctuary maps will include private property delineation per a resident’s concern. - Hero Recognition: Commissioner Sarno was recognized for rescuing a lost resident in Beaver Brook by using GPS coordinates and hiking in to walk them out. Key Outcomes - Motion to Recommend Training Facility Access Road: Commissioner Darby moved for a positive recommendation with four stipulations: (1) use pollinator wildflower seed mix; (2) use only natural erosion control materials; (3) request that the city research and designate a conservation easement to prevent future development on the adjacent parcel; (4) clean up the vernal pool (noting resident dumping). Seconded by Commissioner Woodhue. All in favor. The recommendation will be forwarded to the Zoning Board of Appeals. - Next Steps: The zoning board meeting date will be posted on the city website; residents may contact Director Kinsey for information. - Adjournment: Motion by Commissioner Whithew, seconded by Commissioner Caruth. All in favor.