Public Meetings - Nashua, New Hampshire

纳舒厄分区调整委员会（ZBA）于2026年8月12日举行会议，由主席Jaman Cara主持，成员JP Boucher、Steve Lynell和Joseph Petrie出席。会议处理了七件主要案件，涉及特殊例外和变体。所有案件均获得批准，其中一项因回避而投票结果为3-0。案件包括更换甲板、拓宽车道、建造复式公寓、附属棚子、三车位车库、移车道以及将三单元公寓转换为五单元。 案件1：甲板替换（特殊例外） - 申请人：Kathleen Urell Wallace（12 Britton Drive） - 请求：特殊例外，在75英尺湿地缓冲区替换现有12英尺×24英尺甲板（与现有足迹相同）。 - 主要观点：甲板已存在多年，需要安全升级。保护委员会表示推荐。 - 结果：一致批准。 案件2：车道拓宽（变体） - 申请人：Kumar家族（12 Annabelle Court） - 请求：变体将车道宽度增加到29英尺（允许24英尺），以改善冬季安全和车辆移动。 - 邻里支持：邻居信函表示支持。 - 结果：一致批准。 案件3：复式公寓（特殊例外及变体讨论） - 申请人：Edward J. Packham信托（L East Hobart Street） - 请求：变体涉及最小临街面和宽度（37英尺和51英尺，要求60英尺和75英尺），以及允许复式公寓的特殊例外。董事会根据员工备忘录裁定，由于地块为现有记录地块，变体不必要。随后仅考虑特殊例外。 - 公众意见：三位邻居发言反对，主要担忧排水、树木损失、施工和交通。一封信支持。 - 申请人回应：承诺适当排水和场地设计，不寻求进一步调整。 - 结果：特殊例外一致批准。 案件4：附属棚子（变体） - 申请人：Nathan Deliani（568 South Main Street） - 请求：变体将附属建筑面积增加到房屋面积的50.8%（允许40%），以建造120平方英尺棚子。 - 邻里关系：邻居最初提出关切，后续信件撤回。 - 结果：一致批准。 案件5：三车位车库（变体） - 申请人：Robert Roberts（30 Merrimack Street） - 请求：变体将附属建筑面积增加到78%（允许40%），以建造30英尺×35英尺车库。 - 程序说明：主席Jaman Cara回避；成员Steve Lynell担任临时主席。投票结果为3-0。 - 邻里支持：三位邻居提交支持信。 - 结果：批准（3-0）。 案件6：移车道（变体） - 申请人：Rachel Surrett和Justin Drohan（19 Dublin Avenue） - 请求：变体允许新车道距离交叉口38英尺（要求50英尺），将车道从繁忙的Dublin Avenue移至死胡同Dixville Street。 - 理由：安全考虑，包括视线和冬季操作。 - 邻里支持：三封支持信，包括直接邻居。 - 结果：一致批准。 案件7：公寓单元转换（变体） - 申请人：Blue Coral Cross LLC，Anand Mahendrakar（19 Cross Street） - 请求：变体允许将现有三单元建筑改建为五单元住宅用地（从六单元修改而来）。最小地块面积要求20,000平方英尺；现有6,110平方英尺。 - 邻避意见：收到一封反对信（Michelle Plant），担忧排水、雪存储、停车场和交通。 - 申请人回应：承诺与工程师和城市合作，并将停车场保持在现有八个车位（满足新的一比一要求）。 - 后续审查：该提案将提交规划委员会进行场地规划批准。 - 结果：一致批准。 会议事务 - 会议纪要：批准了2026年7月某次会议的纪要，并进行了修正。 关键结果 - 所有七件案件均获得批准。 - 一个案件（Salt Creek Properties）被推迟至2026年8月25日。 - 会议于晚上8:24休会。

The Board of Aldermen held a special meeting on August 11, 2026, at 7:01 p.m. in the Aldermanic Chamber, duly noticed per RSA 91A. Thirteen members were present, two absent. The primary agenda item was a presentation and approval of an updated capital expenditures and debt service plan by the ad hoc joint committee. The meeting adjourned at 7:24 p.m. Discussion Items - Updated Plan Presentation: Administrative Services Director Tim Cummings presented the ad hoc committee's work, which developed over several months. The plan builds on prior guidance: use cash for projects under $1.5 million, limit new debt sales to an average of $25 million per year over five years (plus an inflationary factor), and authorize supplemental spending through surplus as needed. The plan is non-binding and a living document. Cummings noted that the current five-year average debt sale is about $39 million, with a target of $30 million. He requested board approval to proceed with bond resolutions for the September meeting. - Q&A and Clarifications: - Alderman Tebow asked about the conservatism of the $25 million target. Cummings and CFO John Enright confirmed it is a conservative approach, well below the 10% of operating budget best practice, and consistent with maintaining a positive bond rating. - Tebow also asked about future reviews. Cummings suggested the board could revisit the plan annually, though past practice was every two years. - Tebow noted that the tax rate impact (e.g., $0.07 per $1,000 assessed value) is minimal compared to other factors. Enright added that the calculation was based on the FY27 budget with no changes for illustration. - Alderman Sullivan sought clarification on the spreadsheets: the current debt service includes principal and interest. The "planned bonded debt service" includes authorized (white) and unauthorized but programmed (blue) items, not the unprogrammed green items. - Sullivan raised a question about exemption from the tax cap: Cummings clarified that while bond authorizations can be exempted from the cap calculation, the resulting debt service is included in the operating budget and affects the tax rate. Corporation Counsel Steve Bolton added nuance on the cap calculation. - Alderman Dow emphasized that approving the plan does not authorize individual bonds; each project will come before the board separately. Alderman Clee added that priorities may shift over time. - Alderwoman Kelly supported the plan and requested a spring review. Key Outcomes - Motion to Accept Plan: Alderman Clemens moved to accept the approved plan and recommendations as presented by the ad hoc joint committee on capital expenditures and debt service planning. Alderwoman McKelly abstained. The motion passed on a voice vote (ayes heard, no opposition). - Adjournment: Alderman Clemens moved to adjourn, which was approved. The meeting ended at 7:24 p.m.

This was a meeting of the Capital Improvements Committee (CIC) to review and potentially approve a five-year capital improvement plan and associated bond resolutions. Director of Administrative Services Tim Cummings and CFO Don Enright presented updated project lists, debt service projections, and target bonding guidelines. The committee voted on a split question to approve projects, with Alderwoman Kelly abstaining from the DPW garage vote due to a conflict of interest. They also adopted draft guidance reaffirming the $25 million annual bonding target with a 5% inflationary increase. The meeting adjourned at 7:05 PM. Discussion Items - Presentation of Capital Plan: Director Cummings walked through the plan, which included approved bond authorizations (e.g., general paving, Walnut Street/West Pearl Street streetscaping, parking garages, DPW garage, library design, citywide signals, Holman Stadium) and unauthorized but programmed projects (DPW garage for $43.5M, fire deferred maintenance at $1.5M, school deferred maintenance at $2M, citywide paving at $4M starting FY29, SURF at $4M, library renovation at $44M, Pine Hill Fire Station at $35M, Holman Stadium continuation at $4M, ERP system at $10M, pools at $5M, hydro regulatory improvements at $15M, cell block at $3M, and pedestrian bridge contractual obligation). Unprogrammed/unauthorized items included the resource center, school parking lot, non-regulatory hydro improvements, citywide car wash ($3M), general school renovation placeholder ($30M), Keefe Auditorium (under active planning), 14 Court Street, Court Street Theater, Riverside Athletic Fields, new fire station, and passenger rail station. - Debt Service Projections: CFO Enright presented the target bonded debt service plan (starting at $25M in 2025 with 5% inflation, e.g., $27.5625M in FY27) compared to the current planned schedule. The planned schedule averaged $39M over five years, leading to higher year-over-year increases (up to 10% in years four and five) before converging to target in later years. Director Cummings suggested potential adjustments, such as reducing paving or fire deferred maintenance, to bring the plan closer to target. - Priorities and Grading: Projects on the spreadsheet included CIC grades (1 being highest). Alderwoman Johnson questioned the overall tax impact, while Alderwoman Kelly requested separate consideration of the DPW garage (item 12) due to a conflict of interest. Alderwoman Clee sought clarity on using cash for smaller projects (under $1.5M) to avoid bonding costs. CFO Enright explained that surplus determinations would be available in a few weeks and that bonding excludes projects from the tax cap calculation. - Paving Program Impact: Director of Public Works Lisa Foto stated that reducing the paving allocation below $4M would jeopardize road maintenance, potentially leading to full road reclamation. She noted that the city needed $5-6M annually to keep pace. Director Cummings suggested a long-term policy discussion to shift some paving costs into the operating budget gradually. - Keefe Auditorium: Director Cummings noted that the Keefe Auditorium Commission is actively planning and will present to the full Board of Aldermen in the fall; no dollar amount was included in the current plan to avoid bias. Key Outcomes - Vote on Items 13-26 (all projects except DPW garage): Motion by Alderwoman Clee to approve items 13 through 26. Approved by voice vote (ayes heard, no opposition). Alderwoman Kelly participated in this vote. - Vote on Item 12 (DPW Garage and Fleet Maintenance Facility): Motion by Alderwoman Clee to approve item 12. Approved by voice vote (ayes heard, one abstention from Alderwoman Kelly). - Adoption of Draft Guidance: Alderwoman Clee moved to adopt the draft guidance reaffirming the $25 million annual bonding target with a 5% inflationary increase, with specific amounts for FY27 ($27.5625M). Approved by voice vote. CFO Enright agreed to add a note showing the percent change in tax rate for clarity. - Next Steps: The committee directed staff to present the plan to the full Board of Aldermen the next evening. Bond resolutions are to be filed for the September meeting.

The Nashua Planning Board met on August 7, 2026 (the meeting began on August 6 and continued into the early hours of August 7). The board considered a range of items including a major casino expansion at 11 Terra Boulevard, a new medical office building for Greater Nashua Mental Health, two aldermanic referrals, and several smaller site plans and conditional use permits. The meeting featured extensive public testimony on the casino project, with over 20 speakers expressing both support and opposition. The board approved all applications with conditions, including significant traffic mitigation measures for the casino project. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (July 9, 2026): Moved by Mr. Varley, seconded by Mr. Hudson. Approved unanimously. - Review of Tentative Agenda (Projects of Regional Impact): Motion by Mr. Varley, seconded by Mr. Green. No projects of regional impact identified. Passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Casino Expansion (11 Terra Boulevard): The public hearing included over 20 speakers. Opposition speakers (including State Representative Bill Ohm, residents Katie Unright, Katie Evans, and attorney Mike Harrison) raised concerns about traffic congestion, neighborhood character, property values, public safety, and problem gambling. Supporters (including representatives from United Way, VFW, various nonprofits, a union carpenter, and several charitable organizations) emphasized the significant charitable gaming revenue ($7.1 million in 2025, projected to increase) and the economic benefits of redeveloping the former Sheraton site. The applicant offered to fund an additional police officer for the sector and to establish a police substation. - 17 Marshall Street (Car Detailing): One neighbor, Gary Sinclair, spoke in opposition citing existing traffic, parking, and snow removal issues. No speakers in favor from the public. - 7 Haynes Street (Three-Family Unit): No public testimony. - 57 Factory Street (Condominium Conversion): No public testimony, but a letter of concern from an abutting property owner regarding trash management was noted. Discussion Items - Board of Alderman Referral O-26-022 (Video Display Signs Overlay District): The board discussed the proposed overlay district for Main Street allowing video wall signs. Concerns were raised about blanket approval versus case-by-case review. Staff noted the proposal does not comport with current code but could support economic development. The board voted to provide an unfavorable recommendation, citing preference for existing variance process. - Board of Alderman Referral R-26-051 (Disposition of Tax-Deeded Properties): The board reviewed the list of properties to be auctioned. Member Hudson flagged two parcels (L Hasselbrook Road and L Narrows Road) for potential environmental or conservation concerns. The board voted to provide a favorable recommendation with a condition that the city further investigate these parcels prior to sale. - Conditional Use Permit A26-0134 (17 Marshall Street, Car Detailing): Applicant Kevin Corvo proposed operating a car detailing and window tinting business in an existing commercial unit. The board found the use met criteria for a car care center, with conditions to resolve engineering comments (sewer permits, traffic memo, drainage verification). Approved unanimously. - Site Plan A26-0133 (44 Simon Street, Medical Office Building): Greater Nashua Mental Health proposed a 97,000 sq ft three-story medical office building to consolidate operations. The project includes 404 parking spaces, a connection to Mine Falls Park, and stormwater improvements. Two waivers (survey and architectural standards) were granted. Approved unanimously. - Site Plan & Conditional Use Permit (11 Terra Boulevard, Casino Expansion): The applicant (RB Farms/Delaware North) proposed a two-phase expansion of the existing Sheraton into a gaming facility with up to 92,860 sq ft of gaming floor, 1,000 gaming machines, and a parking garage. Extensive traffic mitigation measures (approximately $5 million) were presented, including widening Spitbrook Road, adding left-turn lanes, and signal improvements. The city's traffic engineer and peer reviewer supported the plan. The board approved the conditional use permit, waivers, final site plan for phase one, and conditional site plan for phase two, subject to conditions including a post-opening traffic monitoring study and resolution of engineering comments. - Conditional Use Permit (7 Haynes Street, Three-Family Unit): The applicant sought a CUP to legalize an existing basement unit that was improperly permitted. The lot is large, parking is adequate, and the building has been a three-family for decades. Approved unanimously with standard conditions. - Subdivision A26-0109 (57 Factory Street, Condominium Conversion): The applicant requested subdivision approval to convert a restaurant building into two condominium units (basement unit and upper two floors). No change in use or building footprint. Two waivers (existing features plan and traffic impact report) were granted. The board amended the condition regarding engineering comments to focus on trash management, as the existing sewer is new. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - O-26-022 (Video Signs): Unfavorable recommendation (6-0-1, Mr. Hudson abstained). - R-26-051 (Tax-Deeded Properties): Favorable recommendation with additional investigation condition (unanimous). - A26-0134 (17 Marshall St): Conditional use permit granted (unanimous). - A26-0133 (44 Simon St): Waivers approved and final site plan approved (unanimous). - 11 Terra Blvd (Casino): - Conditional use permit granted (unanimous). - Three waivers granted (unanimous). - Final site plan approval for phase one (unanimous). - Conditional site plan approval for phase two, with active and substantial development defined (unanimous). - 7 Haynes St: Conditional use permit granted (unanimous). - 57 Factory St: Waivers and final subdivision approval granted, with amended engineering condition (unanimous). - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned at 11:21 PM.

The Nashua Board of Assessors convened on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at 9:02 a.m. with members Robert Early, Jay McCara, and Charles Dobbins present. The meeting addressed a hiring update, an abatement for uncollectible taxes, several veterans' credit applications (including approvals and denials), solar exemptions, and a vote to enter non-public session. Consent Calendar - The board unanimously approved the public and non-public minutes from the July 16, 2026 board meeting. Old Business - Uncollected Taxes on Manufactured Housing: Bob reported that the city's legal counsel investigated civil collection but will only pursue balances $15,000 or greater. The board learned that demo permits are not conditioned on tax payment, contrary to previous park owner beliefs. The board approved an abatement of $4,687.70 for account number 27418 (22 Leanne Street) to clear uncollectible taxes. New Business - All Veterans Credit (RSA 7228B): Approved for account number 1109849 (New Dunstable Road) with no discussion. - Late Application for Disabled Veterans Credit (RSA 7233): Accepted a late application for account number 45462 (3 Bartermas Trail unit 206) due to accident, mistake, or misfortune; then approved the recommended disabled veterans credit for the same account. - Denial of Disabled Veterans Credit – Account 36242 (12 Deer Haven Drive): Denied because the applicant did not provide a copy of the power of attorney (POA) or a signed PA-33 form. The board noted that if the missing documentation had been provided, the applicant would have been considered for a more beneficial abatement under RSA 7235. - Denial of Disabled Veterans Credits – Accounts 36242 and 22152 (2 Denise Street): Both denied. Account 22152 was denied because the character of service was not honorable. Account 36242 was again denied for lack of required documentation. The board voted to send denial letters, noting the applicants may still provide missing information and return for reconsideration. - Solar Exemptions: Approved for account 26732 (9 Wildwood Lane) and account 2782 (22 Natick Street). Key Outcomes - Abatement approved: Account 27418 – $4,687.70 (unanimous). - Veterans credits approved: One all veterans credit (RSA 7228B) and one disabled veterans credit (RSA 7233) after late application acceptance (both unanimous). - Veterans credits denied: Two accounts (one with two votes) – both denied unanimously. - Solar exemptions approved: Two accounts (unanimous). - The board entered non-public session at 9:15 a.m. under RSA 91-A:3, paragraphs II(c) (reputation) and II(l) (legal advice).

The Nashua Finance Committee met on August 6, 2026, to consider a series of purchase and contract approvals, hear public comment, and enter non-public session. The audit for the city was postponed as the auditors were not ready. All motions presented were approved by voice vote, with occasional opposition noted on one item. Public Comments & Testimony - Laurie Orlando (Nashua resident) addressed the committee regarding her concerns with Right-to-Know requests and interactions with city officials. She expressed frustration with responses from the city, accused Mayor Donches of lying, and used vulgar language directed at the mayor and city employee Tim Cummings. She claimed that records of trauma counseling provided to employees due to interactions with her were not documented and that her Right-to-Know requests were delayed. The Mayor responded that trauma counseling was provided pro bono by Greater Nashua Mental Health and through the Employee Assistance Program due to treatment by a member of the public. Alderman Clemens stated he does not take anyone seriously who uses foul language. Discussion Items - Audit Postponement: The chair announced that the audit would not be presented because the auditors were not ready; it will be available soon. - Purchase of 27 Poll Pads (LHS Associates): Amy Gerard, Purchasing Manager, explained the purchase of 27 electronic poll pads for voter check-in at a cost not to exceed $63,000, plus annual maintenance of $325 per pad ($17,875 total) and $300 per election for programming. The pads will be used in three wards for the November 2026 election. The motion passed unanimously. - Audit Services Contract (CBIZ CPAs PC): A two-year contract for general purpose financial statements, federal single audit, and schedules for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 was approved at not to exceed $340,000 ($149,000 for FY26, $155,000 for FY27, and $36,000 for single audits). Alderman Sullivan noted the firm changed due to acquisition and had questions about single audit scope and school district use; he will follow up with the CFO. Approved. - Snow Plowing Contract (DOD Group Inc.): Matthew Downing, Parking Department, presented an annual extension for snow plowing of 18 parking lots and optional sand/salt treatment at not to exceed $50,000, at the same rate since 2021. Alderman Sullivan asked about re-bidding; the department will consult with the manager. Approved (with one opposed vote noted). - Pavement Management Services (Stantec Consulting): City Engineer Dan Hudson explained a contract for pavement condition assessment of half the city on a rotating basis at $43,700. Approved. - Purchase of Mower (Toro GM 5910): Parks Superintendent Brian Conant presented the replacement mower at $173,091.95, funded through capital improvements. Approved. - Infield Groomer (ABI Force Z23): A new infield groomer for baseball and softball fields at $59,826.61, with additional attachments compared to competitor. Approved. - Playground Structure at Jeff Moore Park (Ultiplay): New playground equipment at $153,483, funded by a $150,000 donation from the Moarin family and $3,483 from capital improvements. Approved. - Playground Structure at Los Amigos Park (Ultiplay): New playground at $145,000, funded through capital improvements. Approved. - HVAC Maintenance Contract (Trane U.S. Inc.): Facilities Manager Mike Noble presented renewal for police department HVAC for $29,920, covering proprietary Trane and Mitsubishi equipment. Approved. - Ammunition Purchase (Eagle Point, TJ Morrison's Son): Officer Moriarty presented annual duty and training ammunition for police at $120,632. Approved. - Department Issue Clothing (East Coast Emergency Outfitters): Business Manager Karen Smith presented annual clothing purchase at $120,000 ($90,000 for department issue, $30,000 for clothing allowance). Approved. - Bulletproof Vests (Second Chance SX02): 29 vests for officers at $36,996, with half funded by grant. Approved. - Transit Contract Amendment (Transdev): Community Development Director Matt Sullivan requested a 45-day extension (through September 30, 2026) at $459,843 to finalize a new contract that shifts insurance from city to vendor. Discussion included risk management and future cost considerations. Approved. - Record of Expenditures: Alderman Sullivan moved to approve expenditures for periods June 12-25, 2026 and July 10-30, 2026, certifying compliance with charter and ordinances. Approved. Key Outcomes - All motions presented passed, including 13 purchase/contract approvals and the record of expenditures. - The committee voted to enter non-public session (roll call vote: all ayes) at 7:46 PM to discuss matters related to emergency functions preparation per RSA 91-A:3, II. - The transit contract extension will allow staff to develop administrative procedures for vendor insurance, with a longer contract expected in September. - The audit will be presented at a future meeting.

This joint meeting of the Infrastructure Committee (Aldermen) and the Library Board of Trustees focused on the status and next steps for the Nashua Public Library renovation project. Key agenda items included a project update from the owner's project manager (Left Field), review and approval of invoices, adoption of the committee's rules of operation, and approval of the library building project plan. Discussions also touched on the adjacent Courtyard/Plaza project, solar energy options, and future bond authorizations. Public Comments - One speaker, Ms. Gare, expressed concerns that some residents are afraid to visit the library due to homeless individuals and people with drug addiction, and also objected to a children's book with nudity. She urged the committee to address these issues before spending more money. The Chair acknowledged her advocacy but stated that the meeting's focus was on the construction project, and suggested other venues for her concerns. Discussion Items - Project Update: Joe Sullivan (Left Field) presented a progress overview. The project is based on the feasibility study's "addition option" (Option 2), an approximately $45 million, 60,000 sq ft renovation with partial demolition and addition. Design Lab (architect) and Consigli Construction (CM) are involved. Coordination with the Courtyard Plaza project is ongoing; the plaza project (approx. $4–4.5 million) is separately funded and managed by Community Development. The committee requested detailed information on plaza funding sources and timelines. - Timeline: Schematic design workshops are underway; design is expected to be completed in mid-October 2026. A bond authorization for design phase funds (estimated couple million dollars) will be needed in the fall, with a construction bond anticipated about a year later. Alderman Johnson stressed the need to understand the impact on taxpayers, noting that the city typically sells about $25 million in debt per year. - Invoices: Two invoices were presented: Left Field OPM invoice 1963 for $64,349 (services through June 30) and Design Lab invoice 26.03-726 for $68,100 (15% of schematic design plus 3D scan and survey). Both were approved after discussion on vetting and timing. - Rules of Operation: Director Cummings presented operational procedures (meeting time, agenda setting, packet deadlines, chair's authority up to $50,000 for time-sensitive changes, etc.). The committee agreed to a 6:00 PM start time rather than 5:30. Trustee Jetty questioned the $50,000 threshold; Mr. Sullivan explained it is standard and cost-effective for critical path items. - Project Plan Approval: The library building project plan was approved. Key discussion points included: - Solar: Trustee Jetty advocated for actual solar installation rather than just solar-ready. Mr. Sullivan explained that the baseline design includes infrastructure for solar, and a bid alternate for full installation can be added later. Director Cummings noted that the city may bundle solar projects for better pricing. The plan was approved with the understanding that solar readiness is the floor and further analysis will inform a decision. - Nashua Media/CTV: There was discussion about potentially incorporating space for Nashua Community Television (Nashua Media) into the library, as a complementary creative use. Key Outcomes - Minutes: Approved the minutes of June 24, 2026 unanimously. - Left Field Invoice: Approved (motion carried with one nay). - Design Lab Invoice: Approved (motion carried with one nay). - Rules of Operation: Approved (motion carried with one nay). It was clarified that the library board of trustees retains final approval of the design, and the joint committee handles financial and operational oversight. - Library Building Project Plan: Approved (motion carried with no dissenting votes noted). - Next Meeting: Tentatively set for Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at 6:00 PM, subject to chamber availability.

The Personnel Administrative Affairs Committee met on August 4, 2026 (the meeting began at 7:00 p.m. on August 3 and continued past midnight) in the Aldermanic Chamber. The meeting included interviews for two Arts Commission appointments, votes on several ordinances, and vigorous debate on a homeless service gap analysis resolution. The committee recommended one new appointment and one reappointment, approved a secondhand dealer holding period reduction, removed the total public comment time limit, and increased individual public comment time to four minutes. Interviews and Appointments to the Arts Commission - Michael McDowell (new appointment): McDowell, a downtown business owner and musician, expressed interest in increasing arts awareness and events on Main Street and citywide. He emphasized the need for all-ages, sober venues. The committee voted 5-0 to recommend his appointment with a term expiring June 9, 2029. - Judith Carlson (reappointment): Carlson, who has served multiple terms, detailed her work on murals (Vivian's Dream, Yankee Fire Diner restoration), the sculpture symposium, the Performing Arts Center board, and the economic impact study. Alderman Lopez raised concerns about perceived bias in a mural selection committee (favoring some arts groups over others) and about reports of difficulty working with the commission chair. Other members noted her extensive experience and community contributions. After a motion to table was reversed, the committee voted 3-2 to recommend reappointment with a term expiring April 1, 2029 (Aldermen Thibault, Johnson, Clemens in favor; Aldermen Lopez and Kelly opposed). Ordinance O-26-012 – Secondhand Dealers Holding Period - Alderman Senate presented an amendment (after consulting with police and shop owners) to reduce the mandatory holding period for secondhand dealers from 30 to 15 days, while pawnbrokers remain at 30 days. The amendment also requires dealers to log purchases, photograph items, and submit information to police. The committee voted unanimously (5-0) to approve the amendment and then unanimously recommended final passage as amended. Ordinance O-26-049 – Homeless Service Gap Analysis Committee - Alderman Greg proposed a resolution to form a 90-day committee to identify gaps in emergency shelter, mental health, substance use services, housing pathways, and outreach. Supporters argued it would provide data for wise spending and long-term planning; opponents contended it would delay immediate action (such as a resource center) and could cause the loss of congressionally directed funding. The committee defeated the motion to recommend final passage 2-3 (Johnson and Clemens for; Lopez, Thibault, Kelly against). It then voted 4-1 to indefinitely postpone the resolution (Johnson opposed). Ordinance O-26-018 – Removing Total Time Limit for Public Comment During Committee Meetings - Alderman Thibault sponsored removal of the 15-minute total period for public comment, noting it has never been enforced. All five members voted in favor. Ordinance O-26-021 – Increasing Individual Public Comment Time - Alderman Johnson proposed increasing the first public comment period from three to five minutes to accommodate speakers with speech impediments and detailed testimony. The committee amended the proposal to four minutes (vote 4-1, with Alderwoman Kelly opposed). Final passage as amended passed 3-2 (Aldermen Thibault and Kelly opposed). Ordinance O-26-002 – Electronic Public Comment for People with Walking Disabilities - This tabled ordinance would allow electronic public comment for individuals with ADA-covered walking disabilities. Alderman Johnson twice moved to remove it from the table; both motions failed 3-2. A motion to remove it to the next meeting passed. Remarks by Alderman - Alderman Johnson expressed anger over the repeated failure to debate O-26-002, stating she would file a complaint with the Office of Civil Rights, noting she had previously won a disability discrimination case. Other members defended their votes, citing procedural courtesy and concerns about determining disability status. Key Outcomes - Arts Commission: Michael McDowell (new) and Judith Carlson (reappointment) recommended for full Board approval. - O-26-012 (Secondhand Dealers): Approved as amended (15-day holding period for dealers). - O-26-049 (Homeless Gap Analysis): Indefinitely postponed. - O-26-018 (Public Comment Time Limit): Approved – 15-minute limit removed. - O-26-021 (Individual Public Comment Time): Approved as amended – increased to four minutes. - O-26-002 (Electronic Comment): Tabled to next meeting.

The Board of Public Works met on July 30, 2026, to discuss public comments, approve equipment purchases, authorize a new position, and receive project updates. The meeting adjourned at 4:50 PM after a nonpublic session. Public Comments & Testimony - Michael Curtin and Wyatt Silly Server, representing Puck Pirates Pond Hockey LLC, proposed a pond hockey tournament on the canal at Mine Falls Park in January. They described their operations plan, safety measures (including waivers, insurance, and first aid staff), and expressed disappointment over the permit denial from Parks and Recreation. They requested reconsideration, noting they are willing to adjust plans. Commissioners explained that safety concerns involve moving water and that the risk management department, fire marshal, and emergency management director are reviewing the application. No decision was made. - Bill Stashlock, a resident of 11 New South Road, reported a major sewer backup on July 5th that affected him and neighbors. He attributed the problem to a blocked overflow drain at Salmon Brook and urged the city to resolve it. He also listed other affected residents. Commissioner Lisa responded that a meeting with the city engineer and superintendent would be scheduled to discuss the issue. Discussion Items - Greeley Park Advisory Committee Referral: No representative was present, so the item was tabled. - Wastewater Department: Approved the creation of a new assistant superintendent position (Grade 20, unaffiliated) to replace the current operations supervisor, funded from the wastewater operating budget with minimal impact. - Parks Department Equipment Purchases: - Approved 2026 Groundmaster mower for $173,091.95 (including $9,600 trade-in). - Approved ABI Force Z23 HLT Laser Ready Infield Groomer for $59,826 to maintain 32 baseball/softball fields. - Approved playground structure for Los Amigos Park for $145,000 (capital funded). - Approved playground structure for Jeff Morin Park for $153,483 (donation and capital funds). - Engineering Department: - Approved sewer service permits and fees. - Approved a pole license petition. - Approved contract with Stantec Consulting Services for pavement management services (evaluation of half the roadway network) for $43,700. - Approved amendment with CMA Engineers for design of Heritage Rail Trail East Project (Main Street to Denton Street) for $23,362. - Director's Report: Updates included crosswalk installation on South Main Street, riverfront park landscaping, disc golf park (ribbon cutting in September), citywide striping, solar-powered curve warning signs on Tinker Road, Mine Falls boat ramp painting, fleet repairs, electric dirt bike vandalism, Stella Stadium Gmax testing, Abbott Square renovation, tree work, Fairy Tale Festival (1,000 attendees), summer camps (1,500 children), household hazardous waste collection (scheduled August 8 in Pelham), and Phase 4 of Four Hills Landfill filling beginning. Key Outcomes - All motions passed unanimously by voice vote. - The Greeley Park Advisory Committee referral will be revisited when a representative is present. - The sewer backup issue will be addressed in a meeting with the city engineer and wastewater superintendent. - The pond hockey permit request remains under review by risk management. - The board entered nonpublic session (RSA 91-A:3) for hiring a public employee, then reconvened and voted to seal the minutes of that session. - Meeting adjourned at 4:50 PM.