Board of Mayor and Aldermen

BOARD OF MAYOR AND ALDERMEN

April 21, 2026 at 7:00 PM

The Mayor called the meeting to order.

The Mayor called for the Pledge of Allegiance.

A moment of silence was observed.

The Clerk called the roll.

Present: Aldermen Kaw-uh, Goonan, Dexter, Fajardo, Bonilla, Kantor, Trisciani, O'Neil, Terrio, Sapienza, Burkush, Barry, Vincent, Thomas

PUBLIC COMMENT

1. The Mayor advised that the purpose of the public comment session is to give residents of Manchester the opportunity to address the Board. All people wishing to speak must sign up with their name, address and topic. Once called, they will have up to three minutes to speak and any comments must be directed to the chair and concluded when their time is up. If the Clerk calls their name and they are not present to speak, they will not be given a second opportunity. Any resident wishing to speak will come forward to the nearest microphone, clearly state their name and address when recognized and give their comments.

Glenn Ouellette, Manchester: I no longer live at 112 Auburn Street, after 25 years. I now live out of a P.O. box, for at least two months until the rent is ready. It's quite an experience. I do want to say that the budget is still ongoing, and you guys have some very tough decisions to make for the interest of the city. It's been a strong, long winter, and we have a lot of things to clean up and fix up in this growing city. But I have faith in you, ladies and gentlemen, to do what's right for the city, because the elections are over. So, we do what's right to keep our city safe. I do want to say that I still believe, I'm not sure, I haven't gotten an answer yet, that the old fire station on the west side, where the library is, is an historical building with the national government. And if it is, they used to apply for grants to pay for 75% of repairing those buildings. So, I really do not want to see it closed, because the west side is also a big part of our city. We are supposed to be a city of one. So, I'm hoping that we do apply for grants. I do want to thank the board, though, because I found out this week that you did rehire another grant writer and a city of our size, we definitely need that because grants are even harder to get now than ever because there's not as many. I don't have much more to say except put the money where it really belongs. I know it's a hard decision and I'll leave it at that.

Ned Desrosiers, 183 Young Street: The reason I'm here tonight, just recently, there's been some changes at the golf course at Derryfield Country Club. And I had some concerns, and I wanted to talk to the department head Mark Gomez. I called Mark about a week or so ago, and no answer. He wasn't there. I ended up talking to his assistant, Brandon Lynch, who informed me that Mark was on vacation. If I wanted to have a conversation with him, which I actually wanted to have a meeting with him, I wanted to come in and talk to him. He said he was on vacation, but he'll return on Monday. I'll have him call you. Well, Monday came, no call. Tuesday came, no call. Wednesday came, no call. So, I called back. I couldn't get Mark again. No answer. Had to call back again. Got Brandon because of the switchboards. I don't know what it is. But anyways, I had to call back again. I got ahold of Brandon and I explained to him who I was. I said, you guys forgot about me. It's in regard to the changes at the golf course. And immediately he said to me, Mark Gomez is not making any changes. He does not want to speak to you. I said, well, I want to come in, I want a meeting. I don't want to talk to him on the phone. I want a meeting with Mark. He has nothing to say to you in this subject. That's how it was left. I worked for the City of Manchester. I retired in 2019. I worked for the Public Works. I was here 44 years. I got a proclamation from the aldermen and Mayor Gatsas at that time. When I got this from Mark, it really set me back. It really upset me. But I would still like to have that meeting with him, I don't know if things have changed. When I was there, everybody had to return calls to the public, to the voters, to the citizens of Manchester. I don't know if things have changed and the rules have changed and department heads don't have to speak to the citizens of Manchester or not, but I would like that meeting to occur and if possible, in your office, Mayor, if that can be arranged with Mark. But anyways, if you could help me out with that, I do have some concerns I'd like to talk to him about. I know he's from California. Maybe they do things different in California, but I would like that meeting if you could help me out with that, if anybody could help me out on it. And one last thing I'd like to say is Alderman Terrio, thank you for being professional and always returning my phone calls. I do appreciate that. So again, ladies and gentlemen, thank you for letting me speak, I appreciate it.

Rich Girard, 283 Orange Street: As you know from the two emails I've sent since the budget hearing, the school district is covered by the Students First Act and is waiting until the board sends notice of when it will vote on the school budget before it releases the legally required report. I hope you're aware that this board has never sent such a notice. The district knows that, which makes me wonder if it's hoping to get away with not sending the required information for your failure to notify them of the pending vote. Regardless, since they have the information, one has to question why they're keeping it secret until the last possible minute. If you ask them for it, you'll get graphs that show since the 2016 school year, the average teacher salary has jumped from $59,384 to $71,240, an increase of 20%, which doesn't include the current school year, and it should. Administrator salaries, defined as superintendent or assistant superintendent levels, went from $483,334 to $808,779, a staggering increase of more than 65%. Per pupil spending, depending on what costs are included, either went from $11,712 to $17,734, or $12,501 to $21,289, increases of more than 52% and 70%, respectively, through the 2024 school year, which means it doesn't include the increases of the last two years. All of this data comes directly from the State Department of Education website. So, if you ask them for the data, make sure the district provides all of it up to and including the current school year. Rest assured, they have it. Now, here's what you won't be told unless you ask. Student enrollment from the 2016 school year to current school year has fallen from 14,318 to 11,712, a 2,606 student decrease, or 18.2%. Free and reduced lunch program enrollment has plunged from 8,009, representing 57% of the student body in 2016, to 5,197 currently, which represents 46% of the student body. That's a drop of 2,812 students, more than 35%. Oh, and back in 2016, there was no outstanding student lunch debt. Now it's half $1 million and the school board has transferred that directly to the taxpayers. And despite cratering student enrollment, the number of teachers has held steady at 1,001 through the last school year. As a former member of the School Board and chairman of its Finance Committee, I urge you to require the district to send you all of the data I suggested in my April 15th email. If you do, you'll actually be able to follow the money and see where it's gone. Unless you have this basic information, it's not possible to have an informed discussion about past, present, and future funding levels or whether their spending has been wise given their needs, resources, and results.

Cindy Stewart, 255 Sagamore Street: I am an at large member of the Manchester School Board. Last Tuesday at the fiscal 2027 budget public hearing, I kept informal track of the 55 comments. Of the 45 school related comments, 43 of them, or 96%, urged for greater funding and an override to the tax cap. Only two people spoke in opposition. Under the proposed mayor's budget, the school district receives only 43.5% of the municipal budget, while the city side receives 56.5%. Manchester is the only municipality in New Hampshire where public schools receive less than half of the total municipal budget. What I haven't heard a lot yet in public discourse is that this is a revaluation year, which occurs every five years. This timing could very well provide a generational opportunity for the city of Manchester and for the Manchester school district. Whether we seize this opportunity truly depends on this aldermanic board. In the meantime, I am sad about our young teachers beginning their careers in Manchester, who are now asking for letters of recommendations from their school principal. I worry about the single mom of four, who I met last week, who works three jobs, and said that she will just have to work more hours to pay for pay for play sports. I think about the businesses that will choose not to come to Manchester, because public education, like housing, is a core factor in all economic development models, and the city's commitment has not yet been demonstrated. Our community has so many reasons to feel great pride in our public schools. Since Covid, we've seen steady improvement in the metrics, gauging our A, B, C's, absenteeism, behavior, and curriculum, because of the leadership and the systems we have in place. Our kids are learning. Data does not lie, and we see gains in the metrics reported monthly. For those critics who only measure success by test scores, I'd like to channel football great Tom Brady, who guaranteed a victory in Super Bowl 55. When this spring's state test scores are reported in the fall, we will see an increase in proficiency at all the levels. That outcome is possible because we allow our educators to teach in appropriately sized classrooms, align curriculum across grades, and provide multi-tiered support services that meet students' individual learning needs. Imagine what we could do with a fully funded school system.

Deb Roux, Ward 12: Thank you, Mayor and Aldermen, for letting me continue with my education in honor or in celebration of our 250th anniversary this year. I'm going to continue reading where I left off last time about why our pilgrims left England to come to America. So, the separatists defy the church was last time where I left off, taking a stand for their beliefs. These separatists became the conscientious objectors of their day. William Bradford, John Carver, Isaac Allerton and William Brewster, the men we know as pilgrims, were separatists, regarded by most decent people in their time as revolutionaries and radicals, a threat to the state. These radicals are the men we now revere as the conservative bedrock founders of our nation. William Bradford chronicled their reasons for leaving the Anglican Church, writing they realized not only that these ceremonies were unlawful, but also that the generous power of the prelates ought not to be submitted to, since it was contrary to the freedom of the gospel, and when burdened men's consciences profane the worship of God. Many separatists moved to the countryside to avoid detection by the authorities. It was here, in the small English village of Babworth, that many likeminded reformers flocked to hear the sermons of Richard Clyfton, the pastor at All Saints Church. His captivating preaching style had a deep impact on the early pilgrims, especially William Brewster, who lived just five miles away in the nearby village of Scrooby. When Clyfton was removed from his parish for preaching on the reforms, Brewster invited him and his family, now homeless without means, to come to live in his manor house at Scrooby and preach to a growing number of people who would one day be known as pilgrims. Brewster was also familiar with John Robinson, who had recently been stripped of his post at Saint Andrew's Church in Norwich. Due to his separatist leanings, Brewster invited Robinson and his family to join them at Scrooby, and Robinson began to assist Clyfton in pastoring the growing congregation. In 1606, the Scrooby congregation was formed. After consenting to the covenant, the members chose Clyfton as pastor, Robinson as teacher, and Brewster as elder. Years later in his journal, Bradford recounted the vows he took as a young man. As a Lord's free people joined themselves together by covenant as a church and the fellowship of the gospel to walk in his ways made known or to be made known to them according to their best endeavors, which it should cost them, whatever it should cost them, the Lord assisting them.

Troy Micklon, Ward 9: I wanted to start tonight by recognizing a great community effort that I had a chance to be part of this past weekend. My son and I joined the Manchester Urban Ponds Restoration Program, for a cleanup at Precourt Park and Nutt's Pond in ward nine. I want to thank the organizers and all the volunteers who showed up. The work being done to improve our parks and our natural spaces is truly impressive, and it makes a real difference in our community. I'd encourage more residents to get involved. There are still three more cleanups scheduled over the next few weeks, and it's a great opportunity to give back and take pride in all our neighborhoods. The second thing I want to mention is the fire on Friday night at Beech Hill, which is directly behind my neighborhood. My thoughts are with the residents who are affected, and I also want to thank the Manchester Fire Department for their response. Situations like that remind us of how critical their work is, and we're grateful for their professionalism and dedication. That night, I spoke briefly with a couple of firefighters as they were clearing the scene, and then they mentioned that one of the fire hydrants on Beech Hill was not working. That raises a concern, I think, which is worth discussing. I came across information on the city's website indicating that the Manchester Water Works maintains a preventative maintenance program for the approximately 3,400 hydrants across the city, with inspections occurring twice a year. However, given what was reported and what I was told at the scene, it raises the question of whether that program is consistently being carried out and effectively catching issues before any emergencies arise. I personally have a hydrant in front of my home and to my knowledge, it has never been tested during the time I've lived there. In an emergency, a non-functioning hydrant is not just an inconvenience. It can be a matter of life and death. Given how critical that infrastructure is, I would respectfully ask the board to work with the relevant departments and review hydrant inspection practices and ensure that we're doing everything we can to keep our residents, our firefighters, and our neighborhoods protected when it matters most.

Daniel Mowery, Ward 6: I was part of a community dinner in our neighborhood two Saturdays ago, and we had 124 residents who attended this dinner and everyone kept coming up to me and asking why our taxes are going so high when Mr. Mayor said they weren't going to, and as all of you keep on raising our taxes and now, we have this $1.8 million Hanover Street whatever you want to call it. I call it a nightmare because all of our neighbors that are much in age and will not be coming to Palace Theater on Hanover Street because they don't feel safe in Victory Garage. Another thing is I want to thank the Manchester PD for their animal control officer who came out to our neighborhood the other day when we had a fox run in our neighborhood, who was up on my front doorstep. She was a female officer. I forgot her name already, but she came and she was very professional and she worked with us and gave us a little education on this little fox, which was a baby. Ward six will be having a town hall meeting. Mr. Mayor and Alderman Kantor and the Alderman At-Large, I hope you will attend because ward six wants answers from you all. We are tired of paying high money. A lot of people who are on fixed incomes that own their houses outright, or paying $1,000 a month just for taxes, water, sewer and insurance, and they're making the average of $1,400 a month in Social Security. They're not living on city retirements, so they can't afford what you city officials that are retired are taking in. So, I thank you and have a good evening and God bless.

Austin Bouchard, Ward 2: I'm here to speak tonight on the proposed school budget. In the days following last week's meeting, I was contacted by multiple individuals that told me I was looking at the issue the wrong way and honestly, I'd hoped that was true. I had hoped that if I looked deeper, the numbers would tell a more reassuring story. They did not. What deeper scrutiny shows is not simply a district in need. It shows a district that has already received substantial increase in spending, while the academic return has remained painfully small. From fiscal year 2022 to fiscal year 2025, school spending increased more than 24%. Over that same time span, aggregate district proficiency increased by less than one percentage point. The baseline itself remains troubling. Only about 1 in 5 students are proficient in math. Fewer than 3 in 10 are proficient in reading district wide. That should be the center of this conversation. Because if the answer were simply more spending, then by now, we would be seeing much stronger academic movement than this. And when that contradiction becomes difficult to answer, the conversation shifts. We are pointed to the fact that 78% of students are college or career ready. That number may be encouraging. We all want students to be prepared for meaningful lives and strong futures, but at the same time, we cannot allow that figure to blur the academic picture because college and career readiness is a separate high school indicator built from things like S.A.T., AP, ASVAB, CTE completion credentials, apprenticeships, and a number of other things. That may tell us something useful, but it is not the same as reading and math proficiency at grade level. It does not replace that question and it does not answer for it. So, I would ask the Board of Mayor and Aldermen to hold the line on one simple principle. Do not let the standard of proof change in the middle of the argument. If spending is up more than 24% but academic proficiency has barely moved, then the public has every right to ask harder questions before approving even more. Not hostile questions. Responsible ones. Has what the district's been asked to do become too broad? Have the district's responsibilities expanded so widely that the central work of education is no longer receiving the sharpest focus? Are we measuring success too generously in areas around academics while the academic core remains weak? Many of these efforts may be well-intentioned, some definitely valuable. But intention is not outcome. Broader responsibility is not stronger academics. And if the fully funded school budget is approved, as many are asking, Manchester residents would be facing a tax increase of more than 26% above where they were in fiscal 2023. That is a very large burden to place on this city without stronger academic return to justify it. So tonight, I would urge you, do not confuse urgency with proof. Do not confuse broader indicators with academic success. And do not ask taxpayers to keep paying more unless the district can show clearly and convincingly that the core work of education is truly improving. Manchester students deserve honesty, Manchester taxpayers deserve stewardship, and both require the courage to look at these numbers clearly.

Victoria Sullivan, South Beech Street: For the record, I'm State Senator Victoria Sullivan. I reside on South Beech Street. The Republican led legislature produced a budget that did not increase property taxes, did not downshift costs, and in fact, sent significant tax dollars back to the city. Per the Department of Education, in 2024, Manchester received over $117 million and are on course to receive around $127,000,000 in 2026. Meanwhile, enrollment has dropped by over 15% since 2017. English Language Arts is at 28% proficiency. Math proficiency is at 18% and science proficiency is at 14%. Our four-year graduation rate hovers around 75%. This isn't a funding problem. It's a leadership problem. The City of Manchester has received over $11 million in meals and rooms tax. That's an increase of over 108% over the last five-year period. Where has it gone? It certainly hasn't gone to the property tax relief as intended by the state. It did not go to take a bite out of the $400 million wastewater project. Instead of fundraising for a new skateboard park, like surrounding towns are doing, you're bonding a $2.5 million project. When all is said and done, the taxpayers will be on the hook for over $5 million. There are, however, fundraising efforts for a bus to go to Livingston Park this summer. I applaud you, Mr. Alderman, for looking out for the kids, but the bus route just needs to be adjusted. The Josiah Bartlett Center recently reported that despite a 273% increase in total square miles covered, MTA bus ridership fell by 22.3% from 2013 to 2024. During that same time, city taxpayers' spending on the MTA increased by 50.6% above the rate of inflation. You don't need more routes; you need better management. This is yet another attempt to turn Manchester into a walking city. I heard it from business owners downtown. Those were their exact words. People in New Hampshire like cars. The lower bus ridership and lack of bike path use supports that. The number one complaint I hear is the lack of parking downtown. Yet you're removing 25 spots while also reducing the city's parking revenue. If I want a sidewalk outside my home, I have to pay for half of it. Why aren't businesses coming together to invest in these things instead of having their hand out to the taxpayers constantly? These projects, along with the new school buildings, will bankrupt the city, force people out of their homes, and your legacy will be marred by ill thought-out plans that left the taxpayers out in the cold and a generation of children raised in financial crisis. Please follow the state's lead by introducing a responsible, sensible budget for our city. Remember, please, every time you bond funds, you are creating bondage to these financial commitments to the generations to come.

Mayor Ruais: Is there anybody that has not had the opportunity to speak that wishes to do so?

There were none.

On motion of Alderman Barry, duly seconded by Alderman Terrio, it was voted to take all comments under advisement and further to receive and file any written documentation.

Mayor Ruais: Would anyone like to remove any items from the consent agenda?

Alderman Kaw-uh: Item ten.

Alderman Sapienza: Item five.

Mayor Ruais: Is that the budget? I had a conversation with the clerk's office on this. Our rules are clear that the intent here is for this to go through Finance. We accept the report and it's required to lay over for five days before we can consider it.

Alderman Sapienza: Understood. So, if we could just discuss that.

Mayor Ruais: Happy to discuss it. The rules are clear, but happy to discuss. Are you looking to discuss the budget?

Alderman Sapienza: I've got some things to say about item number five.

CONSENT AGENDA

Accept BMA Minutes

2. Minutes from the April 7 BMA and Special BMA TIF Public Hearing meetings.

Approve Under Supervision of the Department of Highways, subject to funding

3. Sidewalk Petitions (Residential): - 44 Arlington Street - 49 Bunker Hill Street - 103 Broadway Avenue - 515 Titus Avenue - 581 Spruce Street - 1310 Hanover Street

Information to be Received and Filed

4. Communication from Matthew Normand, City Clerk, advising the Board of the new polling location for Ward 2 at Smyth Road Elementary School.

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

COMMITTEE ON BILLS ON SECOND READING

6. Recommending that the request from Alderman Kaw-uh for an amendment to the Housing Code of the City of Manchester to ensure the inclusion of at least one window per unit in newly certified residential dwelling units be received and filed. (Unanimous vote with the exception of Alderman Fajardo who was absent)

7. Recommending that Ordinance Amendment:

"Amending the Code of Ordinances of the City of Manchester by creating §35.0353 Welfare Reserve Account establishing a non-lapsing reserve account designed to offset unanticipated deficits in the Welfare operating budget."

ought to pass and be referred to the Committee on Accounts, Enrollment & Revenue Administration. (Unanimous vote with the exception of Alderman Fajardo who was absent)

COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT

8. Recommending that the Amending Resolution and Budget Authorization providing for the acceptance and expenditure of funds in the amount of $197,090,000 for CIP 710425 Cemetery Brook Tunnel Construction be approved. (Unanimous vote)

9. Recommending that the Amending Resolution and Budget Authorizations providing for the transfer and expenditure of funds in the amount of $159,000 for CIP C200060326 Dilapidated Building Demolition be approved. (Unanimous vote)

10. Recommending that the adoption of a Language Access Plan required by CDFA for disbursement of $500,000 in grant funds, and that the Mayor be authorized to sign as the Authorized Official, be approved. (Unanimous vote)

11. Recommending that the request from the Planning and Community Development Director for an extension for CIP 611224 MHRA Landlord Incentive Program to December 31, 2026 be approved. (Unanimous vote)

12. Recommending that the request from the Planning and Community Development Director for extensions for CIP C200060126 Concentrated Code 1 and CIP C200060226 Concentrated Code 2 to August 31, 2026, be approved. (Unanimous vote)

13. Recommending that the request from the Public Health Director for an extension for CIP C410021826 NH Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Program - Sponsorship to April 28, 2026, be approved. (Unanimous vote)

14. Recommending that the request from the Police Department for authorization to apply for the FY25 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant be approved. (Unanimous vote)

15. Recommending that the request from the Highway Chief Engineer for the following projects from the Mayor's proposed FY27 CIP Budget: - CIP C500070227 FY27 Roadway Program: $6,700,000; - CIP C650050827 School Parking Lot Rehabilitation: $1,000,000; - CIP C500070127 FY27 Parks Paving: $200,000

be approved. (Unanimous vote)

COMMITTEE ON HUMAN RESOURCES/INSURANCE

17. Recommending that the request from the Parking Manager for the following changes to the division's complement: - Eliminate one (1) vacant part-time Customer Service Representative I position, grade 105 - Add one (1) part-time Parking Control Officer position, grade 104

be approved. (Unanimous vote)

COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY, HEALTH AND TRAFFIC

18. Recommending that the following traffic regulation be approved: CROSSWALK On Harrison Street, west of Ash Street Alderman Goonan (Unanimous vote with the exception of Alderman Thomas, who was absent)

19. Recommending that the proposal regarding Ordinance 150.061 Sidewalks and Other Areas be received and filed. (Unanimous vote with the exception of Alderman Thomas, who was absent)

HAVING READ THE CONSENT AGENDA, ON MOTION OF ALDERMAN TERRIO, DULY SECONDED BY ALDERMAN BARRY, THE CONSENT AGENDA WAS APPROVED.

REFERRALS TO COMMITTEES

COMMITTEE ON FINANCE

5. Resolutions:

"Amending the FY2025 Community Improvement Program, authorizing and appropriating funds in the amount of One Hundred Ninety-Seven Million Ninety Thousand Dollars($197,090,000) for the FY2025 CIP 710425 Cemetery Brook Tunnel Construction"

"Amending the FY2026 Community Improvement Program, authorizing and appropriating funds in the amount of Eleven Thousand Eight Hundred Forty-Six Dollars and Ninety-One Cents ($11,846.91) for the FY2026 CIP C160060826 Hope for NH Recovery Wilson St Emergency Recovery Housing"

"Amending the FY2023, FY2024 and FY2026 Community Improvement Program, authorizing, appropriating and transferring funds in the amount of One Hundred Fifty-Nine Thousand and Eighty-Five Dollars ($159,085) for the FY2026 CIP C200060326 Dilapidated Building Demolition"

"Amending the FY2026 Community Improvement Program, authorizing and appropriating funds in the amount of Thirty Thousand Dollars ($30,000) for the FY2026 CIP C330041926FY26 Domestic Cannabis Eradication/Suppression Program DCE/SP"

Bond Resolutions:

"Authorizing General Airport Revenue Refunding Bonds in the amount of Seventeen Million Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($17,500,000) for Refunding Certain Outstanding Municipal Revenue Bonds of the City issued on Behalf of Manchester Airport."

"Authorizing Bonds, Notes or Lease Purchases in the amount of Two Hundred Forty-Eight Million Four Hundred Seventy-Five Thousand Dollars ($248,475,000) for 2026 CIP #C270071826 Various Capital Improvement Projects (EPD) to pay for various Capital Improvement Projects by the Environmental Protection Division, and for the payment of all other incidental costs related thereto. Projects include but are not limited to: design and construction of combined sewer overflow mitigation projects, upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant, projects to address aging and failing environmental infrastructure and projects necessary for compliance with the Clean Water Act."

Budget Resolutions:

"Resolution 'Approving the Community Improvement Program for Fiscal Year 2027, Raising and Appropriating Monies Therefore, and Authorizing Implementation of Said Program."

"Appropriating to the Parking Fund the sum of $5,142,275 from parking revenues for the Fiscal Year 2027."

"Appropriating the sum of $33,804,234 from Sewer User Rental Charges to the Environmental Protection Division for the Fiscal Year 2027."

"Appropriating to the Manchester Airport Authority the sum of $49,366,765 from Special Airport Revenue Funds for the Fiscal Year 2027."

"Appropriating to the Manchester Transit Authority the sum of $1,999,838 for the Fiscal Year 2027."

"Appropriating to the Manchester School District the sum of $234,981,749 for the Fiscal Year 2027."

"Appropriating all Incremental Meals and Rooms Tax Revenue Received by the City in the Fiscal Year 2027 and held in the Civic Center Fund, for the payment of the City's Obligations in Said Fiscal Year under the Financing Agreement."

"Appropriating to the Manchester School Food and Nutrition Services Program the sum of $6,300,000 from School Food and Nutrition Services Revenues for the Fiscal Year 2027."

"Raising Monies and Making Appropriations of $195,337,885 for the Fiscal Year 2027."

"Appropriating to the Central Business Service District the sum of $700,000 from Central Business Service District Funds for the Fiscal Year 2027."

"Continuation of the Central Business Service District."

"Authorizing the Finance Officer to Make Certain Budgetary Closings for the Fiscal Year 2026."

Alderman Sapienza requested that agenda item five be removed from the consent agenda.

Alderman Sapienza: I'd like to make a motion to suspend the rules so that we can vote on the budget tonight. I think the people have a right to know where we stand. That's what I'm hearing. People are looking at possibly losing their jobs. So, the quicker we move on this the better. I don't see any good reason to kick this can down the road any further. So, with that, I'd like to make a motion to suspend the rules so we can vote on the budget tonight.

Mayor Ruais: I'm not going to accept the motion; the rules are clear.

Alderman Sapienza: You're not going to accept the motion? The rules can be suspended. It happens all the time.

Matthew Normand, City Clerk: Do you want me to read the rule?

Mayor Ruais: Just so the board's aware of it, if we're going to take a motion to suspend.

M. Normand: Rule 21: Appropriation, resolution and budget ordinances. Resolutions appropriating money and ordinances imposing a penalty are invalid unless presented at a regular meeting referred to its proper committee, and after report of the committee shall have laid upon the table for a period of not less than five days before final action thereon. This rule being taken from the charter cannot be suspended. There's also an ordinance to this effect, if you'd like me to read that.

Mayor Ruais: It cannot be suspended?

M. Normand: Correct. The Committee on Finance, this is section 35.030 of the Code of Ordinances. The mayor shall biannually in the month of January, appoint a Committee on Finance consisting of the Mayor and Aldermen. It shall be the duty of this committee to prepare and lay before the Board of Mayor and Aldermen the annual budget relating to the raising of money and making appropriations for the ensuing fiscal year, and all resolutions relating to the raising of money by taxation, loan, or otherwise.

Mayor Ruais: So, it cannot be suspended.

Alderman Sapienza: We heard your budget. We heard from the general public. They had their night at Memorial last week. So, all that's been satisfied. I mean, how many times in the past have the rules been suspended for this, that, and the other thing? Now all of a sudden, we can't suspend the rules?

Mayor Ruais: Well, it's the rules of the board that says we can't suspend the rules on this. There are two additional items. We didn't get the health care number until after my budget was introduced. So, what is the plan for that $1.5 million in health care increases?

Alderman Sapienza: Well, Mayor, I want to thank you for all the hard work and diligence putting together the tax cap budget, and I respect the budget that you put together. I have the figures here in front of me. So, what I'd like to do is make a motion to suspend the rules so we can go ahead and vote on the budget tonight.

Mayor Ruais: We can't suspend the rules. Our board rules are clear. Am I misunderstanding what you're saying?

M. Normand: I can re-read what it says. The final sentence on that rule states: this rule being taken from the charter cannot be suspended. That's what it says. That's the final sentence of the rule that this board adopted.

Alderman Terrio: I appreciate Alderman Sapienza's passion to expedite this, but obviously we have to wait. I think many of the aldermen sat down with educators in Manchester, and part of their frustration was that our budget is coming in so late. I think, it's the first week in June that we make the vote. That sets the school back, because if there are layoffs or whatever budget cuts, a lot of the schools have hired in the spring. And so, if they do lose their job, they are behind the eight ball because a lot of schools have already made hiring decisions. So, although we have to go through the process, I would like for future budgets to vote sooner in the budget season. I think the ordinance says you have to have a budget by March. And I understand, especially for a new mayor, in January, you have a lot on your plate. But I think June is putting it off too far. So, for future boards and future budgets, my hope is that we can vote on the budget quicker in the springtime.

Mayor Ruais: The reason why I go later is because every week we get different surplus numbers, and we could get different revenue projections in. So that's why I've waited until the end of March, particularly this year when we have a tight budget with increased costs. The earlier I go, the less good projections or surplus numbers that I have to work with. So, I'm handing off something that's even more difficult for you all to deal with.

Alderman Sapienza: Do we anticipate a report from the School District in reference to the Students First Act? Putting together a report for us?

Mayor Ruais: Yes, they did it for the school district budget when they passed those in February. They did it for that.

Alderman Sapienza: Going back ten years?

Mayor Ruais: When we pass our budget, they'll notice, per the legislation requirement, they'll notice the requisite information from the legislation. So, I believe that was in the email from Attorney Upton.

Alderman Sapienza: So, we anticipate that very shortly we'll be getting this report?

Mayor Ruais: I can't speak for when they're going to do it.

Alderman Sapienza: But could we ask them?

Mayor Ruais: So, when we send over a number before they vote on what they're going to do with our top line number, all that information will be made public.

Alderman Sapienza: Well, they don't need a number from us. They could send it to us this week.

Mayor Ruais: When they did the budget in February, they posted the information that they were required to prior to that.

Alderman Sapienza: They didn't go back ten years.

Mayor Ruais: My understanding is that the school district has met with 12 of the 14 aldermen from what the superintendent said. If there are additional questions, I would suggest we meet with them. And certainly, we can ask them to publish anything that we don't feel they've published.

Alderman Sapienza: A simple question is, can they publish a report that is conducive to the Students First Act? That's established law.

Mayor Ruais: And they did that.

Alderman Sapienza: I don't believe they did. I don't believe it meets the letter of the law. This is established law written by State Senator Murphy, who is a resident of Manchester, and that is not happening. They have not done that. Do we anticipate that they will? I mean, better late than never.

Mayor Ruais: That's what Attorney Upton said in his email that when the requirement comes for them to do it prior to the budget, they will. If there's something else that we want to get from them, we certainly can.

Alderman Sapienza: I just want to compliment Superintendent Chmiel and Committeewoman Stewart when they both said that this time around, the reserve funds are empty and they're quite right about that. The reserve funds are empty. I think we have an uphill battle here. And the sooner people know what the deal is, the better. A wise man once said that the most difficult thing to do and the right thing to do, very often are one and the same. And I think we should get moving on this.

On motion of Alderman O'Neil, duly seconded by Alderman Terrio, it was voted to refer the Resolutions, Bond Resolutions, and Budget Resolutions to the Committee on Finance.

10. Recommending that the Amending Resolution and Budget Authorization providing for the acceptance and expenditure of funds in the amount of $30,000 for CIP C330041926 FY26 Domestic Cannabis Eradication/Suppression Program DCE/SP be approved. (Unanimous vote with the exception of Alderman Terrio who was opposed)

Alderman Kaw-uh requested agenda item ten be removed from the consent agenda.

Alderman Kaw-uh: I apologize for not reaching out to MPD beforehand to get clarity on this topic, but I was curious if I could have an explanation of what this project entails. It's relatively small dollars.

Peter Marr, Police Chief: It's $27,000 for overtime, $3,000 for equipment. And it'll be to work with the DEA in order to hunt down and find marijuana grows.

Alderman Kaw-uh: Is this focused on large scale production, or is this just people who might be growing it in their homes?

P. Marr: Not on a large scale.

Alderman Kaw-uh: That was all I wanted to know about it. And just for the record, I want to note that I'm in general opposed to the city taking any additional effort to crack down on cannabis within the city. I think we have a lot bigger problems to deal with. But other than that, that's all I wanted to ask.

Alderman Terrio: What did you say? Hunt down and find cannabis?

P. Marr: Where they grow it.

Alderman Sapienza: This is centered on where cannabis is being grown. Not simple possession.

P. Marr: Correct.

Mayor Ruais: Is there a motion to approve?

Alderman Kaw-uh: I will not be making that motion.

On motion of Alderman Goonan, duly seconded by Alderman Burkush, it was voted to accept the committee's report and adopt its recommendation, with Aldermen Kaw-uh and Terrio being duly recorded in opposition.

REGULAR BUSINESS

20. Aldermanic Nomination: Manchester Transit Authority Elyza Agosta to succeed herself as a regular member, term to expire May 1, 2031 (Note: Pursuant to Rule 23 of the Board of Mayor and Aldermen, this nomination will layover to the next meeting of the Board.)

21. Confirmations: Board of Trustees of the Trust Funds Patrick Duffy to succeed himself as a regular member, term to expire January 1, 2032 Manchester Development Corporation Michael Harrington to succeed himself as a regular member, term to expire March 11, 2029

On motion of Alderman Trisciani, duly seconded by Alderman O'Neil, it was voted to confirm the nominations as presented.

22. Communication from W. Michael Hurley, Board of Assessors Chairman, advising the Board of his intent to retire, effective June 1, 2026.

On motion of Alderman O'Neil, duly seconded by Alderman Terrio, it was voted to accept with regret.

Alderman O'Neil: It is my understanding that Lee Ann Provencher has already submitted her intent to retire. That's two out of the three assessors in a revaluation year. Can we come up with some contingency plans?

Alderman Barry: Yes, I think we have. I was going to nominate Alderman Burkush, Alderman Goonan, and Alderman Vincent to be on a search committee for Mr. Hurley's replacement.

Alderman O'Neil: That's not going to happen quickly, though.

Mayor Ruais: Well, we can put out the internal or external hiring for the assessor. I met with the assessor's office last week to talk about the plan that they have to ensure that we have this filled. So, what they were requesting was that we hire two assessors or have two assessor positions ready to go when we put it out for internal and external to bring it in. And then Chairman Barry will have the selection committee for that, and bring recommendations to the board.

Alderman O'Neil: My understanding is the certification process is not easy. So, there's not a great talent pool out there.

Mayor Ruais: You're absolutely right. From my conversations with Michael Hurley and the assessors, this was something that came up at the Executive Council, actually up in Concord, that this is a huge problem that they have, because obviously property taxes are important to running a municipal government. Absent an assessor, it makes that process much more difficult. So, they've been looking at ways in which they could expedite the process of getting certification.

Alderman O'Neil: My second point is we're going to lose very shortly our HR director. Is the solicitor overseeing HR?

Mayor Ruais: Upon Director Prestejohn's departure, Emily Rice will take over as the interim director. I have a call tomorrow with Robert Half, the headhunter firm that I had mentioned in my email on Friday, to have an initial preliminary discussion with them about what we're looking for in this position. We will then bring candidates to that selection committee that I outlined in the email. And then ultimately, I'll make a recommendation to the board on where we go from there.

Alderman O'Neil: I can't remember this ever happening like this, all at once. The HR director and then two assessors retiring at the same time.

Alderman Barry: It's my understanding I'm going to use the same firm for the assessor position.

Mayor Ruais: When Director Prestejohn reached out to those, she reached out to a multitude of firms. Robert Half was the one that was the cream of the crop, the one that we wanted to go with. And they don't do an outreach or they don't do it for assessors. It is too much of a niche position. But we have had conversations, there's the potential for some folks to help fill that position. There are also other models that other communities have used. I believe that Nashua, I'm probably talking out of turn now, but Nashua has part time assessors on their board. So, there's something that we could potentially put together to make this work, given the dearth of assessors that are in the state. I don't believe he's here this evening, but thank you, Michael, for your service to the City of Manchester.

23. Communication from Thomas Hilton, Election Administrator, requesting the Board establish the polling hours for the upcoming State Primary and State General Elections to begin at 6AM and conclude at 7PM.

On motion of Alderman O'Neil, duly seconded by Alderman Barry, it was voted to establish the polling hours to begin at 6AM and conclude at 7PM.

24. Budget projections to be submitted by Sharon Wickens, Finance Officer, if available.

Sharon Wickens, Finance Officer: Based on estimates provided by department heads, the projected general fund operating surplus for fiscal year 2026 is $953,000. This surplus consists of an expenditure surplus of $520,000, and a revenue surplus of $433,000. Several departments are reporting expenditure surpluses resulting from employee turnover in associated hiring delays. Public Works is projecting a $400,000 revenue shortfall due to reduced chargeback services for the school district. This decrease is offset by an equivalent reduction in overall expenses. In addition, the department has experienced a particularly challenging winter, resulting in overages in overtime, salt and fuel. After accounting for all factors, Public Works is reporting a net expenditure overage of $300,000. Comcast franchise fees revenues continue to decline and the City Clerk's Office projects an overall revenue shortfall of $250,000. The Tax Collector reports an estimated $750,000 increase in auto registrations, driven in part by continued growth in fleet activity. The Planning Department is also anticipating a $250,000 revenue surplus by fiscal year end. This forecast includes a $110,000 allocation from the contingency account as of April 10th. There have been 36 retirements, compared to 24 retirements in the same period last year. Severance payments through the state total $1,412,905, which is up from $1,157,071 a year ago. Following the posting of all related entries, the severance reserve account is projected to hold a balance of $1,311,396. I've also attached a department summary of severance pay through April 10th in the department overtime report as of April 10th.

On motion of Alderman Burkush, duly seconded by Alderman Barry, it was voted to accept the report.

25. On motion of Alderman Terrio, duly seconded by Alderman Bonilla, it was voted to recess the meeting to allow the Committee on Finance to meet.

26. The Mayor called the meeting back to order.

27. Report(s) of the Committee on Finance, if available.

The Committee on Finance respectfully recommends, after due and careful consideration, that the following Resolutions:

"Amending the FY2025 Community Improvement Program, authorizing and appropriating funds in the amount of One Hundred Ninety-Seven Million Ninety Thousand Dollars ($197,090,000) for the FY2025 CIP 710425 Cemetery Brook Tunnel Construction"

"Amending the FY2026 Community Improvement Program, authorizing and appropriating funds in the amount of Eleven Thousand Eight Hundred Forty-Six Dollars and Ninety-One Cents ($11,846.91) for the FY2026 CIP C160060826 Hope for NH Recovery Wilson St Emergency Recovery Housing"

"Amending the FY2023, FY2024 and FY2026 Community Improvement Program, authorizing, appropriating and transferring funds in the amount of One Hundred Fifty-Nine Thousand and Eighty-Five Dollars ($159,085) for the FY2026 CIP C200060326 Dilapidated Building Demolition"

"Amending the FY2026 Community Improvement Program, authorizing and appropriating funds in the amount of Thirty Thousand Dollars ($30,000) for the FY2026 CIP C330041926FY26 Domestic Cannabis Eradication/Suppression Program DCE/SP"

ought to pass and be Enrolled.

On motion of Alderman Kaw-uh, duly seconded by Alderman Burkush, it was voted to waive the reading by titles only.

On motion of Alderman Burkush, duly seconded by Alderman Terrio, it was voted to accept the report and adopt its recommendation.

The Committee on Finance respectfully recommends, after due and careful consideration, that the following Bond Resolutions:

"Authorizing General Airport Revenue Refunding Bonds in the amount of Seventeen Million Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($17,500,000) for Refunding Certain Outstanding Municipal Revenue Bonds of the City issued on Behalf of Manchester Airport."

"Authorizing Bonds, Notes or Lease Purchases in the amount of Two Hundred Forty-Eight Million Four Hundred Seventy-Five Thousand Dollars ($248,475,000) for 2026 CIP #C270071826 Various Capital Improvement Projects (EPD) to pay for various Capital Improvement Projects by the Environmental Protection Division, and for the payment of all other incidental costs related thereto. Projects include but are not limited to: design and construction of combined sewer overflow mitigation projects, upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant, projects to address aging and failing environmental infrastructure and projects necessary for compliance with the Clean Water Act."

ought to pass and layover.

On motion of Alderman Fajardo, duly seconded by Alderman Trisciani, it was voted to waive the reading by titles only.

On motion of Alderman Fajardo, duly seconded by Alderman Bonilla, it was voted to accept the report and adopt its recommendation.

The Committee on Finance respectfully recommends, after due and careful consideration, that the following Budget Resolutions for Fiscal Year 2027:

"Resolution 'Approving the Community Improvement Program for Fiscal Year 2027, Raising and Appropriating Monies Therefore, and Authorizing Implementation of Said Program."

"Appropriating to the Parking Fund the sum of $5,142,275 from parking revenues for the Fiscal Year 2027."

"Appropriating the sum of $33,804,234 from Sewer User Rental Charges to the Environmental Protection Division for the Fiscal Year 2027."

"Appropriating to the Manchester Airport Authority the sum of $49,366,765 from Special Airport Revenue Funds for the Fiscal Year 2027."

"Appropriating to the Manchester Transit Authority the sum of $1,999,838 for the Fiscal Year 2027."

"Appropriating to the Manchester School District the sum of $234,981,749 for the Fiscal Year 2027."

"Appropriating all Incremental Meals and Rooms Tax Revenue Received by the City in the Fiscal Year 2027 and held in the Civic Center Fund, for the payment of the City's Obligations in Said Fiscal Year under the Financing Agreement."

"Appropriating to the Manchester School Food and Nutrition Services Program the sum of $6,300,000 from School Food and Nutrition Services Revenues for the Fiscal Year 2027."

"Raising Monies and Making Appropriations of $195,337,885 for the Fiscal Year 2027."

"Appropriating to the Central Business Service District the sum of $700,000 from Central Business Service District Funds for the Fiscal Year 2027."

"Continuation of the Central Business Service District."

"Authorizing the Finance Officer to Make Certain Budgetary Closings for the Fiscal Year 2026."

ought to pass and layover.

On motion of Alderman O'Neil, duly seconded by Alderman Terrio, it was voted to waive the reading by titles only.

On motion of Alderman O'Neil, duly seconded by Alderman Terrio, it was voted to accept the report and adopt its recommendation.

28. Report(s) of this evening's remaining committees, if available.

The Committee on Lands and Buildings respectfully recommends, after due and careful consideration, that the request from Manchester Connects for authorization to install a revised mural design at the Canal Street and Pleasant Street crossing be approved.

On motion of Alderman Bonilla, duly seconded by Alderman Dexter, it was voted to accept the report and adopt its recommendation.

29. Resolutions:

"Amending the FY2025 Community Improvement Program, authorizing and appropriating funds in the amount of One Hundred Ninety-Seven Million Ninety Thousand Dollars($197,090,000) for the FY2025 CIP 710425 Cemetery Brook Tunnel Construction"

"Amending the FY2026 Community Improvement Program, authorizing and appropriating funds in the amount of Eleven Thousand Eight Hundred Forty-Six Dollars and Ninety-One Cents ($11,846.91) for the FY2026 CIP C160060826 Hope for NH Recovery Wilson St Emergency Recovery Housing"

"Amending the FY2023, FY2024 and FY2026 Community Improvement Program, authorizing, appropriating and transferring funds in the amount of One Hundred Fifty-Nine Thousand and Eighty-Five Dollars ($159,085) for the FY2026 CIP C200060326 Dilapidated Building Demolition"

"Amending the FY2026 Community Improvement Program, authorizing and appropriating funds in the amount of Thirty Thousand Dollars ($30,000) for the FY2026 CIP C330041926FY26 Domestic Cannabis Eradication/Suppression Program DCE/SP"

On motion of Alderman O'Neil, duly seconded by Alderman Trisciani, it was voted to waive the reading by titles only.

On motion of Alderman O'Neil, duly seconded by Alderman Barry, it was voted that the Resolutions ought to pass and be Enrolled.

Mayor Ruais: Before we go into the next motion, Alderman Sapienza, I just have to correct what I said earlier. You're right that it has not been posted online yet. The intent is for the budget materials required in the Student's First Act to be posted seven days prior to the budget being adopted. If the question is can they do it earlier, that's a question that we can get an answer to. But my understanding is the intent is to do it seven days before the budget is adopted.

Alderman Barry: Can we do new business first before agenda item 30?

Mayor Ruais: Yes.

Alderman Bonilla: I wanted to thank the team at SEE Science Center for leading yesterday's Earth Day initiative throughout the Queen City. They had around 227 volunteers who each spent two hours in this effort, resulting in 266 bags of trash. Honestly, it was amazing to see so many volunteers at our parks, especially in ward five. Now, I also wanted to provide some clarity and some updates on the bus pilot route. It is getting a lot of traction. So, the route we're calling it route 42, Northside Plaza Livingston Park bus route. MTA, I wanted to provide clarity, has committed to covering half of the cost. It's around $22,800 for this new pilot route. And myself and other members of the Age Friendly Advisory Committee have committed to raising the additional $22,800 through crowdfunding and also actively applying for grants. So far, we raised around $4,000 from individual donors in our city. We've also had our grants manager, Kathleen, apply to several grants as well. We've also had a few ask to cover the remaining amounts. We will continue to work diligently to raise the remaining funds. We have also recently finished demoing and filming, shout out to Janelle at Hope for Recovery, all the bus stops alongside business leaders, the Health Department, Southern New Hampshire Planning Commission, and a member of the aquatic's facilities from Parks with the intention of giving our families a better understanding on how to take this new bus route. This free route will connect our families from center city to the vast majority of Livingston Park, giving our families access to a pool, trails and additional fields, Northside Plaza giving our families access to Hannaford, urgent care and additional restaurants in the area. Finally, Elliott Senior Center, giving our seniors access to additional care. I also wanted to thank Elaine Michaud, from being the true composer as part of the age friendly initiative throughout the Health Department alongside Kate Waldo from Parks and Rec, Mike and Ryan from MTA. You all have done so much for this pilot route and for our residents in the city. Additionally, ward five, this is a chance for us to have access to a pool while we work on Hunt Pool 2.0. And yes, lines can get long at the pool. This is an option for our community that we did not have before, while also having access to amazing trails and additional resources. So again, thank you so much. And can we just give a shout out to MTA, please? And Parks and our city departments. So, thank you so much, everybody.

Alderman Thomas: OYS is having their three-on-three basketball tournament. It's happening on April 29th at the West High School Gym. It's from 10 to 3. It's free to play. Boys and girls are welcome to play. It is open to all Manchester middle and high school students and all skill levels are welcome.

Alderman O'Neil: Kelly, can you get that to the clerk and maybe we can get a copy of it emailed?

Alderman Kaw-uh: I believe a member of the public earlier stated that teachers' starting salaries have increased about 20% since 2016. I apologize if I misheard that, but I went and looked it up. And it seems CIP inflation over the same time frame is over 37%. So, I just wanted to note for the record that if anybody would like to complain about teacher starting salaries in the city, I think it would be more appropriate to complain that they haven't kept up with inflation in the first place.

Alderman Kantor: I just want clarification on why the school district is using the statewide property tax as part of its tax cap calculation. Is that allowed? Isn't it supposed to be just city?

S. Wickens: Well, it's part of the value and it's calculated based on that. I don't have the correct wording. I'd have to look at it, but it's always been used. Even in the past, we've always taken into consideration.

Mayor Ruais: I can get a direct answer from Ms. DeFrancis to make sure that we don't say anything inaccurate or incorrect, but I can get an answer on that.

Alderman Kantor: I was told it's not supposed to be that way. I just want clarity on that. I never got the answers to all of my questions with the joint school board meeting. That was nice that we had it, but I've reached out and I haven't gotten my answers yet. So how can we make good decisions when we don't have all the answers, which is a problem? I would like to know, who is the gentleman from ward seven?

Mayor Ruais: I wrote the name down; Ned Desrosiers.

Alderman Kantor: I just want to make sure that our department heads are returning their phone calls and they matter, especially when they've dedicated 44 years to our city. It's kind of interesting.

Mayor Ruais: I made a note here. We're going to follow up.

Alderman Kantor: I just want to know; how do I get answers from the school district?

Mayor Ruais: I'm happy to reach out to the superintendent. I think you might have more success asking direct questions.

Alderman Kantor: I don't really have much success, but maybe I can email you.

Mayor Ruais: Did you have a one on one with them?

Alderman Kantor: I actually had a great meeting down at Hillside with a lot of great people that really care. So yes, I met for two hours and it was awesome.

Alderman Burkush: A constituent of mine asked about the servicing of Water Works hydrants. Well, the Water Works tests all city owned hydrants, hydrants that are on city property. An individual who lives on a private way, they are responsible, their condo association is responsible for testing. Again, we had a talk about the hydrant situation on Beech Hill. The Fire Department regularly has adapted and responded to issues such as that. That's not out of the question after a winter where hydrants get damaged a lot by vehicle plowing. I have full confidence in Manchester Water Works and in the people that do the work for them. Also, I do want to shout out to Jen Drociak for Urban Ponds for this weekend. It was a good cleanup that we all participated in. We also did the South Manchester Rail Trail. We did have a large illegal dump this weekend down at the bottom of West Mitchell Street. That was brought to my attention on Sunday morning. The Department of Public Works was notified 7:00 Monday. They responded; they were able to locate the responsible party. They issued a citation and ordered it cleaned up. So, shout out to Public Works for really being responsive and helping keeping our city clean.

Alderman Kantor: I always want to be so grateful for our first responders and all the service that they give. And congratulations on the retirement of Peter and Kevin from station eight and their 66 years of dedication to Manchester. So just a little shout out to them. So grateful that they're in ward six. But they're off to retirement.

Mayor Ruais: Alderman Kantor, I believe the superintendent is watching. She said we are gathering those and will release it in one document. She said she replied to your email last week. So, at least from what was said, all of the information is going to be compiled in one document, because there were a number of questions asked that evening, and that they were going to send it to everybody once everything is put together. That's my understanding.

On motion of Alderman Terrio, duly seconded by Alderman Barry, it was voted to recess the meeting to discuss strategy or negotiations with respect to collective bargaining.

The Mayor called the meeting back to order.

30. Alderman Barry moved to enter into non-public session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3, II(d) for consideration of property acquisition, sale or lease of real or personal property which, if discussed in public, would likely benefit a party or parties whose interests are adverse to those of the general community. Alderman Terrio duly seconded the motion. The motion carried on a unanimous roll call vote.

The Mayor called the meeting back to order.

On motion of Alderman Barry, duly seconded by Alderman Burkush, it was voted to seal the minutes of the non-public session so that the proposed actions and decisions reached in non-public session are not rendered ineffective.

There being no further business, on motion of Alderman Barry, duly seconded by Alderman Terrio, it was voted to adjourn.

A True Record. Attest.

City Clerk

Meeting Start Time: 7:00PM Meeting End Time: 8:48PM Minutes Prepared By: Michael Intranuovo