Since moving to Nashua in 2013, I have seen a significant shift in how City Hall interacts with residents. For many years, City Hall operated with an open‑door policy: any resident could walk in, pay or obtain a bill, review assessment files, or speak directly with a city employee without an appointment. Customer service and accessibility were clearly prioritized.
That changed during the COVID‑19 pandemic and the development of the Performing Arts Center. While the pandemic understandably required temporary restrictions, many of the limitations on public access remained in place long after other institutions reopened. This has raised concerns among residents, especially given that City Hall operations are funded entirely by taxpayers.
During earlier years, Treasurer Dave Fredette was known for his professionalism and responsiveness. His successor, John Griffin, initially maintained that standard. However, as questions surrounding the Performing Arts Center and other financial matters increased, residents began experiencing delays, reduced access to information, and difficulty obtaining clear answers.
One example involved a property built by a real estate professional that had not been assessed for taxes. After residents brought the issue to the city’s attention, the city corrected the record, though state law allowed only one year of back taxation. This demonstrated both the importance of public oversight and the need for transparent internal processes.
More recently, concerns have arisen regarding the handling of trust funds. When Dawn Enright assumed the role previously held by Mr. Griffin, residents expected improved clarity. Instead, transparency issues have persisted. At a Board of Aldermen meeting, Ms. Enright stated that the city was in compliance with trust fund requirements. However, the State Committee on Trust Funds later issued a response on December 19, 2025, noting:
“Although Nashua deposits the funds into the same account, Nashua tracks taxpayer and donated funds separately and always earmarks the funds for their designated purposes. Then, upon approval by the Board of Aldermen and on a quarterly basis, Nashua reconciles the funds and transfers them to the proper, separate accounts.”
Since March 23, 2026, I have been requesting documentation showing how the city has corrected its trust fund procedures. Despite repeated attempts, the city has not provided the requested information. I scheduled a meeting for April 16, 2026, but was informed upon arrival that Ms. Enright was not available, despite earlier confirmation. This has only increased concerns that the city may not be implementing the corrective measures described to the state.
Given that Nashua’s trust funds total approximately $70 million, every resident has a stake in ensuring that these funds are managed properly and transparently.
Additional issues have arisen in other departments. The Assessing Department now requires managerial review before residents can view property files, something that was not previously necessary. At the City Clerk’s office, copies of the FY 2027 budget were not available, despite residents funding the printing of these documents.
Many residents remain committed to advocating for open records and government transparency. If necessary, that includes pursuing remedies through the courts. New Hampshire’s Right‑to‑Know law exists to ensure that citizens can understand how their government is using public funds. When access to information is restricted, it undermines public trust and weakens accountability. Nashua residents deserve a city government that is open, responsive, and fully transparent in its stewardship of taxpayer resources.
