Formal Requests
Template requests for environmental assessments, zoning reviews, and public records.
Your Right to Request
As residents, you have the right to formally request information and action from city officials. These templates help you exercise that right effectively.
What You Can Request
1. Comprehensive Environmental Assessment
Request that the city conduct a full environmental review before any further construction, including:
- Complete PFAS characterization (soil, groundwater, AND air)
- Wetland and vernal pool impact assessment
- Endangered species habitat evaluation
- Hydrologic connectivity study
- Cumulative impact analysis of all project components
2. Zoning Review
Request a thorough zoning analysis to confirm:
- The proposed use is permitted in Zone R-30
- All dimensional and setback requirements are met
- Adequate buffers to residential properties are maintained
- The piecemeal approach to permitting is appropriate under zoning regulations
3. Wetland and Vernal Pool Protection
Request specific protections:
- Formal vernal pool designation for the surface water feature within 100 feet of the facility
- Hydrologic review of the connected watershed
- No-disturbance buffer zones around all identified wetlands and vernal pools
- Independent ecological review of the wetland delineation report
4. PFAS Risk Analysis
Request a complete PFAS risk assessment:
- Air emission modeling for fire training activities
- Groundwater contamination pathway analysis
- Health risk assessment for nearby residents
- Comparison of contamination risks at Four Hills vs. Ridge Road alternative
5. Public Records Request (Right-to-Know)
Under New Hampshire RSA 91-A, you can request:
- All internal communications regarding the Fire Training Facility site selection
- Engineering reports and cost analyses for both Four Hills and Ridge Road locations
- GPM requirement change documentation (who authorized the reduction from 3,500+ to 2,000?)
- Pennichuck Water Works correspondence regarding pipe sizing
How to Submit Formal Requests
- Put it in writing — Email or letter to the relevant department
- Be specific — Name the documents or actions you’re requesting
- Cite your authority — Reference RSA 91-A for Right-to-Know requests
- Set a deadline — RSA 91-A requires response within 5 business days
- Keep copies — Document all submissions and responses
Key Contacts
City of Nashua
- Mayor Jim Donchess — nashuamayor@nashuanh.gov
- Conservation Commission — cc@nashuanh.gov
- Paula Johnson, Ward 5 Alderman — johnsonp2@nashuanh.gov
- Shoshanna Kelly, Alderman-at-Large — kellys@nashuanh.gov
- Jeff Lafleur, DPW Superintendent
- Deb Chisholm, Sustainability Manager
State Representatives — Hillsborough 9
- Rep. Sanjeev Manohar — sanjeev.manohar@gc.nh.gov
- Rep. Santosh Salvi — santosh.salvi@gc.nh.gov
- Rep. William Dolan — william.dolan@gc.nh.gov
Attachments to Reference
When submitting requests, reference specific documents:
- Conservation Commission meeting agendas and minutes
- PFAS investigation contract (Purchasing Memo #26-127)
- GIS maps showing wetland boundaries and distances
- Endangered species documentation
- Ridge Road alternative proposal and correspondence