the system as it existed then and exists today was highly preferable to having Commissioners
appointed by local office-holders.
It is imperative that Commissioners be independent and able to refuse to grant favors. Soon after my
father was appointed to the Nashua Police Commission, one of the Sanders drivers presented my
father with a parking ticket asking for it to be voided. My dad told the individual, in no uncertain
terms, that he would not be fixing anybody’s tickets. He also told the driver to pay the ticket himself
and not to submit the expense to the company. It is unlikely that anyone else ever asked him to fix a
ticket.
This is a very minor example of the sort of things that can be asked of police commissioners.
It is easy to imagine other scenarios that would involve more serious events and situations where a
refusal would be more difficult.
Other cities and towns in New Hampshire may choose their Police Commissioners by other methods,
but this method has worked well for our city and has resulted in maintaining the high standards of
the Nashua Police Department.
Whether the number of Commissioners should be changed is a question best answered by the current
Commissioners.
In conclusion, I urge you to maintain the present system which allows the Nashua Police
Commission to ensure that the Nashua Police Department maintains the highest standards and
excellent service to our community.
Sincerely,
Victoria Chesterley
Victoria Chesterley
