NASHUA — Recent criticism over how the Review and Comment Commission operates has prompted the creation of two ordinances, but not all city officials believe that legislation is the answer.

A proposed ordinance has been created by Ward 3 Alderman Diane Sheehan that — if approved by the Board of Aldermen — will authorize the Review and Comment Commission, in conjunction with the aldermanic Human Affairs Committee, to establish and approve procedures to be used by the commission when reviewing annual funding requests.

The Review and Comment Commission is a volunteer board charged with designating city funds to various human service agencies each budget cycle.

Earlier this year, some aldermen criticized the commission for failing to provide necessary budget documentation, including minutes from meetings, and also questioned why certain agencies were recommended cuts in funding while other agencies received budget increases.

At least three aldermen said last week that legislation may not be the best way to address the issue.

Ward 7 Alderman June Caron noted it is already difficult to find volunteers. In addition, Caron said it isn't up to aldermen, or the Human Affairs Committee, to set priorities for the needs of the Review and Comment Commission. The commission, she stressed, should operate as an objective board, and base funding decisions on research and applications from agencies.

“I am not in the mood to legislate judgment,” agreed Ward 9 Alderman Daniel Moriarty. “I still haven't heard any breakdown in anything that occurred.”

This year, there was nearly $780,000 in funds requested by 28 agencies, and a pool of $438,000 in city dollars and $82,000 in federal dollars available for distribution.

Alderman-at-Large Lori Wilshire said she had concerns after asking for specific information and not being provided with answers by commissioners.

“That sent up a red flag for me,” said Wilshire. “I think we expect a little more from the commissioners.”

Still, Alderman-at-Large Mark Cookson cautioned his fellow board members that an ordinance may not be the correct solution.

“I don't think a piece of legislation is necessary for this,” Cookson said, noting the commission — which has been in existence for at least 20 years — already has a set of procedures in place.

Cookson said the commission has already begun addressing concerns raised earlier this year regarding the recording of minutes and votes.

“They are being very responsive,” he said.

Last week, the Human Affairs Committee tabled the two proposed ordinances on this matter.

khoughton@newstote.com