Keene public meetings in 2021

City Council

The Keene City Council will confirm nominees for multiple boards and commissions, including the Planning Board and Conservation Commission. They will also hear reports on library funding, downtown infrastructure, and a tax relief application for two properties. Two ordinances will receive second readings, including one on face coverings and another on redistricting.

• Confirmations for Congregate Living and Social Services Licensing Board
• Authorization to enter a contract for Keene Public Library STEM toolkit ($15,000)
• Acceptance of FAA AIP Grant for Airport Taxiway ‘A’ Reconstruction ($450,000)
• 79E Community Revitalization Tax Relief Applications for 112 Washington Street and 310 Marlboro Street
• Second reading of Ordinance O-2021-16 on face coverings

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially act on several items, including accepting an FAA grant for airport taxiway reconstruction, moving forward with PEG programming, and an ordinance on redistricting ward lines. The committee will also receive updates on the downtown infrastructure project and consider resolutions related to a fire/EMS training fund and library services.

• Acceptance of FAA AIP Grant for Airport Taxiway 'A' Reconstruction
• Ordinance O-2021-15: Redistricting of Ward Lines
• Resolution R-2021-48: Fire/EMS Training and Public Education Revolving Fund
• Authorization to Enter into a Contract for Keene Public Library STEM and Maker Activities Toolkit
• Downtown Infrastructure Improvement and Reconstruction Project update

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Keene Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a variance request to allow a bicycle shop at 15 King Court, a property in the Low Density District where retail is not permitted. The board will also discuss updates to its rules of procedure, the 2022 calendar, and board memberships. The agenda includes standard items like minutes approval and introductions.

• Variance request ZBA 21-23 by Alpine Bike Works to operate a bicycle shop at 15 King Court (Tax Map #112-022-000-000-000), owned by Raette F. Trombly Living Trust
• Property is in Low Density District; retail not a permitted use per Chapter 100, Article 3.3.5
• Discussion of updates to Rules of Procedure
• Discussion of 2022 calendar
• Board memberships discussion

City Council

The Keene City Council is meeting to discuss and potentially act on several items, including a proposed mask ordinance for indoor settings, amendments to the Business, Growth and Reuse District ordinance, and redistricting of ward lines. The agenda also includes presentations on a retirement resolution, a CDBG project for the Community Kitchen, and reports on a dog park and disc golf course at Wheelock Park Campground. Several resolutions and ordinance readings are scheduled, along with a non-public session.

• Ordinance O-2021-16: Wearing of face coverings (first reading)
• Ordinance O-2021-14: Amendments to Business, Growth and Reuse District
• Ordinance O-2021-15: Redistricting of ward lines
• Repurposing Wheelock Park Campground for dog park and 9-hole disc golf course
• Bulletproof Vest Partnership Grant 2021 for Police Department

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will decide on a federal police vest grant, select a marketing vendor, and vote on two treasurer-related resolutions. Additional items include a charter amendment, a tax decrease proposal, remote participation rules, and ward redistricting.

• Bulletproof Vest Partnership Grant-2021 for Police Department
• Branding, Marketing and Communications Vendor Selection (IT Director/ACM)
• Resolution R-2021-43 (Office of the City Treasurer)
• Resolution R-2021-44 (Office of the City Treasurer)
• Ordinance O-2021-15 (Redistricting of Ward Lines) proposal

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

The Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee will discuss repurposing the Wheelock Park Campground, including designating a site for a community dog park and building a 9-hole disc golf course. They will also consider authorizing easements for Beaver Brook at Russell Park, a request to make Main Street a smoke-free zone, and maintenance of the Wilson Pond Dam. The meeting includes a non-public session.

• Repurposing Wheelock Park Campground: community dog park and 9-hole disc golf course
• Authorization to acquire easements for Beaver Brook at Russell Park
• Request to designate Main Street as a smoke-free zone
• Maintenance of the Wilson Pond Dam

City Council

The Keene City Council will hear a report on an allegation of fraud or misconduct in the municipal election, consider first reading of a redistricting ordinance, and vote on a resolution appropriating funds for the Solid Waste Fund. The agenda also includes a presentation on the county's acquisition of DiLuzio Ambulance and a request to use city property for an ice and snow festival.

• Report on allegation of fraud or misconduct in municipal election
• Ordinance O-2021-15: Redistricting of Ward Lines
• Resolution R-2021-42: Appropriation of funds for Solid Waste Fund
• Resolution R-2021-46: In support of Medicare for All
• Request to use city property for Ice and Snow Festival

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

The Planning, Licenses and Development Committee will hear an allegation of fraud or misconduct in the municipal election, consider a request from the Keene Downtown Group to use city property for an Ice and Snow Festival, and review proposed amendments to the Rules of Order. They will also discuss amendments to the Business, Growth and Reuse District Ordinance O-2021-14.

• Allegation of fraud or misconduct in municipal election by Mark Zuchowski
• Keene Downtown Group request to use city property for Ice and Snow Festival
• Proposed amendments to Rules of Order by City Clerk and City Attorney
• Amendments to Business, Growth and Reuse District Ordinance O-2021-14

City Council

The Keene City Council will vote on several resolutions, including appropriating funds for wastewater treatment plant projects and establishing the Office of the City Treasurer. They will also consider accepting grants for the police department and airport, negotiating an airport hangar lease, and accepting an opioid settlement proposal. Public hearings and presentations are scheduled, along with reports on a dog park, disc golf course, and a smoke-free Main Street request.

• Resolution R-2021-40: Appropriation from WWTP Capital Reserve Fund for lab renovation
• Resolution R-2021-41: Appropriation from Sewer Fund for NPDES permit project
• Resolution R-2021-43 and R-2021-44: Relating to the Office of the City Treasurer
• Acceptance of Law Enforcement Substance Abuse Initiative Grant and Federal Forfeiture Monies
• Negotiate lease of airport property for hangar development

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Keene Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on two variance requests from Eversource for property at 115 Park Ave. The requests seek to exceed Conservation District limits on impervious coverage and building height. The board will also review the New Land Development Code as new business.

• Variance ZBA 21-21: Allow 23% impervious coverage where 20% is permitted (115 Park Ave.)
• Variance ZBA 21-22: Allow 40-ft electrical enclosure where 35 ft is permitted (115 Park Ave.)
• New Land Development Code review

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will consider accepting several grants and donations, including a skate park donation, a law enforcement substance abuse grant, federal forfeiture monies, and an FAA ARPA grant for the airport. They will also discuss negotiating a lease for airport hangar development, a lease for 12 Gilbo Avenue, an opioid settlement proposal, and appropriations for wastewater treatment plant projects. Additionally, there are more time items proposed by councilors, including a charter amendment, a rooms and meals tax decrease, and continued remote participation.

• Acceptance of donation and update on Skate Park Project
• Acceptance of Law Enforcement Substance Abuse Initiative Grant
• Negotiate lease of airport property for hangar development
• Appropriation of funds from WWTP Capital Reserve Fund for Laboratory Renovation (R-2021-40)
• Appropriation of funds from Sewer Fund for NPDES Permit Project (R-2021-41)

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

The Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee will hear three citizen requests: designating a site for a community dog park, building a 9-hole disc golf course at the former Wheelock Park Campground, and designating Main Street as a smoke-free zone. The committee will also discuss maintenance of the Wilson Pond Dam. No votes are scheduled; these are discussion items.

• Rebecca Lancaster requests designation of a site for a community dog park
• Robert Johnson proposes a 9-hole disc golf course at former Wheelock Park Campground
• Monica Marshall requests Main Street be designated a smoke-free zone
• City Manager to discuss maintenance of Wilson Pond Dam

Planning Board

The Keene Planning Board will hold a public hearing on two items: a Surface Water Protection Conditional Use Permit for Eversource to replace utility poles along the W110 Distribution Line, and a 3-lot subdivision at 120 Stearns Rd. The board will also review minutes, discuss committee membership, and hear a report from the Community Development Director.

• Eversource proposes replacing 2 wood utility structures with steel ones, temporarily impacting 4,764 sq ft of Surface Water Protection Buffer
• 3-lot subdivision of 76-acre parcel at 120 Stearns Rd into 41.9, 12, and 22.1-acre lots
• Applicant requests exception to allow 4 dwellings on a common driveway (Section 22.5.4.A.5)
• Public hearing for SWP-CUP-03-21 and S-08-21

City Council

The Keene City Council will hear three citizen proposals, including a request to designate Main Street as a smoke-free zone and a plan to build a 9-hole disc golf course at the former Wheelock Park Campground. The council will also consider ordinances for first and second readings, including amendments to the Business, Growth and Reuse District Ordinance and the Land Development Code.

• Main Street smoke-free zone proposal (Monica Marshall)
• 9-hole disc golf course at former Wheelock Park Campground (Robert Johnson)
• Amendments to Business, Growth and Reuse District Ordinance O-2021-14
• Land Development Code amendments O-2021-12-A
• Appropriation of $X from Wastewater Treatment Plant Capital Reserve Fund for laboratory renovation (Resolution R-2021-40)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Keene Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a variance request for a property at 112 Washington St. The petitioner seeks to have 11 guest rooms where zoning allows only 9. The board will also review the new Land Development Code and approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• Variance request ZBA 21-20 for 112 Washington St. to allow 11 guest rooms instead of 9
• Review of new Land Development Code
• Approval of minutes from September 7, 2021 meeting

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will discuss and potentially act on several items, including accepting donations for a holiday family program, a grant for Russell Park renovations, energy incentive payments, a charter amendment on municipal primaries, a rooms and meals tax decrease, a strategic parking plan, and an ordinance allowing electronic signatures on official city documents. The committee will also consider continued remote participation for councilors.

• Acceptance of donations for Holiday Family Sponsorship Program
• Land and Water Conservation Grant for Russell Park Renovation Project
• Charter amendment related to municipal primary
• Rooms and meals tax decrease
• Ordinance O-2021-13 on electronic signatures for official city documents

City Council

The Keene City Council is meeting to consider a public hearing on amendments to the Land Development Code (Ordinance O-2021-12-A), along with several other items including a proposed dog park, a rooms and meals tax decrease, and a fireworks discharge request. The council will also review reports on a drainage petition, grant funding for youth services, tax deeds, a charter amendment, and a strategic parking plan, and will hold a first reading of an ordinance on electronic signatures.

• Public hearing on Land Development Code amendments (O-2021-12-A)
• Community dog park site designation request
• Rooms and meals tax decrease discussion
• Fireworks discharge permission request
• First reading of ordinance on electronic signatures (O-2021-13)

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

The Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee will hear a resident petition about drainage concerns on Barrett Avenue and Ingalls Street. The committee will also receive a report from the City Manager on maintenance of the Wilson Pond Dam.

• Petition regarding drainage issues on Barrett Avenue and Ingalls Street
• Maintenance report for Wilson Pond Dam

Jt. Planning Board and PLD Committee

The Keene Planning Board and Planning, Licenses and Development Committee are holding a public workshop to discuss Ordinance O-2021-12, which proposes amendments to the City's Land Development Code. The changes address inconsistencies identified by staff between the code's adoption and effective date, covering items like day care center classification, parking requirements, driveway standards, and definitions. No final decisions are being made at this workshop; it is a discussion session.

• Re-categorize 'Day Care Center' from Commercial to Institutional Use
• Remove onsite parking requirement for residential uses in Downtown Core District
• Amend driveway standards in Section 9.3
• Set minimum parking for self-storage to 1 space per 3,000 sq ft GFA
• Amend service connection fees in Appendix B

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will decide on accepting federal forfeiture monies for the Police Department and approve a NH DOT Highway Safety Grant. It will also review repair projects for Public Works, including a 1.5 million gallon storage tank and sludge pump replacements. Two resolutions will be voted on: one setting FY22 fiscal policies and another appropriating funds for Transfer Station repairs after fire damage.

• Police Department - Acceptance of Federal Forfeiture Monies
• Police Department - NH DOT Highway Safety Grant; Grant # 22-095
• Public Works - 1.5 Million Gallon Storage Tank Repair Project
• Public Works - Sludge Pump Replacement Project
• Resolution R-2021-37 (FY22 Fiscal Policies)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Keene Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on six variance requests, including two for the same property at 90-92 Victoria St. by Ells Electric, LLC. Other requests involve properties on Krif Rd., Winchester St., and Center St. The board will also review minutes and discuss revisions to its regulations.

• Variance to allow single-family home at 90-92 Victoria St. (Business Growth and Re-Use District)
• Variance to allow 19-ft frontage where 50 ft required at 90-92 Victoria St.
• Variance for roof encroaching setback at 0 Krif Rd. and 472 Winchester St. (Amerco Real Estate)
• Variance for motor vehicle rental business at 453 Winchester St. (Enterprise Rent-A-Car)
• Variances for residential use and parking at 27-29 Center St. (Harmon)

City Council

The Keene City Council is meeting to discuss and vote on a range of items, including fiscal policies for FY22, appropriations for a solar project at the wastewater treatment plant and repairs to the transfer station, and a second reading of an ordinance on involuntary merged lots. The agenda also includes presentations, appointments, and reports on various city matters.

• Resolution R-2021-37: Relating to FY22 Fiscal Policies
• Resolution R-2021-38: Appropriation from Sewer Fund for Wastewater Treatment Plant Solar Project
• Resolution R-2021-39: Appropriation from Solid Waste Fund for Transfer Station Fire Damage Repairs
• Ordinance O-2021-11-A: Second reading on Restoration of Involuntary Merged Lots
• Request to acquire land adjacent to 454 Elm Street

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

The Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee will review flooding issues at a residential property and a recommendation to rename the North Bridge. Additional items include use of city property for a marathon event and maintenance of the Wilson Pond Dam.

• Flooding at 36 Wetmore Street
• Renaming of the North Bridge (recommendation from Bicycle Pedestrian Path Advisory Board)
• Use of city property by Keene Elm City Rotary Club for Clarence DeMar Marathon
• Maintenance of the Wilson Pond Dam

Planning Board

The Keene Planning Board will hold public hearings on a proposed homeless shelter and a regulation change for Downtown Historic District site plan reviews. It will also consider a boundary line adjustment on Gilsum Street and review committee roles. The meeting is conducted via Zoom.

• Public hearing: SPR-04-21 – 15,000-sf homeless shelter at 122 & 124 Water St by Hundred Nights Inc.
• Public hearing: Proposed amendment to require Historic District Commission review for Major Site Plans in Downtown Historic District
• Boundary line adjustment: S-04-21 – transfer of 3,777 sf and 359 sf between 147 & 157 Gilsum St
• Minor Project Review Committee: review of roles and appointment of members

City Council

The Keene City Council will hold a public hearing on a charter amendment regarding wards, and will consider several ordinances and resolutions, including funding for emergency water main repairs and a solar project at the wastewater treatment plant. The agenda also includes nominations, appointments, and communications on topics like single-use plastics and a declaration of inclusion.

• Public hearing on Charter Amendment Section 2 'Wards'
• Ordinance O-2021-11: Restoration of Involuntary Merged Lots
• Ordinance O-2021-12: Amendments to Land Development Code
• Resolution R-2021-35: Appropriation for Martel Court Pumping Station Emergency Generator Replacement
• Resolution R-2021-36: Appropriation for Wetmore Street and Winchester Street Emergency Water Main Repair

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Keene Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a variance request for a property at 149 Hurricane Road to allow outdoor recreational activities and agricultural education as a business. The board will also review revisions to its regulations and approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• Variance request ZBA 21-13 for 149 Hurricane Road to permit outdoor recreational activity and agricultural education
• Revisions to Zoning Board of Adjustment Regulations, Section II-I
• Minutes approval for July 6, 2021 meeting

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will consider accepting several donations, appropriating funds for emergency repairs and equipment replacements, and waiving purchasing requirements for urgent water main repairs. They will also discuss continued remote participation for councilors and the evaluation process for charter employees.

• Acceptance of donation for Jonathan Daniels Trail Improvements
• Acceptance of donation for Fire Department
• Appropriation of funds for Martel Court Pumping Station Emergency Generator Replacement (R-2021-35)
• Appropriation of funds for Wetmore Street and Winchester Street Emergency Water Main Repair (R-2021-36)
• Waiver of purchasing requirements for Wetmore Street and Winchester Street Emergency Water Main Repair

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

The Planning, Licenses and Development Committee meeting scheduled for July 21, 2021, at Keene City Hall was canceled. No substantive agenda items were presented for discussion or decision.

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

The Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee will discuss the Sidewalk Asset Management Plan and maintenance of the Wilson Pond Dam. Councilor Williams will also propose renaming the North Bridge.

• Sidewalk Asset Management Plan review by Public Works Director
• Maintenance of Wilson Pond Dam by City Manager
• Proposal to rename North Bridge by Councilor Williams

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will hold a public hearing on a charter amendment to redraw ward lines, and will consider accepting grants and donations for the library, police, and youth services. The committee will also discuss ordinances on water/sewer charges and parking, plus mandatory training for city councilors and continued remote participation.

• Public hearing on charter amendment for redistricting of ward lines
• Acceptance of grant for library
• Acceptance of donation for bench in memory of Richard Berry
• FY21 DOJ Justice Assistance Grant for police
• Ordinance O-2021-10 on water and sewer utility charges

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

The Planning, Licenses and Development Committee will consider requests for fireworks, a marathon, parklets, and other city property uses. They will also discuss a proposed ordinance on parklets and small wireless facilities.

• Request to discharge fireworks (date change)
• Use of city property for Clarence DeMar Marathon
• Request to erect a parklet in public parking spaces
• Legislative authority to install parklets in parking spaces
• Small wireless facility deployments in public rights-of-way

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

The Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee will discuss the warrant for unlicensed dogs, municipal pool operations for 2021, and a sidewalk asset management plan. They will also consider maintenance of the Wilson Pond Dam and renaming the North Bridge if time permits.

• Warrant for unlicensed dogs
• Municipal pool operations for 2021
• Sidewalk asset management plan
• Maintenance of Wilson Pond Dam
• Renaming of North Bridge

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Keene Zoning Board of Adjustment is meeting to consider a variance request for a property at 26 Fairbanks St. The petitioner seeks to create a building lot of 5,583 square feet, below the 6,000 square feet required in the High Density District. The board will also review minutes from its previous meeting and handle any unfinished or new business.

• Variance request ZBA 21-12 for 26 Fairbanks St. to allow 5,583 sq ft lot where 6,000 sq ft required
• Petitioner: Todd Bergeron of 4 West Hill Rd., Troy, NH
• Represented by Jim Phippard of Brickstone Land Use Consultants
• Property in High Density District, Tax Map #116-032-000-000-000
• Minutes of June 7, 2021 meeting to be reviewed

City Council

The Keene City Council is meeting to discuss and vote on a range of items, including several ordinances, resolutions, and licenses. Key actions include a resolution to use eminent domain for the Winchester Street reconstruction, an ordinance on water and sewer charges, and a resolution on opioid settlement funds. The council will also consider applications for lodging house licenses and a CDBG application for Monadnock Family Services.

• Resolution R-2021-19-A: Eminent domain for Winchester Street Reconstruction Project
• Ordinance O-2021-10: Relating to Water and Sewer Utility Charges
• Ordinance O-2021-09: Relating to Parking
• Resolution R-2021-32: Opioid Litigation Settlement Revolving Fund
• Lodging house license applications for 85 Winchester St., 86 Winter St., 15 Lamson St., and 57 Winchester St.

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will discuss and potentially recommend action on several items, including a proposal to declare inclusion, a plan to change how ward boundaries are adjusted, and a response to PFAS contamination at 173 Wyman Road. The committee will also consider multiple change orders and contracts for wastewater and other projects, as well as resolutions on CDBG funds and opioid settlement funds.

• PFAS detection at 173 Wyman Road: propose 3-year carbon filtration system, ~$38,000 cost
• Redistricting of ward lines: propose charter amendment to remove street descriptions, ad hoc committee
• Change Order 2 with Aldrich & Elliot for Martell Court Pump Station engineering, not to exceed $163,400
• Change Order 2 with Underwood Engineers for Laboratory Renovation, not to exceed $12,800
• Resolution R-2021-32: establish Opioid Litigation Settlement Revolving Fund

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

The Planning, Licenses and Development Committee will review annual lodginghouse license applications for four properties and a request to use city property for the 2021 Fire Prevention Parade. The committee will also continue a discussion on parklets. All lodginghouse applications were referred from the City Council.

• 2021 Fire Prevention Parade request to use city streets and parking lot at 350 Marlboro Street on October 3
• Lodginghouse license application for 85 Winchester Street (Albert Grauer)
• Lodginghouse license application for 86 Winter Street (Cheshire Housing Trust)
• Lodginghouse license application for 15 Lamson Street (Hundred Nights, Inc.)
• Lodginghouse license application for 57 Winchester Street (Donna Forte)

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will receive the FY20 audit presentation, discuss water/sewer rate methodology, and consider accepting sponsorships and donations for parks and recreation. It will also review a request to sell a 0.63-acre city-owned access strip on Chapman Road and a proposed hydro reimbursement agreement expected to provide $15,000–$20,000 annually for the Community Power program.

• FY20 audit presentation (informational)
• Sponsorships: $500 basketball jerseys, $450 Recreation Center banner
• Donation of public contribution box for Keene Public Library entrance
• Purchase of 0.63-acre Chapman Road access strip for negotiation with Burkes
• Standard Power hydro reimbursement agreement projected to yield $15,000–$20,000 annually

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

The Planning, Licenses and Development Committee is meeting to consider several requests, including a fireworks display, use of city property for a road race and music festival, and a parklet for outdoor dining. The committee also discussed a request to support the Improved Medicare Act of 2021 but deferred it to a future meeting due to technical difficulties.

• Kevin Watterson/Swamp Bats – Request to Discharge Fireworks
• Jan Manwaring/Pathways for Keene – Request to Use City Property for 4 on the 4th Road Race
• James Murphy – In Support of the Improved Medicare Act of 2021 (deferred)
• Danya Landis/Machina Arts – Request to Erect a Parklet in Parallel Parking Spaces for Outdoor Dining
• Keene Music Festival and Kiwanis Club – Requests to Use City Property

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will decide on grants, capital transfers, and ordinances including $25,000 for HazMat equipment, $10,000 for a historical crowdsourcing tool, $45,000 for pool repairs, and $460,000 for police body-worn cameras. It will also review tax exemption resolutions and sidewalk maintenance priorities.

• Accept $25,000 Homeland Security grant for Fire Department HazMat equipment
• Transfer $45,000 from operating budget to Municipal Parks for Wheelock & Robin Hood pool improvements
• Transfer $460,000 to buy police body-worn cameras, tablets, training, and in-car video systems from BodyWorn by Pileum Corporation
• Adopt Ordinance O-2021-05-A clarifying Assessor’s Board powers and duties
• Review five tax-exemption resolutions (R-2021-25 through R-2021-30)

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

The Planning, Licenses and Development Committee will discuss a proposed parklet program for downtown Keene, including potential locations and fees, and consider requests for fireworks, art walks, and an outdoor art market. The committee will also hear a petition supporting the Improved Medicare Act and a request about small wireless facility deployments.

• Swampbats request to discharge fireworks for July 3rd display on Alumni Field
• Keene Downtown Group requests Street Fair License for art walk on June 5 and 12, with free parking
• Friends of Public Art requests use of Railroad Square for outdoor art market on June 5, July 30, Sept 4, Oct 2
• Machina Arts requests parklet in three parking spaces at 9 Court Street for outdoor dining
• Discussion of parklet program with proposed locations on Court, Roxbury, Railroad, and Winter Streets

City Council

The Keene City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on amending a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to increase funding for Community Kitchen’s facility improvements at 37 Mechanic Street, originally awarded $500,000 but now requesting an additional $157,585 due to COVID-19-related construction cost overruns. The meeting will also include discussions on ordinances, resolutions, and various departmental reports, including police grants and landfill monitoring.

• CDBG grant amendment for Community Kitchen upgrades at 37 Mechanic Street, increasing funding from $500,000 to $657,585
• Approval of $1 million liability insurance for Keene State College fireworks display on May 15, 2021
• Sidewalk cafe licenses for Trax Club (6 tables, 36 chairs) and Brewbakers Cafe on Railroad Square
• Acceptance of $250 donation for Keene Fire Department
• Cheshire Rail Trail Phase III consultant selection and fund appropriation

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will review and recommend actions on several financial items, including accepting grants and donations, approving change orders, and transferring funds for a new financial software package. The committee will also discuss the FY 2021-2022 operating budget and other resolutions.

• Transfer $520,000 for Tyler Technologies financial software package
• Accept $4,501.01 (2018) and $30,515 (2019) Homeland Security grants for police equipment
• Approve change order for Envirotrac landfill monitoring, not to exceed $15,277
• Repurpose $154,841.40 from completed airport projects for fuel farm replacement
• Appropriate funds for Cheshire Rail Trail Phase III (Resolution R-2021-24)

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

The Planning, Licenses and Development Committee will continue discussing whether to extend Keene's face-covering ordinance, with health officials and Keene State College recommending keeping it until June 1. The committee will also consider several requests to use city property for events, including the Keene Music Festival, Art Walk, Tree Lighting Ceremony, and an outdoor art market. Other agenda items include amendments to the Land Development Code and ordinances on social service and congregate care uses.

• Continued discussion on extending the face-covering ordinance (O-2021-07) through June 1
• Keene Music Festival request for annual license to use city property on September 4, 2021
• Keene Downtown Group request for Street Fair License for Art Walk on June 5 and June 12, including free parking
• Kiwanis Club request for license to hold Tree Lighting Ceremony on Central Square on November 26, 2021
• Friends of Public Art request to use Railroad Square grassy area for outdoor art market on four dates

City Council

The Keene City Council is meeting to consider the FY 2021-2022 operating budget, a major land development code overhaul, and several ordinances including face covering requirements. The agenda includes public hearings, first and second readings of ordinances, and resolutions on topics like eminent domain and rail trail funding. The meeting is held remotely due to COVID-19.

• Resolution R-2021-22: FY 2021-2022 Operating Budget
• Ordinance O-2021-07: Wearing of Face Coverings
• Resolution R-2021-19: Petition to Acquire Property by Eminent Domain for Highway Purposes
• Resolution R-2021-24: Cheshire Rail Trail Phase III - Appropriation of Funds
• Ordinance O-2021-03: Designated Loading Zones (second reading)

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will decide on accepting donations for the Library Renovation Project totaling $9,047 and authorize a $3,000 study connecting downtown Keene to local trails. It will also discuss the City of Keene Community Power Plan and water/sewer rate methodology.

• Accept $9,047 in donations for Library Renovation Project
• Authorize $3,000 Downtown to Trails Study with UNH Cooperative Extension
• Vote on CDBG grant amendment for Community Kitchen improvements
• Consider deed waivers for 4 properties with outstanding 2017 taxes
• Review City of Keene Community Power Plan for adoption

City Council

The Keene City Council will hold a remote meeting on April 15, 2021, to confirm a nominee to the Energy and Climate Committee and discuss several citizen requests, including a permit for Brewbakers Cafe to serve alcohol on city property for a sidewalk cafe. The Council will also hear reports from city officers and boards, including updates on the Community Power Plan and continued discussion on water and sewer rates.

• Confirmation of Bryan Lake to Energy and Climate Committee
• Brewbakers Cafe request to serve alcohol on city property for sidewalk cafe on Emerald Street
• Denise Meadows request to convert loading zone on Railroad Street to mobile vendor space
• Continued discussion on water and sewer methodology and rates
• Ordinance O-2021-03 first reading: Designated Loading Zones

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will discuss the Ad Hoc Racial Justice and Community Safety Committee's final report, consider accepting several grants and donations, and continue discussions on water and sewer rates. The agenda also includes a request from Cheshire TV to address councilors, and items on body-worn cameras and remote participation.

• Report from Ad Hoc Racial Justice and Community Safety Committee with recommendations
• Acceptance of donations for Parks, Recreation and Facilities
• Acceptance of 2017 Homeland Security Grant for HazMat allocation
• PANJUNDRUM Foundation Grant for Police
• FAA CRRSAA Grant for Airport and Airport Restaurant Lease

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

The Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee will discuss three items: a request to convert a loading zone on Railroad Street to a mobile vendor space, a referred-back request for an exception to public improvement standards for Liberty Utilities to restore asphalt sidewalks on Roxbury Street, and a proposed ordinance updating sewer service and industrial pretreatment regulations. The committee will also consider maintenance of the Wilson Pond Dam in a non-public session.

• Request to convert loading zone on Railroad Street to mobile vendor space
• Exception to Public Improvement Standards for Liberty Utilities to use asphalt on Roxbury Street sidewalks
• Ordinance O-2021-02 updating Sewer Service and Industrial Pretreatment regulations
• Maintenance of Wilson Pond Dam (non-public session)

City Council

The Keene City Council is meeting to hold public hearings on current CDBG projects (Monadnock Food Co-op Expansion and SCS/Shelter Improvements) and a water and sewer rate presentation. The Council will also consider confirmations and nominations to city committees, several requests to use city property, and a first reading of a sewer service ordinance. The meeting is being held remotely via Zoom due to the COVID-19 state of emergency.

• Public hearings on CDBG projects: Monadnock Food Co-op Expansion and SCS/Shelter Improvements
• Water and sewer rate presentation by Raftelis
• Request to convert loading zone space on Railroad Street to a mobile vendor space
• Lease agreement for Airport Amusements – Runway Fund Park, LLC
• First reading of Sewer Service and Industrial Pretreatment Ordinance O-2021-02

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will consider several financial items, including a fee waiver for the Farmers Market of Keene, acceptance of a wellness grant, a report on donations, a lease agreement for an airport property, and a change order for wastewater treatment plant permit work. The committee will also discuss body-worn cameras for police, continued remote participation for some councilors, and the evaluation process for charter employees.

• Farmers Market of Keene requests waiver/reduction of parking and electrical fees for use of Gilbo Avenue and Commercial Street lot spaces (April 24–October 30, 2021)
• Request to accept $2,000 wellness grant from HealthTrust for employee wellness activities in 2021
• Report on 2020 donations (e.g., 200 oral care kits from Northeast Delta Dental, $150 Target gift card) and request to solicit donations for 2021
• Lease agreement with Runway Fun Park LLC for land at 471 Old Homestead Highway for restaurant/amusement venue
• Change Order 2 with Weston & Sampson Engineers for NPDES permit renewal, not to exceed $25,000; reallocation of bond funds (Resolution R-2021-14)

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

The Keene Planning, Licenses and Development Committee will discuss several items, including a request to take a position on state immigration bill HB 266, a request to use city property for outdoor dining, and a proposal to endorse a carbon fee and dividend. The committee will also continue discussions on congregate living and social services licensing, and on keeping minutes of meetings between the mayor, charter officers, and committee chairs.

• Discussion of HB 266, a state bill on immigration enforcement and sanctuary policies
• Request by Darren Humphrey to use grassy area near Railroad Square for outdoor dining
• Proposal to endorse Carbon Fee & Dividend, a revenue-neutral carbon pricing policy
• Continued discussion on congregate living and social services license ordinance O-2019-13 and O-2019-14
• Land Development Code and Downtown Zoning Update ordinances O-2020-10 and O-2020-11

City Council

The Keene City Council will meet remotely to fill a vacant Ward 3 council seat and nominate members to multiple boards and committees. They will also hear reports on a Transportation Heritage Trail grant application, homeless shelter operations, and a farmer’s market fee waiver request.

• Election to fill Ward Three Council Vacancy
• Grant application for Transportation Heritage Trail ($2.1M federal grant sought)
• Farmer’s Market of Keene requests waiver or reduction in fees for city property use
• Hundred Nights homeless shelter presentation on 2020 operations and needs
• Proposed termination of contract with Cheshire TV

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will consider accepting a $500 donation to the Fire Department, approving a $4,400 change order for laboratory heating and ventilation design, accepting an $8,500 state grant for fencing at Babbidge Reservoir, and supporting a grant application for rail trail signage. The committee will also discuss body-worn cameras for police, continued remote participation for councilors, and the evaluation process for charter employees.

• Accept $500 donation from Dr. Daniel Rath to Keene Fire Department
• Approve Change Order 1 with Underwood Engineers for lab HVAC design, not to exceed $4,400
• Accept $8,500 NHDES Local Source Water Protection Grant for 400 ft fence at Babbidge Reservoir
• Support MAST grant application for rail trail signage, total $19,048, city share $4,075
• Discuss body-worn cameras for police

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

The Keene Planning, Licenses and Development Committee will consider several items, including the Farmers' Market of Keene's request to use city property on Gilbo Avenue with a fee waiver or reduction, and Granite Roots Brewing's request to sell alcohol at the market. The committee will also discuss a request from Representative Joe Schapiro for the city to take a position on HB 266 regarding immigration enforcement, and a request from Councilor Filiault for minutes to be kept at meetings between the mayor, charter officers, and committee chairs. Additionally, the committee will review Ordinance O-2021-01, which proposes temporarily removing a building permit restriction during the period between the legal notice and effective date of the upcoming Land Development Code and downtown zoning changes.

• Farmers' Market of Keene requests use of Gilbo Avenue parking spaces for Saturdays from April 1 and Tuesdays from May 4 through October, with fee waiver or reduction
• Granite Roots Brewing requests permission to sell 16 oz cans of beer at the Farmers' Market for 2021 season
• Representative Joe Schapiro urges city to take a position on HB 266, which would require municipal cooperation with federal immigration enforcement
• Councilor Filiault requests a minute taker at bi-weekly meetings of city staff and committee chairs
• Ordinance O-2021-01 proposes temporary removal of building permit restriction in Chapter 18 during the gap between legal notice (April 2) and effective date (July 1) of zoning changes

City Council

The Keene City Council will hold its regular meeting on March 4, 2021, with several items for discussion and decision. Key items include a request to sell tax-deeded property at 62 Elm Street, a first reading of an ordinance related to building regulations, and a request from Granite Roots Brewing to sell alcohol at the Farmers' Market. The council will also hear reports on the annual ESCO cost avoidance report, a new citizen reporting system, and a resolution on fair nonpartisan redistricting.

• Sale of tax-deeded property at 62 Elm Street
• First reading of Ordinance O-2021-01 relating to Chapter 18 Building Regulations
• Request from Granite Roots Brewing to sell alcohol at the Farmers' Market of Keene
• Presentation of Annual ESCO Cost Avoidance Report Year 8 – 2020
• Resolution for Fair Nonpartisan Redistricting

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will discuss and possibly recommend action on three items: accepting a $200 donation for a Bee City application, using unspent community event funds to cover $16,953 in city services for a downtown food festival, and authorizing the sale of a tax-deeded property at 62 Elm Street. The committee will also continue discussions on charter employee evaluations and hear updates on body-worn cameras and remote participation.

• Accept $200 donation from John and Claire Therriault for Bee City application
• Use up to $16,953 from FY21 Community Event budget for KYPN Summer Food Festival on June 5, 2021
• Authorize sealed bid sale of 62 Elm Street (Map 554 Lot 24), a 2,246 sq ft home taken by tax deed for unpaid 2017 taxes
• Continued discussion on evaluation process for charter employees
• Police Chief update on body-worn cameras

City Council

The Keene City Council is meeting remotely to discuss several items, including an update on the Roxbury Street flood improvement project, a request to use city property, and a report on body-worn cameras from the police chief. The council will also consider confirmations and nominations for the Energy & Climate Committee, and a resolution related to 'Bee City USA'.

• Roxbury Street Flood Improvement Project update
• Roxbury Street Sewer Replacement funding request
• Body Worn Cameras report from Police Chief
• Resolution R-2021-06 relating to 'Bee City USA'
• Confirmation and nomination for Energy & Climate Committee

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

The Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee will receive an update on the Roxbury Street Flood Improvement Project, which will replace an aging stormwater line to reduce flooding. The committee will also review Resolution R-2021-06 to make Keene a 'Bee City USA,' a designation requiring annual pollinator projects and education. The meeting includes a non-public session on Wilson Pond Dam maintenance.

• Roxbury Street Flood Improvement Project update: replace 1891/1899 brick stormwater line from Central Square to Beaver Brook, upsize from 36-inch to 60-inch pipe
• Project includes water main replacement, curb/sidewalk repair, and roadway restoration; construction impacts expected for adjacent properties and businesses
• Resolution R-2021-06: 'Bee City USA' designation, requiring annual pollinator habitat project, educational event, and policy review
• Non-public session: Maintenance of the Wilson Pond Dam

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

The Planning, Licenses and Development Committee will hear three substantive items: a request from the New England Aerobatic Club to use city property at Dillant-Hopkins Airport, a letter from a councilor urging the governor to move teachers into Phase 1B of the COVID vaccine rollout, and a recommendation from the Energy & Climate Committee to oppose a state bill that would restrict municipal aggregation of electric customers.

• Weston Liu – New England Aerobatic Club – request to use city property at Dillant-Hopkins Airport
• Councilor Johnsen – letter urging Governor Sununu to move teachers into Phase 1B of COVID vaccine rollout
• Energy & Climate Committee – recommendation to oppose HB 315, which would limit municipal aggregation of electric customers

City Council

The Keene City Council is meeting to discuss several infrastructure and administrative items, including deteriorating conditions on Thompson Road, acceptance of grant funding for complete street infrastructure, a lease agreement at 12 Gilbo Avenue, HVAC upgrades at City Hall, and a consultant selection for the City Hall rear wall project. The council will also consider confirmations and nominations for the Planning Board and Energy & Climate Committee, and address the resignation of Ward 3 Councilor Terry Clark. The meeting will be held remotely via Zoom due to the COVID-19 state of emergency.

• Resignation of Ward 3 Councilor Terry Clark
• Verbal update on deteriorating conditions on Thompson Road
• Acceptance of grant funding for Complete Street Infrastructure
• Lease agreement with Senator Shaheen at 12 Gilbo Avenue
• Upgrades to HVAC systems at City Hall

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

The Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee will receive a verbal update from the City Engineer on deteriorating conditions on Thompson Road, and will discuss maintenance of the Wilson Pond Dam with the City Manager. The meeting will be held remotely via Zoom due to the COVID-19 state of emergency.

• Verbal update on deteriorating conditions on Thompson Road
• Discussion of Wilson Pond Dam maintenance
• Non-public session scheduled

City Council

The Keene City Council will hold a remote meeting to discuss and act on several items, including confirmations and nominations to city boards, a request to use city property, reports on various projects and contracts, and multiple resolutions. The agenda includes items on small wireless facility deployments, a contract change order, and several resolutions, including one on the use of fund balance for SCBA masks.

• Request from New England Aerobatic Club to use city property
• Professional services contract change order with CMA Engineers for fire suppression and structural support at the Transfer Station
• Colony Court sewer replacement consultant selection
• Resolution R-2021-01 on use of fund balance for SCBA masks
• Resolution R-2020-38 on discontinuance petition by Colonial Theater Group

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will review several items including a $32,145 change order for engineering services related to fire suppression and roof support at the Transfer Station, a $70,000 contract for sewer replacement design, and a resolution to use $15,960 in fund balance for SCBA masks. They will also consider accepting donations and a FEMA grant for a City Hall generator.

• Change order with CMA Engineers for $32,145 for fire suppression and roof support at Transfer Station
• Professional services contract with DuBois & King for $70,000 for Colony Court Sewer Replacement
• Resolution R-2021-01 to appropriate $15,960 from fund balance for SCBA masks
• Accept $1,350 bench donation from Jane Nolan for Ashuelot River Park
• Accept FEMA Emergency Management Performance Grant up to $75,000 for City Hall generator

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

The Planning, Licenses and Development Committee will hear a presentation on the City of Keene’s draft Sustainable Energy Plan, which sets a 100% renewable energy goal by 2050 with an interim target of 100% renewable electricity by 2030. The plan outlines past climate actions, public engagement efforts, and guiding principles for the transition.

• Keene Sustainable Energy Program – Energy and Climate Committee presentation
• City of Keene Land Development Code and Downtown Zoning Update (discussion item)
• Relating to Social Service and Congregate Care Uses and License (discussion item)

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

The Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee will hear an update from the City Clerk on the civil forfeiture process for unlicensed dogs, which has been delayed due to COVID-19, and will consider a petition to discontinue a portion of the Commercial Street Parking Area for the Colonial Theater Group. The meeting is held remotely via Zoom due to the state of emergency.

• Update on civil forfeitures for unlicensed dogs, including suspension of penalties until May 1, 2021
• Petition R-2020-38 for complete discontinuance of a portion of Commercial Street Parking Area
• Conditions for discontinuance include property owner agreement, indemnification, and petitioner bearing costs