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Keene, NH

Keene public meetings in 2021

86 substantive meetings from 2021, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.

Thu Dec 16, 2021 · 19:00

City Council

City Council to confirm nominees and hear library funding updates

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.

appointmentslibrary-fundingairport-grantstax-reliefface-coveringsredistrictingdowntown-infrastructure
Council Chambers, Keene
Thu Dec 9, 2021 · 18:00

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

Keene committee to weigh airport taxiway grant, redistricting, and library funding

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.

airportbudgetcontractsgrantslibrarypublic-safetyredistrictingroads
Mon Dec 6, 2021 · 18:30

Zoning Board of Adjustment

ZBA to hear variance request for bike shop at 15 King Court

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.

zoningvariancepublic-hearingretailbike-shop
Thu Dec 2, 2021 · 19:00

City Council

Council to consider mask ordinance and redistricting changes

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.

zoningpublic-healthredistrictingparkspolicegrants
3 Washington Street, Keene
Tue Nov 23, 2021 · 18:30

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

Committee to vote on police grants, vendor contracts, and treasurer resolutions

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.

policegrantsmarketingtreasurertaxcharterredistricting
Tue Nov 23, 2021 · 17:30

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

Committee to discuss repurposing Wheelock Park Campground for dog park and disc golf

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.

parksrecreationeasementssmoke-freedam-maintenance
Mon Nov 22, 2021 · 18:30

Planning Board

Planning Board reviews site modifications for carwash, U-Haul, and landscaping

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding site plan modifications for several local properties. Discussions include parking reconfigurations at Mint Carwash and building renovations at U-Haul of South Keene.

zoningsite-plancommercial-developmentland-usepublic-hearing
Thu Nov 18, 2021 · 19:00

City Council

Council to hear fraud allegation, redistricting, and Solid Waste fund appropriation

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.

electionsredistrictingbudgetsolid-wastepublic-safetyhealthcarecommunity-events
Wed Nov 10, 2021 · 18:00

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

Committee to hear fraud allegation, ice festival request, rule changes

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.

electionsfraudfestivalrules-of-orderzoningordinance
Thu Nov 4, 2021 · 19:00

City Council

Council to consider airport hangar lease, grants, and opioid settlement

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.

budgetgrantsairportpolicewastewateropioid-settlementpublic-hearings
3 Washington Street, Keene
Mon Nov 1, 2021 · 18:30

Zoning Board of Adjustment

ZBA to hear Eversource variances for Park Ave. substation

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.

zoningvarianceconservation-districteversourceland-development-code
Thu Oct 28, 2021 · 18:00

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

Keene committee to consider grants, leases, and wastewater funding

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.

grantspoliceairportwastewaterbudgetleasesopioid-settlement
Wed Oct 27, 2021 · 18:00

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

Committee to consider dog park, disc golf course, smoke-free Main Street

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.

parksrecreationpublic-healthinfrastructuredog-parkdisc-golfsmoke-free
Mon Oct 25, 2021 · 00:00

Planning Board

Planning Board to hear Eversource pole replacement and 3-lot subdivision at 120 Stearns Rd

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.

zoningsubdivisionutilitiessurface-water-protectionpublic-hearing
Thu Oct 21, 2021 · 19:00

City Council

City Council hears proposals for Main Street smoke-free zone and disc golf course

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.

zoningpublic-healthparks-recreationbudgetordinances
Mon Oct 18, 2021 · 18:30

Zoning Board of Adjustment

ZBA to hear variance request for 11 guest rooms at 112 Washington St.

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.

zoningvarianceguest-roomsland-development-code
Thu Oct 14, 2021 · 18:00

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

Keene committee to weigh charter amendment, parking plan, and electronic signatures

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.

donationsgrantsparkscharter-amendmenttaxesparkingordinanceremote-participation
Wed Oct 13, 2021 · 18:00

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

Committee to review land development code and city property use requests

The Planning, Licenses and Development Committee is meeting to consider several requests to use city property, including for snowmobile season and a tree lighting ceremony, and an assignment of license for a property on Roxbury Street. They will also discuss an ordinance relating to the Land Development Code and a more time item on small wireless facility deployments in public rights-of-way.

city-propertyland-development-codelicensespublic-rights-of-waysnowmobiletree-lighting
Thu Oct 7, 2021 · 19:00

City Council

Keene City Council to hold public hearing on Land Development Code amendments

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.

zoningland-development-codedog-parktaxfireworksordinanceparkingyouth-services
3 Washington Street, Keene
Mon Sep 27, 2021 · 18:30

Planning Board

Planning Board to discuss boundary adjustments and a subdivision at Wyman Road

The Planning Board will consider a boundary line adjustment between 56 and 0 Chapman Road. They will also hold a public hearing regarding a proposed subdivision of a 74.82-acre parcel at 152 Wyman Road.

zoningsubdivisionland-usepublic-hearing
Thu Sep 23, 2021 · 18:00

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

Committee to accept state grant for youth diversion, tax deeds

The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will consider accepting a State of New Hampshire grant for Youth Services' juvenile court diversion programming and approving tax deeds for unpaid 2018 property taxes. They will also discuss a request for continued remote participation by three councilors. The meeting includes a non-public session.

grantsyouth-servicestaxespropertyremote-participation
Wed Sep 22, 2021 · 18:00

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

Residents petition city over drainage issues on Barrett Avenue and Ingalls Street

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.

drainageinfrastructurepublic-hearingwater-managementpetition
Thu Sep 16, 2021 · 19:00

City Council

Keene City Council to consider FY22 fiscal policies and transfer station fire repair funding

The Keene City Council is meeting to discuss and potentially act on several items, including a resolution on FY22 fiscal policies and a resolution to appropriate funds from the Solid Waste Fund for repairing the transfer station after fire damage. The agenda also includes presentations on a retirement resolution and the 2021 property revaluation, as well as appointments, communications, and committee reports on various topics.

budgetfiscal-policyfire-damagetransfer-stationproperty-revaluationappointmentsbridge-renaming
Council Chambers, Keene
Mon Sep 13, 2021 · 18:30

Jt. Planning Board and PLD Committee

Keene boards to review proposed Land Development Code amendments

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.

zoningland-development-codeparkingpublic-workshopordinance
Thu Sep 9, 2021 · 18:00

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

Committee to accept federal forfeiture funds and approve grant applications

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.

policegrantspublic-worksbudgetfire-damage
Tue Sep 7, 2021 · 18:30

Zoning Board of Adjustment

ZBA hears six variance requests, including two for 90-92 Victoria St.

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.

zoningvariancepublic-hearingkeenebusiness-districtresidential
Thu Sep 2, 2021 · 19:00

City Council

Council to consider FY22 fiscal policies and multiple fund appropriations

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.

budgetordinancefiscal-policysewersolid-wastezoningpublic-works
3 Washington Street, Keene
Thu Aug 26, 2021 · 18:30

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

Committee to review West Keene Fire Station feasibility study

The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee is meeting to discuss and decide on several items, including a land acquisition request, a fire station feasibility study, grant applications, and an ordinance on merged lots. The agenda also includes a resolution to fund a solar project at the wastewater treatment plant and a discussion on evaluating charter employees.

fire-stationgrantsland-acquisitionsewer-fundsolar-projectordinancepersonnel
Wed Aug 25, 2021 · 19:00

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

Committee to discuss airport lease, music fest, and code changes

The Keene Planning, Licenses and Development Committee will consider requests to use city property for the Keene Music Festival and the Clarence DeMar Marathon, discuss negotiating a lease of airport property, and review proposed amendments to the Land Development Code (Ordinance O-2021-12). They will also discuss small wireless facility deployments in public rights-of-way and a request for the Kiwanis Club tree lighting ceremony. The meeting includes a non-public session.

airportland-development-codepublic-propertyspecial-eventswireless
Wed Aug 25, 2021 · 17:30

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

Committee to discuss flooding at 36 Wetmore Street and North Bridge renaming

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.

floodinginfrastructurerenamingparks-recreationdam-maintenance
Mon Aug 23, 2021 · 18:30

Planning Board

Planning Board to hold public hearing on 15,000-sf homeless shelter at 122-124 Water St

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.

planning-boardpublic-hearinghomeless-sheltersite-planboundary-line-adjustmenthistoric-districtzoning
Thu Aug 19, 2021 · 19:00

City Council

Council to hold public hearing on charter amendment changing ward boundaries

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.

charter-amendmentwardsordinancesresolutionswater-mainsolar-projectplasticsinclusion
Mon Aug 2, 2021 · 00:00

Zoning Board of Adjustment

Zoning board to hear outdoor recreational variance request for Hurricane Road property

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.

zoningvariancerecreationagriculturepublic-hearing
Thu Jul 22, 2021 · 18:30

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

Committee to consider emergency water main repair funding and generator replacement

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.

donationscapital-reserveemergency-repairswater-maingeneratorpurchasingremote-participationevaluation
Wed Jul 21, 2021 · 19:00

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

Committee cancels July 21 meeting; no substantive items listed

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.

canceledplanninglicensesdevelopment
Wed Jul 21, 2021 · 17:30

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

Committee to review sidewalk plan and Wilson Pond Dam maintenance

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.

sidewalksinfrastructuredam-maintenancebridge-renamingpublic-works
Thu Jul 15, 2021 · 19:00

City Council

Keene City Council discusses ward redistricting and utility ordinances

The City Council will hold a public hearing regarding a charter amendment for the redistricting of ward lines. The meeting also includes discussions on parking and water/sewer utility ordinances, as well as emergency repair appropriations.

zoningutilitiespublic-hearinggovernment-structureinfrastructure
Thu Jul 8, 2021 · 18:30

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

Keene committee to weigh charter amendment on ward redistricting

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.

budgetcharter-amendmentgrantsordinanceparkingredistrictingutilities
✓ Decided: Keene committee advances ward redistricting charter change to August 19 hearing

The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee voted 3-0 to recommend a public hearing on August 19, 2021 for a charter amendment that would delete street-by-street ward descriptions, make the City Council the authority to redistrict ward lines, and codify the process in City Code. The committee also voted 3-0 to recommend accepting a $5,260 library grant, a donated memorial bench, a $5,590 DOJ Justice Assistance Grant co-application with Cheshire County, and up to $5,000 in NH Juvenile Court Diversion Network funds. It recommended adoption of water and sewer rate Ordinance O-2021-10 and parking Ordinance O-2021-09, both 3-0. A request from Councilor Madison for mandatory councilor training was referred to staff for workplace harassment and professional ethics in January 2022 orientation, with implicit bias training referred for further investigation.

Wed Jul 7, 2021 · 19:00

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

Committee to weigh parklets, fireworks, and event permits

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.

fireworksmarathonparkletswirelesspermitspublic-property
✓ Decided: Committee recommends seeking state authority to allow parklets in parking spaces

The committee recommended approaching Senator Kahn to introduce legislation granting municipalities the authority to allow parklets in public parking spaces. A request for a fireworks date change was approved, while a marathon request was tabled for further staff review.

Wed Jul 7, 2021 · 17:30

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

Committee to review pool operations, sidewalk plan, dog warrant

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.

dogsparkssidewalksdamsbridges
✓ Decided: Committee authorizes warrant for unlicensed dogs and reviews pool operations

The Committee approved the issuance of a warrant for civil forfeitures against owners of unlicensed dogs. Members also received an informational presentation regarding 2021 municipal pool operations, which are currently consolidated at Wheelock Pool due to staffing shortages and planned construction at Robin Hood Pool. A discussion on the Sidewalk Asset Management Plan was tabled until the next meeting.

3 Washington Street, Keene
Tue Jul 6, 2021 · 18:30

Zoning Board of Adjustment

ZBA to hear variance request for undersized lot on Fairbanks St.

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.

zoningvariancepublic-hearing
Thu Jul 1, 2021 · 19:00

City Council

Council to consider eminent domain for Winchester Street project

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.

eminent-domainordinanceslicensesopioid-settlementwater-sewerparkingcdbg
✓ Decided: Keene Council backs $500K CDBG grant for Monadnock Family Services facility

The Keene City Council adopted Resolution R-2021-31, approving a $500,000 Community Development Block Grant application for Monadnock Family Services, along with the Residential Anti-Displacement Plan and the Housing and Community Development Plan. The Council also adopted Resolution R-2021-19-A authorizing eminent domain for the Winchester Street Reconstruction Project, with four councilors abstaining because they missed a required site visit. Several wastewater and sewer engineering change orders were approved, along with lodging licenses and a one-year extension of the Keene State College municipal services agreement. The Council also voted to authorize the City Attorney to vote in favor of Purdue Pharma's bankruptcy reorganization plan.

3 Washington Street, Keene
Thu Jun 24, 2021 · 18:30

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

Keene committee to review PFAS contamination, ward redistricting, and multiple contracts

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.

pfasredistrictingcontractswastewateropioid-settlementcdbginclusion
Wed Jun 23, 2021 · 19:00

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

Committee to review four lodginghouse license applications and parade request

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.

licenseslodginghouseparadeparkletsfire-department
Thu Jun 17, 2021 · 19:00

City Council

Keene City Council discusses budget amendments and community resolutions

The City Council will consider a proposed $67,102 budget amendment to shift funds from street maintenance to sidewalk repairs. The meeting also includes discussions on lodginghouse licenses, community power, and opioid litigation settlement funds.

budgetzoningpublic hearinginfrastructureresolutions
Thu Jun 10, 2021 · 18:30

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

Committee reviews FY20 audit, property sale, and $15K–$20K hydro reimbursement

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.

auditbudgethydroparks-recreationproperty-saleratessponsorships
Wed Jun 9, 2021 · 17:30

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

Committee discusses renaming North Bridge and sidewalk management plan

The committee will consider a proposal to rename the North Bridge in honor of former Mayor Philip (Dale) Pregent. The meeting also includes a presentation on the Sidewalk Asset Management Plan, which was previously delayed due to technical issues.

infrastructurepublic-workssidewalksgovernment-naming
Wed Jun 9, 2021 · 19:00

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

Committee defers Medicare for All resolution, hears fireworks, parklet requests

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.

fireworksspecial-eventsparkletsmedicarepublic-propertyroad-race
Thu Jun 3, 2021 · 19:00

City Council

Keene City Council discusses operating budget and various city requests

The City Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed operating budget. The agenda also includes discussions on public art, utility access to Old Gilsum Road, and several municipal resolutions.

budgetpublic-worksutilitiespublic-artordinancesresolutions
Thu May 27, 2021 · 18:30

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

Finance committee to vote on $460K for police body cameras and $45K for pool upgrades

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.

fire-departmentparks-and-recreationpolicebudgetgrantssidewalkstax-exemptions
Wed May 26, 2021 · 17:30

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

Committee discusses public art, utility access, and a drainage easement

The committee will consider accepting a new public art piece for Dillant-Hopkins Airport and reviewing requests from Eversource and National Grid for access to Old Gilsum Road. They will also discuss accepting a drainage easement on Old Walpole Road and a presentation on sidewalk management.

public artutilitiesinfrastructuredrainagesidewalkseasements
Wed May 26, 2021 · 19:00

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

Committee to discuss parklet program and requests for downtown events

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.

fireworksart-walkoutdoor-marketparkletsoutdoor-diningmedicarewireless-facilities
Thu May 20, 2021 · 19:00

City Council

City Council to vote on $157,585 CDBG grant increase for Community Kitchen upgrades

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-grantcommunity-kitchenfireworkssidewalk-cafeliability-insurancerail-traildonationconstruction-costs
Thu May 13, 2021 · 18:30

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

Committee to consider $520K software purchase, budget, and grants

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.

budgetgrantssoftwarepoliceairportrail-traillandfill
Wed May 12, 2021 · 18:30

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

Keene committee weighs extending mask ordinance through June 1

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.

face-coveringsordinancepublic-healthspecial-eventslicensesland-development-codezoning
Thu May 6, 2021 · 19:00

City Council

Keene City Council to vote on FY2021-22 budget and land development code

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.

budgetzoningordinancepublic-healthtransportationrail-traileminent-domain
Thu Apr 22, 2021 · 18:30

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

Finance committee to vote on $9,047 library donations and $3,000 trails study

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.

donationslibrary-renovationtrails-studycommunity-powertax-waiverscdbg-grants
Wed Apr 21, 2021 · 19:00

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

Committee discusses outdoor dining permits and face covering ordinances

The committee will review requests for sidewalk cafes and a parklet for outdoor dining. Members will also discuss face covering efficacy and a proposed ordinance for social service and congregate care licensing.

zoninglicensingoutdoor-diningpublic-healthordinances
Wed Apr 21, 2021 · 17:30

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

Committee discusses property access and new mobile vending loading zones

The committee will review a request for property access on Old Gilsum Road and discuss Ordinance O-2021-03 regarding designated loading zones. The meeting also includes a discussion on the maintenance of the Wilson Pond Dam.

property-accesszoningordinanceinfrastructurevending
Thu Apr 15, 2021 · 19:00

City Council

City Council to confirm Energy and Climate Committee member and discuss sidewalk cafe alcohol permit

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.

alcohol-permitsenergy-committeeloading-zonesmobile-vendorssidewalk-cafewater-sewer-rates
Thu Apr 8, 2021 · 18:30

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

Committee to review racial justice report, grants, and water rates

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.

racial-justicegrantswater-sewer-ratespoliceairportpublic-safety
Wed Apr 7, 2021 · 17:30

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

Committee to review sewer ordinance, loading zone change, sidewalk waiver

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.

zoningpublic-improvementssewerordinanceinfrastructure
Thu Apr 1, 2021 · 19:00

City Council

Council to hold public hearings on CDBG projects, water and sewer rates

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-hearingwater-sewer-ratescdbgzoningordinanceleasesappointments
Thu Mar 25, 2021 · 18:30

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

Committee to weigh Farmers Market fee waiver, airport lease, WWTP permit funds

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-marketfeeswellness-grantdonationsleaseairportwastewaterpermits
Wed Mar 24, 2021 · 19:00

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

Committee to discuss HB 266, outdoor dining request, carbon fee endorsement

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.

immigrationzoninglicensingcarbon-feeoutdoor-diningmeeting-minutes
Wed Mar 24, 2021 · 17:30

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

Committee discusses bridge purchase, police memorial, and utility sidewalk exceptions

The committee will review several infrastructure and property requests, including the $1.00 purchase of the Robert J. Prowse Memorial Bridge. Members will also consider a request to place a police memorial stone at 400 Marlboro Street and a utility exception for sidewalk work on Roxbury St.

infrastructurepolicetransportationutilitiespublic works
Thu Mar 18, 2021 · 19:00

City Council

Council to fill Ward 3 vacancy and hear updates on homeless shelter and trail grant

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.

council-vacancytransportation-heritage-trailhomelessnessfarmer-marketcontract-termination
Thu Mar 11, 2021 · 18:30

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

Committee to consider $4,400 lab HVAC change order, $8,500 water grant, $500 donation

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.

donationfire-departmentwatergrantparkspolicebudget
Wed Mar 10, 2021 · 19:00

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

Committee to weigh Farmers' Market fees, alcohol sales, HB 266 stance

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-marketalcohol-salesimmigrationbuilding-regulationszoningmeeting-minutes
Wed Mar 10, 2021 · 17:30

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

Committee discusses grant application for Transportation Heritage Trail Phase I

The committee is considering a recommendation to authorize a grant application for the Transportation Heritage Trail. The project aims to connect the Industrial Heritage Trail to the Town of Swanzey by restoring a section of the Cheshire Railroad.

transportationgrantstrailsinfrastructureparks
Thu Mar 4, 2021 · 19:00

City Council

Council to consider sale of tax-deeded property at 62 Elm Street

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.

property-saleordinancealcohol-permitenergyredistricting
Thu Feb 25, 2021 · 18:30

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

Committee to consider selling tax-deeded 62 Elm Street home by sealed bid

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.

donationeventstax-deeded propertypolicepersonnel
Wed Feb 24, 2021 · 19:00

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

Committee discusses nonpartisan redistricting resolution and city property use

The committee will review a proposed resolution regarding fair and nonpartisan redistricting. Members will also discuss a request to use city property for the Keene Food Festival and hear a presentation on 5G technology.

redistrictingzoningtechnologypublic-propertyordinances
Wed Feb 24, 2021 · 17:30

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

Committee discusses property access and a new citizen reporting system

The committee will review a request for motorized vehicle access to Old Gilsum Road and a demonstration of the new SeeClickFix citizen reporting system. Members will also receive an annual ESCO cost avoidance report.

public worksinfrastructureproperty accesscitizen reportingroads
Thu Feb 18, 2021 · 19:00

City Council

Keene City Council to discuss Roxbury Street flood project, police body cameras

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'.

floodinfrastructurepoliceenergyclimateresolutions
Thu Feb 11, 2021 · 18:30

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

Committee discusses police body cameras and sewer funding reallocation

The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee is reviewing several funding requests and administrative processes. Key items include a proposal to delay body camera implementation pending state funding and a request to move sewer funds to the Roxbury Street project.

policeinfrastructurebudgetparksgovernment-operations
Wed Feb 10, 2021 · 17:30

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

Keene committee to review Roxbury St flood project, Bee City USA resolution

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.

flood-controlinfrastructurestormwaterenvironmentpollinatorsresolutiondam-maintenance
Wed Feb 10, 2021 · 19:00

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

Committee to weigh aerobatic-club use of airport and state energy bill

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.

aerobatic-clubairportcovid-vaccineeducationenergy-policymunicipal-aggregationplanning-committee
Thu Feb 4, 2021 · 19:00

City Council

Keene Council to address Thompson Road, grants, and councilor resignation

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.

infrastructuregrantsresignationappointmentscovid-19city-hall
Thu Jan 28, 2021 · 18:30

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

Committee discusses infrastructure grants, HVAC upgrades, and City Hall repairs

The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee is reviewing several municipal projects, including a $41,000 grant for street infrastructure and a $165,500 contract for City Hall HVAC upgrades. The committee will also consider a lease renewal for Senator Shaheen's office and consultant selection for the City Hall rear wall project.

infrastructurebudgetcity-hallgrantsleasingpublic-works
Wed Jan 27, 2021 · 17:30

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

Committee to discuss Thompson Road deterioration and Wilson Pond Dam maintenance

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.

roadsinfrastructuredam-maintenancepublic-works
Thu Jan 21, 2021 · 19:00

City Council

Council to consider wireless facility rules, contracts, and resolutions

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.

wireless-facilitiescontractsresolutionsboards-and-commissionspublic-property
Thu Jan 14, 2021 · 18:30

Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee

Committee to consider $32,145 change order for Transfer Station fire repairs

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.

budgetcontractsfireinfrastructuredonationsgrantssewers
Wed Jan 13, 2021 · 19:00

Planning, Licenses and Development Committee

Committee to review Keene’s draft 100% renewable energy plan by 2050

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.

climate-actionenergy-planzoningsustainabilityrenewable-energy
Wed Jan 13, 2021 · 17:30

Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee

Committee to discuss dog license forfeitures and Colonial Theater street discontinuance

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.

dogslicensingparkingdiscontinuancecolonial-theatercovid-19
Thu Jan 7, 2021 · 19:00

City Council

Council discusses land condemnation for Winchester Street reconstruction

The City Council is reviewing a request to use eminent domain to acquire property for the Winchester Street reconstruction and Island Street Bridge replacement project. The project aims to implement a roundabout design to reduce traffic congestion and improve safety for vehicles and pedestrians.

zoninginfrastructurepublic workseminent domainroads