Keene public meetings in 2022
69 substantive meetings from 2022, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Planning Board
The Keene Planning Board will hold a final vote on a conditional lot-line adjustment for two Rule Street properties and conduct a public hearing on a proposed skate park at 160 Water Street. The board will also adopt its 2023 meeting schedule and receive staff updates.
- Final vote on subdivision and boundary line adjustment at 22 & 24 Rule St
- Public hearing on proposed skate park at 160 Water St
- Adoption of 2023 Planning Board meeting schedule
- Withdrawn proposal for charter school at 809 Court St
Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee
The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially act on several items, including updates on Spectrum services, efforts to reduce lead poisoning risks, and multiple grant awards for the fire and police departments. The committee will also consider change orders for environmental monitoring and the Marlboro Street corridor project, as well as an ordinance related to personal leave. A non-public session is scheduled.
- Spectrum Service Issues Update
- Efforts to Reduce the Risk of Lead Poisoning from Lead Paint
- Lieutenant Joseph DiBernardo Memorial Grant - Fire Department
- Law Enforcement Substance Abuse Reduction Initiative Grant - Police Department
- Control and Use Agreement - American Legion - Parks, Recreation and Facilities Department
Zoning Board of Adjustment
The Keene Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on three variance requests: one to allow a structure closer to property lines, one to add a third dwelling unit in an existing barn, and one to allow temporary use of a vacant lot for construction staging. The board will also discuss updates to its rules of procedure. The meeting includes approval of previous minutes and may enter non-public session if needed.
- Variance to reduce side setback from 20' to 14.2' and rear from 15' to 12' at 196 South Lincoln St.
- Variance to add one additional dwelling unit in an existing barn at 365 Main St. (total three units)
- Variance for temporary use of vacant lot for construction staging at 363 Pearl St.
- Discussion of Rules of Procedure updates
Planning Board
The Keene Planning Board will hold a final vote on conditional approvals and a public hearing on a site plan modification for landscaping at the Hampton Inn on Key Road. It will also continue a public hearing on a proposed conservation residential subdivision at Drummer Road, which includes five multi-family buildings and a conserved open space lot.
- SPR-964 Modification #7: Hampton Inn landscaping changes at 120 Key Rd
- S-04-22/SPR-04-22: 13.1-acre subdivision at 0 Drummer Rd into 6 lots, 5 multi-family buildings
- Waivers requested for survey, parking location, and street access requirements
- Open space lot of 9.5 acres to be conserved
Planning Board
The Keene Planning Board will hold a public hearing and final vote on proposed amendments to the Land Development Code's Conservation Residential Development (CRD) regulations. The changes would add density incentives for open space, solar, and workforce housing, modify permitted uses in certain districts, adjust density and lot size requirements, and remove the Yield Analysis Plan requirement. The board will also receive staff updates and discuss new business.
- Public hearing on amendments to Article 19 and Article 25.10 of the Land Development Code
- Add density incentives: open space, solar, workforce housing
- Modify CRD permitted uses in Rural and Low Density-1 Districts to include multifamily dwellings with limitations
- Change Rural District density factor to 2 acres per unit and minimum lot size to 32,000 sq ft
- Remove Yield Analysis Plan requirement and add new submittal/filing requirements
Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee
The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will consider accepting donations for trees at Patricia T. Russell Park and for building the Keene Skatepark, approve a lease for Keene Barber at 12 Gilbo Ave, and review Change Order 1 for engineering services on the Sludge Pump Replacement Project. The committee will also discuss a charter amendment related to municipal primaries proposed by Councilor Filiault.
- Donation for trees at Patricia T. Russell Park
- Donation to build the Keene Skatepark
- Lease at 12 Gilbo Ave for Keene Barber
- Change Order 1 for Sludge Pump Replacement Project engineering services
- Charter amendment related to municipal primary
Planning, Licenses and Development Committee
The Planning, Licenses and Development Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially act on several ordinance amendments, including changes to the Business, Growth and Reuse District for indoor recreational/entertainment facilities, updates to the Land Development Code, and new notice requirements for small cell wireless facilities. They will also consider draft amendments for the use of Central Square Common and Railroad Square, and a rules change for remote participation. Public testimony has been submitted on the Land Development Code amendments.
- Ordinance O-2022-11: Amendments to Business, Growth and Reuse District for indoor recreational/entertainment facilities
- Ordinance O-2022-09-B: Amendments to City of Keene Land Development Code (written testimony submitted)
- Ordinance O-2022-16: Notice requirements for small cell wireless facility deployments
- Ordinance O-2022-14: Proposed draft amendments for use of Central Square Common and Railroad Square
- Rules of Order amendment on remote participation
Zoning Board of Adjustment
The Keene Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on two variance petitions. One seeks permission to build a three-unit apartment building on a small downtown lot, and the other requests a changeable sign for a storage facility on Marlboro Road.
- Variance for 3-unit apartment at 27-29 Center St (lot size 3,049 sq ft vs 18,800 required)
- Variance for electronically activated sign at Keene Mini Storage, 678 Marlboro Rd
Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee
The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially act on several items, including grant applications, donations, and change orders for city projects. They will also consider an amended Community Power Plan and FY23 fiscal policies. The agenda includes a request for a charter amendment related to municipal primaries.
- Highway Safety Agency Grant request by Police Captain Todd Lawrence
- LWCF Grant Round 33 Notice of Intent by Parks, Recreation and Facilities Director
- Acceptance of donations for Holiday Sponsorship Program
- EnviroTrac Environmental Services water monitoring change order #2 at closed municipal landfill
- Imprinted crosswalks downtown change order
City Council
The Keene City Council is meeting to discuss and vote on several items, including a first reading of an ordinance to change notice requirements for small cell wireless facility deployments, a resolution on FY23 fiscal policies, and various reports and requests. The agenda includes routine items like minutes approval and a retirement resolution, as well as specific requests for tree removal, snowmobile use, and a tree lighting ceremony.
- First reading of Ordinance O-2022-16 on notice requirements for small cell wireless facility deployments
- Resolution R-2022-33 relating to FY23 fiscal policies
- Request to remove tree at 64 Hastings Avenue
- Request to run snowmobiles along Krif Road right-of-way
- Memorandum of Understanding for retaining wall at Woodbury and Washington Street
Planning, Licenses and Development Committee
The Keene Planning, Licenses and Development Committee will consider several requests and ordinance changes. Items include a Kiwanis Club request to use city property for a tree lighting ceremony, a snowmobile right-of-way request along Krif Road, a retaining wall memorandum, and possible revisions to the small cell wireless ordinance. The committee will also discuss amendments to zoning for indoor recreational facilities, Central Square and Railroad Square use, and remote access rules.
- Keene Kiwanis Club request to use city property for Tree Lighting Ceremony
- Ron Robbins/Keene Snoriders request to run snowmobiles in right-of-way along Krif Road from Ashuelot Rail Trail to Winchester Street
- Memorandum of Understanding for retaining wall at Woodbury and Washington Street
- Possible revisions to Ordinance O-2019-18-A on small cell wireless facilities
- Ordinance O-2022-11 amendments to Business, Growth and Reuse District for indoor recreational/entertainment facilities
City Council
The Keene City Council is meeting to handle routine business including minutes, retirements, and appointments, but also to discuss several notable items. These include a request to allow snowmobiles along Krif Road, safety concerns about 5G towers, and acceptance of a housing planning grant. The council will also consider ordinances related to probationary firefighters and land development code amendments.
- Request to allow snowmobiles in right-of-way along Krif Road from Ashuelot Rail Trail to Winchester Street
- Discussion of safety concerns with 5G towers
- Authorization to accept Housing Opportunity Planning Grant for housing needs analysis
- Second reading of ordinance O-2022-13 relating to probationary firefighters
- Continued discussion on designating city parks as drug-free and smoke-free zones
Planning Board
The Keene Planning Board will hold public hearings and votes on several development proposals, including a 57-unit apartment addition, a conservation subdivision, and modifications to existing permits. The board will also take a final vote on conditional approvals and consider a boundary line adjustment.
- Final vote on conditional approvals
- Boundary line adjustment at 24 & 28 Salisbury Rd transferring 0.04 acres
- Continued hearing for 6-lot conservation subdivision at 0 Drummer Rd with 5 multifamily buildings
- Public hearing for 57-unit apartment addition at 310 Marlboro St (48,460 sf addition)
- Public hearing for Mint Carwash site modification at 435 Winchester St
Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee
The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will decide on grants for hazardous materials training and firefighter funding, and discuss a probationary firefighters ordinance. It will also consider a housing planning grant for needs analysis.
- Amended FY21 Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness (HMEP) Grant Award for Fire Lieutenant/Training Officer
- Acceptance of the 2021 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG)
- Authorization to accept Housing Opportunity Planning Grant for Housing Needs Analysis and Planning
- Ordinance O-2022-13 relating to Probationary Firefighters
Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee
The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will discuss several items, including ordinances on cemetery regulations and water/sewer utility charges, a resolution to fund the airport fuel farm capital project from property sale proceeds, and a charter amendment related to municipal primaries. The committee will also hear about Spectrum service issues and the Primex3 Contribution Assurance Program.
- Ordinance O-2022-12 relating to Chapter 22 - Cemeteries
- Ordinance O-2022-10 relating to Water and Sewer Utility Charges
- Resolution R-2022-32 to appropriate funds from property sale for Airport Fuel Farm Capital Project
- Charter amendment related to municipal primary
- Spectrum service issues discussion
Planning, Licenses and Development Committee
The Planning, Licenses and Development Committee will consider amendments to the Land Development Code for rural and conservation residential subdivisions, and discuss small wireless facility deployments in public rights-of-way. They will also review a request from the Keene Kiwanis Club to use city property for a tree lighting ceremony, and an amendment to council rules on remote access.
- Keene Kiwanis Club request to use city property for tree lighting ceremony
- Ordinance O-2022-09-A: amendments to Land Development Code for Rural District and Conservation Residential Development Subdivision Regulations
- Councilor Mitchell Greenwald's amendment to City Council Rules of Order for remote access
- Terry Clark's item on small wireless facility deployments in public rights-of-way
- Ordinance O-2022-11: amendments to Business, Growth and Reuse District for recreational/entertainment facility (indoor)
Zoning Board of Adjustment
The Keene Zoning Board of Adjustment will hear four public hearings on variance requests for properties in the Downtown Transition and Business Growth & Reuse districts. Three requests seek permission to deviate from minimum lot size and use regulations, while one seeks a special exception for parking reduction.
- Variance for 27-29 Center St. to allow 3-unit multi-family dwelling on 3,049 sq. ft. lot (requires 18,800 sq. ft.)
- Variance for 39 Summer St. to permit large group home for youth (not currently a permitted use)
- Variance for 310 Marlboro St. to allow five stories above grade (currently limited to three)
- Special Exception for 310 Marlboro St. to reduce required parking by Major Parking Reduction Request
City Council
The Keene City Council will hold a public hearing on proposed amendments to the Land Development Code (O-2022-09-A) and vote on first-reading ordinances, including cemetery regulations and parking rate adjustments. Additional reports include a housing needs analysis, a rail trail construction update, and a municipal services agreement with Keene State College.
- Public Hearing - O-2022-09-A: Amendments to Land Development Code
- Ordinance O-2022-12: Relating to Chapter 22 - Cemeteries (first reading)
- Ordinance O-2022-08: Relating to Parking Rates (second reading)
- Resolution R-2022-32: Appropriation for Airport Fuel Farm Capital Project
- Cheshire Rail Trail Phase 3, Construction Engineering Change Order #2
Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee
The Keene Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially act on several items, including a comprehensive housing needs analysis, a change order for the Cheshire Rail Trail Phase 3, a municipal services agreement with Keene State College, and ordinances related to parking rates and water/sewer charges. The agenda also includes a request from Councilor Filiault regarding Spectrum service issues and a charter amendment related to municipal primaries.
- Comprehensive Housing Needs Analysis presented by Senior Planner
- Cheshire Rail Trail Phase 3 Construction Engineering Change Order #2
- Municipal Services Agreement with Keene State College
- Ordinance O-2022-08 relating to parking rates
- Ordinance O-2022-10 relating to water and sewer utility charges
Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee
The Keene Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee is meeting to discuss a resolution supporting a "Protect Our Police Bill" and a proposal to designate city parks as drug-free and smoke-free zones. The agenda also includes ongoing items concerning maintenance on Blain(e) Street and designating Railroad Square as a smoke-free zone.
- Resolution in Support of a “Protect Our Police Bill” from Councilor Philip Jones
- Designating City Parks as Drug-Free and Smoke-Free Zones from Councilor Mitch Greenwald
- Request from Attorney Michael Bentley and Agatha Fifield that the City Resume Maintenance of Blain(e) Street
- Request that Railroad Square be Designated a Smoke Free Zone
Planning Board
The Keene Planning Board will hold a final vote on a conditional use permit for a gravel pit at 0 Rt 9 and continue a public hearing on the project. Two new subdivision applications will be heard for properties at 91 Sullivan St and 284-288 Hurricane Rd. The board will also consider updates to its rules of procedure and receive staff updates.
- Final vote on EXP-01-22 & CUHP-01-22: gravel pit permit and Hillside Protection Conditional Use Permit at 0 Rt 9 (84.71 acres)
- Public hearing on S-07-22: 2-lot subdivision at 91 Sullivan St (0.74-acre parcel → 0.23-ac + 0.5-ac lots)
- Public hearing on S-08-22: 2-lot subdivision at 284-288 Hurricane Rd (13.04-acre parcel → 7.94-ac + 5.10-ac lots)
- Updates to Planning Board Rules of Procedure
- Staff updates
City Council
The Keene City Council will meet on August 18, 2022, to consider a purchase and sale agreement for a city-owned rail spur and review proposed ordinances regarding land development codes and water and sewer utility charges. The agenda also includes communications concerning Spectrum service issues and drug-free city parks.
- Purchase & Sale of City-owned Rail Spur
- Ordinance O-2022-09-A: Amendments to the City of Keene Land Development Code
- Ordinance O-2022-10: Relating to Water and Sewer Utility Charges
- Ordinance O-2022-11: Amendments to the Business, Growth and Reuse District - Recreational/Entertainment Facility - Indoor
- Keene Kiwanis Club request to use city property for Tree Lighting Ceremony
Zoning Board of Adjustment
The Keene Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on two variance requests to convert single-family homes into multi-family dwellings in the Downtown Transition District. The board will also review minutes from the previous meeting and introduce the new Community Development Director.
- Variance request ZBA 22-12 by SPS Carpentry, LLC to convert 121 Davis St. from single-family to multi-family on an 11,325 sq. ft. lot (13,400 sq. ft. required)
- Variance request ZBA 22-13 by Brian & Amalia Harmon to allow a three-unit dwelling at 27-29 Center St. on a 3,049 sq. ft. lot (18,800 sq. ft. required)
- Introduction of Community Development Director Jesse Rounds
City Council
The Keene City Council is meeting to discuss and vote on a range of items, including a resolution supporting a 'Protect Our Police Bill', first readings of ordinances on land development and parking rates, and a second reading on multi-family housing. They will also consider several contracts and agreements, including for airport fencing, a new skatepark, and road projects, as well as accept federal forfeiture monies and donations.
- Resolution in Support of a 'Protect Our Police Bill'
- Ordinance O-2022-09: Land Development Code amendments for Rural District and Conservation Residential Development
- Ordinance O-2022-08: Parking rates changes
- Ordinance O-2022-04: Land Development Code amendments for multi-family residential dwellings (second reading)
- Design-build services for new skatepark; engineering agreement with McFarland Johnson for airport fencing
Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee
The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially act on several items, including accepting federal forfeiture funds and a DOJ grant for the police, a workers' compensation program, an airport lease, engineering agreements, and consultant selections for road projects. The agenda also includes a request for more time on a charter amendment related to municipal primaries, and a non-public session.
- Acceptance of Federal Forfeiture Monies - Police Department
- FY22 DOJ Justice Assistance Grant - Police Department
- Lease agreement with Thomas Transportation - Airport Director
- Design-Build Services for the Creation of a New Skatepark
- Lower Winchester Reconstruction Project - Consultant Selection
Planning, Licenses and Development Committee
The Keene Planning, Licenses and Development Committee met on July 13, 2022, to consider a use request for the Clarence DeMar Marathon, discuss Land Development Code amendments under Ordinance O-2022-04, and review a previously tabled item regarding small wireless facility deployments.
- Keene Elm City Rotary Club use of city property for the Clarence DeMar Marathon
- Ordinance O-2022-04 relating to amendments to the Land Development Code
- Small wireless facility deployments in public rights-of-way
Planning Board
The Keene Planning Board will consider an earth excavation permit for a gravel pit on Rt 9 and a subdivision proposal for 0 Drummer Rd. The board will also review an extension request for a conditional use permit at 32-34 Washington St and discuss updates to the board's rules of procedure.
- Earth Excavation Permit and Hillside Protection CUP for 0 Rt 9
- Subdivision and site plan for 6 lots and 5 multi-family buildings at 0 Drummer Rd
- Extension request for CLSS-CUP-01-21 at 32-34 Washington St #Rear
Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee
The Keene Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee is meeting to discuss several items, including a land donation for green space, a lease amendment for parking, acceptance of state funding for youth services, and a construction change order for a sewer project. The committee will also consider a charter amendment related to municipal primaries.
- Donation of land at 0 Ashuelot Street by JRR Properties for green space
- Amendment to lease of city property for parking at Map 577-Lot 34, Island Street
- Acceptance of NH Juvenile Court Diversion Network SBIRT funding for Youth Services
- Colony Court Sewer Replacement Project construction change order
- Charter amendment related to municipal primary
Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee
The Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee is meeting to discuss several items, including a request for trail signage, a request for the city to resume maintenance of Blaine Street, a concern about unsafe sign placement, and a warrant for unlicensed dogs. They will also consider a request to designate Railroad Square as a smoke-free zone. The meeting includes a non-public session.
- Request for signage identifying trails by Charles Redfern
- Request by Agatha Fifield for city to resume maintenance of Blaine Street (private way)
- Unsafe sign placement concern raised by Councilor Philip Jones
- Warrant for unlicensed dogs from City Clerk
- Request to designate Railroad Square as smoke-free zone
City Council
The Keene City Council will hold a public hearing on ordinance O-2022-04 and consider second readings of several ordinances, including a zone change and personnel-related measures. The council will also vote on resolutions for the 2022/2023 fiscal year budget and multiple capital appropriations for building roofs, road rehabilitation, salt shed replacement, parking structure maintenance, and water tank repair. Additionally, the council will discuss various communications, including requests for city maintenance of Blaine Street and a land donation for green space.
- Public hearing on Ordinance O-2022-04
- Zone change at 19 Whitcomb's Mill Road from Rural to Low Density-1 (O-2022-02)
- Resolution R-2022-09-A: 2022/2023 fiscal year budget
- Resolutions R-2022-10 through R-2022-15: appropriations for roofs, roads, salt shed, parking structure, water tank
- Resolution R-2022-22-A: State Revolving Fund loans
Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee
The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will decide on wastewater treatment plant renovations, ARPA-funded feasibility studies, and utility agreements. The meeting also includes personnel ordinances and state revolving fund resolutions.
- Wastewater Treatment Plant Laboratory Renovation - Engineering Change Order 3 ($1.1M)
- Accept $1.1M ARPA funds for Sludge Dryer Feasibility Study
- Sole Source Approval for Sludge Pump Replacement Project
- Utility Reimbursement Agreement with Liberty Utilities
- Construction Change Order - 2022 Sewer Main Lining Contract
Planning, Licenses and Development Committee
The Planning, Licenses and Development Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially decide on several items, including a request to use city property for the Keene Music Festival, a zone change for a property on Whitcomb's Mill Road, and an ordinance related to parklets. The committee will also consider items under 'More Time', including use of city property for the Clarence DeMar Marathon, amendments to the Land Development Code, and a discussion on small wireless facility deployments. The agenda includes a non-public session and adjournment.
- Request by Pablo Fleischmann for use of city property for Keene Music Festival on September 3, 2022
- Zone change for 19 Whitcomb's Mill Road from Rural to Low Density-1 (Ordinance O-2022-02)
- Ordinance O-2022-07 relating to licenses and permits for parklets
- Keene Elm City Rotary Club request for use of city property for Clarence DeMar Marathon
- Ordinance O-2022-04 relating to amendments to the Land Development Code
Zoning Board of Adjustment
The Keene Zoning Board of Adjustment will meet to review an unfinished business hearing regarding a variance request. The petitioner seeks relief to construct a canopy structure within the required setback at 94 Key Rd.
- ZBA 22-11: Variance request by Thomas Bogar (represented by Dan Bartlett) for 94 Key Rd. to permit a weather protection canopy 10 feet into the 20-foot setback.
City Council
The Keene City Council will hold a public hearing on the Fiscal Year 2023 operating budget and vote on multiple resolutions including capital projects like road rehabilitation, roof repairs, and a new salt shed. Several ordinances will receive first or second readings, including updates to personnel systems and salary schedules.
- Public Hearing on FY2023 Operating Budget
- Appropriation of funds for municipal building roofs, road rehabilitation, salt shed replacement, Wells Street parking structure maintenance, and 3MG water tank repair
- Ordinance O-2022-06: Personnel Systems and Procedures update
- Ordinance O-2022-05: Class Allocations & Salary Schedules
- Resolution R-2022-18: Establishment of Parks and Facilities Infrastructure Capital Reserve
Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee
The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will consider several items including the FY 2022-2023 budget resolution, multiple capital appropriations for building roofs, road rehabilitation, salt shed replacement, parking structure maintenance, and water tank repair, as well as an ordinance on class allocations and salary schedules. They will also discuss a grant for hazardous materials preparedness, an airport land lease, a construction change order for the Cheshire Rail Trail, and a budget adjustment for the Keene Senior Center. A charter amendment related to municipal primary is listed under 'More Time Items'.
- FY21 Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness Grant - Hubbard Consulting LLC
- Cheshire Rail Trail Phase 3 - Construction Change Order #2
- Ordinance O-2022-05: Class Allocations & Salary Schedules
- Resolution R-2022-09: FY 2022-2023 Fiscal Year Budget
- Resolutions R-2022-10 through R-2022-15: Appropriations for roofs, roads, salt shed, parking structure, water tank
Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee
The Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee will discuss two agenda items: a request for signage identifying trails and a resolution to rename the Keene Recreation Center after Brian A. Mattson. They will also consider a request to designate Railroad Square as a smoke-free zone. The meeting includes a non-public session.
- Request for signage identifying trails
- Resolution R-2022-20 to rename Keene Recreation Center to Brian A. Mattson Keene Recreation Center
- Request to designate Railroad Square as a smoke-free zone
City Council
The Keene City Council will review and vote on multiple resolutions to appropriate funds for infrastructure projects including road rehabilitation, municipal building roofs, salt shed replacement, and the George Street Bridge replacement. They will also discuss ordinances on class allocations, salary schedules, and parklets, as well as hear reports on flood management, fire staffing, and utility outages.
- Appropriate $1.2M for Patricia T. Russell Park and Carpenter St. flood management
- Appropriate $2.1M for George Street Bridge replacement design
- Vote on ordinance O-2022-05 for class allocations and salary schedules
- Vote on ordinance O-2022-07 for parklet licenses and permits
- Presentation on Liberty Utilities' July 2021 outage response and system improvements
Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee
The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will consider several funding and staffing items, including a request from Keene Pride for the city to cover police, public works, and fire personnel costs for a September 18, 2022 block party. The committee will also review resolutions appropriating funds for the Patricia T. Russell Park and Carpenter Street Flood Management Project, the George Street Bridge Replacement Project, and the FY 2022-2023 budget. A fire staffing committee report and a Public TV programming services agreement are also on the agenda.
- Keene Pride requests city absorb costs for police, public works, fire for block party on September 18, 2022
- Resolution R-2022-16 and R-2022-19: appropriation of funds for Patricia T. Russell Park and Carpenter Street Flood Management Project
- Resolution R-2022-17: appropriation of funds for George Street Bridge Replacement Project
- Resolution R-2022-09: FY 2022-2023 fiscal year budget
- Charter amendment related to municipal primary (Councilor Filiault)
Planning, Licenses and Development Committee
The Keene Planning, Licenses and Development Committee is meeting to consider requests for city property use and fireworks displays, along with a proposed zone change for 19 Whitcomb's Mill Road and a draft parklet ordinance. The agenda also includes ongoing items concerning Land Development Code amendments and small wireless facility deployments.
- Pathways for Keene request to use city property for the 4th on the 4th Road Race
- Keene Swamp Bats request to discharge fireworks on July 3 and July 16, 2022
- Pablo Fleischmann request for Keene Music Festival use of city property on September 3, 2022
- Zone change ordinance O-2022-02 from Rural to Low Density-1 for 19 Whitcomb's Mill Road
- Draft Parklet Ordinance and Land Development Code amendments ordinance O-2022-04
Jt. Planning Board and PLD Committee
The Keene Planning Board and Planning, Licenses and Development Committee are holding a joint public workshop to discuss a proposed ordinance (O-2022-04) that would amend the Land Development Code. The changes would permit multi-family dwellings as a principal use in the Commerce District, allow buildings up to four stories or 56 feet with stepback requirements, and require multi-family units above the ground floor in certain districts. The meeting also includes a discussion on the Rural District and approval of prior minutes.
- Ordinance O-2022-04: add 'Dwelling, Multi-family' as permitted use in Commerce District
- Height limit increase in Commerce District to 4 stories or 56 ft with stepback requirements
- Require multi-family units above ground floor in Downtown Core, Downtown Growth, and Commerce Districts
- Discussion on the Rural District
Zoning Board of Adjustment
The Keene Zoning Board of Adjustment meets to hear and consider five variance petitions regarding property lot sizes, uses, setbacks, and driveways. The agenda includes requests for properties on Belmont Ave, Main St, West St, Hastings Ave, and Armory St.
- ZBA 22-06: Variance request for 0 Belmont Ave to permit a 5,625-square-foot lot with 50 feet of frontage and width
- ZBA 22-07: Variance request for 441 Main St to permit a personal service establishment in a Low Density District
- ZBA 22-08: Variance request for 210-222 West St to permit a multifamily dwelling with five residential units in the Commerce District
- ZBA 22-09: Variance request for 136 Hastings Ave to permit 6-foot rear and side setbacks for an above ground swimming pool
- ZBA 22-10: Variance request for 146 Armory St to permit a driveway one foot from the property line
Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee
The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will consider a change order for the WWTP aeration pipe replacement project and discuss a charter amendment related to municipal primaries proposed by Councilor Filiault. The meeting includes a non-public session.
- WWTP Aeration Pipe Replacement Change Order 1
- Charter amendment related to municipal primary (proposed by Councilor Filiault)
Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee
The Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee will discuss and possibly act on several items, including a Conservation Commission recommendation on Eversource Energy's tree trimming along scenic roads, a request to designate Railroad Square as a smoke-free zone, a proposal to rename the Keene Recreation Center, a presentation on the Downtown to Trails project, and a resolution to discontinue a portion of the Commercial Street parking area. The meeting is open to the public and includes a non-public session.
- Conservation Commission recommendation on Eversource tree trimming on scenic roads
- Request to designate Railroad Square as a smoke-free zone
- Proposal to rename Keene Recreation Center to Brian A. Mattson Keene Recreation Center
- Presentation on Downtown to Trails by Parks, Recreation and Facilities Director
- Resolution R-2022-13 on absolute discontinuance of a portion of Commercial Street parking area
Planning Board
The Keene Planning Board will conduct two public hearings on April 25, 2022, including a 2-lot subdivision at 63 Meadow Rd and a drive-thru Aroma Joe’s coffee shop site plan at 0 West St. The meeting will be held online via Zoom due to COVID-19 protocols.
- S-05-22: 2-lot subdivision at 63 Meadow Rd (0.33-acre parcel split into 0.168-acre and 0.162-acre lots)
- SPR-02-22: Aroma Joe’s drive-thru coffee shop (800 sf) at 0 West St with waiver request for roof-mounted equipment screening
City Council
The Keene City Council will hold a public hearing on discontinuing part of the Commercial Street parking area, consider appointments and confirmations, and vote on a resolution to fund maintenance for the City Hall parking structure. They will also review several requests to use city property for events and discuss various reports.
- Public hearing on complete discontinuance of a portion of Commercial Street parking area
- Resolution R-2022-08: Appropriation of funds for City Hall parking structure maintenance
- Ordinance O-2022-04: Amendments to the Land Development Code (first reading)
- Requests to use city property: 4 on the 4th Road Race, Farmers Market, Youth Triathlon, Keene Pride, Pumpkin Festival, New England Aerobatic Club
- Requests to discharge fireworks: Keene Swamp Bats, Keene State College
Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee
The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will consider three items: authorizing a design contract for converting Wheelock Park Campground into a disc golf course and dog park, waiving bidding for downtown crosswalk repairs, and appropriating additional funds for City Hall parking structure maintenance. These are recommendations to the City Council, not final decisions.
- Design contract with Dubois & King for Wheelock Park Campground redesign, not to exceed $29,888
- Sole source waiver for BDM Services to repair downtown imprinted crosswalks, estimated $46,822
- Resolution R-2022-08 to appropriate $20,000 from Parking Fund for City Hall parking structure maintenance
Planning, Licenses and Development Committee
The Keene Planning, Licenses and Development Committee will review requests for event permits, including the Farmer's Market, fireworks, a triathlon, and the Pumpkin Festival, as well as a zone change and a proposed Economic Revitalization Zone expansion. The committee will make recommendations to the City Council on these items.
- Zone change for 19 Whitcomb's Mill Road from Rural to Low Density-1 (Ordinance O-2022-02)
- Proposed addition of 'Ash Swamp Brook ERZ' to the Economic Revitalization Zone tax credit program
- Keene Family YMCA youth triathlon on June 12, 2022, with full closure of a section of Summit Road
- Keene State College fireworks discharge on April 30 at Joyce Athletic Practice Field
- New England Aerobatic Club use of Dillant-Hopkins Airport with restrictions
City Council
The Keene City Council will hold a public hearing on Eversource tree trimming on scenic roads and consider several items, including a zone change at 19 Whitcomb's Mill Road, a stop sign ordinance on Washington Avenue, and appropriating funds for the City Hall parking structure maintenance. The agenda also includes requests from local organizations to use city property and discussions on homelessness strategy and a potential roundabout near Central Square.
- Public hearing on Eversource tree trimming on scenic roads
- Ordinance O-2022-02: Zone change at 19 Whitcomb's Mill Road from Rural/Agriculture to Low Density 1
- Ordinance O-2022-03: Stop signs on Washington Avenue (second reading)
- Resolution R-2022-08: Appropriation of funds for City Hall parking structure maintenance
- Resolution R-2022-13: Discontinuance of a portion of Commercial Street parking area
Planning, Licenses and Development Committee
The Planning, Licenses and Development Committee will discuss a request from Danya Landis of Machina Kitchen and ArtBar to use city public parking spaces for parklets, and will review proposed changes to the Rules of Order regarding conflicts of interest. No final decisions are indicated on the agenda.
- Request by Danya Landis/Machina Kitchen and ArtBar to use city public parking spaces for parklets
- Review of Rules of Order Section 15 on conflicts of interest by City Attorney
Planning Board
The Keene Planning Board will hold continued public hearings on a site plan for a Panera Bread restaurant with a drive-through at 2 Ash Brook Rd and a proposed salt shed on the former city landfill at 0 Main St. The board will also consider two boundary line adjustments and an update to its rules of procedure.
- SPR-927 Modification #11B: Panera Bread restaurant with drive-through at 2 Ash Brook Rd #12
- Change of Governmental Land Use: salt shed on former landfill at 0 Main St (23.1 acres)
- Boundary line adjustment S-01-22: 0.32-acre transfer between 0 Gilbo Ave and 0 Commercial St
- Boundary line adjustment S-02-22: 0.03-acre transfer between 50 and 62 Rule St
- Update to Planning Board Rules of Procedure
Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee
The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will accept two state grants for hazardous materials preparedness and source water protection, and consider leasing city property for renewable energy projects at Monadnock View Cemetery and Rose Lane. It will also negotiate a lease of airport property with Monadnock Aviation.
- Accept HMEP Grant for Fire Department
- Accept Local Source Water Protection Grant for Public Works
- Lease Monadnock View Cemetery and Rose Lane for renewable energy projects
- Negotiate lease of airport property with Monadnock Aviation
City Council
The Keene City Council is meeting to discuss and decide on a range of items, including a proposed homelessness strategy, requests for sidewalk café alcohol service, and a capital improvement plan for FY 2023-2029. The agenda includes several resolutions for funding specific projects, such as the Winchester Street By-Pass and Thompson Road repairs, as well as a first reading of a stop sign ordinance. The meeting also covers appointments, grants, and a request to use public parking spaces for parklets.
- Resolution R-2022-03 and R-2022-04: Appropriation of funds for Winchester Street By-Pass Project
- Resolution R-2022-05: Appropriation of funds for Thompson Road Repair and Stabilization Project
- Resolution R-2022-06: Council Policy on Legislative Process
- Ordinance O-2022-03: Stop signs on Washington Avenue (first reading)
- Proposed Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for FY 2023-2029
Jt. Planning Board and PLD Committee
The Keene Planning Board and Planning, Licenses and Development Committee are holding a joint public workshop to discuss a proposed zone change for 19 Whitcombs Mill Rd, from Rural and Agriculture to Low Density 1. The meeting also includes adoption of the 2022 meeting schedule and an update on the Land Development Code.
- Public workshop on Ordinance O-2022-02: zone change for 19 Whitcombs Mill Rd (12.29 acres) from Rural and Agriculture to Low Density 1
- Adoption of 2022 meeting schedule
- Update on the Land Development Code
Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee
The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially act on a range of items, including accepting grants for wellness and fire equipment, negotiating airport leases and agreements, contracting for cemetery mapping and police body cameras, and appropriating funds for road projects. They will also consider a proposed Capital Improvement Plan and a council policy on the legislative process. The agenda includes both action items and discussion items, with a non-public session scheduled.
- Acceptance of 2022 Wellness Grant
- Acceptance of Locality Equipment Matching Program Grant (Fire Department)
- Negotiate lease of airport property and Airport Operating Rights Agreement with Monadnock Choppers
- Appropriation of funds for Winchester Street By-Pass Project (Resolutions R-2022-03 and R-2022-04)
- Appropriation of funds for Thompson Road Repair and Stabilization Project (Resolution R-2022-05)
Planning, Licenses and Development Committee
The Keene Planning, Licenses and Development Committee will consider requests for sidewalk cafe alcohol service, use of city property for events, proposed rule changes on quorum and conflicts of interest, and a zone change for 19 Whitcomb's Mill Road. The agenda includes both regular items and 'more time' items, with a non-public session scheduled.
- Alcohol service requests for sidewalk cafes by Machina Kitchen & Artbar and Yahso Jamaican Grille
- Keene Food Festival request to use city property
- Proposed rules changes: remote participation quorum and conflicts of interest
- Zone change for 19 Whitcomb's Mill Road from Rural to Low Density-1 (Ordinance O-2022-02)
- Keene Pride request to use city property September 11-18, 2022
Zoning Board of Adjustment
The Keene Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on two requests: a variance to allow an in-ground pool and patio closer to property lines than normally permitted, and a special exception to operate a gravel pit in a rural district. The board will also review minutes from its previous meeting.
- Variance request (ZBA 22-03) by Norman Miller Jr. & Rebecca Miller for 1 Tanner Road to place pool/patio and utility pad 5 feet from rear and side property lines (Low Density District).
- Special exception request (ZBA 22-04) by G2 Holdings (250 North Street, Jaffrey, NH) for 0 Route 9 to permit a gravel pit use in the Rural District.
- Approval of minutes from February 7, 2022 meeting.
City Council
The Keene City Council will hold a public hearing on the six-year Capital Improvement Program (2023–2029) and is scheduled to vote on two resolutions that appropriate funds for the Winchester Street Bypass and Thompson Road Repair projects. Additional items include a confirmation vote for an Energy and Climate Committee member and departmental reports on infrastructure, wildlife crossings, and grant acceptance.
- Public hearing on Capital Improvement Program 2023–2029
- Vote on $X for Winchester Street Bypass (Resolution R-2022-03 & R-2022-04)
- Vote on funds for Thompson Road Repair and Stabilization (Resolution R-2022-05)
- Confirmation of Energy and Climate Committee member
- Temporary Jordan Road closure requested for amphibian migration
Planning Board
The Keene Planning Board will hear a presentation on the FY 2023-2029 Capital Improvement Program from the Finance Director and Public Works Director, and receive a training presentation on board roles from NHMA legal counsel. The meeting also includes approval of January minutes, staff updates, and new business.
- Capital Improvement Program FY 2023-2029 presentation by Merri Howe and Kurt Blomquist
- NHMA presentation on Planning Board Role and Responsibilities by Steve Buckley
- Approval of January 24, 2022 meeting minutes
- Upcoming March meetings listed, including joint committee and site visit
Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee
The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will consider accepting a New Hampshire Department of Justice grant for the Fire Department, select a consultant for downtown infrastructure improvements, and review the proposed Capital Improvement Plan for fiscal years 2023-2029. The committee will also discuss a charter amendment related to municipal primaries proposed by Councilor Filiault.
- NH DOJ grant acceptance for Fire Department
- Downtown Infrastructure Improvements and Reconstruction Project consultant selection
- Proposed Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) FY 2023-2029
- Charter amendment related to municipal primary (Councilor Filiault)
Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee
The Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee will discuss two items: a resident's report of sewer line and foundation damage at 79 Woodburn Street, including a request to remove a nearby city tree, and a request from the Harris Center for Conservation Education to temporarily close Jordan Road for up to six nights in March and April to protect migrating amphibians. No votes are scheduled; these are discussion items.
- Damage to sewer line and house foundation at 79 Woodburn Street
- Request to remove a city tree near 79 Woodburn Street
- Harris Center request to close Jordan Road for up to six nights in March and April for migrating amphibians
City Council
The Keene City Council is meeting to discuss and decide on several items, including an ordinance related to face coverings, confirmations and nominations to city boards, and a request to temporarily close Jordan Road for amphibian migration. The council will also consider a motion to purchase two properties on Gilsum Road and Washington Street, and other routine matters.
- Ordinance O-2021-16-B: Relating to the Wearing of Face Coverings
- Request to temporarily close Jordan Road for up to six nights in March and April for migrating amphibians
- Request to serve alcohol at sidewalk cafe by Machina Kitchen & Artbar
- Motion to purchase property at 0 Gilsum Road (TMP #218 042 000) and 0 Washington Street (TMP #219 006 000)
- Acceptance of donations
Planning, Licenses and Development Committee
The Planning, Licenses and Development Committee will consider a request from Keene Pride to use city property for a September 2022 event, proposed amendments to City Council rules, a zone change for 19 Whitcomb's Mill Road, a proposal on small wireless facilities in public rights-of-way, and a request from the Keene Young Professionals Network for a food festival. The meeting may also enter a non-public session.
- Request to use city property by Adam Toepfer/Keene Pride, Sept 11-18, 2022
- Proposed amendments to City Council Rules of Order
- Zone change for 19 Whitcomb's Mill Road from Rural to Low Density-1 (Ordinance O-2022-02)
- Terry Clark proposal on small wireless facility deployments in public rights-of-way
- Keene Young Professionals Network request for Keene Food Festival
Zoning Board of Adjustment
The Keene Zoning Board of Adjustment will conduct public hearings on two variance petitions. One request seeks to convert a three-unit multi-family dwelling to four units on Cross Street, while the other requests a changeable electronic sign for the Colonial Theater on Main Street.
- ZBA 22-01: Variance for 4-unit conversion at 127 Cross St. (lot size 10,800 sq. ft.; requires 21,000 sq. ft.)
- ZBA 22-02: Variance for electronic changeable sign at 95 Main St. (Colonial Theater) despite sign prohibition
City Council
The Keene City Council is meeting to discuss and potentially act on several items, including an ordinance related to face coverings, a request to designate Main Street as a smoke-free zone, and a request to use city property for a Pride event. The agenda also includes confirmations, nominations, and reports on property and infrastructure issues.
- Ordinance O-2021-16-B: Relating to the Wearing of Face Coverings
- Request to designate Main Street as a smoke-free zone
- Request from Keene Pride to use city property September 11-18, 2022
- Damage to sewer line and house foundation at 79 Woodburn Street and request to remove city tree
- Confirmations to Partner City Committee and Human Rights Committee
Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee
The Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee will discuss the proposed Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for fiscal years 2023-2029 and a request for American Rescue Plan humanities grants for libraries. The committee will also consider several more-time items, including a charter amendment related to municipal primaries, a rooms and meals tax decrease, and continued remote participation for councilors.
- Proposed Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for FY 2023-2029
- American Rescue Plan: Humanities Grants for Libraries
- Charter amendment related to municipal primary
- Rooms and meals tax decrease
- Continued remote participation for councilors
City Council
The Keene City Council is meeting to discuss and act on a range of items, including the introduction of the proposed Capital Improvement Plan for FY 2023-2029, a zone change request, and a salary ordinance. The agenda also includes several reports and requests, such as using road toll credits for a project and funding for community events. The meeting is largely procedural, with many items being introduced or reported on for future action.
- Introduction of Proposed Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for FY 2023-2029
- Zone Change - 19 Whitcomb's Mill Road - Rural to Low Density-1 (Ordinance O-2022-02)
- Ordinance relating to Class Allocation and Salary Schedule (O-2022-01) - second reading
- Request to Use Excess NH Road Toll Credits as City's Match for Lower Winchester Street Project
- 79E Community Revitalization Tax Relief Applications for 112 Washington Street and 310 Marlboro St., LLC
Planning, Licenses and Development Committee
The Keene Planning, Licenses and Development Committee will consider a request from the Keene Young Professionals Network to use city property for a food festival, and a resolution in support of a Medicare for All plan. The committee will also hear a more time item from Terry Clark regarding small wireless facility deployments in public rights-of-way. The agenda includes a non-public session before adjournment.
- Keene Young Professionals Network - Keene Food Festival - Request to Use of City Property
- Resolution R-2021-46 - In Support of a Medicare for All Plan
- Terry Clark - Relating to Small Wireless Facility Deployments in Public Rights-of-Way
City Council
The Keene City Council will hold public hearings on Community Revitalization Tax Relief for properties at 112 Washington Street and 310 Marlboro Street. The council will also confirm incumbents and new appointees to various boards and committees, and consider a first reading of a salary schedule ordinance.
- Public hearing: Community Revitalization Tax Relief for 112 Washington Street
- Public hearing: Community Revitalization Tax Relief for 310 Marlboro Street
- Confirmations for incumbents to serve 2nd terms on 15 boards/committees
- First reading of Ordinance O-2022-01 on Class Allocation and Salary Schedule
- Resolution R-2022-02 in appreciation of Michael S. Walden upon retirement
City Council
This is the inaugural meeting of the Keene City Council, where the new mayor and councilors are sworn in. The council will also adopt its rules of order and announce committee assignments. The agenda is largely ceremonial and procedural.
- Oath of office administered to Mayor-elect George S. Hansel
- Oath of office administered to 11 councilors-elect
- Resolution R-2022-01: Relating to the City Council's Rules of Order
- Announcement of Standing Committee Assignments