KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Keene’s City Council gathered Thursday night for a full agenda highlighted by two public hearings tied to questions that will appear on the city’s Nov. 4 municipal ballot — one asking whether to prohibit Keno in Keene, and another on whether to allow social drinking districts downtown.

During the hearing on Keno, New Hampshire Lottery Commissioner Charlie McIntyre provided an overview of how the game operates and its contribution to state education funding. Speakers for and against the proposal weighed in, citing both economic benefits and concerns about problem gambling and its social impacts.

The following hearing centered on the idea of creating “social districts,” or designated outdoor zones where patrons could carry open containers of alcohol purchased from participating establishments. Supporters described the concept as a way to enhance downtown vibrancy, while some residents and councilors raised concerns about public safety, enforcement, and liability.

Even if voters approve social districts in November, city officials emphasized that the council would still need to establish the specific rules — such as hours, boundaries, and event guidelines — before anything could go into effect.

In other business, councilors confirmed appointments to the Energy and Climate Committee and the Human Rights Committee, and accepted several resignations, including from the Planning Board, Zoning Board of Adjustment, and Human Rights Committee.

Councilors also received communications opposing the city’s proposed sale of 100 Church Street, which were filed as informational and referred to the Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee for further review.

Among committee reports, the council approved the Keene Sno-Riders’ annual request to use a right-of-way along Krif Road for snowmobile access between the Ashuelot Rail Trail and Winchester Street. The Perch, a new downtown restaurant, was granted permission to serve alcohol at its sidewalk café under a city license.

The council also passed resolutions recognizing two long-time city employees — Christopher L. Simonds and Todd R. Farnsworth — for their years of service upon retirement.

The meeting concluded with a nonpublic session with the city attorney.

What’s Next

Keene voters will decide both ballot questions — whether to prohibit Keno and whether to allow the establishment of social districts — during the Municipal General Election on Tuesday, Nov. 4.

If voters support creating social districts, the City Council would still need to craft and adopt a detailed ordinance before any areas could open. That process would involve additional public hearings to determine when, where, and how the districts could operate.

If voters back the Keno prohibition, the decision would effectively bar the operation of the game in Keene, reversing the city’s current allowance of it in licensed establishments.

The next City Council meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 6, following the election.