KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) The Keene City Council Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee took several steps forward Thursday evening on public safety funding and the city’s long-term capital plan, including continued discussion of a proposed downtown public restroom.

Meeting at City Hall, the committee unanimously recommended that the city move ahead with a federal grant application through the U.S. Department of Justice’s Byrne Justice Assistance Grant program. The funding — totaling just over $5,500 — would help the Keene Police Department maintain cellular phones and data equipment used in cruisers.

Police Captain Steve Tenney told councilors the grant is part of a longstanding partnership with Cheshire County and would not change department operations. The committee’s recommendation now heads to the full council.

The panel also formally accepted written public comments related to the proposed Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for fiscal years 2027 through 2033, clearing the way for final deliberations ahead of an April 2 council vote.

Discussion of the CIP touched on several major items, including a possible $500,000 increase to the city’s road construction budget in fiscal year 2027. Officials outlined options for using those funds, such as completing work along Court Street or dividing resources among multiple roadway projects, including Emerald Street.

The committee spent additional time revisiting the proposed downtown public restroom, a project that has drawn significant public attention in recent weeks. Materials presented Thursday outlined several design options, including a portable restroom trailer, the “Portland Loo,” and a self-cleaning unit.

Public works officials indicated the self-cleaning model — similar to units produced by Urban Blue — may offer long-term cost savings and reduced maintenance demands compared to other options. However, councilors raised questions about upkeep, parts availability, and potential misuse.

A written submission from a resident also encouraged the city to consider the Portland Loo model as an alternative approach.

The restroom proposal remains scheduled within the CIP for fiscal year 2028, meaning additional review and refinement are expected before any final decision is made.

Beyond the restroom discussion, officials noted that upcoming bids for the downtown infrastructure project — due in mid-April — could influence how road construction funds are ultimately allocated. The council may revisit funding decisions once those bid results are available.

The committee also scheduled a fiscal policy workshop for June 30 to further examine potential updates to the city’s financial guidelines.

With its recommendations now finalized, the CIP and related proposals will move to the full Keene City Council for consideration next month.